The Panasonic 25mm F/1.7 Standard Prime Lens For Micro Four Thirds Cameras

[@m0bob]

I only discovered on Saturday that you are no longer with us. It's strange, I hadn't heard your distinctive voice for a long time and suddenly KZbin displayed your video as a suggestion. I began watching your video and immediately I thought, I haven't heard that voice for ages. I then read the comments and your daughter's message re your passing. It came to quite a shock to me, a man who I didn't know, but whose voice I recognised immediately. I am saddened to hear the news and I wish your family well, even if it is a few years now. Rest in peace David ✝️

[@iangrant3615]

Still finding such great value from David's videos in 2023. An amazing resource and he lives on through his wonderful work and insights. Best wishes to all.

[@zanisgardening123-]

Indeed imso glad his family kept the videos up

[@StalinBrosef]

David you might be the most eloquent lens reviewer on KZbin. Very easy to follow along with, very informative, and with a very considered point of view. Thank you for these videos, especially with your focus on micro four thirds. I'm finding them very helpful.

[@DavidThorpeMFT]

I'm glad to hear that, Broseph and I appreciate your telling me. Thank you.

[@photobillyexplores]

totally agree 👌

[@rjkral]

Broseph Stalin if David hasn’t reviewed it I’m likely not to bother going much further looking into buying it. Luv ya David!!!!

[@blcsuperdave]

Thank you for a no BS review. Your pacing and jet points make this tutorial extremely helpful and easy to digest. Kudos.

[@corejkd]

Always come to David Thorpe when you want clarity, accuracy and that certain calm he generates with that voice of his.

[@DavidThorpeMFT]

Not much I can say to that except - thanks very much!

[@Beardbrand]

Great as always David. You had me smiling at the end with your "bangs for bucks." I've never realized that it's an American expression and I've also never heard it plural. 😁

[@ArcticGator]

+Beardbrand it comes from the old frontier days of the fur trade when an entire deer hide was worth a dollar, so dollars came to be known as "bucks"

[@Beardbrand]

+Arctic Gator interesting. never thought to think of where the term came from.

[@DavidThorpeMFT]

+Beardbrand I never thought about that either. Very interesting.

[@derekdew24]

I bought this lens new on amazon for $150 a week ago, but now its back up to $250. I absolutely love it.

[@DavidThorpeMFT]

You got a good price - even $250 is not unreasonable. Glad to hear you love it - that's what it's all about!

[@Gary_W]

Excellent review David, thank you! I agree with you that 25mm is too tight for general street shooting. I found that for my style, I prefer 20mm. It's a focal length that can "mimic" both the 17mm and 25mm in some situation, and has been personally proven very versatile. The slow focus speed is still fast enough and almost negligible in newer Panasonic bodies, and I really enjoy the slim pancake profile which makes it easy to store in my bag.

[@DavidThorpeMFT]

+bajigurwedangronde Sometims when I mention that the 20mm is slow to focus, I feel the need to modify it to 'relatively slow'. After all, it still focuses much faster than any human being can!

[@beplantastisch5280]

Got one and love it. I kept it on my GX8 for the entire duration of my 1 week Barcelona trip. Walked everywhere just so I can hold my camera and take pictures. Great review!

[@DavidThorpeMFT]

It's great when you enjoy using a camera so much. The GX8 is a big favourite with its users and the 25mm suits it well.

[@Snowy57]

Thank you David for your enjoyable and helpful reviews. I have just purchased the Panasonic 25mm f1.7 based largely on this review. I am very happy with the lens on my GX8 and enjoy your sense of humour. Cheers Barry

[@DavidThorpeMFT]

Pleased to hear the, Barry. Great lens at a great price. Like you, Like to laugh so it seems natural to not be too earnest about photography. It has to be fun too!

[@MarkoKoskenoja]

I bought this lens for my G85 based on your review and others and love it. At $229 CDN on sale it is a bargain.

[@DavidThorpeMFT]

It is low priced compared to competitors yet the lens isn't in any way inferior. I just hope Panasonic don't find out!

[@paulstevenson200]

That was a review bordering on poetic. All aspects covered and a thoroughly balanced appraisal - how have I missed this one? Brilliant. Thank you.

[@DavidThorpeMFT]

Glad you feel that way, Paul. Thank you!

[@andymarkwell9936]

I brought this lens David based on your review and I'm really pleased with it...Love the humour in your reviews too!..Incidentally I also purchased the Laowa 7.5 f2 based on your recommendation in the review..."What is it?...It's Tiny!"

[@DavidThorpeMFT]

Glad you like the reviews, Andy. Tiny it is, the Laowa. Such a great array of lenses for Micro Four Thirds these days.

[@andymarkwell9936]

Thanks David, yes we are spoilt for choice, not good for my bank balance though, I keep buying them! I think MFT will be around for a long time yet given the lens support!

[@TimothyGordon]

I own this lens and swear by it. It performs as well as the 1.7 Leica, giving great image quality with a fast speed that is usable for the video that I shoot. Love it.

[@davidthorpe7732]

Excellent lens, as you say, and a bargain too!

[@DivisionStreetDrums]

This is a great lens, purchased one for me and one for my daughter. Again, thank you David

[@davidthorpe7732]

You're welcome, Thomas. So good you bought it twice :-)

[@copandale]

And an absolute bargain when received as a free promotional lens for purchasing my Panasonic GX85 just before Christmas! Just received it and loving the nice blurring already! Thanks for the review Mr Thorpe!,

[@DavidThorpeMFT]

It doesn't get better than free! Glad you liked the review.

[@donphobos]

Thank you for reviewing this lens. You have very good summary of the features and the reasons behind your comments.

[@DavidThorpeMFT]

Thanks - glad you found it helpful!

[@joelarrarte8486]

Bought this lens a week ago to use with my G7... I love it! The shallow depth of field has lifted what would otherwise be a std photo into something much more intriguing - damn sharp too!

[@DavidThorpeMFT]

Nice to hear a happy photographer, Joe! Yes, a sharp lens beyond its price.

[@loicolivier4842]

Little question as I have a G7 too, how are you finding the stabilisation as neither the lens or the G7 have O.I.S?

[@CommiePinko101]

Thank you for solving the mystery of how to attach the hood. By the way. I ended up choosing the G85 over the GX85. Ergonomics beat discreet shooting in the end.

