Olympus M. Zuiko 14-42mm f/3.5-5.6 EZ ED MSC Lens Review

Olympus M. Zuiko 14-42mm f/3.5-5.6 EZ ED MSC Handling and Features

The black version of this lens supplied for review is constructed from high quality plastics, with a glossy finish and the bayonet is metal. It weighs only 93g and only protrudes from the lens mount by 22.5mm when collapsed. The lens is extended ready for use by simply turning the camera on. Zooming is performed via an electronic motorised system, and twisting the zoom ring activates the zoom. The further you twist the zoom ring, the faster the zoom moves, similar to how zooming on a bridge camera or camcorder works. This can take a bit of getting used to though, and the delay between switching the camera on and the lens extending may be responsible for a few missed shots. The small size of this lens should make it perfect for use with even the most compact Micro Four Thirds bodies and it also balances well with the Panasonic Lumix GX7 used for testing.

As focusing is performed internally the 37mm filter thread does not rotate, which makes this lens ideal for use with graduated and polarising filters. There is a slim manual focus ring at the front of the lens barrel, which makes manual focusing possible. The minimum focus distance is 20cm, which makes this lens suitable for shooting in tight spaces or for the occasional close up. 

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