As a high school aged girl, I'm obviously on a serious budget. I have the Canon EOS Rebel T3 and the kit lens (the EF-S 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 IS Type II Lens). I want a replacement lens that can be used in a variety of situations.
Things I want in my new lens:
-17-85mm approx. (zoom end is more important than wide-angle, no lower than 85mm please)
-very!!! good image sharpness even at telephoto end
-aperture equal to or (preferably) faster than f/3.5
@alessandra4826 the 17-85 would seem to be a good fit for you, but the 18-135mm would be even better if you need a longer zoom reach. The 18-135mm is similar quality to the 18-55mm; if you want better quality, I'd go for the 15-85mm. If however being able to zoom closer is most important, why not complement (rather than replace) your 18-55mm with the 55-250mm? Check out my Canon lens guide at cameralabs . com!
the 18-55mm lens that comes with the t3i, do you think that it is good enough for a beginner like me? I just want good quality photos. if it is not good enough then what lens do you advice me to buy? thanks in advance.
very helpful review, thank you:) I am more into videoing and was wondering if u could give some instructions on night settings for this lens because when i video in the dark it comes out with loads of gain, guide please
@supersabre69 Well, an L lens is a Professional-grade lens. Just look at the name of the lens and see if the "mm" is a range (ex: 17-85mm). If so, it is a zoom lens. IS is Image Stabilization. It is highly recommended to decrease, or eradicate, blur in images. An L lens is VERY expensive, with the cheapest coming in at 443 pounds (used XE). Either way, both and L lens and a non-L lens will produce great results. You can get a kit lens of you desire.
hi gordon, i am thinking about getting this lens for my "static" aviation pics, i use the canon 550d (gripped), and i have the 100-400mm L is usm lens for my flying action shots, but i want something to capture static aircraft, so i can get the most sharpest, full of detail pics! The static aircraft can be around 10 to 100 yards away from where i am shooting, i am always shooting outside, so i get get sunshine, (sometimes) and cloud,(most of the time), please help! cheers.
Be warned. This lens has a serious design flaw. Eventually you are likely to experience a faulty Power Diaphragm unit. This renders the lens useless. It is expensive to fix unless you decide to have a go yourself. Which proves to be a pain in the backside. Canon should have recalled all of these lens. Instead they have replaced it with the 15-85mm that is a far superior lens. So be careful.
I'm replacing the 18-55mm kit lens and have watched all your video's(and cameralabs(.)com) that matter!
yet I can't decide which to go for
either the new 18-55 IS version or the 17-85 IS USM version (price difference is around 180 quid.) answer this question and I will most likely use cameralabs to buy the lens !
hey gordon, one of my friends is selling this lens to me for 200 USD... is that a good deal for a old-ish lens. or should i invest in a 3rd party lens for that price? i need a good zoom lens to go with my 50, 35, 28 prime lenses..
@GOBbluthagain I don't know how much they go for second hand - but it's still a good lens. Do check out the lenses section at cameralabs . com for recommendations...
@Gordon: At your site you didn't mention which lens would be best for shooting HD video. What should we consider when choosing? Could you please help me.
1) my favourite photos are landscape and portraits, I have this lense ( 17-55mm 2.8) do you think i also should also get the 50mm 1.8?
2) for wild life park shooting, what would you recommend for a telephoto lense? I need one so Im looking for adivce, I almost got the 17-200mm f/4 but maybe the focal length might not be enough. what do you recommend?
@jonnyfied no need to post the same question four times! Please go to the lenses section at cameralabs . com and check out the recommended Canon lenses link. PS - if you'd like to support me, please shop (for anything!) through the partner stores page at cameralabs . com!
Hello Gordon. I'm thinking of buying either this Canon EF-S 17-85mm IS lens or the Canon EF 28-135mm IS. How different are the two of them considering the angle of view (also taking into account that I used Tamron 18-200 mm f3.5-6.3 Di-II XR and I would not wont a shorter angle of view; I must add that I don't need that big focal length of the tamtom higher than 100, is not much of a use for me). So...will I loose or gain angle of view by replacing the tamrom with the Canon EF-S 17-85 IS?
@MihaiElrond please stop posting the same question again and again! I've had to remove four of them so far! As for angle of view, please see the lens buyers guide at cameralabs . com - it'll illustrate what you'll get at different focal lengths. Please also remember I can't comment on products I haven't tested.
hey gordon currently ive purchased a canon 30D and off a friend and i got a 28-80mm lens with it, however ive had my eye on the 17-85 considering how wider angle i am able to get, although i hear similiar pros for both cameras and not taht many distinctive cons...should i upgrade? or decide to save up for a macro lens or something a bit more different?
Gordon Lanes videos are great. Whay I wonder about though is he really sounds like a robot. Like every video it is the same text he just fills in the blanks for each product. On the other hand it is very helpful because after seeing 2 or 3 of his videos you understand the others much easier. I just wonder if he does it on purpose or not.
@goodlucksdk A robot?! Hmmm... I actually ad-lib all these videos, so tend to use similar phrases and style to help me - it also makes them more consistent.
Well as said it makes them very easy to understand so it's a good thing. Robot maybe was not a good choice of words of mine. I couldnt make up my mind if I liked it or not though. Thinking about it a little bit I prefer your videos over most anybody elses. By the way I once bought the Rebel XS based on your recommendation and and am still thrilled by how much I learned about photography using it. It was my first DSLR so now I probably will upgrade it to the 5D MII, but great recommendation.
@SnowPears Yep, it'd work just fine - in fact the new camera would also improve the darkening you can sometimes see in the corners with this lens. See my 15-85mm review at cameralabs . com to see results with this and the 17-85mm on a T2i / 550D.
@100089295 Unless people pay per view or make donations, advertising is the only way sites like mine make any money - this is my full time job and I need to pay the bills!