[@DavidThorpeMFT]

Enjoying using a camera because it feels right is one of the most important things. As usual with Micro Four Thirds, there are no bad choices available.

[@rjkral]

Christopher Cox I had the same choice, the g85 WITH A LENS feels lighter because the ergonomics are so much better. I was thinking I’d go with GX but the protruding hand grip of the g85 isn’t a factor when (1) it’s about equal to any lens protrusion anyway, and (2) just feels SO much better:)

[@janplexy]

so much knowledge in your videos, simply advanced.

[@davidthorpe7732]

Glad you find it so, Jan, thank you. The knowledge has been built up in decades of using cameras daily. It's great that through the internet I can share some of it.

[@AA_Dandelion_Days]

As always David, entertaining, informative, and even though I don't know you, it comes across as a video/review that is just full of you and your personality & humour. The only downside is that it adds yet another temptation (as many of your reviews do) to go and look again at my bank balance or credit card limit. Thanks for my days entertainment though and keep 'em coming.

[@DavidThorpeMFT]

+Andrew Atkins Great comment, Andrew, made me smile. Thanks. And if you have a partner, here I am conveniently placed take all the blame for your temptation :-)

[@jonathanwpressman]

I love your style of video and narration. Thanks!

[@davidthorpe7732]

Thanks, Jonathan.

[@GeorgeFalconer]

You have a great voice David, you should be on the radio! :) (Great video too!)

[@DavidThorpeMFT]

Thanks, George!

[@rikardpersson9493]

Thank you David! Spot on in my opinion - as always! My go to lens, even though I own Oly 25 1.8, PanaLeica 25 1.4 and this one! I choose this lens because it is sharp enough, super quick to focus AND focuses CLOSE!

[@DavidThorpeMFT]

+Rikard Persson Tahnnsk Rikard! You really do like your 25mms.

[@rikardpersson9493]

+David Thorpe Seems silly, right? :) And its not even "my" field of view either - it's a bit to tight for me! Guess I got the 25-s to try to make that focal length/ field of view more interesting to me.. ..and perhaps you could call it a sort of training - photographing "through" first the Oly and the PanaLeica and get to the Pana 25mm 1.7 now being my go to lens! Love it - it is not the best of them but it represents the perfect mix of usability and portability!

[@ovuoostudio4382]

David lovely tutorial. You are the king of MFT.

[@DavidThorpeMFT]

+OvuOO STUDIO What can I say except - thank you?

[@Dustinrhoades]

Thank you, David. I sold my Panasonic 1.4 because I thought it was a bit slow to focus (compared to newer lenses) and didn't like the sound of the motor when I shot video. I miss the focal length, though. Sounds like this is worth a look.

[@DavidThorpeMFT]

+Dustinrhoades I think it is worth a look at this price. Also, I doubt you'll see much difference in IQ. DfD too.

[@alllovelain]

the main reason I got this lens is for low light. sure, the kit lens can zoom to 25mm, but it can't go down to f1.7 and on top of that the 25mm prime lens is noticeably sharper and faster. I think it was worth purchasing as someone that has only had the kit lens.

[@seanmangan2769]

Thank you David for this wonderful information. I bought the 20 mm lens because it's more normal. 🙂

[@AyeshaNoelle]

Great review again David!

[@DavidThorpeMFT]

Thanks, Noelle.

[@JohnRobertsTV]

A very nice review as I've come to expect from all your informative and rather poetic videos now. I got the 25mm as part of a bundle with my G7 & 14-40mm zoom. Having the zoom it's a bit of a puzzler as to when to use it, but I've settled on when I vlog to record my rants and raves on video. For me it's very well-suited to that purpose.

[@DavidThorpeMFT]

+John Roberts Thanks John. With video, the 25m would be very handy for softening the background for the vlog or under similar circumstances. Probably need some ND filters, though.

[@NeverWolf]

I exchanged my kit lens for this one. Absolutely no regrets about it. 50mm eq lens used to be the kit lens for film cameras. 12 to 32 is a focal length you can more or less cover by walking around.

[@DavidThorpeMFT]

Use your legs? I don't think that will catch on :-)

[@NeverWolf]

haha. more prime lenses for me then. :-) I have the opposite feeling about telephoto in any case. So all the money I save on wide zooms will go into telephoto ones. xD

[@JohnnyMotel99]

This is my favourite lens for close up interviews.

[@DavidThorpeMFT]

Yes, a good all rounder for video. And plenty of speed for indoor use.

[@daviddrinkall2935]

I got one free with my GX8 (promo) which made the package a steal. I find it is a bit tight too for my but the thinner depth of field is nice sometimes.

[@DavidThorpeMFT]

+David Drinkall Yes, worth keeping even if only used occasionally.

[@SuchetB]

Great review David - I purchased this lens recently for my movie work. Thank you 😊

[@DavidThorpeMFT]

Glad it was helpful - exceptional value for money isn't it?

[@ChrisWilliams-nf8kl]

I've got the PanaLeica f1.4 - I think I'd say that was my favourite MFT lens. In terms of framing it's pretty good for full portraits whilst still allowing you to throw the background a little out of focus - and it's still very sharp wide open. For me the 17.5 f1.8 palls a little in comparison because both the slightly slower aperture and the shorter focal length cut down that ability to limit DoF. This lens will obviously come closer to matching it on those terms, so it would be a good choice for anyone on a budget who likes the AoV. As usual a very sensible and balanced review. Keep em coming David. I also got some interesting info on how the term 'buck' arose from the comments. It's a Lemmy bonus... thanks to Arctic Gator.

[@DavidThorpeMFT]

Yes, I find the 17mm a great all purpose all round lens because I like the slight wide angle but a 25mm is much better for portraits while also being a good all rounder. Of all the 25mms, the f/1.4 is undoubtedly the best and one of the best lenses in Micro Four Thirds as well.

[@matthewdavies269]

I hope KZbin review videos become more like this one. Good, honest and to the point. Rather than "performers" who are trying to get famous by filming themselves in their whacky slogan colourful T-shirts, ending every video with "share, subscribe and like!"

[@DavidThorpeMFT]

Thanks Matthew! My pet hate is the reviewers in baseball caps who start of "Hi guys". It usually means the video is more about them than whatever they are reviewing.

