If you've ever wondered if an older lens can still deliver high-quality images on newer cameras, you're about to get your answer. The Canon EF-S 15-85mm f/3.5-5.6 IS USM lens has been retested on modern gear, revealing how this classic performs today.
Coming to you from Christopher Frost, this informative video explores why the Canon EF-S 15-85mm f/3.5-5.6 lens remains intriguing, even though it's no longer in production. The lens covers a highly practical zoom range equivalent to 24 to 136mm on a full frame camera, giving you impressive flexibility for landscapes, travel, and everyday shooting. Frost points out how this particular zoom range isn't readily matched by newer APS-C Canon lenses. Additionally, its well-established reputation for excellent sharpness—often compared to Canon’s higher-end L series—makes it especially appealing. If you're considering budget-friendly but high-quality lenses, Frost highlights that finding this lens can be a genuine bargain.
Another significant aspect Frost discusses is the lens's optical and build characteristics. He tests the lens on the Canon EOS R7, which packs a demanding 32.5-megapixel APS-C sensor. Despite being constructed mainly of plastic typical of mid-range lenses from its era, it feels robust and balanced in use. The ultrasonic motor (USM) autofocus system is notably swift and quiet, handling fast and accurate focus even on adapted mirrorless setups. However, Frost notes some limitations in video work, particularly regarding its image stabilization, which provides only moderate effectiveness, and noticeable focus breathing during filming. These insights are valuable if you frequently switch between photography and video.
Key Specs
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Focal Length: 15-85mm (24-136mm equivalent)
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Aperture Range: f/3.5-5.6 to f/22-36
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Lens Mount: Canon EF-S
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Minimum Focus Distance: 1.15' / 35 cm
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Image Stabilization: Yes
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Optical Design: 17 Elements in 12 Groups
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Autofocus Motor: Ultrasonic Motor (USM)
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Maximum Magnification: 0.21x
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Filter Size: 72mm
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Dimensions: 3.21" diameter, 3.44" length
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Weight: 1.27 lb (575 g)
Frost provides thorough insights into the image quality you can expect from the lens. At wider focal lengths, sharpness in the center is impressive, and even corners perform adequately, especially when slightly stopped down. Zooming to 85mm, the corners do soften more noticeably, and contrast drops somewhat. Frost also emphasizes how distortion and vignetting at the widest angle (15mm) are significant, but these issues largely resolve at narrower zoom settings. Importantly, he notes how the lens performs commendably well against bright light sources for a lens of its age, with minimal flare issues. Check out the video above for the full rundown from Frost.
