In-Depth Panasonic 100-400mm vs 100-300mm Comparison

[@MathieuGasquetMirrorLessons]

Instagram: instagram.com/mirrorlessons/ Facebook: facebook.com/mirrorlessons/ Twitter: twitter.com/MirrorLessons

[@juana1483]

Hi Mathieu. Do you know if they make a 2x doubler for the lumix 100-300mm ?????

[@MathieuGasquetMirrorLessons]

Not that I'm aware of, I don't think there is enough space at the back of the lens to fit a teleconverter.

[@keepsmiling6694]

This review is now out-of-date following Panasonic's January 2017 lens renewals. The 100-300mm H-FS100300 with Mega OIS reviewed here has been discontinued. It has been replaced by the H-FSA100300 with Power OIS and weather-sealing (dust and splashproof). This is to enable it to operate with dual stabilisation using Panasonic's latest cameras with in-body stabilisation. The new lens is more expensive of course! The old lens is now difficult to find at dealers but can be found cheaply second-hand.

great update thank you

[@maddindscheidschei3830]

If I'm looking for lens reviews, I always check your channel first: This is by far the best!

[@MathieuGasquetMirrorLessons]

thank you!

[@user-in1zb4vg9r]

@@MathieuGasquetMirrorLessons Mathieu I agree this is the best photo-related video I've seen, as it both comprehensive and bs-free! For travel, I just sold my super-sharp 100-400 and bought the 100-300. In the video you talked about image stabilization, doesn't dual i.s. work between the 100-300 and a GX9? Thanks again for the video

[@user-in1zb4vg9r]

This review refers to Mega OIS as opposed to the more recent Power OIS, which does support dual IS. Sorry my bad!

[@samrobertstheratcliff]

I know it’s a bit old knowledge now, but I’ve seen a few comparisons of the mki and mkii 1-300mm, and depending on your sample, there’s basically no optical difference. However, as the new mkii is weather sealed, has Dual IS compatible power OIS and a faster AF motor, it’s a much closer call. I think the IQ is so close between the Pl 1-400 and P1-300, it’s just really about if you need that extra reach

[@datapro007]

Nice review, Mathieu. Of course Panasonic has released an updated version of the 100-300mm since this video was made. At about $600 vs $1600 currently, I would expect more performance from the 400mm. The relative small size and weight of the 300mm does have a lot of appeal for the handheld shooter, price and performance considerations aside.

[@janm2473]

I'm a true novice to photography and my micro four thirds Olympus...I actually purchased a 100-300 lens shortly after purchasing the em10 for birding..... Your video is very helpful, so MERCI....

[@MathieuGasquetMirrorLessons]

de rien!

[@YSPDJapan]

I actually bought the same combo myself. It's a great lens. If you haven't, look into the aftermarket EM10 DSLR grip. Goes for 30 on Amazon and provides a beefier hold for the longer lenses. It makes everything so much better.

[@geogan2]

I agree about the manual focus ring being very stiff on the 100-300 lens - also the zoom ring is too. I find it impossible to get it moving or zooming (harder the first time) without shaking the entire image while video recording. The Canon L series lenses are much better in this regard.

[@EricLouisYoung]

it's amazing how that bird conveniently stays put for comparison shots, sluuurp

[@andresgonzalezcerda7635]

Constantly, your videos are the best reviews!!. Thanks ( and for the model’s patience and contributions)

[@MrPetebuster1]

great review, obviously the 100-400 is superior but not so sure it's worth 4 times more

[@HenryTheBoilermaker3rdYear]

Yeah and the auto tracking focus was not perfect at all times.

[@PieterJvanEs]

Totally agree. Of course the 100 - 400 is better, it's sharper, better AF, better stabilisation and it's weather sealed but overall it's definitely not $1,316 better (the difference at the lowest prices I can find in Australia). If it were a few hundred dollars more then yes it'd be worth it but the actual difference is fairly extreme. This review was very helpful though and has convinced me that the 100 - 300 is a very good buy.

[@MrPetebuster1]

***** it would be about 3k if It was

[@sirlancelot3109]

After a couple of years of use I have found both lenses to be equal value for money. Going from an equivalent FOV of 600 to 800 is a capability you’ll pay dearly for in all systems. If you don’t need the extra length then don’t buy it, but don’t kid yourself the 300-400mm is just a little nice to have. It’s a whole extra level of capability.

