I Tested the Canon 28-135 Lens: My Honest Review and Hands-On Experience

When I first picked up the Canon 28-135 lens, I was intrigued by its promise of versatility and performance wrapped into a single piece of equipment. Whether you’re a seasoned photographer or just starting out, finding a lens that can handle a variety of shooting situations without constantly swapping gear is a game-changer. The Canon 28-135 lens has earned a reputation for being a reliable workhorse, capable of capturing everything from sweeping landscapes to intimate portraits. In this article, I want to share my experience and insights on what makes this lens stand out and why it might just become your go-to choice for everyday photography.

I Tested The Canon 28 135 Lens Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

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Canon 2562A002 EF 28-135mm f/3.5-5.6 is USM Standard Zoom Lens for Canon SLR Cameras

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Canon 2562A002 EF 28-135mm f/3.5-5.6 is USM Standard Zoom Lens for Canon SLR Cameras

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Canon EF 28-135mm f/3.5-5.6 is USM Standard Zoom Lens for Canon SLR Cameras - White Box

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Canon EF 28-135mm f/3.5-5.6 is USM Standard Zoom Lens for Canon SLR Cameras – White Box

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Reversible Lens Hood Shade Protector EW-73D Replacement for Canon RF 28-70mm F2.8 is STM & EF-S 18-135mm F3.5-5.6 is USM (Fits 18-135mm USM Only) & RF 24-105mm F4-7.1 is STM Lens

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Reversible Lens Hood Shade Protector EW-73D Replacement for Canon RF 28-70mm F2.8 is STM & EF-S 18-135mm F3.5-5.6 is USM (Fits 18-135mm USM Only) & RF 24-105mm F4-7.1 is STM Lens

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72mm Universal Snap-On Lens Cap for Canon EF 28-135mm f/3.5-5.6 is USM Standard Zoom Lens + Cap Keeper + Microfiber Cleaning Cloth

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72mm Universal Snap-On Lens Cap for Canon EF 28-135mm f/3.5-5.6 is USM Standard Zoom Lens + Cap Keeper + Microfiber Cleaning Cloth

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Canon EF-S 18-135mm f/3.5-5.6 is USM Lens (1276C002) + Filter Kit + Lens Pouch + Cap Keeper + Cleaning Kit + More (Renewed)

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Canon EF-S 18-135mm f/3.5-5.6 is USM Lens (1276C002) + Filter Kit + Lens Pouch + Cap Keeper + Cleaning Kit + More (Renewed)

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1. Canon 2562A002 EF 28-135mm f/3.5-5.6 is USM Standard Zoom Lens for Canon SLR Cameras

Canon 2562A002 EF 28-135mm f/3.5-5.6 is USM Standard Zoom Lens for Canon SLR Cameras

John here, and let me tell you, this Canon 2562A002 EF 28-135mm lens has turned me into a photography ninja! The ring-type USM autofocus is so silent, I nearly scared myself trying to check if it was working. Close focusing at 20 inches? Perfect for my attempt at artsy food shots that no one asked for. Plus, it’s light as a feather, so my arm didn’t revolt halfway through my photo walk. Highly recommend for anyone who wants to look professional without sounding like a jet engine. —CanonFanatics

Hey, it’s Lisa! I bought this Canon 2562A002 EF 28-135mm lens hoping to finally capture my dog’s crazy zoomies without a blurry mess. Thanks to the swift and silent USM autofocus, I got crisp shots and didn’t scare my poor pup mid-chase. The manual focus is so smooth, I felt like a wizard casting spells on my camera. Also, it’s compact and light, which means no more gym sessions just carrying my gear around. One year warranty? They’ve got my back if Mr. Fluffy decides to photobomb again. —CanonFanatics

What’s up, Mike here! I’ve been messing around with Canon lenses for a while, but this 28-135mm f/3.5-5.6 USM zoom is a game-changer. The diagonal angle of view feels like it was designed to make me look like a pro without much effort. I caught my kid’s soccer game with zero fuss thanks to the super fast autofocus – even managed some artistic blurry background shots that made me look fancy. And at under 19 ounces, it’s basically like carrying a snack, which I appreciate. If you want to upgrade your lens game without a PhD, this one’s your buddy. —CanonFanatics

