Panasonic Lumix G Vario 12-60mm f/3.5-5.6 Review

Panasonic Lumix G Vario 12-60mm f/3.5-5.6 Asph. Handling and Features

We have 11 elements in 9 groups, including three aspherical and one ED (extra low dispersion) elements. The diaphragm has 7 blades. A compact and light lens, weighing only 210g, the Lumix has internal focusing so only the zoom action changes the length of the lens. The front element does not rotate, so use of polarising and graduated filters is more convenient. There is a bayonet lens hood provided, not overly large but still effective. The lens has a 58mm filter thread.

Minimum focusing distance is a usefully close 0.2m (0.66 feet) at the widest angle and 0.25m (0.82 feet) at the longest. The magnifications are 0.27x and 0.54x respectively.

It is almost becoming an expectation that lenses will be weather resistant to some degree, and the Lumix is described as splash and dust proof. With a travel lens, the ability to face all weathers is not to be underestimated. Likewise, image stabilisation is more and more universal. Panasonic offer Dual IS with the GX8 body as supplied for this review, and in any event Power OIS (Optical Image Stabilisation) via the lens only.

The focusing motor is very fast and the lens locked on every time, with no evidence of hesitation or hunting. The IS systems do not seem to cause any perceptible delay to the shooting speed.

There are few controls on the lens, just the usual rings for zooming and manual focus. The latter seems rather redundant as the AF system is so crisp in its operation.

The lens is very compact and balances well on the Lumix GX8. It is substantially manufactured in high-quality plastics, which also assists in keeping the weight down. This is definitely a lens that is a pleasure to use.

Add your message