Sony 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 DT SAM II (SAL18552) A-Mount Autofocus Lens [55]

Model #360030
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Sony's 18-55mm kit lens, refined for A-mount shooters.

The Sony DT 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 SAM II covers the focal range that handles the widest range of everyday shooting situations, from 18mm wide-angle framing to 55mm short telephoto for tighter subjects. The SAM (Smooth Autofocus Motor) built into the lens drives focus quietly and independently of the camera body, which matters when shooting video or working in situations where AF noise is a concern.

This is an A-mount lens, native to Sony Alpha DSLR and SLT bodies. With an appropriate adapter, it can also be used on Sony E-mount cameras. At the wide end, f/3.5 gives you enough light-gathering for indoor shooting in reasonable light, and the 55mm end at f/5.6 works well for casual portraits and detail shots. For any Sony A-mount shooter building out a first kit or adding a second copy as a backup walk-around lens, the SAM II covers the range you actually reach for most days.

Who It's For

New Sony Alpha DSLR or SLT owners get a logical starting point here, the 18-55mm range covers street photography, travel snapshots, and casual portraits without constant lens swapping. Documentary and event photographers shooting on A-mount bodies benefit from the internal SAM autofocus motor, which keeps focus acquisition quiet during video capture or discreet shooting. Sony E-mount users with an appropriate adapter can put this lens to work as a budget-friendly wide-to-short-tele option on mirrorless bodies.

Key Features

  • Sony A-mount native lens for Alpha DSLR and SLT bodies
  • 18-55mm focal range from wide-angle to short telephoto
  • f/3.5-5.6 maximum aperture across the zoom range
  • Smooth Autofocus Motor (SAM) for quiet, independent focus operation
  • Compatible with E-mount cameras using third-party adapter

FAQ

What's the difference between the SAM II and the original DT 18-55mm?
The SAM II designation refers to the second generation of this lens. Specific differences between versions are not documented in available specifications.
Will this lens work on my Sony E-mount camera?
The SAL18552 is native to Sony A-mount. With an appropriate third-party adapter, it can be mounted on E-mount bodies, though you'll lose autofocus capability depending on the adapter design.
Is the SAM autofocus motor fast enough for video?
The Smooth Autofocus Motor (SAM) is designed for quiet, independent focus operation - it drives focus without relying on the camera body, which makes it suitable for video work where AF noise matters.
What aperture does this lens reach at 55mm?
f/5.6 at the telephoto end. At 18mm, the maximum aperture is f/3.5.
Is this lens good for portraits?
At 55mm with f/5.6 available, you get a short telephoto focal length commonly used for casual portrait and detail work. The f/5.6 maximum aperture is moderate - not fast, but workable in good light.
Can I use this as a backup walk-around lens if I already own another kit lens?
Yes. The 18-55mm range covers everyday focal lengths, making it practical as a second or backup copy for Sony A-mount shooters.
SpecificationValue
Focal Length18-55mm
Max Aperturef/3.5-5.6
MountSony A

This description was generated using AI based on KEH's internal product standards, product expertise, and knowing what customers care about most. While we strive for accuracy, details may vary by individual item.

Brand Name Sony
Filter Size 55mm
Focus Type Autofocus (lens motor)
Lens Mount Sony A & Minolta A
Lens Type Wide-Angle, Standard / Normal
Max Focal Length 55mm
Min Focal Length 18mm

Learn what to expect from each condition, cosmetically. Images are representative of each grade and may not show the exact item you receive. All equipment is guaranteed to work as intended, unless otherwise noted. We also occasionally offer items that fall .

Exceptions


New
New in box complete with manufacturer's USA warranty. Not previously owned or used.
Like New
Essentially new with no signs of use. “Open box.” In manufacturer's packaging with original accessories and instructions. 180-day warranty.
As Is
Non-functional or damaged. Equipment will not work. Usable for parts. Not covered under KEH warranty and non-returnable.

Like New Minus

Like New Minus
Like New Minus

Like New Minus

Barely used with virtually no traces of wear. Only the closest inspections will reveal slight use. Lens glass could contain light dust or debris. Excellent picture quality. Accessories usually not included, unless noted in listing. 180-day warranty.

Excellent Plus

Excellent Plus
Excellent Plus

Excellent Plus

Lightly used with limited signs of wear. Exceptionally nice but may have slight wear on finish visible. Lens glass could contain light dust or debris. Excellent picture quality. Accessories usually not included, unless noted in listing. 180-day warranty.

Excellent

Excellent
Excellent

Excellent

Noticeably used with average signs of wear. Shows moderate wear for the age of the item, with the possibility of blemishes and/or minimal dings. Lens glass may have average dust and zoom/focus ring tension may have slight looseness or tightness overall, but will not affect picture quality. Accessories usually not included, unless noted in listing. 180-day warranty.

Bargain

Bargain
Bargain

Bargain

Frequently used with above-average wear. May have dents, dings, or finish loss. Lens glass may have small scratches, dust, and blemishes, and zoom/focus ring tension may have moderate looseness or tightness overall, but should not affect picture quality. Accessories usually not included, unless noted in listing. 180-day warranty.

Ugly

Ugly
Ugly

Ugly

Heavily used with extensive visible wear. Equipment is rough, with multiple impressions in the finish, excessive finish loss and brassing. Glass will have marks, fungus and/or heavy/cloudy haze which could affect picture quality. Accessories usually not included, unless noted in listing. Not covered under KEH warranty.

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