Om System M.Zuiko Digital ED 9-18mm F4.0-5.6 II: A Comprehensive Review
The Om System M.Zuiko Digital ED 9-18mm F4.0-5.6 II is a versatile lens designed for Micro Four Thirds cameras. Known for its wide-angle capabilities and compact design, this lens has gained popularity among travel and landscape photographers. In this detailed review, we will explore the various aspects of this lens, including its build quality, performance, and usability.
Build Quality and Design
The Om System M.Zuiko Digital ED 9-18mm F4.0-5.6 II boasts a solid build quality, thanks to its metal lens mount and weather-sealed construction. The lens measures approximately 2.6 inches in diameter and 2.6 inches in length, making it compact and lightweight. The design is sleek and modern, with a focus on functionality. The lens features a zoom ring and a focus ring, both of which are smooth and easy to operate.
One notable feature of this lens is its dust, drip, and splash-proof design, which makes it suitable for use in various weather conditions. The lens also includes a lens cap and a lens hood, which help protect the lens from scratches and glare.
Optical Performance
The Om System M.Zuiko Digital ED 9-18mm F4.0-5.6 II offers excellent optical performance, particularly for a lens in its class. The lens features a 9-blade circular aperture, which helps create a pleasing bokeh effect in out-of-focus areas. The lens also exhibits minimal chromatic aberration and distortion, which is impressive for a wide-angle lens.
One of the standout features of this lens is its 9-18mm focal range, which provides a wide field of view suitable for landscapes, architecture, and interiors. The lens offers a maximum aperture of F4.0 at the wide end and F5.6 at the telephoto end, which is sufficient for low-light conditions and achieving a shallow depth of field when desired.
Image Stabilization
The lens includes a 5-axis image stabilization system, which helps reduce camera shake and improve image quality. This feature is particularly useful when shooting handheld in low-light conditions or capturing fast-moving subjects. The image stabilization system is effective and can be easily activated or deactivated via a switch on the lens barrel.
Autofocus Performance
The lens features a fast and quiet autofocus system, which is ideal for capturing moving subjects. The autofocus performance is smooth and accurate, with minimal hunting. The lens also supports focus peaking, which is useful for manual focusing in low-light conditions.
Compatibility and Usability
The Om System M.Zuiko Digital ED 9-18mm F4.0-5.6 II is compatible with a wide range of Micro Four Thirds cameras, including the Olympus OM-D series and the Panasonic Lumix G series. The lens is also compatible with OM System’s MC-14 converter, which extends the focal range to 18-36mm, providing even more versatility.
The lens is easy to use, with a clear and intuitive interface. The zoom and focus rings are well-damped and provide a satisfying tactile feedback. The lens also includes a focus limiter switch, which helps improve autofocus performance by limiting the focus range.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the Om System M.Zuiko Digital ED 9-18mm F4.0-5.6 II is an excellent choice for photographers looking for a versatile wide-angle lens for their Micro Four Thirds camera. The lens offers excellent build quality, optical performance, and usability, making it a great addition to any photographer’s kit. Whether you’re capturing landscapes, architecture, or interiors, this lens is sure to deliver impressive results.
| Feature | Om System M.Zuiko Digital ED 9-18mm F4.0-5.6 II |
|---|---|
| Build Quality | Excellent; metal lens mount, weather-sealed construction |
| Optical Performance | Excellent; minimal chromatic aberration, distortion |
| Image Stabilization | 5-axis system; effective in reducing camera shake |