Olympus M.Zuiko Digital 17mm 1:2.8 Pancake

Micro Four Thirds (MFT/M43)

Review

The Olympus M.Zuiko Digital 17mm f/2.8 Pancake lens is a compact marvel designed for the Micro Four Thirds system. With its small footprint and lightweight design, this lens makes an ideal companion for street photography, travel, and everyday shooting. It's one of those lenses that you can easily slip into your pocket, making it a favorite among minimalists and those looking to keep their gear uncomplicated.

Design and Build Quality

The build quality of the 17mm f/2.8 Pancake is excellent. Constructed from high-quality materials, it feels solid in your hands despite its diminutive size. The lens features a sleek, unassuming design that pairs beautifully with Olympus and Panasonic bodies. The metal mount adds to the durability, ensuring it can withstand the rigors of day-to-day use. Additionally, the focusing mechanism is smooth, providing an enjoyable manual focus experience when shooting.

Optical Performance

Optically, the lens performs admirably for its size and price. It offers a decent sharpness from the center to the edges, particularly when stopped down to f/5.6 or f/8, which is where it shines. The color rendition is faithful, and contrast is good, although some might notice slight softness at wide apertures. Flare resistance is also commendable, even in backlit situations, making it a versatile option for various lighting conditions.

However, one of the compromises with this lens is its performance in low light. With a maximum aperture of f/2.8, it may struggle a bit compared to faster options. This is particularly true for action shots or low-light environments where shallow depth of field is essential. Additionally, while the lens handles distortion reasonably well, some barrel distortion may be visible in architectural scenes.

Usability

As a pancake lens, it’s inherently designed for casual shooting. The 17mm focal length (equivalent to 34mm in full-frame terms) is incredibly versatile, making it suitable for both landscapes and street photography. It encourages a more contemplative style of shooting, nudging you to get closer to your subjects. Focus speeds are decent, although it's worth noting that the autofocus is not the fastest on the market, which might hinder action shots.

Pros and Cons

Pros

• Compact and lightweight design, perfect for everyday carry.
• Solid build quality with a durable metal mount.
• Good optical performance, especially at mid-range apertures.
• Provides a versatile 34mm equivalent focal length.

Cons

• Maximum aperture of f/2.8 may limit low-light performance.
• Autofocus speed may not be swift enough for fast-moving subjects.
• Slight softness at wide apertures and minimal distortion issues.

Verdict

In conclusion, the Olympus M.Zuiko Digital 17mm f/2.8 Pancake lens is an excellent choice for those seeking a lightweight, compact lens that doesn't compromise on image quality. It's particularly well-suited for street photographers and casual shooters who appreciate minimalism in their gear. While it may not excel in low-light situations or for fast-paced action, its overall performance and portability make it a worthy addition to any Micro Four Thirds kit. For anyone who values convenience and versatility, this lens is sure to impress.