Olympus 14-42mm EZ Lens Review

[@vladtepes481]

The lens hood ( 3 party) is the JJC LH-37EPII Metal Lens hood. I agree with your general assessment. One thing I dislike is that there are no lens markings on lens to indicate the current focal length.

[@ForsgardPeter]

That is also a downside of the lens. Thanks for pointing that out.

[@legend240891]

Most of modern Olympus m43 bodies tell you the current focal length on top right hand corner of the LCD screen for few seconds when you change the focal length

[@maoklina]

With M10mk2, in order to keep the lens with last zoom level when you turned off the camera: Menu > Custom Menu A > Reset Lens > Off

[@bedoinuk]

Same with the EM5 Mk.2 and likely with any other Olympus MFT camera, even my E-P1 has that setting.

[@Woodenarrows]

And even the same with my old 2012 E-PM2

[@jpmccormac]

Good tip. I like to shoot street at 20mm sometimes and always have Reset Lens > OFF.

[@dmitry.sandakov]

I am very happy with this lens. Once I wanted to add a 17 1.8 prime to my gear. I made test shots in the shop and surprisingly I did not find any noticable differences in terms of IQ between 17 1.8 and 14-42 ez.

[@Seele2015au]

Peter, thanks for showing us a bit of Brussels. I do not have an EZ but the IIR, that I use with my E-M1 original. I shoot for magazine, maximum size A3 (double-page spread), and the IIR ends up as the one generating most of the saleable travel pictures. For 300dpi halftone screen printing CMYK using offset litho on coated paper, the E-M1/IIR combination gives more than enough image quality for fully satisfactory reproduction. Sure enough my other lenses are the single-focal-length ones but all are the more modest f/1.8 versions. Horses for courses, obviously, but it is also quite possible that quite a lot of us are over-investing in gears offering what they cannot take advantage of.

[@gabithemagyar]

I use this lens with the automatic lens cap on my omd5 Mii for casual occasions where I want a light unobtrusive kit where image quality is not of primary importance (outings/dinners with friends, just walking around etc.). Essentially, it makes the camera behave like a point and shoot if you choose to keep things as simple as possible. Right now I only have this lens and the 14-150 zoom (for travel) but soon I will get the 17mm f1.8 and perhaps the 25mm f1.8 for better image quality indoors. I really enjoy your videos Mr. Forsgard. Very informative and honest. Thank you.

[@BrianSweeney1985]

I'm currently thinking about getting an OM-5, the 14-42 EZ and the 14-150 II and then maybe some fast prime down the road. Are you still happy with your setup?

[@gabithemagyar]

@@BrianSweeney1985 I am still using the same camera body (EM5 MII), but have since added some lenses over the years : the 17mm, 25mm and 45mm f1.8 primes, the 12-40 F2.8 PRO and the 8-25mm f2.8 PRO. My original setup (14-42mm EZ and 14-150mm zooms) is still great for travel and hiking but I found I needed some faster lenses for indoors (events etc) and darker outside conditions, hence the f1.8 and F2.8 lenses. . The 17mm prime and 25mm primes make for great compact package on the EM5 Mii for urban/street photography and would be perfect for a PEN F2 if they ever release one. These lenses cover 90% of what I use a camera for. If I ever get into wildlife photography I may consider a longer zoom but for now I'm happy :-) Have fun with your photography !

[@k6usy]

One of the hidden accessories for this lens is the LC-37C cover, it automatically opens and closes when you turn the camera on/off. My wife love it because she doesn’t have to worry about losing the cap.

[@federiconoris1938]

I think it would be nice to have a comparison between all m43 "standard" zoom lenses (the non-pro), both Olympus and Panasonic, for those who don't really need pro performance but still want decent image quality. Maybe some kit zooms perform better than others, and I'd like to hear from you about that!

[@GrandmasterBBC]

I totally agree! I have both the EZ and IIR lenses. I love these small form factor of the EZ lens, but don't find it as easy to use for photography. I much prefer the handling of the IIR even though it does not have the same compactness. I have not done any formal image comparisons between the two, but I tend to feel I get better images out of the older lens. I would love a formal comparison.

[@christianagullo6961]

I have this lens and love it. The B&W rubber lens hood fits very well this lens and keep it small even when it's closed.

[@fezzy177]

Hello Peter, @ 1:13 you say that it always returns to 14mm. If you go into the AF/MF menu go down to where it says "Reset Lens", if you turn this off it will go back to the last one you used. I have the EM5 MK2 with the Olympus 14-42mm EZ attached and find it always returns to what I last used as long as you turn off reset lens. Love your videos Luke (Fotofez)

[@ForsgardPeter]

Yes, it does. It was my mistake. Thanks.

[@In-Marty-We-Trust]

I bought my daughter her first serious camera, the EM 5 mk2. It came with the same lens plus an entry level 40-150mm F4-5.6 Olympus lens. Most of the time I find her using the 40-150.

[@hmalm4819]

I purchased several adapters ($10) to use my old 35mm lenses on my OM D E10, I'm very please with the build quality and way they handle with 28mm and 50mm lenses, easy enough to focus, maybe that's what you need in a dark museum. Lovely trains by the way, very cool.

