Olympus M.Zuiko Digital ED 150-400mm F4.5 TC 1.25x IS PRO

Micro Four Thirds (MFT/M43)

Review

The Olympus M.Zuiko Digital ED 150-400mm F4.5 TC 1.25x IS PRO is a powerful lens designed for the Micro Four Thirds system, providing photographers with an incredibly versatile telephoto option. With a focal length equivalent to 300-800mm in full-frame terms, this lens caters to wildlife and sports photographers who need the reach without sacrificing image quality.

One of the standout features of this lens is its built-in 1.25x teleconverter, which effectively extends the focal length to 500-1000mm while maintaining the same maximum aperture of F4.5. This feature allows for exceptional flexibility in framing shots, especially in dynamic situations where wildlife or sports subjects may be on the move. The lens also incorporates a sophisticated image stabilization system that compensates for camera shake, making it easier to capture sharp images, even at longer focal lengths.

The optical performance is impressive, thanks to Olympus's advanced lens design. This lens features a robust set of ED (Extra-low Dispersion) elements to minimize chromatic aberration and achieve superb sharpness throughout the frame. The pleasing bokeh, generated by the nine-blade circular aperture, adds a soft and attractive background blur, enhancing the overall aesthetic of the images. Moreover, the weather-sealed construction ensures that the lens can withstand various environmental conditions, making it a reliable choice for outdoor photography.

However, despite its many strengths, the M.Zuiko 150-400mm is not without drawbacks. One potential downside is its size and weight; at approximately 2.2 kg (4.85 lbs), it can become cumbersome for extended handheld use, especially during long shooting sessions. The price point is also on the higher end, which may deter some budget-conscious photographers looking for telephoto options.

Pros and Cons

Pros

• Versatile focal length (150-400mm with built-in teleconverter).
• Excellent optical performance with ED elements for sharp, high-quality images.
• Built-in image stabilization for effective handshake compensation.
• Robust weather-sealed construction for durability in various conditions.
• Attractive bokeh quality from the nine-blade circular aperture.

Cons

• Relatively heavy and bulky, making it less ideal for handheld use.
• Higher price point may not suit all budgets.

Verdict

The Olympus M.Zuiko Digital ED 150-400mm F4.5 TC 1.25x IS PRO is an outstanding lens that excels in delivering extended reach and superior image quality, making it a great option for nature and sports photography. While its size and price may pose challenges, the lens's performance and versatility make it a worthy investment for serious photographers looking to expand their telephoto capabilities. Overall, if you are a Micro Four Thirds user in need of a powerful telephoto lens, this should certainly be on your radar.