topic 18-135 STM or USM in Gear Guide

18-135 STM or USM

pukalsu1 — Fri, 19 Sep 2025 14:14:33 GMT

I’m using a 60D and have a 50mm f1.8 prime. Looking at the 18-135 f3.5-5.6 for its versatility. On KEH camera the USM can be found for around $280 dollars while the STM is $170. I understand to avoid the original one even though it’s $90 dollars but is it worth the extra $100 to get the USM motor considering it’s going on a 60D

Also have never purchased from KEH before, is it reliable, is the grading system accurate etc…

Also are there any other recommendations for under 400 dollars used that have IS and a good focal range with relatively low aperture.

Thank you

Re: 18-135 STM or USM

shadowsports — Fri, 19 Sep 2025 16:49:20 GMT

Greetings,

KEH is reputable. When I owned an APS-C body I used my EF-S 18-135 a great deal of the time. I owned the USM version. It always performed well. Depending on the other lenses you might own now, the EF-S 55-250 might also fit in with your kit. Canon also makes a EF-S 18-200, but my preference would be for the 18-135 between these two.

Re: 18-135 STM or USM

normadel — Fri, 19 Sep 2025 16:50:20 GMT

Why denigrate the 60D? It's a great camera. I have one.

Yes, 18-135 is a good versatile range, and I'd go for the USM. I would also look to MPB.com. Or UsedPhotoPro.com. I prefer them over KEH, having used them all for years. Descriptions, ratings, actual photos make them my strong favorites.

Re: 18-135 STM or USM

ebiggs1 — Sat, 20 Sep 2025 14:03:03 GMT

KEH is fine. Typical online store. They may tend to be a bit overpriced on their gear but they also tend to under grade their gear. I have purchased a couple of items from KEH but I have a friend that has bought a lot from them. He only buys the lower, sometimes lowest, grades and they always seem to better better then KEH's grading.

I have never used MBP so no experience to report.

Re: 18-135 STM or USM

ebiggs1 — Sat, 20 Sep 2025 14:06:06 GMT

"18-135 STM or USM" as to which to buy, they both seem to work. A better factor is which one available is the newest manufacture. Younger is probably a better choice maker or breaker.