SMC Pentax-DA 18-135mm f/3.5-5.6 ED AL [IF] DC WR

SMC Pentax-DA 18-135mm f/3.5-5.6 ED AL [IF] DC WR: Verdict

There is a lot to like about this lens and in a practical sense it gives a good account of itself. There are design compromises that have lead to drawbacks, but often it is a matter of matching a lens design with the desired application.

If a lens for architecture and copying of documents is wanted, then this is not it. If it is wanted for general shooting of pictorial subjects and portraits then the lens produces excellent, visually appealing images that have a very attractive character about them. When we add to this the ability to keep shooting in the rain and cold, then we do have an extremely versatile option for Pentax users. In terms of handling the lens is an absolute joy to use.

	A versatile lens that produces pleasing results but with some optical compromises.

SMC Pentax-DA 18-135mm f/3.5-5.6 ED AL [IF] DC WR: Pros

Superb handling
Weather resistance
Silent DC motor
Close focusing
Quick Shift manual focus
Visually appealing images

SMC Pentax-DA 18-135mm f/3.5-5.6 ED AL [IF] DC WR: Cons

High distortion levels
High CA levels
Low fine resolution at longer focal lengths
High price

FEATURES
HANDLING
PERFORMANCE
VALUE FOR MONEY
OVERALL

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