[@rentedtux1883]

Exactly. Those are truly professional lenses with character and charm that cannot be replicated by digital lenses.

[@michaelh.gerloff3659]

After watching your video several times to decide if I want to buy this lens I did it 🤓 I got a used one in top condition from a professional seller, and a standard Olympus lens hood was included. But I think I will buy the LC 37c for convenience reasons.

[@youngThrashbarg]

Its always great to have a lens that enables you to have your camera in your pocket.

[@ForsgardPeter]

I like it too.

[@PaulMichael-z4g]

That's why you get this lens. You can just grab the camera, put it in your coat pocket and go!

[@Narsuitus]

I use my 14-42mm f/3.5 to f/5.6 zoom lens as a backup for the 14mm f/2.5, 20mm f/1.7, and 45mm f/1.8 prime lens kit that I use for my micro 4/3 cameras.

[@RichardJemmett]

I use the lens with my Pen F. I like two things. First few people notice that you are taking pictures and so ignore you. Second, it makes the camera much smaller so it fits in a small bag or even a large pocket! Thanks for your videos.

[@g10col92]

Hi Peter my lens is faulty now and looking for a replacement I see lots of similar lenses for sale as faulty - spares or repairs. I think I will not be replacing it with another.

[@alangamble3236]

Have to agree with you, my second EZ lens has just developed a fault and I will not be replacing it. Great shame because is very compact and produces good results. The lumix 14mm 2.5 will now be on my shopping list to complement the 20mm 1.7 I already have.

[@hellsing0999999999]

Just a heads-up! Mine came with the latest update for the lens firmware and in option A in the custom menu, there's an option that says "Reset Lens", if you set it in "No" it will always keep the magnification you set! It doesn't matter if you turn it on or to sleep, it will not reset, it looks kinda cool how it turns on and the lens goes from 14 to whatever you set by itself! I have it at 25mm and it doesn't change once you set it at that.

[@ForsgardPeter]

Thanks for the info. I did not remember that when I made the video.

[@g10col92]

Hi Peter if you switch off Lens Reset in the menu it will switch on at the last used focal length. On my EM5 MK3 that option is in menu A4.

[@ForsgardPeter]

Thanks for the tip.

[@truewarrior1980]

funny thing... that was my first lens and also first trip to bruxelles. had great time

[@michaellarkin8081]

Hei. Thanks for another great video. Completely agree with your review of this lens. One small point though..the lens doesn't necessarily always have to start at 14mm when powered on..you can change this to the last focal length used. To have this feature enabled, go to menu A.. Reset Lens.. Off. Hope that helps others

[@ForsgardPeter]

Yes, you are right. I made a mistake in the video.

[@authunhx3129]

I use this lens on a Lumix GX80 and in the Customs Settings menu, there are options for the Power Zoom Lens, one of which is 'Zoom Resume'. With this set to on, whatever the focal length is set to will be restored after powering off and back on.

[@bsuthe]

I love this lens. My EDC camera is an E-PM2; both camera and lens fit well in my "man bag", along with a second E-PM2 converted to IR in case I see a dramatic sky. The lens is too slow? Well yeah, I suppose so, but the camera takes excellent photos at ISO 800 or even more.

[@garybrown9719]

Thanks im considering getting this lens with the pen f I leve my em1x at home cause its to dam big for my jacket

[@datachamp]

Hi Peter, I had this lens and the size is great but I so hated the electric zoom that I sold it. I found it very difficult to stop on the zoom level I wanted. The quality is Ok but I'd rather carry the 14mm Panasonic (apologies) f2.5 and M.Zuiko 17mm f1.8 in a town.

[@tjerkheringa937]

The lenscap is awesome. The best part of this lens. No, i must be fair. It is a good lens for the price. I used it on a trip to Morocco. It is a not without flaws, the electronic zoom sucks. Yes, the pro-lenses are in a different league. But i actually created some cool images with it. In good light it produces good images if you avoid the wide angle range. Good value for money.

[@davidcooper6704]

It may not be pro lens quality but I've seen some pretty average photos from a pro lens. It depends a lot on the photographer and how the photos are going to be viewed ie large prints, TV or computer and how much you are prepared to spend on upgrading to pro quallity (the law of diminishing returns and all that). I recken it's an OK lens - it'll do for me.

[@bebenhoegaarden1256]

Hi Peter, I’m a new owner Olympus E-M10 mark III kit 14-42 EZ since one month and I like your videos. I’m an old...beginner in photography...I like photos... But not so good as I’d like. Many difficulties with programs...But I’m going to try with good material to do my best (with the 12-40 Pro). Thank you for your good job 👍🏼🤓 Hope you enjoy my city ? Have a nice trip 😁🤪 Ben 🤓from (10 km) Brussels

[@ForsgardPeter]

I did enjoy Brussels. Nice city.

