Panasonic Lumix G Vario 35-100mm F4.0-5.6 ASPH Mega OIS

Micro Four Thirds (MFT/M43)

Review

The Panasonic Lumix G Vario 35-100mm F4.0-5.6 ASPH Mega OIS is a versatile zoom lens designed for Micro Four Thirds cameras. With its focal length range equivalent to 70-200mm in the full-frame world, this lens is particularly suited for portraiture, wildlife, and sports photography, providing a reasonable amount of reach without the bulk associated with longer lenses.

Build Quality and Design

The lens features a compact and lightweight design, making it a fantastic option for photographers who prioritize portability. Weighing in at just around 400 grams, this lens won't weigh you down during long shooting sessions. The construction feels sturdy, and the lens maintains a sleek profile that complements small Micro Four Thirds bodies well. A notable aspect of its design is the inclusion of a metal mount, which adds to its overall durability and enhances the connection to your camera body.

Optical Performance

In terms of optics, the Panasonic Lumix G Vario 35-100mm offers respectable image quality across its zoom range. The lens utilizes a series of aspherical and extra-low dispersion elements, which effectively minimize chromatic aberration and distortion. You’ll find that images produced by this lens exhibit good sharpness and contrast, especially when stopped down to around f/5.6. However, it does tend to struggle with edge sharpness at wider apertures, meaning you may need to adjust your shooting style or settings to maintain optimal quality.

The Mega OIS (Optical Image Stabilization) is another highlight of this lens, allowing for smoother handheld shooting in low-light conditions and when using longer focal lengths. The stabilization is generally effective, but it’s worth mentioning that it may not be as robust as some of the more advanced systems found in premium lenses.

Autofocus Performance

Autofocus performance is reliable, with a quick and relatively quiet autofocus motor that performs well in most lighting conditions. However, note that in low light or at the telephoto end of the zoom range, the autofocus system can sometimes struggle to lock onto subjects swiftly. This can be a drawback for action photography or shooting fast-moving subjects, but for portrait and still-life photography, it usually performs adequately.

Pros and Cons

Pros

• Lightweight and compact design, ideal for travel
• Good sharpness and contrast when stopped down
• Effective Mega OIS for stabilized images
• Generally reliable autofocus system

Cons

• Average edge sharpness at wider apertures
• Autofocus can struggle in low light or with fast-moving subjects
• Build quality is solid but may not feel as premium as high-end alternatives

Verdict

The Panasonic Lumix G Vario 35-100mm F4.0-5.6 ASPH Mega OIS is a well-rounded lens for Micro Four Thirds users seeking a versatile telephoto zoom option. While it may not possess the same level of optical performance or robust build quality as some higher-end lenses, its lightweight design, effective stabilization, and solid image quality make it an excellent choice for everyday use. Whether you are a hobbyist looking to expand your lens collection or a professional in need of a reliable and portable telephoto option, this lens is definitely worth considering.