Originally posted by skunktail Ignoring the test charts, I carry the 18-135 for weather resistance, the Tamron for image quality.
I carry the 18-135 for weather resistance (major issue in my part of the world), convenience, and long reach. I carry the 16-45mm for image quality and convenience. Frankly, the 18-135mm gets the nod far more often. I usually overlook the 18-135mm in lieu of a prime, not another zoom.
The 18-135mm has higher IQ than both 18-55's I've owned, and my DA 18-250mm, which inexplicably get more respect. The 18-135mm is only fractionally behind the overrated 55-300mm. I am so pissed at Photozone for doing a hatchet job on this fine kit lens.
Sure, it's easy to criticise a kit lens, if you want to overlook the convenience and value. That's what a kit zoom is about, value and convenience vs. IQ. I like the 18-135's punchy colours, weather resistance, solid build, quiet AF and superzoom range, more than I value sharp corners.
Last edited by audiobomber; 09-04-2014 at 09:54 PM.