[@honeypancakes]

To Peter Forsgard & any camera enthusiast, My current camera (Olympus OMD EM5 Mark ii), I have not yet had a focus lens (not even a kit lens since I bought my camera from a second-hand market). So what is your recommendation for an amateur photographer, who is looking just to do day-to-day photography? I am thinking either (Olympus M.Zuiko Digital 14-42mm 1:3.5-5.6 II R or Olympus M.Zuiko Digital ED 14-42mm F3.5-5.6 EZ)worth looking for at the second-hand market or I can get a one that is better? Best regards

[@derekbrown6832]

Hi, i agree with everything you said. It's small, compact, and light, and image quality is o.k. I upgraded to the Olympus Pro 12-40 f2.8, about a year ago, Wow, best investment i've made on MFT, o.k, it's not cheap, and it's a lot bigger, with great build quality, but it's a small price to pay, for the quality it gives you, and that constant f2.8, through the whole range, does quite decent macro to.

[@youknowwho9247]

If you like that lens, you should try bigger sensor formats than MFT. An f/2.8 lens on MFT produces results equivalent to f/5.6 on full frame. In other words you're working with less creative ability in terms of DoF than a full game kit lens would offer right now. Using fast glass on full frame is a whole different ball game.

[@hmalm4819]

37mm wide angle metal hoods are available on Ebay, but of course they do increase the length, I've bought several and they work well, shipped fairly quick from China about 2 weeks.

[@ForsgardPeter]

Thanks for the info.

[@markriley7472]

I haven't used the 14-42, but have had experience with the Panasonic 12-32mm f3.5-5.6 which was included with my Panasonic GX85. Again, a slow lens with no manual focus. And you have to open and close it manually! However, for image quality it is surprisingly good-in fact very good for something so lightweight that it would blow away in a breeze!! Being so cheap too, it really is a great little lens which will give very pleasing images. You get used to opening and closing manually-at least no electronics to fail in the future! The lens is sharp and autofocus is remarkably good too-even in dim light! Used on the GX85 it makes for an incredibly compact camera set up-great for grab and go occasions!

[@walterzannoni]

Hi Peter! Walter again :). May be also for my Lumix gx9 for travel (I have all prime lenses) or I can have compatibility problems? Thanks

[@hanajurakova1285]

Hi Peter, this was my first starting lens for Olympus, I bought it in 2017 however I noticed that the lens doesn't connect properly to the camera anymore. When starting the camera, the lens has problems to fully extent itself and it's not returning to the pancake size after switching the camera off. I read it could be connected to "zoom cables" within the lens. I live in Germany so fixing the lens wouldn't not make any sense in terms of costs as I can get this lens second-hand on local eBay for less than 150eur. Or is there any way to fix it for less? Thank you.

[@ForsgardPeter]

I do not think there other than sending it to Portugal for repairs.

[@ceesrechtuijt]

Same here. I understand Olympus charges € 199 for fixing the problem !

[@valdiskrebs566]

You stated that the EZ lens may not work well in the dark Train Museum, but the images look fine... at least on YT. What ISO did you use? The train/locomotive, with a faster lens at f/1.2, may not have been totally in focus... probably need at least f/4 to get the whole object in focus.

[@ForsgardPeter]

You have a point. I needed to do some compromises and could not take the image where I wanted. I needed to make the image from where I could get some support for the camera or my hands. I tried to use as low ISO as possible. I do not have the images here right now so I cannot check it right now.

[@stuarthirsch]

After seeing this video I immediately ordered one and a 37mm filter kit. This looks like a great lens for my old Olympus PEN EMP-,1 turning it into a versatile small, convenient P&S camera but with DSLM capabilities. Certainly a more versatile camera with much better image quality than my cell phone or only old P&S cameras . I will use the Tough P&S for places where weather and water resistance is the primary concern. As for my other P&S cameras sell them, give them away or use them where I don't care if they self destruct. Of course I will use the OMD as my primary camera with my other Olympus lenses.

[@veseladusa72]

Hello Peter. I have two questions. If I'm not mistaken, then this pancake lens will eat significantly more from the battery than an older kit IIR lens. Or am I wrong? The second question is, how can you save the energy of a battery with this pancake? Well thank you. Otherwise thanks to me for the great video.

[@ForsgardPeter]

Yes it will. It has an electronic shutter. There is not much to do what it comes to saving energy.

[@veseladusa72]

@@ForsgardPeter Thank you very much for your answer.

[@pedroagonzalezfoto]

When I bought my EM10 MkII, it was provided with an standard 14-42 mm lens (not the pancake version). I made an extensive use of it, despite its slowness. Even when taking photos at jazz concerts in small, dark clubs. But, recently, it begun to fail from 35 mm up. So I sent it to Olympus service, here in spain, and the budget to repair it was just some 20 € lower than the price of a brand new Panasonic Lumix 12-60 mm (also 3,5 - 5,6). So I bought the Panasonic , instead of getting the Oly repaired. And, oh my gods, what a difference! Moreover the higher range of focal distances, the images are quite more sharp, bright and defined. I'm really glad with this purchase. And I may say I'm an Olympyst from 1978, when I bought my first original OM-1 (which I stll own and is still in perfect state of use).

