Olympus ZUIKO DIGITAL ED 40-150mm F4.0-5.6: Review

Posted to Lenses 2009-08-18

Olympus ZUIKO DIGITAL ED 40-150mm F4.0-5.6 Review:

Olympus has introduced a new medium-range zoom lens specifically designed for digital SLRs, the Olympus ZUIKO DIGITAL ED 40-150mm F4.0-5.6. When coupled with an Olympus (or Panasonic) four-thirds camera system, the new lens has a 35mm equivalent focal length of 80-300mm. Featuring the smallest size and lightest weight in its class, the reasonably priced 3.8X telephoto lens features an ED (Extra-low Dispersion) lens element for maximum correction of chromatic aberrations.

The lens features a circular aperture diaphragm for excellent defocusing, and a very short close-focusing distance of 90cm (approx. 3 ft) throughout the zoom range. The lens is constructed using 12 elements in 9 groups, including 1 ED lens element, and uses an internal focusing system. The angle of view varies from 30 degrees at the wide angle end to 8.2 degrees when zoomed all the way out. Maximum image magnification is .14X (35mm equivalent of .28X), and maximum aperture is f/4.0 at 40mm and f/5.6 at 150mm.

Rating:

4.2 out of 5

Value

The ED 40-150mm is very reasonably priced on the street, and provides an excellent value for the money. While definitely not a pro-quality lens, it doesn't have a pro price, either. The lens performs well throughout the zoom range, with little barrel or pincushion distortion and only moderate chromatic aberration. About the only thing to complain about is the slow speed, which is about the same as competitively priced models - you simply have to spend more money to get a faster lens.

Features

The lens features a minimum aperture of f22 and a usable standard filter size of 58mm. Size and weight have been kept to a minimum -- the barrel is only 2.83 inchs (72mm) long and the lens weighs just 7.76oz (220g). It features a non-rotating mount so filters do not rotate when the lens is focused; making it easy to use with certain filters such as polarizing. Multi-coated optics reduces ghosting and flaring in backlit situations.

Summary

If you need a medium-range zoom to couple with the short-range one that came with your camera, the Zuiko Digital ED 40-150mm makes an excellent choice, especially when you consider the street price. While not the fastest kid on the block by a long ways, you won't pay a fast price either. If most of your shooting is done is good lighting, this lens could be just the ticket for your standard to medium telephoto needs.

Pros

80 - 300 35mm equivalent
compact and light weight
ED (Extra-low Dispersion) lens element
non-rotating filter mount

Cons

slow speed (F/4)