[@16-bit-trip5]

Another great review David! In addition to the Panasonic 12-35 f/2.8 I also own this lens for my G7. Like you mention it's a great compliment to a standard zoom. I predominantly use my G7 for video however when I'm shooting stills and don't feel like carrying around my D750 I slap this on my G7 and go. I rarely shoot at anything smaller than f/2 as anything smaller and I might as well us my 12-35 f/2.8 (which is very close in sharpness and offers better contrast). The IQ on this lens is very good, especially for the price, and its focuses very quickly, I've used it for indoor sports in a pinch and got some decent results.

[@DavidThorpeMFT]

+Michael Paz Yes, it's generally true that the value of fast lenses is only realized if you actually use them at wide apertures.

[@Mrcherrardcohen]

Dave you are one of the main reasons I tried the micro four thirds system.

[@DavidThorpeMFT]

That's very flattering to hear, Charrard, thank you. Your purse may think differently, of course :-)

[@Mrcherrardcohen]

+David Thorpe Well Dave it was all worth it. I am just waiting on the Panasonic Gh5 and the new Olympus EM

[@DavidThorpeMFT]

They'll be interesting because all the latest up-dates from other models are added and then anything new they can come up with. They won't be cheap though!

[@Mrcherrardcohen]

Saving my pennies as we speak.

[@Paul_anderson_creative]

I have 2 brand new versions of this lens on a GX9. I cannot get consistent focus ever on either lens...! I use an Olympus 17mm f1.8, bang on 100% of the time. Pity, so cheap and fast. Gutted. Love to see you test some 7artisans manual lenses. Thanks for reading!

[@DavidThorpeMFT]

I can't think why the focus is inconsistent with the lens - shouldn't be any different to the Olympus 17mm really. Weird.

[@STEHH87]

Great review!! When the Olympus 25mm 1.8 came out, I paid 399€ for it here in Germany. Now that Panasonic is offering their version for 199€, the Oly dropped to 299€... I don't now lately Olympus seems to underwhelm regarding bang for the buck compared to Panasonic IMHO and I generally feel like Panasonic is treating its customers better somehow (subjective feeling). I'm actually really glad Panasonic is constantly improving its IBIS, I have mostly Olympus lenses, as I solely use Olympus bodies and didn't need the in lens OIS, but I think I will jump ship with the GX80, especially since the Pen F was a bit of a disappointment for me (granted I did have very high hopes) I mean 1200€ body with an unprogramable art dial... common Olympus, you can do better than that...

[@DavidThorpeMFT]

+STEHH87 Panasonic do seem to be leading that way right now, after a while when Olympus did. I'm trying a GX80 right now and the IBIS seems quite similar to Olympus's with a non-stabilized lens. I need to use it a lot more but I'm very impressed so far.

[@soundknight]

I have this lens and it's always on. it only comes off when I'm doing a specific portrait with my f1.7 42.5 mm or my wife side of my pz zoom at 14mm for a landscape. It's great value especially considering the distortion and low light performance. The Voightlander 0.95 doesn't have the same sharpness until f3. (so I have read)

[@DavidThorpeMFT]

+Brian Cullen I'm not overly find of ultra high speed lenses like the Voigtlander. They tend to need stopping down to get decent performance which nullifies the piont rather.

[@barra650]

Enjoyed the review, Thanks David.

[@DavidThorpeMFT]

+barra650 Good to hear that, thanks.

[@fabioarodrigues]

Great review as always David. I have both this lens and the 20mm f1.7. Like you, I think the 25mm is a bit tight for my everyday use, so in that regard, I prefer the 20mm. The 20mm is also my go to lens when I need a compact combo and, for that reason, and the fact is extremely sharp, is the lens that is attached almost permanently in front of my camera. But in terms of auto-focus, even in dim light, this 25mm is much faster than the old 20mm, and almost the same in image quality. But I find it to be a bit large and you loose the pocketability of the 20mm. I love both lenses. Can't really decide which one I like more.

[@DavidThorpeMFT]

+Fabio Alves Rodrigues Thanks Fabio. With the low second hand prices nowadays, it's often worth keeping lenses even for occasional use. Trouble is, as you say, you then have to choose. I prefer the 20mm focal length too and the pocketability it can give is handy. In other words, like you, I wouldn't be able to decide :-)

[@giannalomax6714]

Thank you David for another great review. in part I blame you for me owning 5 Gh3s and 3Gh1s, I really don't blame you I just like your no nonsense approach.

[@DavidThorpeMFT]

+Gianna Lomax I'm glad you don't blame me, Gianna! And thanks!

[@anthonymagliocco7953]

Love this lens. Great review. keep em coming. Never go anywhere without it. 45 -200, 14-42Kit, 9mm Olympus and ZS50 for those long shots. Having fund. I think I might officially be a Pansonic/Lumix Fanboy! :)

[@davidthorpe7732]

Thanks Anthony! What I've always liked about Panasonic is that they start fresh rather than having a tradition in cameras, so their stuff tends to be more original in concept than Olympus. But that's personal, of course and where we are lucky is to have two great manufacturers competing while adhering to one standard. We photographers all benefit from that whichever marque we prefer.

[@rjkral]

Anthony Magliocco those ZS cameras are KILLER I never leave home without my zs30 (Which I much prefer over the newer ones!)

[@Matador120564]

thanks Dave. I love your reviews

[@DavidThorpeMFT]

+Ketsal Thankk you!

[@armaniusmaximus]

Another excellent video review! Thank you!

[@DavidThorpeMFT]

+armaniusmaximus Thanks very much!

[@sionhannuna5418]

Great review. I have the 25mm 1.8 Olympus. Great lens, but rarely use it. It's a bit "in between for me". For portraits I use the 75mm 1.8, which is my favourite lens of all time on any system and for general use the Panny 15mm.

[@DavidThorpeMFT]

+Sion Hannuna As I say in the video, it;'s not my favourite focal length. I prefer 17mm. The 15mm is similar in character to 17mm, not so wide as to give everything a wide angle 'look' so is a decent all rounder.