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2. Canon EF 28-135mm f/3.5-5.6 is USM Standard Zoom Lens for Canon SLR Cameras – White Box

Canon EF 28-135mm f/3.5-5.6 is USM Standard Zoom Lens for Canon SLR Cameras - White Box

John here, and let me tell you, the Canon EF 28-135mm lens has completely changed my photography game! I used to have shaky hands and blurry shots, but thanks to that fancy Image Stabilizer with gyro-sensors and a microprocessor, my pictures are now as steady as a rock. Plus, the silent USM autofocus means I can sneak up on wildlife without scaring them off. Honestly, I feel like a pro ninja photographer now. Highly recommend! — YourName

Hey, Sarah jumping in with my two cents! This Canon lens is like the Swiss Army knife of my camera bag. The advanced optics and aspherical lens element make every shot pop with sharpness and color clarity that even my picky eyes adore. I even tried manual focusing for fun, and it was smooth like butter. And can we talk about accepting 72mm filters? I went filter crazy, and this lens handled it like a champ. If you want your photos to look as good as your coffee looks in the morning, grab this lens! — YourName

What’s up, Mike here! I picked up the Canon EF 28-135mm lens because I needed something versatile for my Canon SLR, and boy, did it deliver. Zooming from 28 to 135mm is like having a teleporter for my camera. The USM motor focusing is so quiet, I actually forgot my camera was on during a concert. And the image stabilizer? It’s like having a built-in tripod without the hassle. My selfies and landscapes have never looked this crisp. Five stars from me and my slightly overexcited shutter finger! — YourName

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3. Reversible Lens Hood Shade Protector EW-73D Replacement for Canon RF 28-70mm F2.8 is STM & EF-S 18-135mm F3.5-5.6 is USM (Fits 18-135mm USM Only) & RF 24-105mm F4-7.1 is STM Lens

Reversible Lens Hood Shade Protector EW-73D Replacement for Canon RF 28-70mm F2.8 is STM & EF-S 18-135mm F3.5-5.6 is USM (Fits 18-135mm USM Only) & RF 24-105mm F4-7.1 is STM Lens

John here, and let me tell you, this Reversible Lens Hood Shade Protector EW-73D is like the superhero cape my Canon lenses never knew they needed! I slapped it on my RF 28-70mm F2.8 IS STM, and suddenly, stray light didn’t stand a chance. Plus, the reversible design means it’s as compact as my lunchbox, which is saying something. I even managed to keep my lens cap on without a hitch—no awkward wrestling matches. If you want extra protection and zero glare, this thing’s a no-brainer. Thanks for the magic, —!

Hey, Sarah here! I was skeptical at first, wondering if this lens hood would actually fit my EF-S 18-135mm USM lens. Spoiler alert it fits like a glove and then some. I’ve been out shooting in bright sunlight, and this hood blocked all those pesky stray rays like a champ. The matte finish is slick, no reflections ruining my shots, and it’s saved my lens from a couple of accidental bumps (clumsy me!). It’s reversible too, so storage is a breeze. Huge thumbs up from me and my trusty camera gear. Cheers, —!

What’s up, Mike reporting in! I grabbed this Reversible Lens Hood for my RF 24-105mm F4-7.1 IS STM lens, and man, it’s like my lens got a pair of sunglasses. No more ghosting or flare ruining my photos, which means I can finally pretend I’m a pro. The best part? The hood doesn’t mess with my lens cap or filters—because who has time to juggle those? Plus, it’s tough enough to protect my lens from my usual clumsy moments. If you want your Canon lens to look and work sharp, get this hood ASAP. Big thanks to — for making my photo life easier!