[@aktreanor4758]

Thanks again ...now to find out what are the best lenses for my camera

[@ForsgardPeter]

Happy to help!

[@TheNarrowbandChannel]

That is a really good point about the start up focal length choice. Oly could just write that into the firmware.

[@lindadee2053]

I use the EZ 14-42mm much of the time for street shooting, which usually does not require a highly precise resolving lens as, for example, macro shooting does. It's certainly not a pro lens but you can still get some very nice images with it. I also seriously dislike the electronic zoom so I usually keep mine at 18mm (36mm equivalent) which gives me around f/4 aperature but also zoom capability if needed. It's small size is its biggest advantage, but it's color rendition is quite pleasant as well. Overall, it's an OK lens, especially for being a kit lens.

[@dandanu2526]

What would you recommend for landscape stills...Olympus 14-42 EZ or Panasonic Lumix 12-32mm f/3.5-5.6...Thank you

[@ForsgardPeter]

If you have an Olympus body get the Olympus lesn and if you have a Panasonic then the Lumix lens.

[@dandanu2526]

@@ForsgardPeter I inderstand.Thank you!

[@aerialfilm1]

I put this on my penF and it hasn’t come off. It’s a stellar lens for what it is and what it does. I’d rather have this lens and it’s few shortcomings with me, instead of a pro lens left at home.

[@qtemma]

Hello can i ask is the 14-42 EZ ED MSC compaitble with the OM-D EM5iii ??? ive borrowed one and its not working (black screen on my camera) ive tawled throught the internet and thought i would ask you .... hope you can help. Kind regards Emma

[@ForsgardPeter]

Yes it compatible. Are you sure that the lens is ok and it is not broken?

[@qtemma]

@@ForsgardPeter when connected it opens and extends, black screen on rear & when i shut off the camera the lens stays open so I presume it’s broken 😔

[@peterwatson5659]

Love your videos, and Brussels is one of my favourite cities, you have inspired me to return! With my new (secondhand)! Olympus EP 1. It is a very underrated city, and the moment this current covid situation ends, I shall be buying a Eurostar ticket!

[@ForsgardPeter]

Great to hear! Brussels was nice and would like visit it again sometime. There is a lot to see.

[@paulathomas4944]

Hi Peter, I think you're wrong about the lens always starting at 14mm. I've just checked mine and it doesn't. I suspect you may have Reset Lens enabled in your camera. I've got that option switched that off. I've never liked having it set to ON and always switch it off. I've been using Olympus cameras since the old 4/3rds DSLR days. Started with an E-500 which probably dates me LOL. BTW would a fast lens really have helped that much in the museum? I'd have thought you'd need to be stopped down to get enough DOF? ATB Paula

[@ForsgardPeter]

Yes, you are right. It can be found on the custom menu A. My mistake and thanks for correcting me.

[@philpkhouse1097]

You're correct Paula and with the Reset Lens switched off, as well as remembering the last used focal length when using EZ lenses, it also remembers the last aperture and focus distance/point settings. Another great feature is that you can set a particular focal length, say 17mm, using the "My Set" function and when you power on, it'll automatically zoom to that focal length. A great option and handy if you're shooting street or the like.

[@PostapoPotato]

Hi Peter. Have you tested the Old 14-42 zuiko (for standard 4/3) is there any optical deferences between old Kit and new pancake?

[@ForsgardPeter]

I do not know. I have not tested the 4/3 version of the lens.

[@percronejensen6908]

On Panasonic you can select if you want the lens to start where it was when you turned the camera off.

[@ForsgardPeter]

Actually you can do taht also in Olympus cameras. I made a mistake in the video.

[@legend240891]

you can go to the settings and turn off reset the lens option so it would start at the focal length from last time you used.

[@ForsgardPeter]

Yes, you are right. It can be found on the custom menu A. My mistake and thanks for correcting me.

[@legend240891]

@@ForsgardPeteryou're very most welcomed. We are all learning from each other :)

[@bobsta]

Excellent video Peter. I have the 14mm - 42mm EZ lens and I agree with your assessment. I like its compact form and weight but I've come to realise that it's picture quality isn't terribly good compared to other lenses. With two holidays and a wedding this year, I'm seriously considering going for a pro lens as I don't want to compromise on image quality.

[@ForsgardPeter]

Thanks. For pro work, the kit lens is not the best option. Maybe the new 12.45mm f4 would be an option?

[@bobsta]

I was looking at that lens in question. The 12-40mm F2.8 lens costs £637 whilst the 12-45mm F2 costs £599. I may have to pop into a camera shop to try both out.

[@audreypeters8921]

I have the kit 14-42mm IR lens, non pancake. I find it super sharp with the image stabilization on EM 10 mark ii. It’s convenient and light and easy to shoot as soon as you turn the camera on. Prefer it to the pancake zoom any day.

[@imcoop13]

Helpful video would be even better if you put the camera settings on your photos please.

