I have a Canon T3 that I picked up as a complete kit a few years back. Basically came with most of the standard (though low end) accessories you might buy for a decent price. T3 body, 18-55mm IS kit lens, 2 batteries, charger, 16GB SD card, card case, cleaning kit, bag, boot flash, etc.

Now I’m looking to get a little more zoom, but am still a photography noob. There’s a local new/used camera chain that has 2 lenses I’m looking at. I bought 1 of them today, but have 30 days to go back and switch to the other if I see fit. I’m of course wondering if I made the right decision.

What I bought is the Canon EF-S 55-250mm F4-5.6 IS lens (MFG part number 2044B002). The had a used one for $80 that appears to be in pretty good shape (no scratches, internal dust or major defects, lens appears to be centered). Of course, this pairs up well with my kit lens, giving me an 18-250mm range (since I have the smaller sensor, it’s 1.6x those in reality), but still good coverage. The only thing I don’t like is that I have to switch lenses for closer vs. longer shots.

The alternate is $30 more for a Tamron AF 18-200mm DI II (Model A014). I lose the image stabilization, but now I would have an all-in-one lens for when I want to carry a smaller kit. I could also still switch back to the kit lens if I need the IS for darker close-up shots.

I like the idea of being able to walk around with a smaller bag and only a single lens, but am nervous about losing the IS. Any thoughts from someone who knows what they’re doing? ketchupgun and others?