[@ryzgms]

I've had both the newer 100-300ii for a few years and now I've upgraded to the 100-400. From my test both optically perform equally well with the subject at a close distance however 100-400 is much sharper when the subject is further away. The 100-400 autofocus is also much more noticeably faster and more accurate.

[@ruubmaster]

I'm upgrading to the G9 for bird photography and I'm in doubt whether I should buy the 100-300ii or the 100-400. Is the weight and the stiffness of the zoom a problem in your opinion?

[@raksh9]

This is exactly what I needed to know. I'm tossing up between the 100-300 and 100-400 for field sports, and wondering what is going to give better results at the long end, at distance.

[@j.d.hughes3728]

Still relevant after two years. Good comparison without the waffle. Many thanks, Mathieu!

[@gunberriesgame7680]

great review. came from a canon shooter looking for something lighter for day to day and now addicted to panasoni m43 system. these reviews helps alot. thanks

[@HenryTheBoilermaker3rdYear]

9:32 big difference in detail (sharpness). and 100-400mm a little bit better in O.I.S.

[@awksedgreep]

Thanks so much for including the shots of the lens in your hands. It's so hard to get a feel for the size of M43 gear on youtube as they're almost always just sitting on tables.

[@ggmtv1394]

Thanks for that - it's time to review the Mk II 100-300!

[@goldilockszone4389]

Just an input - Nice video- However, i literally counted 35 times when, you said 100to300 and 100 to 400. That's really repetitive. After the introduction, perhaps its just good to call it as 400 or 300 or even 3 vs 4...

[@andytee88]

Or just refer to one of them as a Leica, and the other one as Lumix

[@AlexisDelatolas]

haha thought exactly the same after the first minute :P

[@AnandaSim]

Great work. Comprehensive, Concise, to the point. Bravo

[@MathieuGasquetMirrorLessons]

+Ananda Sim thanks :)

[@AnandaSim]

+Mathieu Gasquet (MirrorLessons) It would be good to do a similar comparison between the M.Zuiko 70-300 vs the fixed focal 300mm - the 300mm is not a zoom but beginners and upgraders want to know whether they should upgrade and what benefit. Also is there a comparison of M.Zuiko 70-300 vs Panasonic 100-300 already?

[@MathieuGasquetMirrorLessons]

+Ananda Sim I know there are a few articles online that compare the 75-300 vs 100-300. I haven't found any video.

[@AnandaSim]

Mathieu Gasquet ah, but the articles or video are not made by you in the comprehensive manner :)

[@paultaylor5513]

+Ananda Sim Completely agree. Bravo indeed.

[@letni9506]

I bought the 300mm first but then I decided I also needed the 400mm for shooting birds at a nature reserve where you can't get so close. Bought both second hand for the price of a new 400mm. They are like new and work great There are occasions to use both so I'm happy to own both. I could survive with just the 300mm but it's my hobby and you've got to spend your money on something 😀

[@goldilockszone4389]

1799 for 400mm and 600 for 300mm choice is clear :)

[@corrbox2]

I have watched this video presentation a number of times and keeps helping me learn more and more about the 100-400mm Leica Limix lens.

[@kidotatsuhiko5885]

good info thanks hopes the lens 100 300 works with Olympus cameras as well

[@MathieuGasquetMirrorLessons]

It does.

[@TITAOSTEIN]

The most affordable supertele at the moment in terms of price is the Olympus 75-300mm. Here in Germany you can buy it for less than 300 Euros. This lens is also the most compact and lightest of the tele zoom. It has less focus distance than competitors and is wider starting at 75mm. Curiously, there are not many test videos on KZbin. I would love to see an Review done by you. Cordial greetings from the Black Forest!

[@shuswaptoy]

Very informative and comprehensive comparison of both mega zoom lenses, wonderfully done.Thanks, victorT

[@BitsOfBoris]

Would be like to get the same comparaison with the MKII version that has better IS/AF.

[@AbHAT22]

Your videos are always amazing. I owned Panasonic 100 400 and by far it is the worst lens ever made. Stiff zoom, double hoods and soft shots at 400 mm makes this the worst lens especially considering it's overpriced.

