Canon’s other kit lens for APS-C EOS R mirrorless cameras, the RF-S 18-45mm F4.5-6.3 IS STM ($299.99), is replaced with the more expensive RF-S 18-150mm F3.5-6.3 IS STM ($499.99). Naturally, the 18-150mm is a bit more expensive and larger, but we believe those trade-offs are worthwhile. Particularly for a lens that you are likely to use for daily photography, the increased zoom range and superior macro performance are important advantages.

AN EXPERIENCED LENS FOR SOME You may be aware with the 18-150mm F3.5-6.3 IS STM designation because Canon created an EF-M 18-150mm F3.5-6.3 IS STM for its EOS M camera system. The RF-S and RF-M versions, according to DPReview, share the same optical diagram and MTF performance charts (Opens in a new window) . Given that the Canon EF-M 18-150mm was a competent entry-level zoom when we evaluated it, we won’t criticize the company for using an established optical design in this case.

in the new window (Opens in a new tab) The barrel and mount of the lens are made of plastic. It weighs only 10.9 ounces and is only 5.0 by 2.7 inches (HD) in size when it is at its smallest. As seen below, the barrel telescopes to zoom. You only get the front and rear caps with the lens; you might wish to add a 55mm filter to shield the front element from scratches and errant fingerprints. As an alternative, you can purchase a third-party hood (for as low as $10) or the Canon EW-60F hood (around $30).

COMPARED PRODUCTS Excellent

Imatest (Opens in a new window) displays extremely decent resolution (approximately 3,000 lines), with significantly improved clarity between f/5.6 and f/8 (around 3,300 lines). Edge clarity isn’t ideal at the wide end and is still a little soft when stopped down, but given the lens’s size and 8.3x zoom ratio, this is to be expected.

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