Olympus M.Zuiko Digital ED 14-42mm F3.5-5.6 EZ

Micro Four Thirds (MFT/M43)

Review

The Olympus M.Zuiko Digital ED 14-42mm F3.5-5.6 EZ is a versatile and compact zoom lens designed specifically for the Micro Four Thirds system. With a focal length equivalent to 28-84mm in full-frame terms, this lens covers a useful range that is suitable for various photography styles, from landscapes to portraits. Its slim design makes it an excellent addition to the lightweight Micro Four Thirds camera bodies, offering both convenience and quality.

One of the standout features of this lens is its ultra-thin profile, which is particularly appealing for those who prioritize portability. The retractable mechanism helps keep the lens compact when not in use, allowing photographers to carry their gear comfortably without sacrificing space. Additionally, the lens is equipped with fast and quiet autofocus, making it an ideal choice for shooting video as well as still photography.

Image quality is generally solid throughout the zoom range, with decent sharpness and color accuracy, especially in the center of the frame. However, as with many zoom lenses, you may notice some softness and vignetting at the edges, particularly at wider apertures. This is a common trait in lenses of this class but is worth noting if edge-to-edge sharpness is a critical factor for your work.

The lens features a built-in image stabilization system which works in conjunction with the camera's stabilization features to help produce sharper images during handheld shooting, especially in low-light situations. Another positive point is the high-quality construction, which feels robust despite the lens’s lightweight design.

Pros and Cons

Pros

• Compact and lightweight design
• Versatile focal length range (28-84mm equivalent)
• Fast and quiet autofocus, suitable for video
• Built-in image stabilization
• Good color accuracy and decent sharpness in the center

Cons

• Softness and vignetting at the edges, especially at wide apertures
• Limited maximum aperture range (F3.5-5.6)

Verdict

The Olympus M.Zuiko Digital ED 14-42mm F3.5-5.6 EZ is an excellent choice for photographers seeking a versatile, lightweight solution for everyday shooting. While it does have some limitations in terms of edge sharpness and maximum aperture, its compact form factor, solid image stabilization, and reliable autofocus make it a practical option for both casual and enthusiast photographers alike. If you're looking for a lens that won't weigh you down while delivering solid performance, this lens is definitely worth considering.