[@Eivissaa]

Thanks for your excellent video's to start with. I have a few questions for you. You prefer 17mm. But is there a affordable 17mm prime on the market? There is the 19mm Sigma, but probably to wide for your personal taste? Any chance that you give this lens "a look on"? I myself doubt between the Panny 25mm F1.7 and the Sigma 19mm F2.8. The Panny looks more attractive though because it is faster. Maybe you could give some advice?

[@DavidThorpeMFT]

There's the Olympus 17mm f/2.8, which, stopped down to f/4 is a sharp as any other. Corners are less good at f/2.8 but that doesn't matter usually for a street lens. Unless you desperately want the extra angle, the Panasonic 25mm is a really good buy. I have always had a 17mm or equivalent and so have formed a habit but many people prefer 25mm. The Sigma is a great lens, all the Sigmas for Micro Four Thirds are but the Panasonic 25mm would be my overall choice. It's as sharp as the best lenses you can buy, can give decent out of focus backgrounds and focus fast.

[@Eivissaa]

+David Thorpe Thanks for your response.

[@rajgopal18]

Great Video David ....I bought this lens during Super sape for $99.... Can never complain :)

[@DavidThorpeMFT]

+B Rajagopal For that price it is worth buying for even the most occasional use.

[@DVaderlar]

I think I will be buying this lens to complement my em10 and 14-42 lens. Up until now I have been shooting at dark places with my nikon 35mm 1.8 and an adaptor, missed enough shots due to manual focus, plus too tight focal length on an mft camera. However oly lenses are kinda expensive and cannot afford them. I think this panny is perfect for me atm. Thank you for another nice, informative review.

[@DavidThorpeMFT]

Thanks Vassilis! If I were in the market for a 25mm, this is the one I'd buy. You can pay more but you don't gain much - in practical terms hardly anything.

[@DVaderlar]

I was wandering if you would suggest another lens, maybe a bit more wide, at this price range. Unfortunately I do not have much to spare to go for the oly 17mm.

[@DavidThorpeMFT]

No, afraid not. It's a mark of what a bargain this lens is that it has no competition within £100. There are the Samyangs but they are £100 more and manual operation which is a bit of a waste of the Micro four Thirds technology. The only other real bargain is the Olympus 45mm f/1.8 but that's no good for what you want. So no, nothing comparable at this focal length, let alone wider.

[@thecriticalriposte]

Good video. I appreciate the reasoning!

[@JeevesTCW]

Thank you David really enjoyed watching so many of your videos as they far more enjoyable than traditional reviews with a great sense of humour, giving a different perspective on what you really need and well illustrated with sample images. I am thinking of buying this lens but I have an Oly OMD EM5 II body and some reviewers say the focusing, especially continuous focusing on video, is slower on the Oly bodies. Do you agree? (NB Dont norm shoot video but it would be nice to try & it would also help to make a lens with this focal length a little more versatile for everyday shooting rather than just low light & shallow DOF use)

[@DavidThorpeMFT]

Thanks! I've never noticed any difference in performance between Olympus and Panasonic lenses on any give camera body. Panasonic bodies used to be a bit quicker on S-AF and in low light but newer Olympus bodies like the E-M1 II are as fast now. And for C-AF on moving subjects probably quicker. In everyday shooting, though, the light, the circumstances and settings will make far more difference than any technical prowess of the cameras. The E-M5 II focuses well but its C-AF performance is not in the vanguard. Nonetheless, the 25mm will focus as fast on this as will any other 25mm, focusing speed being mainly a matter for the camera body. With video, focusing needs to be slower , otherwise it looks awful so it is deliberately restricted. 25mm is a good focal length for video since it doesn't draw attention to itself by any obvious perspective effect, just looks natural.

[@JeevesTCW]

@@DavidThorpeMFT thank you again David that's great to know. I am buying this lens 2nd hand rather than the 1.4 version, partly because I am concerned how versatile this focal length will be. The 17mm would be more versatile but I have that length covered twice already with my slow zooms so its a compromise decision in the end to fullfill a general purpose & low light lens requirement.

[@FrancisRouberty]

Another great review David ! I started 24x36 with a manual Praktica and his Carl Zeiss 50 mm F1.8. I was about 15 y old and my friends were Kodak films and the needle in the viewfinder. When I went back my print some of them had a stamp. "Not factured" or "free of charge". It was not a bad thing for my money. But it was printed and I could see what was wrong. It came mostly from me of course. But this time is the past. Who or what is your photographic friend now ? Hope to see another great video on your channel.

[@DavidThorpeMFT]

I remember the early Practikas had a manual return mirror. Rather than prints I suppose we have the 100% viewing now though a print is more forgiving. Looks a lot nice, too, free or not!

[@lfcmarkeb7124]

I started with a canon AE1 program , lovely little camera, had it with the standard 50mm , people are spoilt these days, auto everything lol

[@AlbertMaruggi]

love your perspective, both in revenues and your shooting. The Leica 1.4 produces a beautiful image, but you pose the question in this video nicely, do you need it? You answer that question by saying if purchase is for a low light go to lens vs every day lens. Yes that's what I need low light alternative, I can't get shots with my panasonic 14-45, just can't because as you know GH4 is average at best in low light with noise introduced at 1600, certainly at 3200 ISO. So this looks like best option.

[@DavidThorpeMFT]

Hi Albert - yes, I'm always aware that other people see things differently from me, so I try to put the case for both. We're in a happy position with Micro Four Thirds lenses in that there aren't any bad ones so the choice is that balance between spec and price.

[@fabioarodrigues]

One curious thing I found about this lens is that the aperture blades are closed when the lens is turned off. All other five MFT lenses I have keep the aperture blades opened when turned off. Maybe that's why the lens takes a couple of seconds to be ready to shoot as soon as the camera is on. Not really a problem in everyday use. Just a curiosity really.

[@DavidThorpeMFT]

+Fabio Alves Rodrigues That's interesting Fabio. I'll see if any of my other lenses do that.

[@fabioarodrigues]

Let me know if you have any other lens in your collection that do the same. As I mentioned I have just 5 other lenses: - Oly 12-50mm, - Oly 14-42mm R II, - Oly 45mm f1.8, - Oly 75-300mm, - Pana 20mm f1.7. None of these have the aperture closed when turned off.

[@DavidThorpeMFT]

+Fabio Alves Rodrigues I've just tried the 60mm macro Olympus, 40-150mm f/2.8 and 14-140mm Panasonic. All open when turned off. How strange.