Yup Gordon. Older post I realize, but yours are outstanding reviews. Clear, articulate and I always appreciate the comprehensiveness. I.E little extras like non rotating for CPLs turning IS off when tripod mounted etc. Thanks a bunch.
I bought this lens with my body 40D. I have seen non major chromatic aberation, some darkening at the edges vignetting at 17 mm but nothing dramatic. Dust has never ben an issue in 3 years of ownership. A good walk around lens on a bright day and due toe people writing crap about it, its available cheap. I'd buy it if I didn't already own it.
hi, i just got this lens today. i see people are saying it sucks dust in very easily? is there anything i can do to prevent this? and if dust does get in, what can i do to remove this?
@PhoenixOrion93 yes it sucks in alot of dust. when you zoom in, dust gets on it, and when you go back to 17mm, dust goes in. to remove it, you have to send it to canon or take it apart and hope for the best. to prevent it, get a giottos rocket blower and blow around zoom to 85mm.
ah okay. i've looked into the giottos rocket blower thing and it looks like it'd work pretty dang good, everybody has given it a 5 star rating. i'm probably gonna get one in the near future, thanks for helping me out.
Bah, don't believe the hype. I did 8 weeks in the states travelling from east to west coast. From big cities, mid-west, desert and snow. I never had any dust dramas. The lens performed well in all conditions. I'm no pro but I reckon the shots I took covered a decent chunk of lighting conditions and this lens did a really nice job. Well worth its value imo.
My canon EOS 50D camera has peripheral Illumination correction. When turned on, it does a great job of correcting the problem of slight darkening around the corners for this 17-85mm lens. Try it!
I have this lens. Focal lengths are great & performs well in mid focal lengths, but at 17mm it suffers from quite savage chromatic aberration in bright sun. Vignetting minor but also a high degree of image quality loss in the peripheral areas of the image at 17mm. Stabiliser work well, but autofocus 'hunts' in low light. Disappointing for a lens that cost me £350. Bought the 55-250 IS USM at £190 and it leaves the 17-85 standing. 4 stop IS works A1. Selling the 17-85 soon for an L series.
Hmmm, i just can say something about the Canon 28-135mm 3,5-5,6 IS USM. It's sharper than the 17-85mm and as fast as it and don't sucks dust (so much). I had it 8 months in use and no dust in it. I sold it cause i need the 17mm. But now i think, its better to take a second for short focal lengh, something like canon 10-20mm or much cheaper Tamron 10-24mm. But when you want replace your Kit with a real good lens, you have to pay much more for good optical power... Canon 17-55 2.8 IS USM.
Thanks for the review. After this video i've read many full reviews on the web site.
but still in doubts...
COULD SOMEONE WHO'S BEEN USING THIS LENS TELL ME HOW DOES IT FEEL? AND WHETHER IT WORTH OT OWN? Tests on the web site show that sometimes 17-85mm performs not better than a kit lens...
Hi Gordon! I just want to ask about the DUST ISSUE for the 17-85mm.What are your thoughts for that?Because I've read loads of reviews about the lens and they all say that the lens sucks dust very easily whenever you're zooming in & out.I'm thinking of upgrading my kit lens & deciding whether to go for the 17-85mm or 17-40mm f4 L lens for my canon 500D. What would be your recommendation?Thanks!
I haven't expereinced dust issues duruing my testing periods with this lens. I compared the build and image quality against the 17-40mm in my Canon les group test at cameralabs . com...
I bought this lens 3 months ago,I put UV filter to protect front lens and to stop catching dust,well it doesn't help,I have few speck of dust under front barrel,it doesn't influence on picture quality but for 9 month I afraid that won't be so fun.Barrel catche's loose,It isn't very funny in lens which cost 300€ Also barrel fall down under their own weight in about 24-50 mm.Pros:Stabilizer,USM,perfect range,17-85 is the best for APS-C.Good for upgrade from kit,later you can sell and buy L
If you're thinking of going full-frame, then go for the 17-40, but totherwise the longer range and IS makes this one more useful overall on cropped bodies. But do also consider the 18-200mm. Feel free to discuss this further on the cameralabs forums!
a thing worth looking at if you want quality optics is old lenses on ebay you have to manually focus and manually set aperture.carl zeiss are about the best optics on the planet, adaptors are pretty cheap. dont get canon FD though get something like m42 screw fit.Look it up and research it.
If you want to test this out helios 44 >58mm f2 m42 screw fit are freely available at a cheap price on ebay. They have manual aperture which is exactly what you need. The build quality on the old lenses is excellent, the helios is built like a tank no worries about dropping it there.
Thanks for the excellent video. I am from India and have a Nikon D40. I use it with the Nikkors - 12-24 and 18-200. I just happenned to look into the EXIF of most of my photos and found that > 70% of them are taken in the 12-80 range. The 18-200 is really slow and would like to go for a faster lens. Would you recommend the 17-55 f/2.8 or the 24-70 f/2.8 for my requirement (range),. though I would certainly like the range of the Canon EF-S 17-85mm . Thanks in advance - Sriram
Hi Sriram, it's useful to check your EXIF data for this information as you may well find that you mostly use a shorter range than you first thought. As for the 17-55mm f2.8 versus the 24-70mm f2.8, I'd go for the former as it's wider, but it's a personal choice. It's a good question though, so feel free to ask in the Nikon section of the cameralabs . com forums!
Hey Gordon, I just ordered this lens in the mail. I just purchased a canon 40d. I am a newbie to the photographer world but, I like to take landscape pictures. Will this lens work for landscape? I looked at the canon 17-40mm but it is too much money. THANKS
At 17mm, it has rather heavy distortion (1.6x crop). The new 18-55mm IS lens doesn't suffer from this heavy distortion and has sharper corners throughout the range.
