Olympus Pen 14-42mm MKI vs 14-42mm MKII

Zuiko 14-42mm Handling

Both lenses are made in China and the MKI's metal mount has been substituted with a plastic mount. The metal makes that satisfyng chink as you connect body to lens, while the plastic one is slightly quieter. In terms of durability the metal is a bit more rugged but neither option should cause you any problems over the years.


Each lens has the same direction zoom adjustment - anti clockwise to extend focal length, and a light manual focus ring in front. They both contract into a smaller position using a locking release switch on the zoom barrel. The main difference in handling is the internal focus of the newer lens means that filters can be attached and set up and won't move when you zoom or focus so this gives it the edge.

The MkII lens has a smoother zoom adjustment. It glides whereas the MKI is slightly course and feels some resistance, due to the older design.

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