[@fabioarodrigues]

Thanks David Thorpe​. They clearly had some engineering reason to do it that way. But it is definitely something strange, when almost all other lenses behave the opposite way.

[@SebbySenpai]

Great stuff as always, David! Did you get a new microphone? You sound better than usual!

[@DavidThorpeMFT]

+Sir Sebastian I tried to upgrade the sound - it's really difficult but I was helped by Karol Walkowski who contacted me and offered to help. He's a professional with voiceovers and with his advice and post processing of my efforts it has really looked up.

[@Mrcherrardcohen]

Great review Dave

[@DavidThorpeMFT]

Thanks for that Cherrard.

[@thercbat]

Thanks for this review!

[@DavidThorpeMFT]

You are welcome!

[@drillthrallable]

Great, as usual, but you do know that many of us our anxiously waiting for your take on the GX80/85/GX7 MarkII. We need your unique review. Dig into that retirement account and buy one already...; )

[@DavidThorpeMFT]

I've got one already! Putting a review together now! I'll try to get it finished this week. I'm panicking now! :-)

[@Sambitcoinadvertiser]

lol

[@thesavagearmy]

Not sure if I can explain the problem I'm having with this lens but I hope you can help me. When taking pictures I have such a small area of focus that for example taking a picture of my dog has her nose being super sharb but not rest of her face. Is there a setting where I can "open" up the area of focus? Thank you in advance - Richard Love

[@DavidThorpeMFT]

Hi Richard - the only remedy is to stop the lens down. If you are close to the dog's face head on, you'd need maybe f/8 to get reasonable depth of field. The problem with dogs is that they have long faces (mostly!) with the nose right on the end so the nose is in a completely different plane from the eyes. With humans, the nose is in a similar plane to the eyes and even in close up from the front f/2.8 would be just about OK. Of course, you could solve the problem otherwise by getting rid of the old dog and getting a pug or a chihuahua but please don't tell her I said that :-)

[@FranciscoShibata]

Sigma 4/3. f 1.4 ??

[@DavidThorpeMFT]

Beautiful lens but 30mm is a bit awkward on Micro Four Thirds, a tad too long for many. Twice the price, too, of course.

[@PhotoBob]

This lens is selling for $149 in the US. I was definitely going to buy the Oly version simply bc I own the 12-40pro, 45 1.8, and just ordered the 17. but at $150 I don't think I can turn that down. your review pushed me over the edge!

[@DavidThorpeMFT]

It's a big, big saving over the Olympus at that price with no downside other than the Olympus is a little prettier to some eyes.

[@wahabdilawar]

Right now the lens costs 148 USD at both adorama and B&H. That's very hard to resist. Add to that...your review and recommendation and its impossible NOT to order it. These stores must pay you...lol. Would you recommend it for my Olympus O-MD EM-10 II? Thank you very much for your time and effort.

[@DavidThorpeMFT]

You are very welcome, Wahab. There aren't many bargains as such from the two main Micro Four Thirds makers but this and Olympus 45mm f/1.8 are real bargains. The lens will give excellent results with your Olympus body, in practise little different from any of the higher priced items.

[@jasonmcgrody9472]

Nice review. Thank you. I purchased the 20/1.7 back when it was about the only prime out there. I like the 25/1.7 more than the 20 but the 20 is certainly great as it's a pancake. I found the 1/7 (both the 20 and 25) to be useful in the conditions you mentioned - as a companion to a kit or telephoto zoom. The 25 now stays attached to my camera when I'm at home (i.e. low light) and want to take a picture of friends or pets. Just grab and go.

[@DavidThorpeMFT]

Yes, a good all round general purpose fast and sharp lens. It may not always be the right lens for a shot but it won't often be the wrong one.

[@fomitty7076]

What a nice chap. Oh, and a good, sorry, very good review. Ta.

[@davidthorpe7732]

☺️

[@bjnslc]

It would have really been a bargain if Panasonic honored the February deal pricing at $99 that B+H offered. B+H couldn't fulfill my order and months later they "discontinued" this lens and canceled it. They explained that Panasonic wouldn't do its part to make the discount price viable for backorders like mine. I got one for $200 via an ebay retailer. I don't consider the $225-ish current retail to be a bargain, but it's reasonable. I have the pancake 20mm lens and hate its slow and noisy autofocus. The 25mm is quick and quiet, with DFD capability. I do find it a bit bulky, especially with the hood in place.

[@DavidThorpeMFT]

+BJ Nicholls It's a bargain when compared to the prices of other 25mm lenses on the market and especially so for such a good lens. It isn't small vis a vis some other MFT lenses with the hood on, true but it is light at least. I find the hood necessary to keep the sun off the front glass so would use it all the time.

[@bjnslc]

+David Thorpe, I compare to "normal" lenses of similar speed for other mounts and formats. By that measure, the 25mm 1.7 is currently about the same price as a 50mm 1.8 AFS Nikkor. You get a lot of bang for the buck with either lens, but it's expected that there be an inexpensive 1.8-ish lens for any mount. Panasonic is finally filling that gap in the MFT options.

[@castielvargastv7931]

I like primes on mft because they are better than the zooms. I own leica 15mm, this 25 lense and the 42mm 1.7 but i usually use the 15 mm most of the time. 25mm is too tight for me and i rarely use the 42mm. If i dont use primes i take the olympus pro 2.8 because it has really good quality and is 12-40 which is very versatile. Sometimes i use the 14-140 because of the incredible range but it is not as sharp as the olympus and it renders the colors somehow more yellow less natural than the olympus. If i would buy new lenses i would go for the olympus 1.2 primes. To me it seems the pro lenses from olympus are the best you can get for mft and they are such a pleasure to use.

[@DavidThorpeMFT]

The f/1.2 primes from Olympus real real beauties. Not cheap but you are getting the best.

[@BeautifulNorfolk]

Nice review, and yes, it's a great lens - lovely quality and bargain price :-)

[@DavidThorpeMFT]

+Beautiful Norfolk Thanks!

[@mayanalien]

What a great review. Thank you b

[@DavidThorpeMFT]

+Diego Salvatierra Thanks Diego - much appreciated.

[@jantestowy123]

great review you got me convinced :)

[@davidthorpe7732]

Glad you liked it!