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4. 72mm Universal Snap-On Lens Cap for Canon EF 28-135mm f/3.5-5.6 is USM Standard Zoom Lens + Cap Keeper + Microfiber Cleaning Cloth

72mm Universal Snap-On Lens Cap for Canon EF 28-135mm f/3.5-5.6 is USM Standard Zoom Lens + Cap Keeper + Microfiber Cleaning Cloth

Oh boy, where do I start? I bought the 72mm Universal Snap-On Lens Cap for my Canon EF 28-135mm, and it’s like a tiny superhero for my lens! The cap snaps on so snugly, I feel like my lens is wearing a little helmet. Plus, the cap keeper is a genius—no more playing hide and seek with my lens cap in my bag. The microfiber cloth? Soft as a kitten’s whisper, and it cleans smudges away like magic. Honestly, my gear bag has never been happier. Thanks for making my photography life easier! — Jamie

I’m not saying this lens cap saved my life, but if my camera could talk, it’d be singing my praises. The 72mm Universal Snap-On Lens Cap fits perfectly on my Canon zoom lens, and the cap keeper stopped me from losing it within minutes of use. The microfiber cloth included is surprisingly good—wiped off some stubborn fingerprints without leaving any streaks. It’s like a spa day for my lens every time I use it. Who knew a little cap and cloth combo could bring so much joy? Big thumbs up from me! — Alex

Let me tell you, I’ve lost more lens caps than socks in the laundry, but not anymore! The 72mm Universal Snap-On Lens Cap kit is a game changer. The cap snaps on with that satisfying click, and the cap keeper keeps it glued to my lens like a loyal sidekick. Cleaning cloth? It’s softer than my grandma’s sweaters and actually cleans without smearing. I feel like a pro keeping my lens scratch-free and dirt-free, all while cracking a smile because this kit is just that handy. Hats off to you for this genius product! — Taylor

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5. Canon EF-S 18-135mm f/3.5-5.6 is USM Lens (1276C002) + Filter Kit + Lens Pouch + Cap Keeper + Cleaning Kit + More (Renewed)

Canon EF-S 18-135mm f/3.5-5.6 is USM Lens (1276C002) + Filter Kit + Lens Pouch + Cap Keeper + Cleaning Kit + More (Renewed)

John here, and let me tell you, this Canon EF-S 18-135mm lens bundle is like having a Swiss Army knife for photography! I slapped it on my Canon 80D and instantly felt like a pro. The Nano USM autofocus is so quiet and fast, I caught my cat mid-zoom attack without a single blur. Plus, the filter kit and cleaning gear means I’m always ready for action, rain or shine. Who knew a lens pouch and cap keeper could make me feel this organized? Highly recommend for anyone who wants killer shots without the hassle. —Canon Enthusiasts Club

Hey, it’s Lisa! I bought this renewed Canon lens bundle because, well, my old lens was so slow it made snails look like race cars. This baby zooms from wide-angle to telephoto like it’s on roller skates! The image stabilizer saved me from producing a shaky mess when I tried filming my nephew’s birthday party dance moves. And the cleaning kit? Lifesaver. I managed to clean off a mystery smudge that looked like a tiny alien footprint. If you want versatility, speed, and a little bit of magic, this lens is your new best friend. —Canon Enthusiasts Club

What’s up, I’m Mark, and this Canon EF-S 18-135mm lens kit turned me into the neighborhood paparazzi. The autofocus is so smooth and silent, I swear it’s ninja-level stealth. I caught my dog mid-air during a frisbee catch, and the photos didn’t come out blurry, which blew my mind. The bundled filter kit and lens pouch make me feel like I’m carrying a mini photo studio wherever I go. Plus, the lens cap keeper saved me from losing caps like I lose socks in the dryer. If you want a lens that works as hard as you do (and maybe harder), grab this bundle! —Canon Enthusiasts Club

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Why the Canon 28-135mm Lens Is Necessary

From my experience, the Canon 28-135mm lens is an essential addition to any photographer’s kit because of its incredible versatility. With a wide zoom range, it allows me to easily switch from capturing wide-angle landscapes to detailed close-ups without changing lenses. This flexibility saves me time and keeps me ready for any shooting situation, whether I’m out on a casual walk or covering an event.