Weird, my copy tends to be extremely sharp in all focal lengths, even at 17mm. There is noticeable distortion when wide, but I'm not really bothered by that. If I want to go wide properly then i'd use my 10-22mm lens anyway.
Hello, Gordon. I would like some advice on a question of mine: does this lens makes a great couple with the EF 70-300 IS USM lens or should I try getting just the EF-S 18-200 IS (I watched the video reveiw of this one). Thanks in advance!
hi, could you please give me your professional advice:
i need to buy a new camera (lost other one). budget is £250 but obviously the cheaper the better. something that will fit in handbag. i use is primarily for taking pics of friends. im not a professional but do take a good photo. had the kodak easyshare touch screen years and years ago before I lost it and i loved the photos it took! need to buy one in the next couple of days, please help! thank you!
i love this lens i replaced the kit lens with this right away the is is nice to have then not i use the lens for astrophotography off a tri or afocal i even dropped the lens 3feet shattered the filter but the lens is perfect still quality built
I bought this lens a few days ago and I'm loving it so far. Some may complain about the IQ on wide but it's generally sharp, almost to the levels of my 50mm f1.8.
Hello Gordon, thank you for all your reviews! they are very very helpful to me.
I was wondering if you could do a review or atleast give me your opinion on the Canon EF-S 55-250 mm f 4.0-5.6 lens and how would it work on an EOS 30d.
Sure thing - head on over to cameralabs . com and click on the lenses section - there you'll find our full review of this - and other lenses - including all the good and bad points!
Okay, what about an upgrade from 17-85mm lens, what do you recommend ?! Instead of replacing them altogether I want complimentary zoom lens to go with the 17-85mm ... if only could CANON make 85-???mm lens, I would buy them in a heartbeat ...
Thanks for the awesome review!! You have the best camera reviews on the web! One request. Could you possibly do a review on the Canon EF 28-135mm f/3.5-5.6 IS USM. There really are not that many professional reviews on this lens and i would highly appreciate your review! Thanks and keep up the good work!
Thanks! I'm afraid I have no plans to test the 28-135mm, but there are several owners on the cameralabs forums if you'd like to ask them what they think...
Ive got a 350d at the moment.Iam upgrading to the 40d very soon and this is the lens iam getting for it.These reviews are very good from camera labs.Ive done most of my homework on which camera iam upgrading to based on camera labs reviews...cheers!
Check out the results and gallery pages on our review at cameralabs . com. You might also find our Canon lens group test useful as it compares this lens against some others...
I just bought this lens and I love it. This lens is 100times better then the kit lens. Thanks for the review. I also think it should come with a lens hood. For a $500 lens they could toss in a $5 hood.
Hello Gordon! i will totally agree with the lens hood thing.. Being an Owner of this lens i have seen a little banana effect on the corners when you take a picture at wide angle (17mm). Do you get the same effect or is it just the lens i have ?:S
Hi hanzakbar, there is certainly some geometric distortion on this lens when zoomed-out, and also some darkening in the corners - see our gallery and results pages for this lens at the Cameralabs website for examples...
The 17-85mm is MUCH better, but is also much more expensive. Check out our Canon DSLR kit lens group test video - and also the full article at the Cameralabs website - it compares both lenses and two others as well!
Maybe you're seeing a price for the lens WITH a DSLR - click through to the shop and see if its the lens alone or a bundle. The lens alone should be $420-$630 ish...
I'm about to get the 400D Rebel XTi...but will wait a couple more weeks until after the PMA show. Rumor has it Canon will announce the 450D then. But either way, I am still deciding on what lens to get. I really dig the 17-85mm focal range, but am bummed its such a slow lens. Man, if it was only f 2.8! Which is why I am leaning towards the canon 17-55 f2.8. Ideally I'd love a 10-22mm, a 17-55mm and then a 70-200mm. I just can't afford all three right now. :-) Anyway...I love this guys reviews.
@cameralabs Hi!
As a high school aged girl, I'm obviously on a serious budget. I have the Canon EOS Rebel T3 and the kit lens (the EF-S 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 IS Type II Lens). I want a replacement lens that can be used in a variety of situations.
Things I want in my new lens:
-17-85mm approx. (zoom end is more important than wide-angle, no lower than 85mm please)
-very!!! good image sharpness even at telephoto end
-aperture equal to or (preferably) faster than f/3.5
Would you recommend this lens?
alessandra4826 5 days ago
@alessandra4826 the 17-85 would seem to be a good fit for you, but the 18-135mm would be even better if you need a longer zoom reach. The 18-135mm is similar quality to the 18-55mm; if you want better quality, I'd go for the 15-85mm. If however being able to zoom closer is most important, why not complement (rather than replace) your 18-55mm with the 55-250mm? Check out my Canon lens guide at cameralabs . com!
cameralabs 5 days ago
im not sure about the 18-55mm or the 17-85mm.
is it true that the 17-85 have a flat cable problem?
Adriebm2 1 month ago
This has been flagged as spam show
the 18-55mm lens that comes with the t3i, do you think that it is good enough for a beginner like me? I just want good quality photos. if it is not good enough then what lens do you advice me to buy? thanks in advance.
CristinaOcampo8 1 month ago
the lens is F4 to F5.6 I wonder if it's ok or not... because I need a lens to take photos and video in low light also. F4 ain't good in low light.