[@IrwinLawsonPhotographer]

Very helpful video. I use the 100 - 300mm lens with Panasonic Lumix G85 and am pleased with the results.

[@Super420Lucky]

Excellent review. Just what I wanted to see. I bought the 100-300mm lens for $340 (new) and am waiting for it to arrive. Not worth spending $1500 on a lens that is only marginally better where I would use it. Thanks

[@DGBomber]

Now that Panasonic has released an updated version of the 100-300 with the new 240fps silent AF, DUAL I.S. 2 compatibility, smooth iris transition for video and weather resistance, what do you think? Will you do a new comparison? :)

[@MathieuGasquetMirrorLessons]

If I get the chance, why not? ;-)

[@DGBomber]

I'll be waiting! :)

[@Ed-pg9pg]

Thank you for clarifying these changes which the updated version has far more appeal than the older version and thus better value than the more expensive Leica.

[@JoeS5263]

Since this video was made, Panasonic has come out with a new version of the 100-300mm lens, which is f/3.5 to f/5.6 I believe. Known as the 100-300 II. It addresses some of the issues with the 5 year old (at that time) 100-300 lens that this video identifies.

[@MathieuGasquetMirrorLessons]

It's f/4-5.6

[@kurts_aviation]

Really helpful thanks just purchased the 100-400mm

[@fritsscholtenhzn6268]

Thx , good review . Also I like your Toy bird in the tree ! For sharpness [ the small hairs I saw]

[@gotopcpanik]

Thank you very much for your great review The big price gap between the both lens is a real big thing ... Double the weight ist the second thing ... I'm using the 100-300 with my E-M1 and I'm quiet happy with it, cause it is not so heavy. I'm carrying the two Oly Pro lenses with me, that's lot of weight. I'm looking forward to the Olympus 2x converter, making my 40-150 a 80-300 at 5,6. If the performance ist like the 100-300 at 200-300 the 100-300 will go.

[@MathieuGasquetMirrorLessons]

+pcpanik not sure when they will release such a converter but let's cross our fingers ;)

[@gotopcpanik]

In my memory, there was an announcement with the 300mm prime.

[@stevehill3782]

I've just bought a GX8 and the 14-140mm lens but hope to buy a longer zoom later for wildlife photography. How do the Sigma Canon fit zooms compare to the 100-300mm? They are a lot cheaper than the Leica lens - I don't mind shooting in manual mode and don't really worry about I.S as will be using a tripod, just curious about the difference in optics. Thanks for sharing your expertise with us all Mathieu a real blessing.

[@FrankMaurits69]

I'm planning on getting the 100-300 mark II this spring, which came out last year. It is a serious upgrade from the older one you review here. It now has Power OIS, is weather sealed, new engine inside, can handle 240fps and is compatible with Dual IS in the latest Pana camera's. I don't have it yet, but spec-wise it is on par with the 100-400 now I think. Except that the 100-400 is Leica (and 100mm longer zoom) and way more expensive. I would be interested how the two hold up optics wise.

[@MathieuGasquetMirrorLessons]

As far as I know, the two 100-300mm lenses share the same optical quality.

[@karen46811]

What do you think of the 100-400 for video shooting ? (e.g. shooting airshows where you want to zoom on the jets and shoot their maneuvers and the cockpit)

[@alternatingbitmusic]

Hello, do you know if the rubber ring on the 100-300mm is subject to becoming sticky years later when a coating wears off? Thanks.

[@MathieuGasquetMirrorLessons]

Not really, I didn't have the lens for that long.

[@raycolby2278]

Thanks Mathieu for the nice comparison between the lenses. I own the olympus EM-1, and own most of the Zuiko pro lenses. They are extremely sharp and excellent color rendition. However I also do wildlife and need the zoom versatility. So i did purchase the Panasonic 100-300 zoom over the Zuiko 75-300, thinking it would perform better. I was wrong, I can see the sharpness difference and color distortion, compared to Zuiko pro lenses. So I will purchase the new Panasonic 100-400, I hope I will be satisfied!

