Olympus M.Zuiko Digital ED 75-300mm 1:4.8-6.7

Micro Four Thirds (MFT/M43)

Review

The Olympus M.Zuiko Digital ED 75-300mm f/4.8-6.7 is a versatile telephoto zoom lens designed specifically for Micro Four Thirds (MFT) camera systems. This lens is particularly appealing to wildlife and sports photographers, as well as anyone looking to get closer to the action without breaking the bank. With a focal length equivalent to 150-600mm in 35mm terms, it allows for impressive reach, making it a wonderful tool for capturing distant subjects.

Weighing in at a mere 580 grams, this lens is remarkably lightweight for its zoom range. The compact size, combined with the micro four-thirds design, makes it a great travel companion, fitting easily into a bag without adding significant weight. The build quality is commendable, featuring a sturdy construction that feels durable enough for outdoor use. The lens includes weather sealing, which provides extra protection against dust and moisture, allowing you to shoot confidently in various conditions.

Optically, the lens delivers good performance across its focal range. While there are some minor optical aberrations, the overall image quality is sharp, particularly in the center of the frame, and it does a reasonable job of controlling chromatic aberration and distortion. The lens features a seven-blade circular aperture, which helps in rendering smooth out-of-focus areas, enhancing your subject's isolation.

Autofocus performance is generally quick and accurate, thanks to its MSC (Movie and Still Compatible) technology, making it suitable for both still photography and video recording. However, in low-light conditions, the autofocus may struggle a bit, particularly at the longer end, which is not uncommon for lenses with smaller maximum apertures like this one.

Pros and Cons

Pros

• Lightweight and compact design, making it easy to carry.
• Excellent reach with a 150-600mm equivalent focal length.
• Good build quality with weather sealing for outdoor use.
• Decent optical performance with good sharpness in the center.
• Quick and relatively silent autofocus performance.

Cons

• Relatively slow maximum aperture, which might limit performance in low light.
• Some optical aberrations may be noticeable, particularly at the extremes of the zoom range.
• A bit soft in the corners, especially at longer focal lengths.

Verdict

The Olympus M.Zuiko Digital ED 75-300mm f/4.8-6.7 is a good choice for anyone looking to venture into telephoto photography on a Micro Four Thirds system. It strikes a balance between portability, optical performance, and affordability, making it a compelling option for both amateurs and experienced photographers alike. While it does have its limitations, particularly in low light, the versatility it offers at a reasonable price point ensures that it will be a valuable addition to your lens collection. Overall, for those needing a long-range lens without the hefty price tag, the M.Zuiko 75-300mm is definitely worth considering.