Nicshooter 3 months ago
IS= Image Stabilization
Nicshooter 3 months ago
very helpful review, thank you:) I am more into videoing and was wondering if u could give some instructions on night settings for this lens because when i video in the dark it comes out with loads of gain, guide please
TheMr700 5 months ago
Nice review , true sort it canon fs its only a bit of plastic i just got a100mm usm macro & the hood was for sale for £25
3000KJH 5 months ago
This guy remember me Robin William in the movie Photo Obsession!
jeanfelixnolet 5 months ago
ps. i will need a zoom lens, do i get a "L" lens? and i will need "IS", I just want great results!! :)
supersabre69 6 months ago
@supersabre69 Well, an L lens is a Professional-grade lens. Just look at the name of the lens and see if the "mm" is a range (ex: 17-85mm). If so, it is a zoom lens. IS is Image Stabilization. It is highly recommended to decrease, or eradicate, blur in images. An L lens is VERY expensive, with the cheapest coming in at 443 pounds (used XE). Either way, both and L lens and a non-L lens will produce great results. You can get a kit lens of you desire.
thejan4129 4 months ago
hi gordon, i am thinking about getting this lens for my "static" aviation pics, i use the canon 550d (gripped), and i have the 100-400mm L is usm lens for my flying action shots, but i want something to capture static aircraft, so i can get the most sharpest, full of detail pics! The static aircraft can be around 10 to 100 yards away from where i am shooting, i am always shooting outside, so i get get sunshine, (sometimes) and cloud,(most of the time), please help! cheers.
supersabre69 6 months ago
What is IS mean?
MrGhanendraRai 6 months ago
Be warned. This lens has a serious design flaw. Eventually you are likely to experience a faulty Power Diaphragm unit. This renders the lens useless. It is expensive to fix unless you decide to have a go yourself. Which proves to be a pain in the backside. Canon should have recalled all of these lens. Instead they have replaced it with the 15-85mm that is a far superior lens. So be careful.
AndyinMokum 6 months ago
I bought a canon eos60d kit featuring this lens. It is very very good value I gotta say...
490Dodesheide 7 months ago
Does this Lens have The Choppiness as it zooms in and out as well as adjusting the exposure? (while in Movie Mode)
RnRVlog 7 months ago 2
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iseecheese 9 months ago
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iseecheese 9 months ago
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Check out my review of the latest unseen Canon lens, Get an exclusive first look!
TheBestReviewChannel 9 months ago
Ok Gordon I absolutely NEED your help.
I'm replacing the 18-55mm kit lens and have watched all your video's(and cameralabs(.)com) that matter!
yet I can't decide which to go for
either the new 18-55 IS version or the 17-85 IS USM version (price difference is around 180 quid.) answer this question and I will most likely use cameralabs to buy the lens !
PLEASE! :D thanks and great review
mastermindzh 10 months ago
@mastermindzh Get the 17-85, WAY WAY WAY WAY WAY WAY (Should I say way again?) IQ. Better zoom range and USM focusing motor.
JohnHFilms 10 months ago
i cant decide between this one and the Canon EF 28-135mm IS USM. Any help please???
Devdog1618 1 year ago
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can anyone tell me if this would be a good all around lens, even for night photography.
rzeroseven 1 year ago
This has been flagged as spam show
can anyone tell me if this would be a good all around lens, even for night photography.
rzeroseven 1 year ago
can anyone tell me if this would be a good all around lens, even for night photography
rzeroseven 1 year ago
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rzeroseven 1 year ago
can any1 tell me if this would be a good all around lens? even for night photography?
rzeroseven 1 year ago
Thank you for the review, I'm now off to buy one.
wolfheart1979 1 year ago 6
@wolfheart1979 You're welcome! If you'd like to support me, please shop vai one of the stores on the support us page at cameralabs . com!
cameralabs 1 year ago 10
@wolfheart1979 you should its a great lens. it looks mean on my 7d
WESTWOODBEATS 1 year ago
@WESTWOODBEATS Did! Looks Good! Thx
wolfheart1979 1 year ago
hey gordon, one of my friends is selling this lens to me for 200 USD... is that a good deal for a old-ish lens. or should i invest in a 3rd party lens for that price? i need a good zoom lens to go with my 50, 35, 28 prime lenses..
GOBbluthagain 1 year ago
@GOBbluthagain I don't know how much they go for second hand - but it's still a good lens. Do check out the lenses section at cameralabs . com for recommendations...
cameralabs 1 year ago
@cameralabs
i just bought the canon 17-40L instead of the 17-85mm.
thanks for the lens recommendation on the site.
GOBbluthagain 1 year ago
i want to get a better lens for my 1000d. is this a good one?
adamax08 1 year ago
thanks gordon !
robblac 1 year ago
can you ise this one on 7D
squecan 1 year ago
@squecan :Yes.
juidas 1 year ago
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Can you tell me what's the different between Speedlite 430EX II and Speedlite 580EX II?
fireblade1247 1 year ago
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This is good review
siwaphongkia 1 year ago
This is goo review
siwaphongkia 1 year ago
Hi Gordon!
Can you give me some advice on whether i should buy a wide angle EF14mm f/2.8L II USM lens?
i see many people using it and was wondering if it would be able to cover most sorts of photography.
My range of photography is basic indoor and outdoor.
Thank You
kumonomaki 1 year ago
the kit lens has a f 3.5/5.6, this is f4/5.6 so in focal terms the kit lens (18-55mm is actually better.
ChaosRiddenReaper 1 year ago
"Sort it out..." lol
soundtheshofar 1 year ago
@Gordon: At your site you didn't mention which lens would be best for shooting HD video. What should we consider when choosing? Could you please help me.
bestmountain 1 year ago
HI Gordon,
Unlike the other users here, i will not annoy you with the same question, however, I will ask you a new one. How do you get your head so shiny?
zachmonky 1 year ago 34
@zachmonky it was polished up on your mothers inner thighs..
robblac 1 year ago
HI GORDON IM 14 I NEED SOME ADVICE:
1) my favourite photos are landscape and portraits, I have this lense ( 17-55mm 2.8) do you think i also should also get the 50mm 1.8?
