Micro Four Thirds (MFT/M43) Lenses List

The Micro Four Thirds (MFT) system holds a special place in the world of photography. Launched in 2008 by Olympus and Panasonic, it was the first fully digital interchangeable lens system, designed from the ground up to embrace the possibilities of mirrorless technology. Over the years, the system has evolved into a versatile platform that balances compactness, affordability, and performance.

As someone who’s spent years shooting with Micro Four Thirds cameras and lenses, I can confidently say it’s one of the most innovative and enjoyable systems to use, especially for photographers who value portability without compromising creative control.

What Is Micro Four Thirds?

At its core, the Micro Four Thirds system is built around a 17.3 x 13mm sensor, with a 4:3 aspect ratio that gives the format its name. This sensor is smaller than APS-C or full-frame but larger than those found in compact cameras or smartphones. The result is a sweet spot: enough sensor size for excellent image quality and low-light performance, while enabling compact camera and lens designs.

The system’s flange distance of 19.25mm and mount diameter of 38mm make it highly adaptable, supporting a wide range of lenses, including legacy glass via adapters. Over time, Micro Four Thirds has amassed one of the most diverse and comprehensive lens lineups in the industry.

Why Micro Four Thirds Stands Out

For me, the biggest draw of the Micro Four Thirds system has always been its size. Cameras like the Olympus OM-D E-M5 series or Panasonic Lumix GX models fit comfortably in a small bag, and the lenses are often remarkably compact. This makes the system perfect for travel, street photography, and even wildlife, where carrying heavy gear can become a burden.

Another standout feature is the exceptional in-body image stabilization (IBIS) found in many MFT cameras, particularly from Olympus. Paired with the smaller sensor, the stabilization systems in cameras like the OM-D E-M1 Mark III are so effective that handheld long exposures become a reality. As someone who enjoys shooting handheld in challenging conditions, this has been a game-changer.

Lens Ecosystem: Compact, Versatile, and Affordable

One of the strongest aspects of the Micro Four Thirds system is its lens lineup. With contributions from multiple manufacturers, including Olympus (now OM System), Panasonic, and third-party brands like Sigma, Tamron, and Laowa, there’s a lens for almost every photographic need. Some of my personal favorites include:

• Olympus M.Zuiko 12-40mm f/2.8 PRO: A fast and versatile zoom lens with excellent sharpness and weather sealing. This is a workhorse for everything from landscapes to events.
• Panasonic Leica DG 25mm f/1.4: A compact prime with beautiful rendering and a classic 50mm-equivalent field of view. Perfect for portraits and low-light photography.
• Olympus M.Zuiko 300mm f/4 IS PRO: A compact telephoto lens with impressive sharpness and built-in stabilization. Ideal for wildlife and sports photography.
• Panasonic Lumix G 20mm f/1.7 II: One of the smallest lenses in the system, this pancake prime is a street photographer’s dream.
• Laowa 7.5mm f/2: An ultra-wide prime lens that’s tiny yet delivers outstanding performance, perfect for landscapes and astrophotography.

What’s remarkable about these lenses is their combination of quality and size. Even pro-level optics in the MFT system are significantly smaller and lighter than their full-frame counterparts.

My Experience with MFT Cameras

Over the years, I’ve used a variety of Micro Four Thirds cameras, from the Olympus PEN series to the flagship Panasonic Lumix GH models. Each has its strengths, but they all share a common trait: a focus on usability. The cameras are packed with innovative features like high-resolution modes, focus stacking, and advanced video capabilities, yet they remain approachable for beginners.

The Panasonic GH5 and GH6, in particular, have been game-changers for hybrid shooters, offering professional-grade video features in a compact body. I’ve used these cameras extensively for both stills and video work, and they’ve never let me down.

Olympus cameras, on the other hand, excel in ruggedness and IBIS. I’ve taken the OM-D E-M1X into harsh environments, from rain-soaked forests to freezing mountain trails, and it’s always performed flawlessly.

The Micro Four Thirds Advantage: Portability Meets Performance

For travel and adventure photographers, the Micro Four Thirds system is hard to beat. Its smaller sensor size allows for lighter and more compact lenses, making it easy to build a versatile kit that doesn’t weigh you down. For example, I can pack an MFT camera with a 12-40mm f/2.8, a 40-150mm f/2.8, and a fast prime like the 25mm f/1.4 into a single bag without breaking my back.

Beyond portability, the system excels in other areas too. The 2x crop factor means that telephoto lenses become incredibly effective. A 300mm lens delivers the equivalent of 600mm on a full-frame system, making it an excellent choice for wildlife and sports photographers.

Limitations of Micro Four Thirds

Of course, no system is perfect. The smaller sensor does come with trade-offs, particularly in low-light performance and dynamic range. While modern MFT cameras handle noise surprisingly well, they can’t quite match the capabilities of full-frame sensors in extreme conditions. Additionally, achieving ultra-shallow depth of field is more challenging, though lenses like the Olympus 45mm f/1.2 PRO help mitigate this.

Another limitation is perception. Many photographers overlook Micro Four Thirds in favor of larger sensor systems, but in my experience, the gap in image quality is smaller than you might think—especially when you consider the size and cost advantages.

Why I Still Love Micro Four Thirds

Despite the rise of full-frame mirrorless cameras, Micro Four Thirds remains an incredibly relevant and exciting system. It offers something unique: a perfect balance of size, performance, and affordability. It’s a system that encourages you to shoot more, travel lighter, and experiment creatively.

For me, MFT cameras have always been about freedom. They’re light enough to carry anywhere, robust enough to handle tough conditions, and capable of producing images that truly impress. Whether you’re a beginner exploring your first interchangeable lens system or a seasoned pro looking for a compact second kit, Micro Four Thirds has something to offer.

Final Thoughts

Micro Four Thirds has stood the test of time because it offers something no other system does: an unrivaled combination of portability, innovation, and image quality. It’s a system that has empowered countless photographers to take their gear further and push their creativity to new heights. For me, the MFT system isn’t just about capturing great photos—it’s about enjoying the process every step of the way. If you value portability and versatility, there’s no better system to have in your bag.