The Olympus M.Zuiko 14-42mm f3.5-5.6 II R ($299.99 direct) is the standard starter lens that is bundled with Olympus Micro Four Thirds cameras like the PEN Lite E-PL5( at Amazon). You can generally buy it bundled with that camera or the PEN Mini E-PM2($1,399.00 at Amazon) for a very modest ($30 to $50) premium, and at that price it's a steal. But if you're looking for a zoom lens and already have a Micro Four Thirds camera, consider upgrading to the weather-sealed M.Zuiko Digital ED 12-50mm f3.5-5.6 EZ, or the ultra-compact M.Zuiko ED 14-42mm f3.5-5.6 EZ. The lens($295.00 at Amazon) features a plastic lens barrel and mount, and a collapsible design. There's a locking switch that you must pull back in order to collapse the barrel for storage. When collapsed it measures 1.9 by 2.2 inches (HD), weighs 3.9 ounces, and supports 37mm front filters. There's no hood included, but there is a removable ring that covers a bayonet mount to accommodate the add-on hood that Olympus offers for ...
The Olympus M. Zuiko 14-42mm f3.5-5.6 II R is a fine choice as a discounted starter lens, but consider an upgrade if you're paying full price.
Impressively sharp for a kit lens; Minimal distortion; Collapsible design
All-plastic build; Lens hood not included; Narrow aperture