The Panasonic Lumix G X Vario 12-35mm F2.8 ASPH. ($1,299.99 direct) is the company's take on a pro-level zoom lens for its Micro Four Thirds cameras. The lens covers a 24-70mm field of view in terms of full-frame photography, offers a maximum f/2.8 aperture throughout its zoom range, and is optically stabilized. It's impressively compact, but it lags behind our Editors' Choice Olympus M.Zuiko Digital ED 12-40mm f2.8 PRO($619.00 at Amazon UK), a lens that is sharper from edge to edge and less expensive. But Panasonic shooters may still opt for this lens; unlike Olympus Micro Four Thirds cameras, most of Panasonic's lineup lacks in-body stabilization. The 12-35mm is pretty compact; it measures just 2.9 by 2.8 inches (HD), weighs in at 10.8 ounces, and supports compact 58mm threaded filters. The Olympus 12-40mm is noticeably bigger; that lens is 3.3 by 2.8 inches, weighs 13.5 ounces, and its larger front element requires you to invest in 62mm filters. It can focus as close as 9.8 in...
The Panasonic Lumix G X Vario 12-35mm F2.8 ASPH. is the company's take on a pro-level standard zoom, but softness at the edges and a high asking price hold it back.
Maximum f/2.8 aperture throughout zoom range; Optical image stabilization; Minimal distortion; Compact; Protected from dust and moisture
Expensive; Some edge and corner softness