2) for wild life park shooting, what would you recommend for a telephoto lense? I need one so Im looking for adivce, I almost got the 17-200mm f/4 but maybe the focal length might not be enough. what do you recommend?
jonnyfied 1 year ago
@jonnyfied no need to post the same question four times! Please go to the lenses section at cameralabs . com and check out the recommended Canon lenses link. PS - if you'd like to support me, please shop (for anything!) through the partner stores page at cameralabs . com!
cameralabs 1 year ago 7
@cameralabs is an IS a must for video recording on the Rebel T2i? because I have an 18-55mm lens without IS.
JackSpearBailey 1 year ago
@cameralabs What exactly is IS?
KayWildcat 7 months ago
whether it is better than 18-55IS ? I think the image quality?
Webb987 1 year ago
Hello Gordon. I'm thinking of buying either this Canon EF-S 17-85mm IS lens or the Canon EF 28-135mm IS. How different are the two of them considering the angle of view (also taking into account that I used Tamron 18-200 mm f3.5-6.3 Di-II XR and I would not wont a shorter angle of view; I must add that I don't need that big focal length of the tamtom higher than 100, is not much of a use for me). So...will I loose or gain angle of view by replacing the tamrom with the Canon EF-S 17-85 IS?
MihaiElrond 1 year ago
@MihaiElrond please stop posting the same question again and again! I've had to remove four of them so far! As for angle of view, please see the lens buyers guide at cameralabs . com - it'll illustrate what you'll get at different focal lengths. Please also remember I can't comment on products I haven't tested.
cameralabs 1 year ago
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MihaiElrond 1 year ago
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MihaiElrond 1 year ago
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MihaiElrond 1 year ago
hey gordon currently ive purchased a canon 30D and off a friend and i got a 28-80mm lens with it, however ive had my eye on the 17-85 considering how wider angle i am able to get, although i hear similiar pros for both cameras and not taht many distinctive cons...should i upgrade? or decide to save up for a macro lens or something a bit more different?
shyer012 1 year ago
@shyer012 Depends what you want to take photos of! See the recommended canon lenses guide in the lenses section at cameralabs . com...
cameralabs 1 year ago
Gordon Lanes videos are great. Whay I wonder about though is he really sounds like a robot. Like every video it is the same text he just fills in the blanks for each product. On the other hand it is very helpful because after seeing 2 or 3 of his videos you understand the others much easier. I just wonder if he does it on purpose or not.
goodlucksdk 1 year ago
@goodlucksdk A robot?! Hmmm... I actually ad-lib all these videos, so tend to use similar phrases and style to help me - it also makes them more consistent.
cameralabs 1 year ago
Well as said it makes them very easy to understand so it's a good thing. Robot maybe was not a good choice of words of mine. I couldnt make up my mind if I liked it or not though. Thinking about it a little bit I prefer your videos over most anybody elses. By the way I once bought the Rebel XS based on your recommendation and and am still thrilled by how much I learned about photography using it. It was my first DSLR so now I probably will upgrade it to the 5D MII, but great recommendation.
goodlucksdk 1 year ago
@goodlucksdk You're welcome! Don't forget you can support me by shopping for anything at the partner stores page at cameralabs . com - thanks!
cameralabs 1 year ago
First Picture is Queenstown New Zealand..Taken from the Gondola... Nice !!!!!
joaopnz 1 year ago
I am thinking of whether to have this as an alternative to the T2i or the EF-S 17-55 IS. Any suggestions?
SnowPears 1 year ago
Hi Gordon, I bought this lens with my Rebel 300D some years ago and wonder if this would still be a good alternative for the new Canon T2i?
SnowPears 1 year ago
@SnowPears Yep, it'd work just fine - in fact the new camera would also improve the darkening you can sometimes see in the corners with this lens. See my 15-85mm review at cameralabs . com to see results with this and the 17-85mm on a T2i / 550D.
cameralabs 1 year ago
hey youtube... we dont like adds...
100089295 1 year ago
@100089295 Unless people pay per view or make donations, advertising is the only way sites like mine make any money - this is my full time job and I need to pay the bills!
cameralabs 1 year ago 23
Hello- would you recommend this lens over the Canon 18-135mm?
MrJoel813 1 year ago
I have a question. i don't know much about SLR's and lens and i'am buying t1i and it has 18-55mm lens in the box/kit
i want to know how is the 18-55mm lens???
can someone kind of define the lens please?? Thanks
naureennoni 1 year ago
confused, can it be used on a 7d?
scotttgross 1 year ago
@scotttgross Yes it can. As long as its a Canon APS-C sensor(7D, xxD, xxxD or 1000D), EF-S lenses can all be used on these models.
jiaqinh 1 year ago
Yup Gordon. Older post I realize, but yours are outstanding reviews. Clear, articulate and I always appreciate the comprehensiveness. I.E little extras like non rotating for CPLs turning IS off when tripod mounted etc. Thanks a bunch.
newcoyote 1 year ago
I bought this lens with my body 40D. I have seen non major chromatic aberation, some darkening at the edges vignetting at 17 mm but nothing dramatic. Dust has never ben an issue in 3 years of ownership. A good walk around lens on a bright day and due toe people writing crap about it, its available cheap. I'd buy it if I didn't already own it.
MarieMontreal 1 year ago 4
Comment removed
darshdarshu 1 year ago
hi, i just got this lens today. i see people are saying it sucks dust in very easily? is there anything i can do to prevent this? and if dust does get in, what can i do to remove this?
PhoenixOrion93 2 years ago
@PhoenixOrion93 yes it sucks in alot of dust. when you zoom in, dust gets on it, and when you go back to 17mm, dust goes in. to remove it, you have to send it to canon or take it apart and hope for the best. to prevent it, get a giottos rocket blower and blow around zoom to 85mm.
