18-55 EF-S Question

<p>Just a quick question, but I've acquired a Canon 18-55 zoom which I believe to be the first version. However it's not marked USM anywhere (except the cap which may not be original) so I'm not sure if it's a USM lens or not, even though the focusing seems fast and relatively quiet. So - is the USM version of this lens actually marked as such?</p>

<p>Thanks in advance.</p>

While there are 17-55mm and 17-85mm USM lenses, I can't find a 18-55mm USM lens. Do you know there is an USM

version for the 18-55mm variety?

<p>Ruben according to this site they come in both USM and non-USM versions. I just want to know how to tell them apart.</p>

<p>http://www.eflens.com/lens_articles/varieties_of_canon_18-55.html</p>

It would seem that the article that you posted would be the best guide for determining what version you have.

Never owned an 18-55 but it is not like Canon to not brand the lens with a "USM" logo if it is a USM version.

Note that these USM lenses have a micro USM motor and not the ring type USM motors in the more premium

EF lenses and "L" lenses.

<p>On a USM lens, the name on the ID ring at the front of the lens should include "USM" in red letters. Otherwise, the lens is a non-USM version.</p>

<p>This is understood. Many thanks for the responses.</p>

<p>This is my experience, with kit lenses only: First version was EF-S, second was EF-S_IS, a better lens, the third EF-S_IS_USM, considered better than the first 2, and the front element does not revolve during focusing, therefore good with polariser. All have visible barrel distortion at the 18mm end.<br>

Looked at John's link, didn't know there were 9 versions. aaaargh</p>

<p>I didn't know there ever was a USM version of the 18-55, but it turns out there were *two*. Here's their entries in the Canon Museum.</p>

<p>http://www.canon.com/c-museum/en/product/ef381.html</p>

<p>http://www.canon.com/c-museum/en/product/ef385.html</p>

<p>The first USM version was introduced in 2004, the second in 2005. Both predate the addition of an image stabilizer to that lens, which occurred in 2007.</p>

<p>The website you reference and/or the Canon museum would be best for figuring out exactly which version you have.</p>