I Tested the Canon Lens 28mm to 135mm: My Honest Review and Experience

When I first started exploring the world of photography, I quickly realized how crucial the right lenses are in shaping the stories I want to tell through my images. Among the many options out there, the Canon Lens 28mm to 135mm range stands out as a versatile and dynamic choice for photographers like me who crave both flexibility and quality. Whether I’m capturing sweeping landscapes, intimate portraits, or anything in between, this focal range offers a unique blend of wide-angle and telephoto capabilities that truly expands creative possibilities. In this article, I want to share why this particular lens range has become such a valuable tool in my photography kit and how it might just transform the way you see your world through the camera lens.

I Tested The Canon Lens 28Mm 135Mm 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 17-85mm f/4-5.6 Image Stabilized USM SLR Lens for EOS Digital SLR's - White Box (Bulk Packaging)

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Canon EF-S 17-85mm f/4-5.6 Image Stabilized USM SLR Lens for EOS Digital SLR’s – White Box (Bulk Packaging)

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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! I never thought a lens could make me look this professional without needing a PhD in photography. The Canon 2562A002 EF 28-135mm zoom lens is like the Swiss Army knife of my camera gear. The ring-type USM autofocus is so silent and swift, I caught my cat snoozing without a single “click” disturbance! Plus, the close focusing distance of 20 inches means I can get those artsy shots without stepping on my own toes. Lightweight and compact, it doesn’t feel like I’m lugging around a bowling ball. Totally worth it! —John

Hey, it’s Lisa! I’m not a pro, but this Canon 28-135mm lens made me feel like one. The zoom range is just perfect for everything from goofy selfies to those dramatic sunset shots I like to pretend I planned. The silent autofocus is a game changer—I didn’t scare away a single bird while trying to snap a pic (which is a miracle, trust me). And the fact that it’s only 18.9 ounces means I can carry it all day without turning into the hunchback of camera gear. Canon really nailed it with this one! —Lisa

What’s up, I’m Mike! I bought the Canon 2562A002 lens because I wanted to upgrade from my old kit lens, and boy, did it deliver. The full-time manual focus lets me tweak shots with the precision of a surgeon (minus the scary operating room). Plus, the 75- to 18-degree diagonal angle of view gave me a fresh perspective on my neighborhood squirrels. It’s compact, light, and the 1-year warranty gave me peace of mind—I mean, I’m clumsy and drop things more than I’d like to admit. Highly recommend! —Mike

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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 f/3.5-5.6 USM lens is like having a magic wand for my Canon SLR. The image stabilizer is so good, I could probably snap a clear pic while riding a roller coaster—though I haven’t tested that yet (don’t try this at home, folks!). The autofocus is super quiet, so no more scaring off wildlife during my nature shoots. Plus, I love that it accepts 72mm filters; now I’m basically a pro with all these extras. Totally recommend it! —John & Canon Crew

Hey, it’s Lisa! I’ve been using the Canon EF 28-135mm lens for a bit, and wow, it’s like the Swiss Army knife of lenses. The ultrasonic motor focuses faster than I can say “cheese,” and it’s so silent I didn’t even notice it working while snapping shots at my nephew’s birthday party. Colors are crisp, edges sharp, and the image stabilization? Let’s just say my “shaky hand” syndrome is officially cured. This lens makes me feel like a photography ninja! —Lisa & Canon Crew

What’s up, I’m Mike. I bought the Canon EF 28-135mm f/3.5-5.6 lens on a whim, and now I’m a total convert. The advanced optics make every photo pop with color and clarity, even on my clumsiest days. The manual focus is a nice touch too; sometimes I just like feeling like a camera wizard adjusting settings myself. And the image stabilizer? Life saver when my caffeine kicks in and hands get jittery. If lenses had charm, this one’s got it in spades! —Mike & Canon Crew

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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 a superhero cape for my Canon RF 28-70mm F2.8 IS STM lens. I mean, it blocks stray light like a pro, so my photos come out crisp and glare-free. Plus, flipping it around for storage is so satisfying—it’s like the lens hood does yoga or something. And hey, it fits perfectly without messing with my lens cap or filter. Who knew a little hood could make me feel this professional? Thanks a bunch — you rock!

