Sony E 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 OSS Lens
The Sony SEL1855 is a 18–55mm f/3.5 lens designed for Sony E mount cameras. Used copies start from $88.96 on GearFocus, with buyer protection on every purchase.
Sony E 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 OSS Lens
Used Sony SEL1855 Listings on GearFocus
Lens Overview — Sony SEL1855
Key Features — Sony SEL1855
18-55mm Zoom Range: Covers wide-angle to short telephoto in a single lens, handling everyday subjects from landscapes to portraits.
Built-In Optical Stabilization: OSS (Optical SteadyShot) compensates for camera shake during handheld shooting, particularly useful at longer focal lengths or in low light.
APS-C E-Mount Design: Native Sony E-mount lens built specifically for APS-C mirrorless bodies, ensuring direct compatibility with cameras like the a6000 series.
Variable f/3.5-5.6 Aperture: Maximum aperture of f/3.5 at the wide end steps down to f/5.6 at 55mm, which is standard for a kit-class zoom in this range.
Autofocus and Manual Focus: Supports both AF and MF operation, giving shooters the flexibility to switch based on subject or shooting style.
194g Lightweight Build: At just 194 grams, the lens adds minimal weight to a mirrorless body, making it practical for all-day carry.
Lens Specifications — Sony SEL1855
| Spec | Detail |
|---|---|
| Use Cases | Travel, Portrait, Landscape, Video / Cinematography |
| Lens Type | Zoom |
| Format | APS-C |
| Zoom/Prime | Zoom |
| Focal Length | 18–55mm |
| Maximum Aperture | f/3.5 |
| Camera System | Mirrorless |
| Lens Mount | Sony E |
| Autofocus | Yes |
| Focus Type | Auto, Manual |
| Image Stabilization | Optical |
| Filter Thread | 49mm |
Description — Sony SEL1855
The Sony E 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 OSS is a zoom lens designed for Sony E-mount mirrorless cameras with APS-C sensors. Its 18-55mm focal length range makes it a practical choice for everyday photography, covering standard wide-angle to short telephoto perspectives. The variable maximum aperture of f/3.5 at the wide end and f/5.6 at the telephoto end is characteristic of a versatile all-purpose zoom.
Built-in Optical image stabilization is a key feature, helping to minimize the impact of camera shake during handheld shooting. The lens accommodates both autofocus and manual focus, offering flexibility across different shooting styles. Weighing just 194 grams, it is a lightweight companion that keeps your overall kit manageable.
The 49mm filter thread gives you access to a broad range of commonly available filters. Whether you're shooting portraits, travel, or everyday scenes, this lens provides a reliable and lightweight native E-mount option for APS-C shooters.
Pros — Sony SEL1855
- ✓Lightweight at just 194g, making it easy to carry for extended shooting sessions
- ✓Built-in Optical image stabilization helps counteract camera shake during handheld use
- ✓18-55mm focal length range covers a broad set of everyday shooting scenarios
Cons — Sony SEL1855
- ✗Variable maximum aperture of f/3.5-5.6 limits light-gathering ability, especially at the telephoto end
- ✗APS-C-only lens format restricts use to crop-sensor bodies; not compatible with full-frame Sony cameras
- ✗No weather sealing noted in specifications, limiting use in adverse conditions
Reviews — Sony SEL1855
Videos — Sony SEL1855
Which Sony Kit Lens is Best? SELP1650 vs SEL1855 — Arthur R
Frequently Asked Questions — Sony SEL1855
What cameras is this lens compatible with?+
This lens is designed for the Sony E mount and is built for APS-C mirrorless cameras. It is not intended for full-frame Sony E-mount bodies, as its image circle is sized for the APS-C format.
Does this lens have image stabilization?+
Yes, the lens features Optical image stabilization, which is built into the lens itself. This helps reduce camera shake during handheld shooting across the zoom range.
Can I use this lens with manual focus?+
Yes, the lens supports both autofocus and manual focus operation. You can switch between the two modes depending on your shooting needs.
What filter size does this lens use?+
The lens has a 49mm filter thread, which is a common and widely available size. This makes it straightforward to find compatible filters from most accessory brands.
How heavy is this lens?+
The lens weighs 194 grams, making it a compact and lightweight option that pairs well with the slim profile of APS-C mirrorless camera bodies.
What is the maximum aperture of this lens?+
The lens has a variable maximum aperture of f/3.5 at 18mm and f/5.6 at 55mm. This is a zoom lens, so the widest available aperture changes as you adjust the focal length.