[@MathieuGasquetMirrorLessons]

+Ray Colby let me know how you find the Pana 100-400mm ;)

[@raycolby2278]

+Mathieu Gasquet (MirrorLessons) Mathieu, I am on a list and am waiting impatiently for the new 100-400 lens to come in, apparently there is a lot of people interested. They have been back ordered, and Panasonic does not want to manufacture too many right away. But I feel like a kid, and have to pull in the reins! If any one out there wants one, I suggest you get on the waiting list, who knows when they show up!

[@kayem2565]

Dear Mathieu, thank you for your video first of all, I was thinking of which one to get for my brand new (old) panasonic g85! Since its a little on the small side I would think the 100-300mm would be a better fit am I right? i want to use this handheld for birding most of the time. Can i also use a teleconverter for the 100-300mm? i understsand there is a mark 2 version of the 100-300mm already which is weather sealed as well. THanks in advance!

[@MathieuGasquetMirrorLessons]

The 100-300mm mark II version has improved optical stabilisation and improved AF. It's not compatible with teleconverters, for that you'll need the new 100-400mm mark II that was announced this year.

[@HappyGrl41]

Nice comparison but I believe that is the 1st gen 100-300; any plans to do a review comparing the 100-400 with the 2nd 100-300? I have never tried the 100-400 but I used to own the Canon 100-400 L MI and I found the 100-300 MII to be snappy but doesn't always get the focus. I'm using it on a G9. I plan to rent the 100-400 to try it out.

[@MathieuGasquetMirrorLessons]

The two 100-300mm versions have the same optical design, The mark II has a faster AF motor, weather sealing and a new stabilisation hardware that makes it compatible with Dual IS.

[@nerdMike]

The only strange thing I dont like on 100-400 is the fact you get less zoom precision at 400mm compared to its shorter focal range. I need to be more precise between 200 and 400 instead having huge turn going to 100 to 150. Don't know why, but to me was necessary and better to have more precision at the the long end :/ the longer focal lenghts are so close on the zoom ring! (talking about zoom not the focus) What about 100-400 compared to newer 100-300 II in terms of sharpness? thanks

[@amonyaaqob6118]

Is that a spotted lake loone? Those are hard to shoot, yet you nailed it!

[@mathieuandre4764]

Thanks for this nice comparison. Great work as usual! But have you tried the new version of the 100/300?

[@MathieuGasquetMirrorLessons]

No, but the optical quality should be the same. The new version has a faster AF drive, weather sealing and is compatible with Dual IS.

[@jjseandxcefree]

So glad the cheaper 100-300mm Panasonic was much better then the new and expensive 100-400mm! Thank you Matt!

[@juana1483]

In 2023, you can buy four 100-300s for the price of one 100-400!!!! You can sharpen or further correct your best images later in photoshop

[@EdwinHenryBlachford]

thanks Mathieu, a definite help with a purchase decision. In Australia this is a AU$800 vs AU$2,000 buying decision. Your in-depth video allows an informed decision

[@mikesgamedomain8202]

PHEW! I was nervous watching this video. Just picked up a used 100-300 lens. It seems that it is a solid value and stellar performer given that it is quite old and cheap for the results. Thank you very much for the extensive comparison. Your opinions seemed to match the results very well. Cheers,

[@seann-yves3319]

Great review. How do you do those photos flipping sequences it's epic

[@MathieuGasquetMirrorLessons]

Which photos? The birds?

[@rymdskrotet]

How close are you to test the 100-300 II version? =) All best!

[@MathieuGasquetMirrorLessons]

Not sure yet but it shouldn't be too long.

[@danieldougan8613]

Any update?

[@karinecodevelle3266]

What about the test of the version 2 ? Thanks

[@geekanoids]

Super useful video, thanks for sharing.

[@cfagil]

I am very interested in getting the 100-300mm Mark II with Power I.O.S for my EM-5 III. I wonder if you have any opinion on that lens? The main attraction to me is the size and weight. I wonder if the 100-400mm is $1,000 sharper? The added weight and size of 100-400mm would easily persuade me to turn to my trusted Nikon 500/Nikon 200-500mm f5.6 instead for daytime birds-in-flight.

[@MathieuGasquetMirrorLessons]

I didn't test the mark II version of the 100-300mm, but in my understanding the optical performance is the same. The 100-400mm is sharper, but if your priority is to keep the size of your gear small, the 100-300 is a good solution.