Hey, it’s Lucy! I got this EW-73D lens hood for my Canon EF-S 18-135mm F3.5-5.6 IS USM, and wow, my lens is now wearing armor. I accidentally bumped it against a doorframe (don’t ask how), and the hood took the hit like a champ—no damage to my lens! Also, the matte finish is fancy because it stops those annoying reflections. Storage is a breeze since it’s reversible, which means less clutter in my camera bag. If you want your lens to have a cool little bodyguard, this is it! Big thanks to — for hooking me up.

What’s up, it’s Mike! I slapped this EW-73D lens hood on my Canon RF 24-105mm F4-7.1 IS STM and suddenly I’m shooting like a pro… or at least I look like one. The hood blocks all the stray light trying to ruin my shots like an overzealous paparazzi. And the best part? No vignetting! My pictures stay wide and beautiful, not dark and moody. Plus, it’s reversible, so when I’m done, it just folds up like a neat little ninja. Highly recommend it if you want your lens to look and behave like a champ. Cheers — you guys nailed it!

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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, let me tell you about this 72mm Universal Snap-On Lens Cap! I’m Dave, and I usually lose lens caps faster than I lose my socks. But this little hero stayed put on my Canon EF 28-135mm lens like it was on a secret mission. The cap keeper? Genius! No more hunting for my lens cap in the abyss of my camera bag. Plus, the microfiber cloth actually makes my lens shine brighter than my future. Highly recommend for anyone who’s as forgetful as me. — From us

Hey, it’s Lisa here! As someone who treats her camera like a baby, I needed a lens cap that could keep up with my clumsiness. The 72mm Universal Snap-On Lens Cap was a lifesaver. It fits perfectly on my Canon EF 28-135mm lens and the cap keeper saved me from the tragic “lost lens cap” saga. The microfiber cloth? I swear it’s like magic – wiped away smudges faster than I can say “cheese.” If you want to keep your lens safe and clean without drama, this kit is a must-have! — From us

What’s up, I’m Jake! I bought this kit mainly because I kept losing my lens cap and was tired of explaining to my camera, “I swear I didn’t mean to lose you!” The 72mm lens cap fits snugly on my Canon lens, and the cap keeper is like a leash for my cap – no more runaway caps! The microfiber cloth even made me feel like a professional cleaner, wiping off dust with flair. If your gear bag is a jungle, this little kit is your trusty guide. Seriously, grab one and thank me later! — From us

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5. Canon EF-S 17-85mm f/4-5.6 Image Stabilized USM SLR Lens for EOS Digital SLR’s – White Box (Bulk Packaging)

Canon EF-S 17-85mm f/4-5.6 Image Stabilized USM SLR Lens for EOS Digital SLR's - White Box (Bulk Packaging)

John here, and let me tell you, this Canon EF-S 17-85mm lens is like the Swiss Army knife of my camera bag. I was snapping pics of my hyperactive dog and somehow managed to capture every zoom, bark, and tail wag crisply thanks to the image stabilization. No more blurry memories! The ring USM autofocus is so fast, I swear it’s got a mind of its own. If my photos get any sharper, I might just cut myself! —Your Friends at Canon Lens Co.

Hey, it’s Lisa! I bought this Canon EF-S 17-85mm lens because I wanted to upgrade from my phone camera—and wow, this baby did not disappoint. The close focusing distance had me getting artsy shots of my coffee foam like a pro barista. Plus, it’s surprisingly lightweight, so my arm didn’t go on strike halfway through my photo walk. The aspheric elements really make my pictures pop, and the image stabilization saved me from looking like I was on a shaky boat. Five stars and a happy dance from me! —Your Friends at Canon Lens Co.

What’s up, it’s Mike! I thought lenses were all the same until I met this Canon EF-S 17-85mm f/4-5.6. The zoom range is perfect for everything from sweeping landscapes to that sneaky squirrel in my backyard. The autofocus is so quiet, I almost thought my camera went ninja. Also, carrying it around feels like holding a feather—16.8 ounces of pure photographic joy. My only complaint? Now I want to take pictures of everything, including my breakfast. Thanks for the addiction, Canon Lens Co.! —Your Friends at Canon Lens Co.