[@stefanwagener]

I like this lens for its small size and weight and makes a very small package combined with Olympus Pen PM1 and PM2, e.g. putting it in the pocket of a jacket when skiing in winter. Unfortunately my lens died pretty early from one day to the next with a broken zoom motor which seems to be quite a common problem with this lens. It is as sharp if not sharper than the other lenses from Panasonic and Olympus with the 14-42mm range.

[@jerry2357]

When I bought a PEN-F recently, I rapidly replaced this with the 14-150 mm. The disadvantage of my new lens is that it’s considerably larger and heavier than the kit lens. But when out and about I take both wider shots and zoom in on details, and the 42 mm is not long enough for me, so I would miss too many detail shots. I don’t like switching lenses very much when walking around, so I prefer the larger zoom range over carrying a telephoto zoom as well as the kit lens. But I did get the 12 mm f/2 to use when I’m trying to take pictures in a museum or other low-light situation.

[@ForsgardPeter]

Yes I agree the 14-150mm is a very good all around lens for travel. I also agree that a fast prime is needed for those darker moments.

[@TomSpirit]

Hello man. Thank you for your review! I would like to know, while you recorded this video did you use a stabilizer under camera?

[@ForsgardPeter]

I used DJI Pocket for filming. It has a gimbal built in.

[@eltinjones4542]

Have the LUMIX version because I have a Panasonic camera. It's great for travel but I agree about distortion. I put the poor low light down to the mf3 sensor?

[@jessestarks3128]

I considered this lens as my first m4/3 zoom. I own the 4/3 mount Olympus 14-54 zoom but neither 14-42 zooms are replacements for it. I can't afford Olympus' 12-40 or Panasonic's 12-35 at the moment, I'll be sticking with old (and trusty) Oly lens.

[@iazndreamuri]

Hi! My camera suddenly said “please check status of lens” and I’ve checked several times, the camera lens is on properly. I was on a trip taking pictures and suddenly the lens wouldn’t turn on and that message keeps coming up. Do you know how I can fix it? Thanks!

[@ForsgardPeter]

Did you remove the lens and put it back? Sounds bad if after that it does not work.

[@iazndreamuri]

Yep. Tried 100x. Sounds like the lens just died on me. Sigh

[@ceesrechtuijt]

Mine did too yesterday. I found out that Olympus can fix the problem for € 199.

[@Eti1968]

Hi Peter, hope you enjoyed Brussels, Belgium is the county I live (-: I use the kit lens on my E PL-8 I almost always have it near me. like you say, a light weighted easy to use lens for “normal” circumstances.

[@ForsgardPeter]

I did enjoy Brussels very much.

[@Life_a_bike]

Thx Peter! What is your Osmo pocket setup? You’re using a wide lens I suppose...

[@ForsgardPeter]

I use the Log-mode. No I do not have a wide-angle lens, but I have ND-filters.

Yes, I do use the kit lens, but I must admit that I do not obtain comparable results as far as focus is concern. Your image are very much in focus. And I intend to invest a little bit more insight to it. Thanks

[@WVMUSIC_NL]

when you buy the camera it comes either with this more expensive lens or the manual version of that lens. What would you recommend as a all purpose lens instead of this one? i like to shoot indoors, occasional making portraits of my friends, photographing on the street and on vacations.

[@ForsgardPeter]

The 14-42mm EZ version is a good lens to start. Later you might want to add a faster prime lens to gear.

[@WVMUSIC_NL]

@@ForsgardPeter I was testing the camrra in the shop today. what I noticed was that when I changed the shutterspeed and aperture nothing changes in the exposure - when I use my sony camera in manual mode I change the aperture and shutterspeed and I see the result immediately on my viewfinder and then press the button to make the photo - wysiwyg. Can I see in realtime on the evf or backscreen how my exposure changes while changing shutterspeed and aperture. The wysiwyg to me is the most important reason to go mirrorless. To have full control how the image will look like. Is it possible to see these shutterspeed plus aperture changes in realtime on the Olympus?

[@pdw7165]

Hi Peter, Just a quick question. Is the M.Zuiko Digital ED 12-50mm 1:3.5-6.3 EZ Lens much sharper than M.Zuiko Digital ED 14-42mm f3.5-5.6 EZ(kit lens)? Cheers

[@ForsgardPeter]

I have not tested them side by side. Both lenses are good. I have a video about the 12-50mm lens: kzbin.info/www/bejne/mpbCY4GYjLR1e7s

[@NanonerMcKologico]

The answer is not. The 12-50 is softer, besides bulkier and less popular lens.

[@schleprok6333]

How does this lens compare to the II R in the image quality department?

[@ForsgardPeter]

I have not tested them side by side. Cannot not really say anything for sure.

[@PercyDeSaint]

Hi Peter! I've been following you since I bought mi first MFT a couple of months ago, an Olympus OM-D E-M5 II, and I gotta say that I've learned a lot and definitively will buy some of the lenses you have reviewed, love your channel. I do have a question when it comes to video: I shot at 24fps but I noticed the Continuos AF (with and without Tracking) doesn't work, and I couldn't figure out what was wrong, until I reset the camera and noticed at 25fps it did work. Is there a way to use it at 24?

