Canon EF-S 55-250mm f/4-5.6 IS II Autofocus APS-C Lens, Black {58}

Canon's APS-C telephoto workhorse covering 55-250mm with IS II stabilization.

On an APS-C sensor, 250mm translates to an effective 400mm equivalent reach, which puts distant subjects well within range without the weight or cost of a full-frame super-telephoto. The f/4-5.6 aperture range is honest about what this lens is: a light, affordable telephoto built around Canon's IS II stabilization system, which compensates for camera shake during handheld shooting at the long end where that shake becomes boosted. The 58mm filter thread is a common size, so you likely have compatible glass already.

Autofocus is handled natively on any Canon EOS APS-C body, and for shooters wanting to adapt to Sony E, Fuji X, or Canon RF systems, the lens follows with appropriate adapters. The telephoto zoom range makes this a natural fit for anyone who needs reach without committing to a prime. At this focal length bracket, the IS II system does meaningful work keeping keepers up in situations where you can't control your shutter speed.

Who It's For

Sports and action photographers shooting from the sidelines on a Canon Rebel or 90D will find the 400mm-equivalent reach covers a lot of field. Wildlife shooters working from a fixed position, such as a blind or a park trail, get useful distance compression for bird and animal subjects without a heavy telephoto kit. Travel photographers who want one zoom to cover portraits and distant architecture can run this alongside a standard kit lens and cover most situations. Students and enthusiasts building out their first Canon APS-C kit get IS II stabilization at a focal length where it genuinely reduces missed frames.

Key Features

• 55-250mm telephoto zoom with 88-400mm equivalent on APS-C
• f/4-5.6 variable aperture throughout zoom range
• IS II image stabilization for handheld telephoto work
• Native autofocus on Canon EF-S mount bodies
• 58mm filter thread accepts standard filters and adapters
• Compact, lightweight design for portable reach

FAQ

What's the effective focal length on an APS-C Canon body?

On APS-C sensors, this lens delivers approximately 88-400mm equivalent reach due to the 1.6x crop factor, pushing distant subjects into workable framing without the bulk of a dedicated super-telephoto.

Does IS II stabilization actually help at 250mm handheld?

Yes. At the long end, camera shake is amplified, and IS II compensation makes the difference between a keeper and a blurred shot when you're forced to shoot at slower shutter speeds in available light.

Will this autofocus work on all Canon APS-C bodies?

Autofocus operates natively on any Canon EOS body with an EF-S mount, including all Rebel and SL series cameras and the 7D line.

Can I use my existing filters on this lens?

Yes, the 58mm filter thread is standard, so any 58mm circular polarizer, ND filter, or protector you already own will screw straight on.

Is this lens adaptable to mirrorless systems?

The EF-S mount can be adapted to Sony E, Fuji X, and Canon RF bodies with the appropriate third-party adapter, though autofocus performance varies by adapter quality and camera body.

What's the aperture range across the zoom?

Maximum aperture starts at f/4 at 55mm and narrows to f/5.6 by 250mm, which is typical behavior for consumer telephoto zooms at this price point.

How does this compare to fixed-focal-length telephotos?

The zoom range trades some light-gathering ability and potential sharpness for flexibility. You get reach from portrait work through distant subject coverage in a single lens without swapping.