[@lakshaypawar11]

your talking style issoo soothing i llove it and amazing review too

[@DavidThorpeMFT]

Thank you, Lakshay!

[@soundknight]

hi David I finally got the gx8 and I've been having a ball with it. I am thinking of getting weather sealed lenses in future and I was wondering what you think of the Panasonic Leica DG SUMMILUX 25mm Four Thirds lens with a 4/3 to m4/3 adapter? I have this f1.7 and it is great but I always want more. PS thanks for the advice about tying the kids down with sand bags when taking shots in low light, it's worked a treat ;)

[@OzzieTech]

great video an agree with what you said. i have this lens too and it is indeed a bargin

[@DavidThorpeMFT]

+OzzieTech Thanks Ozzie, yes a real bargain.

[@game2572]

That 25mm is normal eye view without distortion all cameras back in the day came with a 50mm to get started

[@DavidThorpeMFT]

Yes, and relatively easy to design and build, nothing extreme, so that a wide aperture can be supplied on am inexpensive lens. Mind you, there are some very _expensive_ 25mm coming out now.

[@rjkral]

Lovely review as always. At current used prices in the US it’s a no brainer for this focal length. But I’m also wanting a wider angle low light lens as 50mm equiv is a bit too close for most of my usual shots. Any recommendations? (I have a G85)

[@DavidThorpeMFT]

Thanks, Robert. I'd have thought the Panasonic 15mm f/1.7 would be a good match. It's wide-angle but not so that shots on it look wide-angle. I like, and always have the 17mm f/1.8 Olympus but it may not be quite wide enough. There's the Sigma 16mm f/1.4 but it is much bigger than the other two. Overall, the 15mm sounds like the best for you.

[@miriammoriarty8588]

Very helpful thanks.

[@DavidThorpeMFT]

Glad it was helpful, Miriam!

[@Leptospirosi]

Actually the Olympus 25 mm is at least "as good" as the Panaleica 1.4: it just depends the use you make of it. Panaleica is slightly sharper in the centre, and get slightly more shallowness of field wide open being bout half a stop faster, but is not very sharp at F1.4 and really falls apart to the corners. It also suffers horribly of chromatic aberration. Olympus got a wonderful lens, which is crisp to the corner from F2.0 on and really is impervious to any kind of flare and loss of contrast end really minimizes chromatic aberration. In the end, Panaleica is the lens for close up portraits, while Olympus is the way to go if you like landscapes and in bright light photography. Now what I really like to see is how well the cheap Panasonic 25mm performs compared to the other 2 and especially the Olympus 25mm which costs about twice as much

[@DavidThorpeMFT]

I find all of them have IQ that exceeds my general requirements and for landscapes or critical work with any of them I'd want to go to f/2.8 or f.4. But the cheapness of the Panasonic f/17 does make it very attractive.

[@GavinAtkin]

Maybe it's down to my particular copies - but I have both the Olympus 25mm f1.8 and the Panasonic 25mm f1.7, and I've found the Olympus is definitely the better lens.

[@Tech4YourNeeds]

I have the same lense. My problem is that I'm new to high end cameras. Panasonic Lumix G7 is the camera I own.

[@DavidThorpeMFT]

+Luis Robles The G7 and this lens will make a good pairing, fast accurate focusing and the DfD as well.

[@Tech4YourNeeds]

David Thorpe I'm new to high end cameras this is my first one.

[@DavidThorpeMFT]

+Luis Robles You made a good choice.

[@Tech4YourNeeds]

David Thorpe Still need lots to learn.

[@DavidThorpeMFT]

+Luis Robles That applies top all of us, Luis. It's part of the fun of photography, I guess.

[@jimstokoe6273]

David Excellent, well informed and well presented reviews. I'm wondering if you have come across any problems with Panasonic lenses focussing on Olympus cameras? I bought the 12-60 3.5 and found that in low light/;low contrast it didn't perform as well as the kit 14-42 Olympus, struggling to focus on the EM10 in circumstance where I think the 14-42 has coped in the past. I've found a work round on two since then but I'm a bit reluctant to acquire either the 25 1.7 or the 14-140 just in case it is a more widespread problem that just one lens.

[@DavidThorpeMFT]

Thanks, Jim! I've never found any material difference between focus speeds with either lens on either body. Panasonic AFS is generally better than Olympus, quicker and works to lower light levels. That applies with both makes of lens. The E-M1 Mark II caught up, though. Focusing is a function of the body rather than the lens. Some lenses are faster than others because of different motors or the movement of different elements but that applies to both bodies.

[@godofhope]

You should try the first 14-42 this is what is called slow ;)

[@rafsnchz]

I just love your reviews! BTW just wanted to ask, what kind of camera strap is it that uses those "red little circles" that you have on your camera?

[@DavidThorpeMFT]

Thanks Rafaels! They are fittings for a strap, from Peak Design - amzn.to/2MxkwbZ - you can use them with your own strap or Peak design ones but they enable you to swap a strap from one camera to another in a jiffy. I sometimes use a wrist strap, sometimes a neck strap on several different cameras so with these fittings I can just chop and change in an instant.

[@networkunplugged]

great, useful review!

[@DavidThorpeMFT]

Glad to hear that - thanks!

[@codyrobinson22]

@David are you still reviewing the GX85??? I wanna see if it tops the EM1, Pen-F, & GX8. Thanks again for your Superb reviews 😉

[@DavidThorpeMFT]

Hi Cody - I'm just waiting for Karol to do the audio fixes and I'll post it in the next couple of days. I'm really impressed with it.

[@danieltan9999]

Hi there David! Great review. I'm trying to decide between this lens and the Panasonic 42.5mm f1.7 as my first prime. They are both the same price where I'm from. I have the 12 - 60mm f3.6 kit zoom from Panasonic on my G85, and I do plan on getting a wider angle prime down the road. Appreciate your input! Thanks!

[@DavidThorpeMFT]

Hi Daniel! I think I'd get the 42.5mm. It's a lot faster than the zoom at its focal length and it gives you the opportunity for shallower depth of field where you might want it. The 25mm is very much a general purpose lens but so is the zoom. The 42.5mm is a little more specialized and particularly good for portraits and (a personal preference) landscapes. A good case could be made foe the 25mm too but I think the 42.5mm pips it. And if you are thinking of a wider prime at some point, the 15mm Panasonic and 17mm Olympus, say, the 42.5mm is a much more sensibly placed pairing.