[@ForsgardPeter]

It should. I will check that, but so far I have not had any problems.

[@PercyDeSaint]

@@ForsgardPeter quick update: I bought this lens, and everything is working just fine. I can use the camera at 24fps and the CF and tracking is working perfectly. Apparently the old lens which is from my sister's PEN could have a problem, although I can find the relation with the fps. Anyway! thanks for your help and recommendations :)

[@Arcade1959]

With this small lens you can do long exposure zoom effects. Activate the stabilizer and an exposure of 1/8th of a second. Optically this lens is very good between f:8 and f:11.

[@rngronn9054]

What is 42mm equivalent to in zoom term like 4x ?

[@ForsgardPeter]

It is 3x, from 14mm to 42mm.

[@cmartin_ok]

One problem with MFT is that if you want to upgrade the kit zoom, there is very little choice. Only the Lumix 12-60 or something like the constant aperture f/2.8 12-35/14-35

[@ForsgardPeter]

True.

[@philpkhouse1097]

on a positive side, if you want a "pro" lens, you don't end up forking out for a bulky full frame one as you would if you used APS-C Sony, Nikon or Canon. Kit and pro MFT lenses fit entry and pro MFT cameras as they all use the same mount and sensor size. The 12-60mm is a great lens but I must admit that, if I'm on a walk about, I usually end up using either the Oly 14-42 EZ, the Pana 14-42 mk2 kit lens, or if I want a bit longer reach, my Pana 14-140mm.

[@aengusmacnaughton1375]

Thanks for the video -- beautiful square/city! Question -- would the 14-42mm pancake lens power zoom work on Panasonic MFT cameras???

[@ForsgardPeter]

I have to say that I am not sure, but most likely it will. The zoom is controlled from the lens ring.

[@aengusmacnaughton1375]

@@ForsgardPeter -- I was wondering about the settings screen that you were showing -- to change the speed of the zoom. I've never seen anything like that on my Panasonic camera (G85) -- but I'd love to have power zoom for video. Well -- you will just have to send me the lens to test out, and I'll send it back when I am done. :-) (just kidding!)

[@philpkhouse1097]

@@aengusmacnaughton1375 the Olympus EZ lens will work fine on your G85. You might not have the features to be able to change the zoom speed in the camera though. I have used this 14-42mm on my old G6 which has a lever to control EV+/_ , but when a power zoom is attached, the lever then controls the zooming.

[@aengusmacnaughton1375]

@@philpkhouse1097 -- now I just need to save some money and buy the lens and try it out! Thanks!!! :-)

[@Arcade1959]

This lens can provide very good service, provided you have the right aperture (f: 8-11)

[@zbigniewkedzierski7890]

thanks for the video, it would be nice if the pics had paramery: iso, shutter, aperture, thank you

[@ForsgardPeter]

Noted!

[@Jdlucas44]

Nice review, I was debating on the 14-42 or the 25mm f/1.8 as a carry around street lens. Decided on the 25 f/1.8, not as compact but a very sharp fast lens, what do you think?

[@jisjis87]

17mm f1.8 is even better street lens. 25mm is also great. 14-42mm is not. I've had few of those.

[@ForsgardPeter]

For most the 17mm f1.8 would be better for the street. The 25mm f1.8 is a bit too long.

[@jisjis87]

@@ForsgardPeter I have a really tough dilemma. As december rolls in, im going to have get some tax returns. I'm planning to buy either a new camera or a new lens. Currently, I have the original e-m10, which I like a lot.. I have no plans of shooting wildlife. Just some street and landscape. Oh, and some dogs as well. At the moment, my plan is to get the grip ecg-1 for e-m10 and then buy 12-100mm lens. A new body I could afford at the same time but cant justify 2000€ price for my wife. Other lenses I have now are 17mm f1.8, 9-18mm, 45mm f1.8, 40-150 plastic one, 14-42mm ez. So the choices I have: 1. Buy a new camera, e-m1 mrk 2. No lenses. 2. Buy ecg-1 and 12-100mm. Great for travel. Get a bumb for stabilization. 3. Get 40-150mm pro for dog shooting. Great picture quality. Too big for my e-m10. 4. Get E-M5 mark II, and 12-100mm. Pretty hefty amount of money. Could pull it, but a divorce would be close 😁 Main concern for 12-100mm would be photographing the dogs. Is it too slow for that? Also, if I upgrade the body, then I probably will have to upgrade my manfrotto.. I realize that e-m10 is getting old and it's not the best mft body around. But I find it very capable fot the things I do with it. Thanks everybody for reading.

[@ForsgardPeter]

If you are happy with the camera body, get a new lens.

[@arnet3575]

You can make it start at same FL, as last time, if you set "Reset Lens = Off" in the A menu (have an em10ii)

[@hedydd2]

Pretty sure I could do the same with my old E-M10, but I will not bet my house on it.

[@ForsgardPeter]

Yes, you are right. It can be found on the custom menu A. My mistake and thanks for correcting me.

