Meyer-Optik Gorlitz Lydith 30mm f/3.5 II

Micro Four Thirds (MFT/M43)

Review

The Meyer-Optik Gorlitz Lydith 30mm f/3.5 II is a distinctive option in the Micro Four Thirds ecosystem, offering a blend of vintage charm and modern performance. This lens is notable for its compact size and retro aesthetic, making it an appealing choice for photographers who appreciate classic designs. The focal length of 30mm on a Micro Four Thirds sensor translates to an effective focal length of 60mm, which is ideal for a wide array of photography styles, from street photography to portraits.

Build Quality and Design

Upon handling the Lydith 30mm, you immediately notice its robust build quality. Constructed from metal with a vintage finish, this lens feels solid and durable. The focus ring is smooth and well-damped, providing a satisfying tactile experience as you adjust focus. However, the lens does lack weather-sealing, so it may not be the best choice for extreme conditions.

Image Quality

When it comes to image quality, the Lydith 30mm f/3.5 II delivers surprisingly sharp results, especially for its vintage design. Even wide open at f/3.5, images are quite sharp in the center, with corner performance improving as you stop down. The lens also produces a beautiful bokeh, making it suitable for isolating subjects against a blurred background. However, chromatic aberration can sometimes rear its ugly head, particularly in high-contrast scenes, requiring some correction in post-processing.

Versatility and Performance

In terms of versatility, this lens excels. It handles well in various settings and adapts nicely between different genres, from landscapes to close-up photography. Its minimum focus distance of just 0.32 meters allows for interesting macro-like shots. However, its relatively slow maximum aperture of f/3.5 might limit its usability in low-light conditions compared to faster alternatives.

Pros and Cons

Pros

• Solid build quality with a pleasing vintage design
• Sharp images, especially in the center
• Attractive bokeh that enhances subject isolation
• Versatile focal length suitable for various types of photography
• Excellent close-up capabilities with a short minimum focus distance

Cons

• Some presence of chromatic aberration in high-contrast scenes
• No weather-sealing, making it susceptible to the elements
• Relatively slow maximum aperture limits low-light performance

Verdict

The Meyer-Optik Gorlitz Lydith 30mm f/3.5 II is a compelling lens for Micro Four Thirds users who seek a unique fusion of vintage aesthetics and solid optical performance. While it has its limitations, particularly in low light and some optical aberrations, the lens's sharpness, build quality, and versatility make it a worthy addition to any photographer’s collection. Whether you’re a seasoned shooter looking to experiment with new styles or a beginner eager to explore, the Lydith 30mm is an option that shouldn't be overlooked.