Olympus M.Zuiko Digital ED 9-18mm F4.0-5.6

Micro Four Thirds (MFT/M43)

Review

The Olympus M.Zuiko Digital ED 9-18mm F4.0-5.6 lens is a versatile ultra-wide zoom lens designed specifically for Micro Four Thirds cameras. This lens offers an equivalent focal length of 18-36mm, making it excellent for wide-angle landscapes, architectural photography, and even vlogging. The compact and lightweight design is a major draw, catering to photographers who prioritize portability without sacrificing image quality.

In terms of optical performance, the lens features a commendable maximum aperture range of F4.0-5.6, which is reasonable considering its ultra-wide capabilities. The lens construction incorporates several special elements, including aspherical and ED (extra-low dispersion) glass, allowing for improved control over chromatic aberrations and distortion. Users will notice that this lens produces sharp images across the frame, even at wider apertures. Additionally, the lens has a close focusing distance of around 0.25m, enabling some creative close-up shots within the wide-angle range.

The build quality of the M.Zuiko ED 9-18mm is generally solid, though it leans towards the plasticky side, which might feel less premium compared to some higher-end options. However, it's worth mentioning that this lens is weather-sealed, making it suitable for outdoor shooting in various conditions. Its retractable design also aids in reducing the overall size when not in use, making it a great travel companion.

On the downside, the variable aperture may be a limitation for some users, particularly in low-light scenarios where a constant aperture lens could provide better performance. The lens exhibits some barrel distortion at the wider end, which is not uncommon for ultra-wide tools, though it can generally be corrected in post-processing.

Pros and Cons

Pros

• Compact and lightweight design, ideal for travel.
• Excellent optical performance with sharpness across the frame.
• Close focusing distance allows for creative close-ups.
• Weather-sealed construction for outdoor shooting.

Cons

• Variable aperture may hinder low-light performance.
• Some barrel distortion at the wide end, requiring correction.

Verdict

The Olympus M.Zuiko Digital ED 9-18mm F4.0-5.6 is a great addition to any Micro Four Thirds photographer's kit, especially for those who appreciate ultra-wide perspectives. While it has some limitations in low light and exhibits minor distortion, the overall image quality, portability, and weather sealing make it a solid choice for landscape, architecture, and travel photography. If you're looking for an ultra-wide lens to broaden your creative horizons, this lens will serve you well.