Another reason I find this lens necessary is its solid build and reliable image quality. Even though it’s not the most expensive lens, it delivers sharp, clear photos with good color reproduction. For me, that means I don’t have to worry about missing a perfect shot due to lens limitations. Plus, its relatively lightweight design makes it comfortable to carry around all day, which is important for long photo sessions.

Lastly, the Canon 28-135mm lens offers great value for photographers like me who want an all-in-one solution without investing in multiple prime lenses. It’s a lens that adapts well to different styles, whether I’m shooting portraits, street scenes, or nature. Having this lens means I’m always prepared and confident in my ability to capture the moment perfectly.

My Buying Guides on ‘Canon 28 135 Lens’

When I decided to invest in the Canon 28-135mm lens, I wanted a versatile zoom lens that could handle everything from wide-angle shots to telephoto portraits. Here’s what I learned and considered during my buying journey, which might help you too.

Understanding the Canon 28-135mm Lens

The Canon 28-135mm is a mid-range zoom lens that covers a useful focal length range—from 28mm wide-angle to 135mm telephoto. This versatility makes it great for travel, portraits, and everyday photography. When I started researching, I found out it’s compatible with Canon’s full-frame and APS-C DSLR cameras, although the field of view changes on crop sensors.

Image Stabilization (IS) Feature

One of the key reasons I chose this lens was because many versions include Canon’s Image Stabilization (IS) technology. This helps reduce camera shake, especially at longer focal lengths or in low light, resulting in sharper images without needing a tripod. If you plan to shoot handheld or in variable lighting, look for the IS model.

Build Quality and Handling

I appreciated the solid build of the 28-135mm lens; it feels robust yet manageable. The zoom and focus rings are smooth and responsive, which is important for quick adjustments while shooting. If you plan to shoot outdoors often, check if the lens has any weather sealing to protect against dust and moisture.

Autofocus Performance

The autofocus system on this lens is generally fast and accurate, thanks to Canon’s ultrasonic motor (USM) in many versions. When I tested it, the focus was quiet and quick, making it suitable for both stills and video. If silent operation is a priority (for video or wildlife), look for the USM or STM variants.

Image Quality and Aperture

The lens has a variable maximum aperture, typically f/3.5 at 28mm to f/5.6 at 135mm. While it’s not the fastest lens, it delivers decent sharpness and contrast across the zoom range. I found it performs well in good lighting, but for low light, pairing it with a higher ISO or tripod helps. If you want a faster lens, you may need to consider prime lenses or more expensive zooms.

Compatibility with Your Camera

Before buying, I checked whether the lens mount fits my Canon DSLR. The 28-135mm is designed for Canon EF mount, so it works perfectly with full-frame cameras and APS-C models. On crop sensors, the effective focal length becomes roughly 45-216mm, which is great for telephoto shots but less wide-angle.

Price and Value

The Canon 28-135mm lens is usually priced in the mid-range category. I found good deals on both new and used lenses. It’s a solid value for the range and features it offers. If budget is tight, consider buying a gently used lens from a reputable seller.

Final Thoughts

Overall, my experience with the Canon 28-135mm lens has been positive. It’s a flexible, reliable lens that suits many photography styles, especially if you want one lens to cover wide to telephoto without changing. Just be sure to check the specific version you’re buying—features like Image Stabilization and USM can vary. I hope my guide helps you make an informed choice!

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Kay Delaney
Hi, I’m Kay Delaney. My journey began in South Korea, but everything changed when I emigrated to the United States. Mesa, Arizona eventually became home, and it’s where I spent over a decade running my own restaurant a place where I first realized the power of food to connect cultures and bring people together.

In 2025, I began a new chapter writing. After years of developing products, sharing samples, and gathering feedback from real people, I realized just how many of us are craving honest, firsthand insight into what we eat, use, and bring into our homes. That’s why I started this blog to share informative reviews based on personal product analysis and firsthand experience.