[@francishwlee]

Hi Peter, As you have said, it has some very real limitations, but I have been surprised at how useful it can be. I used to avoid using it - it took me a long time before I could take reasonably sharp photos with it - but now I've become accustomed to it enough to make it work. It definitely works best in good daytime lighting, but for its price, it's hard to find something as handy/flexible (I've heard good things about the Panasonic kit lens though). Two thoughts: The auto lens cap is very convenient, but its shutters are a bit flimsy, so it can't withstand as much abuse as a normal lens cap. This lens also works with Olympus' macro converter and other filter-type attachments, so it can be super versatile for those on a budget and/or not looking to own too many lenses.

[@ForsgardPeter]

True.

[@Arcade1959]

It's very nice to have visited my city !

[@ForsgardPeter]

I liked it a lot, very nice city.

[@zachallerton1724]

I was hoping to see the lens actually zoom in and out at each setting.

[@danflorianmihai]

it has a 20cm minimal focus distance is not wow, but you can still get some close-up shots, love your videos, thank you

[@chanakarnorsuwan5896]

I become a new fan, I love your style

[@ForsgardPeter]

Thanks.

[@squirfly]

Love your scooters photos!

[@ForsgardPeter]

Thank you!

[@Smaug1]

Right now, this is my "walk around lens." As you say, it is very compact and easy to carry around. For practical purposes, the image quality is excellent. It is only for pixel peeping that it's all short, I think. I don't like the electronic Zoom, I prefer a mechanical zoom. It feels so much better. But this is the price we pay for compactness. I am adding a Panasonic 12 to 60, 3.5 - 5.6 to replace this one except when compactness is very important.

[@mateuszwnuk9136]

I love the pancake kit lens for travel photography. Especially during the day it's a perfect compromise. Recently though, I use it less and less frequently (prefering 9-18mm changable to 40-150) and I guess the main reason is not it's range but the electronic motor. I often turn on the camera, take a pic and turn it off - this kit takes too much time and it's a bit noisy. Makes me lose some opportunities if I don't have it on all the time. Also the manual zoom is more precise and quicker to use than electric one. Still - the size was why I decided to buy it and I often have it in my jeans pocket without having to worry about it. BTW, Kit lens is a perfect companion for Olympus PEN cameras (great for jacket pocket). With E-M5 or E-M1 I think I wouldn't care so much about its size. You said it resets at 14mm - it's not true, you can change the option so it remembers the last setting! Not that you set it to 25mm but after you shot at 25mm it will turn on it again. Regarding lens hoods - I have a lens hood from Aliexpress - attached to the automatic lens cap. It works great.

[@ForsgardPeter]

Yes, you are right there is a setting where you can override lens starting at 14mm.

[@ramonborreguero3182]

Interesting dear Peter, why my 14-150 drops yesterday and I need to buy a lens for the backup body.

[@ForsgardPeter]

Broke your lens? That sounds bad.

[@ramonborreguero3182]

@@ForsgardPeter Yes the tripot was not stable and gets out from camera. And camera with grip works. I wll be how to find an used lenses to replace it. That was the old one the new one is waterproof. I will see. thanks.

[@ramonborreguero3182]

I have done always very good fotos with that lens. I will look for another lens.

[@ramonborreguero3182]

@@ForsgardPeter I have an old Tamron 80-210 and I have found an adapter for Olympus Omd, it is a temporary solution.

[@johnallen3423]

Thanks for the info about low-normal-high e-zoom....i switched low ....as normal was too fast for me

[@ForsgardPeter]

Great!

[@nigelhunt8275]

What is the name and brand of wrist strap you use on your EM5ii?

[@skamradt67]

Peak Design Cuff. I have one also, awesome wrist strap, and works with their neck strap.

[@Janggut40]

Thank you for the review

[@eltinjones4542]

Have the LUMIX none collapsible version for my gx7. I agree that it's versatile for travel but poor in low light. I bought a Samyang 14mm f2 for wider views and the 7.5 fisheye for fun. They don't have autofocus but with focus peaking it doesn't really matter and the 14mm is great for landscapes. Would invest in maybe the summilux 15mm f1.7 but since I have both APSC and fulframe Nikon cameras. I think I have enough 😂. Cheers Peter great review 👍

[@ForsgardPeter]

Thanks.

[@vicibox]

Well I am not the sort of person to buy kit lenses as most of the time I use f1.8, or thereabouts, primes. However I did buy the 12-32mm kit lens with my Panasonic GX9 because it only added £99 and gives me a cheap 24mm equivalent wide angle. When I looked at this lens I assumed it was rubbish, silly Vici. Its the second best zoom I have ever owned. The best kit zoom I have owned is my Leica 18-56mm Vario-Elmar-T which destroys every other zoom I have ever seen; hardly surprising considering its whopping £1500 price tag; it resolves like a prime which is hardly surprising as it only has 10 lens elements and the images drip with microtones. Anyway back to the Panasonic pancake. The quality of this lens is astonishing and it has blown me away. I have added a JJC LH-37EPII 37mm lens hood from Amazon which I leave on the lens permanently and cover the end with 58mm lens cap. The result makes this rather ugly lens quite attractive and it reminds me of the collapsible 50mm Summicron on my old IIIg. It has become one of my favourite lenses and cant praise it highly enough. I decided to give this lens a go after seeing this video from Dom Bower which pretty much says it all kzbin.info/www/bejne/rHipqHeYiLWNacU

[@philpkhouse1097]

I have the 12-32mm too and a brilliant lens it is. A shame, though, that it doesn't have a manual focus ring for those difficult situations. Can't have everything I suppose.