HelloNewYorkCity 2 years ago
ah okay. i've looked into the giottos rocket blower thing and it looks like it'd work pretty dang good, everybody has given it a 5 star rating. i'm probably gonna get one in the near future, thanks for helping me out.
PhoenixOrion93 2 years ago
Bah, don't believe the hype. I did 8 weeks in the states travelling from east to west coast. From big cities, mid-west, desert and snow. I never had any dust dramas. The lens performed well in all conditions. I'm no pro but I reckon the shots I took covered a decent chunk of lighting conditions and this lens did a really nice job. Well worth its value imo.
newtzdogg 1 year ago
My canon EOS 50D camera has peripheral Illumination correction. When turned on, it does a great job of correcting the problem of slight darkening around the corners for this 17-85mm lens. Try it!
vravon 2 years ago
yeah. its vignetting bro. an uncontrolled vignetting is a problem, but if controlled (via photoshop/lightroom etc) vignetting can enhance a photo.
N6600 2 years ago
I have this lens. Focal lengths are great & performs well in mid focal lengths, but at 17mm it suffers from quite savage chromatic aberration in bright sun. Vignetting minor but also a high degree of image quality loss in the peripheral areas of the image at 17mm. Stabiliser work well, but autofocus 'hunts' in low light. Disappointing for a lens that cost me £350. Bought the 55-250 IS USM at £190 and it leaves the 17-85 standing. 4 stop IS works A1. Selling the 17-85 soon for an L series.
paradoxAA9 2 years ago
Hmmm, i just can say something about the Canon 28-135mm 3,5-5,6 IS USM. It's sharper than the 17-85mm and as fast as it and don't sucks dust (so much). I had it 8 months in use and no dust in it. I sold it cause i need the 17mm. But now i think, its better to take a second for short focal lengh, something like canon 10-20mm or much cheaper Tamron 10-24mm. But when you want replace your Kit with a real good lens, you have to pay much more for good optical power... Canon 17-55 2.8 IS USM.
Greets
MorilLaw 2 years ago
Thanks for the review. After this video i've read many full reviews on the web site.
but still in doubts...
COULD SOMEONE WHO'S BEEN USING THIS LENS TELL ME HOW DOES IT FEEL? AND WHETHER IT WORTH OT OWN? Tests on the web site show that sometimes 17-85mm performs not better than a kit lens...
Thanks.
Indispensable7 2 years ago
It's better than the Kit-Lenses...
+ faster Focusing
+ precisely Focus
+ FTM
+ very good Image Stabilizer, 3+
but....
- much purple fringing at 17mm
- sucks dust very easily; after 2 months in use there are 5-6 particles
Not really good!
MorilLaw 2 years ago
Thanks MorilLaw for ur reply. will search for sth else. any recommendations? :)
Indispensable7 2 years ago
Hi Gordon! I just want to ask about the DUST ISSUE for the 17-85mm.What are your thoughts for that?Because I've read loads of reviews about the lens and they all say that the lens sucks dust very easily whenever you're zooming in & out.I'm thinking of upgrading my kit lens & deciding whether to go for the 17-85mm or 17-40mm f4 L lens for my canon 500D. What would be your recommendation?Thanks!
ojiefaye 2 years ago 2
I haven't expereinced dust issues duruing my testing periods with this lens. I compared the build and image quality against the 17-40mm in my Canon les group test at cameralabs . com...
cameralabs 2 years ago
I bought this lens 3 months ago,I put UV filter to protect front lens and to stop catching dust,well it doesn't help,I have few speck of dust under front barrel,it doesn't influence on picture quality but for 9 month I afraid that won't be so fun.Barrel catche's loose,It isn't very funny in lens which cost 300€ Also barrel fall down under their own weight in about 24-50 mm.Pros:Stabilizer,USM,perfect range,17-85 is the best for APS-C.Good for upgrade from kit,later you can sell and buy L
Madzirka 2 years ago
This comment has received too many negative votes show
يــلن امك ورنا تصوويرها طيـــب بس ماسكها ويبربر .. ؟ وش ذالكلام الفـآآرغ .. !!! صرااحـه عفـت الكـآم بـعد شرحــك البـــآآآآيـــخ وعزلت تالتصوير ابـشــركـ ..
almgazf 2 years ago
this lens is expensive for its IQ, I would refer the 18-55IS
nudawa 2 years ago
lol
therats2270 2 years ago
good presentation quite helpful thanks
fleximonster 2 years ago
What does a polarising filter do?
gaz52 2 years ago
See my polarising filter tutorial at dslrtips . com!
cameralabs 2 years ago
hello
would you recommend this lens as a starter lens on the canon eos 40d?
thanks
flipinflopin 2 years ago
I have it as a starter lens and it works well. Although the build quality could be tougher feeling. Check out the 18-200mm too.
tim9798 2 years ago
Comment removed
flipinflopin 2 years ago
Thanks a lot !
mikmc 2 years ago
GR8 Video. GR8 Lens. Thanks
photographer157 2 years ago
Hi and thanx for sharing all these great reviews.
question: without considering the price , witch one do you prefer this one or EF 17-40 F4 L USM for a walk around lens.
I saw the other review (17-40 ) but I can not decide !