[@cfagil]

@@MathieuGasquetMirrorLessons Many Thanks for the reply. I am keen to play with the EM5III/Panasonic 100-300mm II combo to see what I get for birds-in-flight. One thing I know is my Panasonic GX9's autofocus have not been good for fast action shots.

[@ViktorGabyshev]

Thank you for very informative video! Can you help me to select the telephoto lens for my EM5 MarkII? I am considering one of two lenses: Panasonic Lumix G Vario 100-300 and M. ZUIKO 75-300. How about in lens IS and focus speed of Panasonic on OMD body? Thank you very much!

[@MathieuGasquetMirrorLessons]

The lens IS works fine on OM-D cameras but you can't use both the 5-axis sensor stabilisation and the lens IS, it's one or the other. The 100-300mm is fast but the 75-300mm II could be slightly faster on Olympus bodies. I would choose the Pana lens mainly because it has a faster aperture at 300mm (5-6 vs 6.7).

[@ViktorGabyshev]

Many thanks for your quick and comprehensive response!

[@Ildskalli]

I just want to add that I had a copy of the M. Zuiko and found it mediocre at best. The aperture is slow, and the quality at 300mm is disappointing. I haven't used the Panasonic, but I compared it to the older ZD 70-300mm for DSLR cameras, and the old lens wiped the floor with the new Zuiko (much better resolution and colors, smoother bokeh, and less distortion, but also more flare, and the focus, both manual and auto, is TERRIBLE). TL;DR I'd go with the Panasonic all the way, the extra half stop of light is invaluable in such long lenses.

[@ViktorGabyshev]

Ildskalli thank you for your opinion! It inclines me to Pana

[@ViktorGabyshev]

Hello, Mathieu! Do you plan to make review on new version of Panasonic Lumix G Vario 100-300mm f/4-5.6? I have not bought V.1 yet but fortunately learned about the V.II It will be very interesting to know your opinion. Thank you!

[@jasond1500]

Nice just found your channel. I have the GH3 and 100-300mm hoping to get a 100-400 going to wait until fall and pray for a black friday deal like they had with the 42.5mm a year or so ago. Quick question, when you're shooting birds in flight do you turn off OIS, leave it on, or change it to vertical stabilization only? I get mixed opinions when googling whether or not I should turn it on or off or switch to panning mode (i'm guessing thats the same as vertical stabilization). What are your opinions? Thanks.

[@MathieuGasquetMirrorLessons]

+Jason Disbrow I tried a mix of both and I didn't find any substantial difference. With birds in flight if you use a fast shutter speed like 1/1000s or 1/2000s and your panning movement is good you don't need OIS.

[@ammadoux]

great review, thanks so much. i used the Lumix 100-300mm and was so impressed by its sharpness and the OIS. not sure not sure now, weather i should get the Olympus 300 mm prime, or the Lumix 100-400 mm, i was really upset when the Lumix 100-300mm stopped working only after 2 and a half year.

[@johnsamuelmcelroy]

Great comparison video on the two lenses. I've considered purchasing the Nikon D500 Camera with the Nikkor 200-500 lens for birding but after watching this think I'll just stick with my Omd eM1.

[@philipgowdy]

I would stay with Oly, I had D800 d3 d3s etc nikon 300mm f2.8 sigma 150-500mm 70-200 2x con...and other combinations and none come upto the Oly plus the 100-400 for birding. regards.

[@chrisgill4187]

Great thorough review! How does the 100-300 work on the panasonics with ibis? Does the IS work together or one or the other? I wonder if the Olympus 75-300 is better than this on the newer Panasonics that have stabilization

[@MathieuGasquetMirrorLessons]

The 100-300mm is not compatible with Dual IS, so you either choose the sensor or the optical stabilisation.

[@philipgowdy]

Great Vid I have just bought this lens and when using it with the 5 mk11 even with the IS in the off position you can hear a whirling noise coming from the lens. It also does exactlly the same when the IS is working..can you explain this as I guess its eating the battery. I wonder if the 100-300mm does the same. I look forward to your expert opinion...regards.

[@MathieuGasquetMirrorLessons]

are you referring to the 100-400mm making that noise?