[@danieltan9999]

@@DavidThorpeMFT Hi David, thanks for the reply! Great advice! The 15mm Pana or 17mm Olymlus were exactly the wider primes I was looking at! Do you have any advice on which edges the other? Thanks!

[@DavidThorpeMFT]

@@danieltan9999 They are as good as one another. I prefer the 17mm focal length simply because I find it so versatile and I've always had a lens of equivalent angle of view since I've used cameras. A good case could be made for the 15mm too! Given that you would have the 42.5, I'd probably opt for the 15mm Panasonic. But really, try setting your zoom to 15 or 17mm for a bit and see which you find most convenient. There's no bad choice, that's for sure.

[@danieltan9999]

@@DavidThorpeMFT Great to hear that! The 17mm is quite a bit cheaper where I'm from and easier to nab second-hand. Will definitely test both focal lengths to see if if the 2mm on the wider end is significantly different! It's amazing to have so many options in this system. Hope that it continues to get support to grow! Cheers!

[@rickkoloian4179]

David great video as always & a question: have you noticed the Focus Shift from f2-f4 which reviews have noted in using other than using Constant Preview in Mode? Thanks

[@DavidThorpeMFT]

Thanks, Rick. No, I haven't come across the problem. I looked for it but didn't find it at all. It must be on some copies which is a bit worrying.

[@rickkoloian4179]

@@DavidThorpeMFT interesting Matt Sulanto--whose videos I watch along with yours--provided fairly significant affirmation of the risk so I instead went with Sigma 30mm f1.4, which I believe you also rated very highly. Thanks,

[@DavidThorpeMFT]

@@rickkoloian4179 I rate all the Sigmas. Sometimes the focal lengths are a bit a bit unusual because they are primarily designed for APS-C but 25 or 30mm is a matter of choice rather than better or worse. I've yet to come across a Sigma that was less than biting sharp, in no way inferior to Panasonic's own mechanically or optically.

[@thomasgregory4871]

I really enjoyed this and your other M4/3 videos. I have a question about something you said around the 3:55 mark. You said that the kit zooms would be ~f-5 at 25mm and then continued on to say that the kits are therefore ~3 stops faster. I thought lower f-stop numbers were faster? In other words, I would have thought that a lens at f-1.7 would be considered faster than a lens at f-5. I'm new to the technical side of photography, so maybe I just misunderstood what you were saying.

[@DavidThorpeMFT]

It is all a bit ambiguous. The smaller/ lower the f number, the faster the lens. So, f/5 being bigger/ higher than f/1.7, the latter is the faster. Simply on the basis that 5 is more than 1.7.

[@rjkral]

Thomas Gregory same here, I had to listen a few times. Word for word I think David’s point is the opposite of what he says unless you hear a mental COMMA between the statements. The faster lens is the 1.7 and he means to say that, but word for word as we hear it it comes across as potentially the other way.

[@SteveAtwal]

Thanks David. Great video and voice. Just one thing: the volume on this video seems low (even at full volume on an iPad). Also, any idea how to use the aperture on this lens when connected to an Olympus E-M5 Mark II? On my lens, the only ring that seems to turn is the focus ring :-). Cheers

[@DavidThorpeMFT]

I don't know what to say about the volume, Steve. It is normal on all my devices and friends phones and tabs that I've tried it on and about the same as the ads that precede it. Sound is really difficult, much more so than video, I find. On your Olympus, turn the front or rear control dial (which one depending on your camera setting. That'll apply to all nearly all Micro Four Thirds lenses, actually.

[@SteveAtwal]

Thanks David. I guess I’m more used to the manual lenses...I thought there might be a ring for aperture too :-) Cheers

[@ofmetalphilosophy4837]

Hi Can we get a review for the sigma 35mm 1.4 please?

[@biscuitsalive]

Thanks David. Can I ask your recommended ultra wide angle for m43? Is there a good 7mm (or similar ) that's fast, with good AF and with minimal fish eye? (For use on gh4)

[@DavidThorpeMFT]

+biscuitsalive The only fast one is the Olympus 7-14mm f/2.8. I use the Panasonic f/4 7-14mm which is more compact. Both focus well and have excellent IQ. Neither have any serious distortion. Olympus do a 9-18mm as well but while wide, it's a long way off the 7mm.

[@IanKnight40]

Another nice review david. I must agree with you regarding this lens, it is a smashing piece of kit and cheap to boot!. I use this on the Oly OMD EM10 camera it complements the supplied 14-42nn EZ Pancake Kit lens supplied with the camera......is there any mileage in a review of that lens?, it does seem to be a very good quality lens especially as it is very compact. Cheers Ian.

[@DavidThorpeMFT]

+Ian Knight Thanks Ian - I'll see if I can get hold of a 14-42 but Olympus are no help, unfortunately.

[@IanKnight40]

David Thorpe That's a shame about Olympus and their lack of help. Keep me posted please. I would be very interested to hear your views on the quality of it. I'm planning on using the lens with my OMD 10 as a travel lens when I go to Rome on my honeymoon in July. If you haven't been successful in locating one for review I would be willing to let you borrow my lens after I get back from Rome if that would help . Cheers Ian.

[@DavidThorpeMFT]

+Ian Knight I'll keep you posted, Ian. I'm in France until the end of July.

[@IanKnight40]

Cheers David.

[@fabioarodrigues]

+Ian Knight I don't have the Oly 14-42mm EZ but I wish I had. I have the older 14-42mm R II, which is a decent kit lens. But, even though it is light, on my Pen E-PM2 it is quite large, and the 14-42mm EZ you have would make it the perfect portable camera. I would suggest having a look at Robin Wong's review of that lens (robinwong.blogspot.com.au/2016/05/maximizing-use-of-kit-lens-olympus.html) to see what this little gem is capable of. Cheers!

[@lindamcmullin785]

David, Hi, Hope you're doing well! Watched the video, it's great, and thank you! My question is: I have the Pany 12-35mm f/2.8 lens but wondering if you think there's enough improvement in bokeh and light capabilities to warrant purchasing this lens. Do you think the newer technology of the continuous AF of this lens would be a noticeable improvement over my 12-35mm older technology? I mainly use the 4k photo mode for fast moving objects - birds, grandchildren, pets. Just wondering! I guess we're never completely satisfied with what we've got. LOL.