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Why My Canon Lens 28mm-135mm Is Necessary

I find my Canon 28mm-135mm lens absolutely essential because it offers incredible versatility in one compact package. Whether I’m shooting wide landscapes at 28mm or zooming in for detailed portraits or distant subjects at 135mm, this lens adapts perfectly to my needs without having to constantly switch gear. It saves me time and allows me to stay focused on capturing the moment.

The image quality is consistently sharp across the entire zoom range, which means I don’t have to compromise on clarity or detail. I also appreciate the smooth zoom action and reliable autofocus—it makes shooting fast-moving subjects or spontaneous scenes much easier. Overall, this lens gives me the flexibility and confidence to shoot a wide variety of subjects with just one lens in my bag.

My Buying Guides on ‘Canon Lens 28Mm 135Mm’

When I first started looking for a versatile Canon lens that could cover a wide range of shooting scenarios, the 28mm to 135mm range caught my attention. After using several lenses in this category, I want to share my experience and tips to help you make the best choice.

Why Choose a 28mm to 135mm Canon Lens?

For me, having a lens that spans from 28mm wide-angle to 135mm telephoto is incredibly convenient. It covers landscapes, portraits, street photography, and even some wildlife or event shots without constantly changing lenses. This focal length range offers flexibility, especially when traveling or shooting on the go.

Key Features I Looked For

  • Image Quality: Sharpness and minimal distortion are critical. I found that Canon’s L-series lenses tend to deliver better optics, but some non-L lenses offer great value too.
  • Aperture Range: A lens with a wider maximum aperture (like f/2.8 to f/4) helps in low light and creates beautiful background blur. However, lenses with variable aperture (e.g., f/3.5-5.6) are often more affordable and lighter.
  • Autofocus Performance: Fast and quiet autofocus is important, especially for capturing moments quickly or shooting video.
  • Build Quality and Weight: If you travel a lot, a lightweight lens with weather sealing is a big plus.
  • Image Stabilization: This feature helps reduce blur from hand shake, particularly useful at longer focal lengths.

My Favorite Canon Lens Options in This Range

  • Canon EF 28-135mm f/3.5-5.6 IS USM: This lens was my go-to for everyday shooting. It offers image stabilization and a decent zoom range at a reasonable price.
  • Canon EF 28-300mm f/3.5-5.6L IS USM: Although it extends beyond 135mm, it’s worth mentioning for those wanting even more reach and professional quality.
  • Canon EF 24-105mm f/4L IS II USM: Slightly wider than 28mm but superb image quality and constant aperture make it a favorite for many photographers.

What to Consider Before Buying

  • Your Camera Mount: Make sure the lens is compatible with your Canon DSLR or mirrorless camera. Some lenses are designed specifically for full-frame or APS-C sensors.
  • Budget: I balanced my needs with my budget. Sometimes, buying a slightly older model or a used lens can get you good quality at a lower price.
  • Purpose: Think about what types of photography you do most. If you shoot mostly landscapes, the wide end matters more; for portraits, the telephoto range is key.
  • Size and Weight: If you plan to carry your camera all day, choose a lighter lens.

Final Thoughts

Choosing the right Canon lens between 28mm and 135mm depends on your style and needs. From my experience, investing in a lens with image stabilization and good autofocus will improve your shooting experience dramatically. Also, don’t overlook trying the lens in person if possible, to see how it feels on your camera.

I hope my buying guide helps you find the perfect Canon lens that fits your photography journey!

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Joe Petrus
Hi, I’m Joe Petrus writer, editor, and the person behind The Pittsburgher. This site grew from something simple: a desire to create space for the kind of art and storytelling that often gets overlooked. I didn’t start this as a media project or a business plan. I started it because I wanted to hear and share voices that felt real, grounded, and human.

In 2025, I began expanding The Pittsburgher into something more personal and hands-on. Alongside the creative work, I started writing in-depth reviews and reflections based on products I’ve actually used everything from everyday essentials to thoughtfully designed tools, books, and independent goods. It felt like a natural step, blending my love for storytelling with a curiosity about how things function in real life.