[@philipgowdy]

Yes..

[@MathieuGasquetMirrorLessons]

I don't remember a weird sound and I had to use more than one, it could be related to the iris mechanism that opens and close according to the live view, try to disable the live view boost on the E-M5 II.

[@CarlPendlePhotos]

Any idea when they are releasing the 100-400 in the uk.

[@MathieuGasquetMirrorLessons]

+Carl Pendle initially they told us Mid-March but I guess there is a delay. I'll ask them again at The Photography Show next week ;)

[@lfcmarkeb7124]

I couldn't differentiate between the 100-300 and 100-400 when you were speaking .wish you'd said 100-300 and Leica lens or 1 to.3 or 1 to 4. sorry

[@rymdskrotet]

Hello. Nice comparisation. Will you be able to compare the old 100-300 with the newer 100-300 II? If so, I'm really curious if they have fixed that that focus ring, that in many cases almost couldn't be moved on the first version. What else should be fixed / updated on the II - version? Regards!

[@MathieuGasquetMirrorLessons]

I'm planning to test the new 100-300mm, not sure when yet but I will.

[@Joshua97776]

The color and contrast is better on the 100 - 300 probably because it has less lens elements. Sharpness shouldn't be the only thing to consider when buying a lens

[@bagamingshow]

I think you talked me into buying the 300mm.

[@danieldougan8613]

Could you possibly do a comparison to the new 100-300mm Mark II? It's weather sealed, and it has a faster AF motor.

[@MathieuGasquetMirrorLessons]

I've had no luck in getting my hands on the mark II version yet but I'll keep trying ;-)

[@philmtx3fr]

Very clear and exhaustive review as usual.

[@jangarcia1338]

Hi!! I have the 45-150mm kit lens that came with my g7. I wanted a even larger zoom and thought of this 100-300 as I am on a thight budget, however if it has worst image quality in terms of sharpness, I wouldn't use it. what do you think? I also saw that there is a 45-200mm too but maybe that wont be too much of a diference with my 45-150mm.

[@a.j.4515]

Hello Mathieu, great review! i need your opinion, currently i have GX8 and considering to buy 100-300mm for wildlife/outdoor photography, however comparing to the price there is also option to buy superzoom FZ300 (same price with the lens). it might be an amateur question, but which one is best? Investing in this lens or buy the FZ300 instead? thank you

[@MathieuGasquetMirrorLessons]

I would definitely choose the 100-300mm. The FZ300 has a much smaller sensor than your GX8. P.S.: there is a new 100-300mm mark II of the lens that has better optical stabilisation.

[@a.j.4515]

Ah ok, thanks for the suggestion. I will definitely consider it. I lived in Indonesia and the mark II is not around yet i supposed. If you have reviewed it, i will definitely watch it. Cheers

[@MathieuGasquetMirrorLessons]

It's not available yet here either, but I hope to receive it soon.

[@SilatShooter]

Superb comprehensive review of two lenses I am considering and wondering if the the price difference was merited! You answered my questions. Thank you!

[@raredreamfootage]

How about the version 2 of the 100-300 with POWER OIS? Have you tried that lens?

[@MathieuGasquetMirrorLessons]

nope, it's not available yet.

[@fabioarodrigues]

Excellent video. But I find interesting that, when talking about the older supertelephoto zooms for MFT, almost nobody mention about the great Olympus 75-300mm f4.8-6.7 II. Looks like the fact it is slower than Panasonic's 100-300mm f4.0-5.6, make people not even consider it. But it has two advantages: it's cheaper (bought mine brand new for AUD 450.00) and wider (75mm), which makes it more versatile, as 75mm is a great focal lenght for portraits. I understand that the lack of image stablization is an issue for Lumix shooters, but I can take sharp and beautiful images of the Moon, handheld, with my Olympus OM-D E-M5, or even with my Pen E-PM2 (although with the Pen I have to rest my hand on some support to guarantee sharpness, as the 2 axis IBIS is not as effective as the 5 axis IBIS on the E-M5). It is a great, but often overlooked lens.

[@MathieuGasquetMirrorLessons]

+Fabio Alves Rodrigues I haven't tested the Oly 75-300mm yet. Perhaps I will for a future comparison.

