Replace 18-55 non IS with IS version?

Get the IS version. Worlds better. Sharp hand-held images at 1/4 second? Not possible without IS. Also great for things like panning shots.

OK so we can put the IS vs Non-IS question to bed in unanimous favor of the IS version (excepting Ken Rockwell... lol)

So now considering I've got the 50mm 1.8 on the way, should I just forget about the 18-55 kit lens for now? Or get the Tamron for about $375 more?

if you have the money for the Tamron, do it

If the 18-55 had not come bundled in the kit, I think people wouldn't mind paying twice that amount for the IS version. As for the Tamron, it's in another league. Not only is it f/2.8 but the images are much more vivid/saturated. I find that greens and blues really pop out with the Tamron vs. the more pastel colors of the kit lenses. I shot with the 50mm 1.8 for my first year without a zoom and many of my favorite shots came out of that period. I am now considering moving to all primes with maybe a travel zoom as backup.

RTPVid wrote in post #13952046
If he said that (and was serious - sometimes with him it is hard to tell), my opinion of Ken Rockwell just got lower. I didn't think that was even possible!

Definitely get the IS it make a big deference when moving and recording video
I run after my kids with the t3i hand held and is pretty stable
As for the 50mm like homeboy said might not touch your kit lens
After u experience the sharpness at 1.8 with the 50 but I still like
The kit lens and use for zooming in and out ranges u can't do that
50 mm prime

As far as the tamron goes I just ordered the sigma 17 50
It will me arriving tomorrow so test shoots are coming
I would consider the sigma over tamron if u can afford it

I've owned both. The 18-55 IS is the much better lens.

Phobosx13x wrote in post #13951809
Thanks for the replies everyone.

I paid $84 + $4 shipping for the non-is. Of course, I am out the shipping costs (probably $6 to ship it back) so $10 loss.

The IS version is around $100 give or take about 10% here or other places on the web.

The only other option is to wait and get a Tamron 17-50 2.8, which I'm seriously considering doing. I just ordered a 50mm 1.8, so maybe that will suffice for the interim?

Personally I'd save up for Tamron/Sigma 17-50 2.8, build will be nicer and 2.8 gives you a little more room to play with. I went from a 18-55 IS to a tamron 28-75, it was a worthwhile move.

If you're sticking with a canon kit, totally go for the IS. Next time you walk out the door to get a quick lunch, turn around and make it at home, $10 in your pocket lol.

Had both. The IS version has substantially better sharpness and all round image quality. (and its got IS!)

Return it and swap. The 18-55 IS kit lens is actually pretty good especially for the price.