Thanx
BigRoundShape 2 years ago
If you're thinking of going full-frame, then go for the 17-40, but totherwise the longer range and IS makes this one more useful overall on cropped bodies. But do also consider the 18-200mm. Feel free to discuss this further on the cameralabs forums!
cameralabs 2 years ago
a thing worth looking at if you want quality optics is old lenses on ebay you have to manually focus and manually set aperture.carl zeiss are about the best optics on the planet, adaptors are pretty cheap. dont get canon FD though get something like m42 screw fit.Look it up and research it.
zaohad1 2 years ago
If you want to test this out helios 44 >58mm f2 m42 screw fit are freely available at a cheap price on ebay. They have manual aperture which is exactly what you need. The build quality on the old lenses is excellent, the helios is built like a tank no worries about dropping it there.
zaohad1 2 years ago
Thanks for the excellent video. I am from India and have a Nikon D40. I use it with the Nikkors - 12-24 and 18-200. I just happenned to look into the EXIF of most of my photos and found that > 70% of them are taken in the 12-80 range. The 18-200 is really slow and would like to go for a faster lens. Would you recommend the 17-55 f/2.8 or the 24-70 f/2.8 for my requirement (range),. though I would certainly like the range of the Canon EF-S 17-85mm . Thanks in advance - Sriram
FIXOVISION 2 years ago
Hi Sriram, it's useful to check your EXIF data for this information as you may well find that you mostly use a shorter range than you first thought. As for the 17-55mm f2.8 versus the 24-70mm f2.8, I'd go for the former as it's wider, but it's a personal choice. It's a good question though, so feel free to ask in the Nikon section of the cameralabs . com forums!
cameralabs 2 years ago
Hey Gordon, I just ordered this lens in the mail. I just purchased a canon 40d. I am a newbie to the photographer world but, I like to take landscape pictures. Will this lens work for landscape? I looked at the canon 17-40mm but it is too much money. THANKS
ApplePro4 2 years ago
It's a great general purpose lens that's fine for landscapes. Feel free to discuss it further on the cameralabs forums...
cameralabs 2 years ago
Also;
Noticable distortion on full frame sensors.
F4 at widest is useless for anything other than holiday snaps.
Doesn't stay sharp after a lot of use.
Like ya say - no hood.
Disapointing - buy one from Ebay cheap - (there's a reason why they are) if you need to find out.
ginganz13 2 years ago
"Noticable distortion on full frame sensors."
It doesn't fit on full frame cameras. :S
shledron 2 years ago
At 17mm, it has rather heavy distortion (1.6x crop). The new 18-55mm IS lens doesn't suffer from this heavy distortion and has sharper corners throughout the range.
derekaggs11 2 years ago
Weird, my copy tends to be extremely sharp in all focal lengths, even at 17mm. There is noticeable distortion when wide, but I'm not really bothered by that. If I want to go wide properly then i'd use my 10-22mm lens anyway.
shledron 2 years ago
Do you guys think this is better than the 18-55 IS?? most the reviews says that the new kit lens is sharper than this lens
kgamal85 3 years ago
Have a look at the results pages of my Canon 18-200mm review at cameralabs . com - it compares all three...
cameralabs 3 years ago
Great review!! PLAIN TIGHT IT RIGHT!!
SteU4IA 3 years ago
Gordon, why don't you change your shirt in all your reviews? or is this the review shirt?
mo22122 3 years ago 2
Actually, this is one of two main review shirts!
cameralabs 3 years ago
Hello, Gordon. I would like some advice on a question of mine: does this lens makes a great couple with the EF 70-300 IS USM lens or should I try getting just the EF-S 18-200 IS (I watched the video reveiw of this one). Thanks in advance!
RainbowWalker911 3 years ago
Weeeell, it depends on comparing quality, range and convenience. Feel free to discuss this further in the Canon section of the cameralabs forums...
cameralabs 3 years ago
hi, could you please give me your professional advice:
i need to buy a new camera (lost other one). budget is £250 but obviously the cheaper the better. something that will fit in handbag. i use is primarily for taking pics of friends. im not a professional but do take a good photo. had the kodak easyshare touch screen years and years ago before I lost it and i loved the photos it took! need to buy one in the next couple of days, please help! thank you!
NIKKIFRANCE 3 years ago
Check out the compacts best buys section at cameralabs . com!
cameralabs 3 years ago
Will this lens work with the Rebel XS?
CheeseBubbles 3 years ago
Yes.
cameralabs 3 years ago
wow! that was quick.
thanks
CheeseBubbles 3 years ago
i love this lens i replaced the kit lens with this right away the is is nice to have then not i use the lens for astrophotography off a tri or afocal i even dropped the lens 3feet shattered the filter but the lens is perfect still quality built
halicon74 3 years ago
Holly crap, did I just buy the lens from you? damn that is weird....
Washington D.C
briggs9187 3 years ago
great review!!!
mariuspyonline 3 years ago
Nice review! You need to come to Texas and get a tan my friend!
Eagle971 3 years ago
HAHA its just plain tight, sort it out... classic.
ambermofo 3 years ago
Yes, it's a USM model with full-time MF.
cameralabs 3 years ago
I bought this lens a few days ago and I'm loving it so far. Some may complain about the IQ on wide but it's generally sharp, almost to the levels of my 50mm f1.8.
snevelin 3 years ago
I'm very jealous ;)
this reviews are the best that i can find on youtube ^^
(sorry for bad english :P)
DM47906 3 years ago
Hello Gordon, thank you for all your reviews! they are very very helpful to me.
I was wondering if you could do a review or atleast give me your opinion on the Canon EF-S 55-250 mm f 4.0-5.6 lens and how would it work on an EOS 30d.
Thanks again!
cheers
jdcontrol 3 years ago
Hi, I haven't tested this lens so can't comment, sorry! But there's some owners on the cameralabs forums if you want to ask there...
cameralabs 3 years ago
I love you
61862006 3 years ago
thank you for great review - but i didnt heard well about bad sides :( can u write about 'em?
makkintosh 3 years ago
Sure thing - head on over to cameralabs . com and click on the lenses section - there you'll find our full review of this - and other lenses - including all the good and bad points!
cameralabs 3 years ago
that dude's adorable & so is the lense.
thanks
ashtonnesmith 3 years ago
Great review thanks. Look forward to more.