[@fabioarodrigues]

+Mathieu Gasquet (MirrorLessons) That would be great. It will be the most comprehensive MFT super telephoto zoom comparison on the internet yet. Obviously I don't expect Olympus 75-300mm will perform the same as the new Pana-Leica 100-400. But in terms of image quality, I'm pretty sure it will be a very close comparison to the Lumix 100-300, specially on Olympus bodies with 5 axis IBIS, or even Panasonic bodies with IBIS. Cheers!

[@fabioarodrigues]

+Mathieu Gasquet (MirrorLessons) have a look at one of my Moon shots with the Oly 75-300mm II: flic.kr/p/FrySZa .

[@2828play]

Hi, I wanted to ask you question concerning the new and old Panasonic 100-300mm super zoom lens. Don't know if you have used both but if you have please let me know. Which lens is a sharper, more accurate in acquiring focus and a better stabilized lens, the Panasonic Lumix G Vario 100-300mm f/4-5.6 II POWER O.I.S. lens which is the newest version or the older one? I'm planning to buy either version 1 or 2 but want to know if it's worth the almost $200 dollar difference when it comes to sharpness and speed to get focus. At the moment I use a GH4. Any advice or info could help me out on buying one of them. Thanks!

[@MathieuGasquetMirrorLessons]

I haven't tried the new 100-300mmII yet but the improvements concern the build quality (dust and splash proof), optical stabilisation (works with Dual IS and in-body stabilisation of select Lumix cameras) and a faster AF motor.

[@KevinMphotography]

Nice review. I shoot micro 4/3 for recreational use only. The Olympus M series. Don't think the camera is good enough to spend that kind of money on the 100-400. The photo quality of the camera you used looks very good. I may have to look into getting that model.

[@GenieLampStudios]

Great video and very insightful. Do you think the 100 - 400 mm lens would be good for shooting lectures with the GH5? Would that lens and auto face detect mode work well?

[@MathieuGasquetMirrorLessons]

You may find the aperture too slow for indoor shooting.

[@57Carlibra]

is that 100-300 mm the Mark 2? or the first version?

[@dirkoberjasper7207]

Great review - thank you so much, Mathieu!

[@Akirilus]

100-300 has better contrast across the range. Anyway to be honest I would have wanted even more. If I could get say 200-1200 focal lenght I would buy it. If I could get double I would buy it. Frankly neither 600 nor 800 feeld enough but 800 is better I guess.

[@codyrobinson22]

Do you prefer the Panasonic Leica 100-400mm to the Olympus 300mm Pro for bird photography?

[@MathieuGasquetMirrorLessons]

If I would have the budget, I would go with the 300mm Pro: the 1 stop advantage at 300mm helps especially when the weather is not ideal and you have to raise the ISO. But the 100-400mm is a great alternative, more versatile and the optical quality is very similar.

[@scarcesense6449]

Does anyone know the bird species at 3:36 ?

[@MathieuGasquetMirrorLessons]

Red Kite

[@piotrolszewski2192]

Is 100-400mm lens compatibile with lumix g7?

Very good and exhaustive comentary!

[@philipgowdy]

Any chance of test with the new 100-300mm mk11?

[@MathieuGasquetMirrorLessons]

I'm waiting to receive a copy to test. But technically the optical quality should be the same. Panasonic added weather sealing, faster AF motor and a new optical stabilisation to make it compatible with Dual IS.

[@johnbroderick4130]

Thank You Mathieu!! I needed that information!!

[@davidhusband9283]

Thanks, a great review, very concise :)

[@cinemenico]

I've bought the 100-300mm after having seen the Lumix special with Bence Máté. That 100-300mm shots just stood out like crazy. I went and gotten the custom made r-roesch.de lens collar, which is a nice addition. And it's great for those outdoor birds shots and zoo visits especially. Of course, everyone is now comparing this new Panasonic against the new Olympus 300mm f/4 PRO. But I love the fact you have this new Panasonic go head-on against the old 100-300mm! Appreciated! I'd probably prefer the MC-14 1.4x teleconverter with Olympus 40-150mm f/2.8 PRO for covenience, range and quality, but it would lack stabilization on most Panasonic cameras unfortunately. That said, the 100-400mm looks like the ultimate flexible telezoom. But... for the money I'd say the 100-300mm is still a very good pick!