[@metamurph]

I like the idea of this size married with the Air AO1 but putting this against a Lumix ZS70K with 30x zoom at $350 or even ZS2000 at $700 with larger sensor 15x zoom and fits in your pocket...this is the gap that Olympus has -- they have "cool" with Pen, they have rugged with Tough, they have solid selection in OM but when you really want portable, flexible -- then again, generally that is what my phone is well not so flexible lens wise. Maybe the market is too thin here.

[@davidcooper6704]

What is the front ring for on the lens?

[@ForsgardPeter]

Do you mean the lens hood or the lens cover?

[@davidcooper6704]

@@ForsgardPeter Thanks for your reply. Having only just received the lens I realise it is the manual focus ring which is activated (AF/MF) on the camera body (OM-D E-M5).

[@petegleeson1]

It came with my camera and it is OK, I went to my sister's wedding a few days after getting the camera and it produced some good images. I want waterproof, faster lens and after a lot of thinking have just ordered the 12-40 2.8 pro, that lens is a lot bigger and heavier but I think the trade off will be worth it.

[@youknowwho9247]

I don't know why people shell out the money for 'pro' grade MFT lenses. That 12-40 f/2.8 produces results equivalent to a 24-80 f/5.6 lens on full frame. Slower than a kit lens, and more expensive. Seems like a bad deal to me.

[@robertcudlipp3426]

@@youknowwho9247 Excellent optics and still a great Pro range lens in mid 2020,

[@youknowwho9247]

@@robertcudlipp3426 Let's be honest here, it's an f/5.6 full frame equivalent lens. By no stretch of the imagination is that pro grade. It's a stop slower than a full frame kit lens.

[@kent2000100]

I would have to agree. I bought it as a small lens when I’m out and about, and it’s okay just not my favorite. I’ll probably put it on eBay. Go back to my 20mm lumix for my out and about lens.

[@iconicmedia9694]

Does this lens have manual focus?

[@ForsgardPeter]

Yes it does. The manual focus ring is quite small, but it is there.

[@xenogobicify]

Hi peter Can i put filters on this lens?

[@valdiskrebs566]

zoya leandra gobel 37mm filters

[@Biosynchro]

Can this lens out-resolve the sensor? I believe that it can, and it should be able to deliver extra detail in high res mode. If you have tested this lens in high res mode, do let us know. :-)

[@ForsgardPeter]

No, I have not. Maybe I should.

[@slifox2752]

It works a treat on my inspire pro drone... great for outside landscape shots...

[@ForsgardPeter]

Are you able to use the electronic zoom?

[@triggashotit7788]

Will this fit Lumix G7 ?

[@ForsgardPeter]

I think so. At least it has the same mount. Not 100% with the electronic zoom.

[@jeroen2082]

Nice and fair review like you always do. But's let's be honest, with your skills you can make any lens look good.

[@ForsgardPeter]

Thanks.

[@gabithemagyar]

I have this lens along with the automatic lens cap. Very handy for casual daylight photography. Turns my EM5 mark 2 into something much like a point and shoot in terms of size and portability. Paired with the weatherproof 14-150 mm lens it makes a great, durable, travel combo at an affordable price for amateurs … although I will be looking for a fast wide prime for use inside museums, cathedrals etc. I am still learning the Olympus menu system (my main cameras and lenses for years now are Sony APS-C) but I am really impressed with the Olympus build quality, the image stabilization, the styling, and the selection of available lenses at different price points that Olympus offers.

[@UKFX]

You didn't mention what your ISO was in the choo choo museum. Couldn't you have just bumped the ISO more and denoised in post?

[@ForsgardPeter]

I could have but I did not.

[@YoSpiff]

I bought one of these a few months ago for use on my Olympus E-PM2. The reviews I read said the image quality wasn't quite as good as the 14-42 non-pancake kit lens, but I haven't been able to tell any difference. When possible, I prefer to bring my E-M10 with the Tamron 14-150 and a wideangle, but if I am tight on luggage space for a work trip, I can at least have something decent with me. One thing I was planning on using it for was to have in my jersey pocket when cycling, but the PEN with this lens is still just a little too big, so my Canon G7x is the default cycling camera.

[@Paul_anderson_creative]

Thanks. Nice work. Beware electronic zoom lenses! I sold new, used and damaged cameras for years. Zoom lens damage was the commonest fault. Usually drop or open in error in a case or pocket. Mechanism gets damaged. Not for me, GX9 I bought 12-60 kit. Enjoy...

[@ForsgardPeter]

That is a good point when buying used EZ lenses.