J4R3D28 3 years ago
great review.
skingrafter 3 years ago
Okay, what about an upgrade from 17-85mm lens, what do you recommend ?! Instead of replacing them altogether I want complimentary zoom lens to go with the 17-85mm ... if only could CANON make 85-???mm lens, I would buy them in a heartbeat ...
apexdna 3 years ago
Hi, feel free to discuss this in the Canon section of the cameralabs forums!
cameralabs 3 years ago
What about the Tamron 17-50 f2.8? Is it better than the canon 17-85mm?
Cheers
skillbill83 3 years ago
thanks for all the great reviews you do, its help me made my mind up of that camera im getting, and thats this one with the lens. thanks you.
xsjad0man 3 years ago
Thanks for the awesome review!! You have the best camera reviews on the web! One request. Could you possibly do a review on the Canon EF 28-135mm f/3.5-5.6 IS USM. There really are not that many professional reviews on this lens and i would highly appreciate your review! Thanks and keep up the good work!
jhsong84 3 years ago
Thanks! I'm afraid I have no plans to test the 28-135mm, but there are several owners on the cameralabs forums if you'd like to ask them what they think...
cameralabs 3 years ago
Ive got a 350d at the moment.Iam upgrading to the 40d very soon and this is the lens iam getting for it.These reviews are very good from camera labs.Ive done most of my homework on which camera iam upgrading to based on camera labs reviews...cheers!
AVRILSBEAN 3 years ago
Cheers! Have you visited the full reviews at the cameralabs website?
cameralabs 3 years ago
I have.Iam thinking thative made the right choice.
AVRILSBEAN 3 years ago
is it sharp?
Konstig0meb 3 years ago
Check out the results and gallery pages on our review at cameralabs . com. You might also find our Canon lens group test useful as it compares this lens against some others...
cameralabs 3 years ago
I bought this lens due to this video and WOW its awesome. It has to be the best walk around lens
billrhea 3 years ago
This comment has received too many negative votes show
PLEASE IN SPANISH I DON'T GET THAT...
ydazbriceno 3 years ago
I'm sorry, I don't speak Spanish, so I can't translate it...
cameralabs 3 years ago
lol
sam72998 3 years ago
Hi how much would this lense be in £? please reply!
(aiden)
avrillavigneissexy 3 years ago
Hi Aiden, you can get up to date pricing on this lens in our review at the Cameralabs website...
cameralabs 3 years ago
hi Gordon! after watching your videos, i have indeed learn alot from it! by the way, are you going to test the nikon D3?
2PinPlug 3 years ago
Just as soon as Nikon sends one in for review!
cameralabs 3 years ago
hi
Iam am considdering to buy this lense, but how about sigma 18- 50 f2,8 ? allround lense..
6helge 3 years ago
I'm considering this lens too , the results from the kit lens in low light ie musuems hand held are pretty dissapointing
Good vid.
zaohad1 3 years ago
Seen the lens on ebay brand new for £234 inc p and p fully insured delivery in UK.
zaohad1 3 years ago
I haven't tested the Sigma, so can't comment, but there oculd be some owners in the Cameralabs forum if you'd like to ask there...
cameralabs 3 years ago
I just bought this lens and I love it. This lens is 100times better then the kit lens. Thanks for the review. I also think it should come with a lens hood. For a $500 lens they could toss in a $5 hood.
billrhea 3 years ago 2
Hello Gordon! i will totally agree with the lens hood thing.. Being an Owner of this lens i have seen a little banana effect on the corners when you take a picture at wide angle (17mm). Do you get the same effect or is it just the lens i have ?:S
hanzakbar 3 years ago 2
Hi hanzakbar, there is certainly some geometric distortion on this lens when zoomed-out, and also some darkening in the corners - see our gallery and results pages for this lens at the Cameralabs website for examples...
cameralabs 3 years ago
Thanks Gordon.
I am absolutely new to DSLR.
I am planning to buy a Canon EOS 40D,but not sure of the kit lens.I have the option for 18-55mm and 18-75mm.
Can you suggest me which one to start with!!
sidhas27 4 years ago
Ah sorry 18-55mm and the 17-85mm...
sidhas27 4 years ago
The 17-85mm is MUCH better, but is also much more expensive. Check out our Canon DSLR kit lens group test video - and also the full article at the Cameralabs website - it compares both lenses and two others as well!
cameralabs 4 years ago
I have a question about this lense how come on the web the price rang is $399-$1300. Is something not right there?
billrhea 4 years ago
Maybe you're seeing a price for the lens WITH a DSLR - click through to the shop and see if its the lens alone or a bundle. The lens alone should be $420-$630 ish...
cameralabs 4 years ago
I'm about to get the 400D Rebel XTi...but will wait a couple more weeks until after the PMA show. Rumor has it Canon will announce the 450D then. But either way, I am still deciding on what lens to get. I really dig the 17-85mm focal range, but am bummed its such a slow lens. Man, if it was only f 2.8! Which is why I am leaning towards the canon 17-55 f2.8. Ideally I'd love a 10-22mm, a 17-55mm and then a 70-200mm. I just can't afford all three right now. :-) Anyway...I love this guys reviews.
regandarcy 4 years ago
Good review! I bought this lens with a 400D for my mother for her birthday!
biggiesized 4 years ago
Yeah "sort it out Canon"..
hanzakbar 4 years ago
internationalnineone: I agree! His videos are the best! And he likes the 400D, just like me.
neverhood311 4 years ago
Nice!!!
bedevere007 4 years ago
Gordon is the best reviewer ever!
And I love how he demands Canon include lens hoods! He's right. Come on Canon!!
internationalnineone 4 years ago 3
"Sort it out!"
hahaha made me laugh.
TheHeartOfARobot 4 years ago