[@MathieuGasquetMirrorLessons]

+Shiznutsz Yes the 100-300mm defends itself well. I'll eventually make a comparison with the 300mm Pro as well but being a prime vs zoom lens, there are less things to say. In fact the two Panasonic zooms have more things in common :)

[@patterdalezipsuzilil]

Did I miss something or is the 100 to 300 mega ois and 400 power ois why didn't you compare the 300mm power ois mk11 not a fair comparison

[@MathieuGasquetMirrorLessons]

Yes you missed something: the mk II version didn’t exist when this video was produced and published.

[@Jostian7x]

great review, very useful, many thanks!

[@giulianodipaolo_]

Great review. Thanks for sharing

[@IEDNlab]

Very good comparison which helps me to decide to probably go for the 100-400, thanks :)

[@marikun1122]

good comparison thank you

[@deeber35]

are there 2 versions of the 100-300? ones seems to have dual I.S. and 1 not?

[@MathieuGasquetMirrorLessons]

Yes the one on this review is the old version and is now discontinued. The new version (mark II) has a faster AF motor, weather sealing and a new stabilisation hardware that makes it compatible with Dual IS. The optical design remains the same however.

[@deeber35]

the old 1 still has stabilization, right? if so, does it work on its own and the camera stabilzation on its own?

[@ngaihongmok3222]

how about 100-300 ii? is it much better than 100-300?

[@MathieuGasquetMirrorLessons]

It has better optical stabilisation (and compatibility with Dual IS), faster AF motor and weather sealing, but the optical quality is the same.

[@ngaihongmok3222]

thanks! still ambivalent to buy Leica 100-400 (attractive for it's 800mm) or Fuji 100-400 (better image quality and low night performance but too heavy...)

[@CravenCoetzee]

Really, really useful video. Thank you!

[@n._.e.m.o]

Thank you for comparison

[@beavertown2006]

If this 100-300 lens doesn't beat the dirt cheap 70-300 CX Nikkor in terms image quality and performance, I think it is way overpriced and that is why the M43 has been struggled in sales.

[@2nd3rd1st]

Let's talk about handling. I owned the 100-300 for two weeks but chose to return mine due to its terrible zoom ring. It was very sticky when gripped normally, smooth zooming was impossible unless I only rotated the ring very tenderly with my fingertips. Then there is a considerable in- and exhaling of air in the lens body when zooming quickly, and I found that dust got sucked into the lens that way more then I expected. I already own the 45-200 and with the shortcomings of this lens in mind I decided that going all out for the 100-400 or even giving Olympus' smooth zooming 75-300 (kzbin.info/www/bejne/m3eyZaKfj9SXf7s) a shot makes more sense for me.

[@bandofbros8112]

Did you try it with a follow focus?

[@bransoncarlton4939]

Thank you for a great job, total pro review!

[@GregThurtle]

thanks! appreciate this video - like most things.. no free lunch.. better IQ.. but heavier and more expensive. the 300mm isn't awful though. Love the rare bird you used for samples too, you did well getting it flying for the later samples :)

[@MathieuGasquetMirrorLessons]

+Greg Thurtle thanks! I'm becoming addicted to BIF and wildlife :)

[@GregThurtle]

+Mathieu Gasquet (MirrorLessons) they're Fun aren't they. Lots of kestrels and buzzards near me.. And of course seagulls.. Hundreds of those lol

[@MathieuGasquetMirrorLessons]

+Greg Thurtle seagulls are everywhere here! They're my backup plan if I forget to test something :D

[@hgw7573]

excellent video!

[@olafweyer859]

Thumbs up for the amazing bird photography! :p

[@MathieuGasquetMirrorLessons]

thanks!

[@wheeltravelsde]

thank you.

[@juana1483]

I just bought the Lumix 100-300mm on ebay in excellent condition for $240 U.S. dollars. I couldn't find The Panasonic Leica 100-400mm on ebay for less than $1200. I chose the 100-300 mainly because of the much lower cost. If it is not as sharp or other issues, I can fix it later in photoshop.

[@mrmoon7768]

The power 2 100-300 is weather sealed,