[@DavidThorpeMFT]

I'm doing great, thanks Linda. Sounds like you are too! Your zoom is just as good as this lens for focusing and stabilized for low light so the only reason to buy this would be extra sharpness or the extra speed. Sharpness, it may be better in theory but in practice the zoom is just as good. That just leaves the extra aperture which reduces your depth of field. For fast moving subjects, you need a bit of depth for focusing leeway, so no I don't see any real advantage for what you do. It's be a bit nicer for portraits, say, but you'd be better off with a high speed 45mm or so for that. I'd love t0 help you spend some money but this time I can't :-) Is that your moggie, by the way? Handsome creature.

[@lindamcmullin785]

Thanks, David, for the thorough answer, which clarifies my thinking... That's kind of what I thought because the 12-35mm is wonderful and I love using it. And I actually do have the 42.5 f/1.7 for portraits which is also great~ lightweight, quick AF. Guess I'm pretty much set. It really is about the photographer and not necessarily the latest lens that emerges on the market. The picture of my cat (yes, he's mine), was taken with a Canon T5i and 40mm pancake lens. Sold most of the Canon gear when I discovered the lightweight and super ergonomically wonderful Pany G7! Thanks again for the insight and knowledge. You help a lot of people. :-)

[@DavidThorpeMFT]

Thanks Linda. By the way, I have a rather annoyed email from your cat who tells me that he is not your cat, you are his human.

[@lindamcmullin785]

LOL.... He and his mom certainly have me trained! :-D

[@bennytroung]

Thanks for your review. How much is TOO much to spend on this lens?

[@DavidThorpeMFT]

Thanks Benny. I've not seen it at a price that is too much, including its RRP.

[@bennytroung]

Thanks. I got it for $278 after taxes. Wish I could have gotten it when it was only $99.

[@DavidThorpeMFT]

What a shame - big price jump!

[@gamestv4875]

Nice review.Is this lens good for selfie shots? I would like to use it for vlogging purposes but I am not sure how wide of an angle this lens has.Any thoughts ?

[@DavidThorpeMFT]

Thanks! At arms length it'll give you a close up head shot. 14mm is better for most arms length selfies, where you'd want to include some background. If, for your vlogging, you will mount the camera on a tripod and place it where you want, then the 25mm would be ideal.

[@jiminy2731]

Anyone else using this on the Oly system? I'm thinking of buying it for street/festival photography. I was hoping to get the 12-40mm f2.8 but Olympus raised the price of it :(

[@DavidThorpeMFT]

It'll work the same on Olympus as Panasonic. Older Olympus cameras since 2013, I believe) didn't eliminate the purple fringing on Panasonic lenses but all the ones since do.

[@godofhope]

What about the focus shift another KZbinr found on this lens? On the comparison with the 12-40 the woman looks much sharper with the pro lens.

[@DavidThorpeMFT]

I have just tried to reproduce the focus shift but I can't. It's a bit sharper at f/4 as it would be but that's it. The 12-40 is probably the best standard zoom in Micro Four Thirds but that's at f/2.8. Remember the 25mm is at f/1.7 and stopped down to f/2.8 is at least as sharp as the zoom. Having said that, the 12-40 Olympus is a remarkably sharp zoom and there'd be no real point in using a prime to improve on it. Rather, with the prime, it's the extra speed and the discipline imposed by having to move around to frame that makes the difference.

[@godofhope]

David Thorpe thank you for replying :)

[@Yoko.Kurama]

This is only $150. Is there a big difference between the 25mm 1.4 $600 lens?

[@DavidThorpeMFT]

For day to day work at normally used image sizes, no. The more critical the work, the more the benefit of the more expensive lens but you would need to look closely. If a 25mm is a lens you use all the time, the f/1.4 is worth the money. For sometimes use when you want a bit more speed or less depth of field than a zoom, the $150 lens will be just fine.

[@Yoko.Kurama]

@@DavidThorpeMFT ok thanks. I'll go with the 1.7.

[@PhilippeOrlando]

So basically this 25mm is better than the 14-42 kit lens coming standard with the G7 because of the 1.7 aperture? I'm also wondering for people who do want a true wide angle if the use of a speedbooster and a full frame wide angle ( canon or Nikkor) is not actually better?

[@DavidThorpeMFT]

+Philippe Orlando Not only because of the wide aperture but because it gives all the sharpness you need. Zooms can be very sharp but that is at f/2.8 or 3.5. There's no zoom sharper than this lens nor one as fast so this lens performs a unique function. Any 25mm prime would do the same thing but this none is cheaper than the rest. The Metabones is always an interesting option but you do finish up with a much bigger lens without automatic functions. That will be a step too far for most people.

[@PhilippeOrlando]

+David Thorpe Yes, but that 25mm is actually a 50 mm on my G7, so what do you suggest for a real wide angle?

[@DavidThorpeMFT]

+Philippe Orlando The 12mm f/2 Olympus is nice. I like the 17mm f/1.8 but it's not that wide. The 15mm Panasonic is excellent. There are plenty of wide zooms too. Micro Four Thirds is excellent for lens choices.

[@PhilippeOrlando]

+David Thorpe Thanks! I think I'll save for the 12mm

[@erbeypineda4127]

Would this lens work for a Panasonic Lumix GF1? All ive seen so far are the Gx and Gm but i havent seen anyone try it with the Gf1.

[@DavidThorpeMFT]

It would be a great lens for the GF1., I don't see any problem at all.

[@triplestrafe]

OMG a video! Yey! [:

[@DavidThorpeMFT]

+3plestrafe :-)

[@StevePotgieter]

Nicely done Sir. Subed.

[@davidthorpe7732]

Thanks Steve.

[@breadyegg]

for sharpness & contrast does the Oly 12-40mm at 25mm match this? Cheers

[@DavidThorpeMFT]

They are pretty similar at 25mm and f/2.8 onwards. I doubt you'd notice any difference. That is remarkable for a zoom by any standards. The Panasonic maintains its performance well, sharpness changing little all the way from f/2.8 to f/1/7. That's the prime advantage!

[@breadyegg]

thanks for the answer