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Pana 14/2.5 versus Oly 14-42 - experiences?

Started Apr 11, 2016 | Discussions thread
ramcewan Regular Member • Posts: 143
Re: Pana 14/2.5 versus Oly 14-42 - experiences?
1

These were the first two lenses I had along with the Lumix 45-200mm on my E-PL2, I took the three of them to the grand canyon and surrounding areas shortly after getting the kit.

Of the "keeper" images none came from the 14-42mm (I believe it was the R version). I just found the images out of it to be flat. The images from the 14-42mm weren't unsharp at all but just didn't have the color pop of the 14mm f2.5.

Obviously the 14-42 has more utility but in the end it just didn't do it for me, I replaced it several years ago with the 4/3 Olympus 14-54mm mk II which focused pretty well on even the E-PL2 and focuses a treat on my E-M1. I compared it to the other two at 14mm in a well let indoor setting and found not much difference in sharpness with a slight edge to the 14mm f2.5 but not much.

In my opinion the 14mm f2.5 is one of the most under appreciated lenses especially considering the cost of a used or grey market one from ebay. In lieu of a hood I used a step up ring on it so I could use filters that fit my other lenses.

Of all the lenses I have owned over the years in between then and now I kept the 14mm f2.5 the longest, only selling it recently this year to repay my credit card after jumping on a refurbished 7-14mm PRO during the president's day sale. I regret letting it go and imagine I will buy another at some point.

 ramcewan's gear list:ramcewan's gear list
Olympus PEN E-PM2 Olympus E-M1 Olympus Zuiko Digital ED 70-300mm 1:4.0-5.6 Olympus Zuiko Digital 14-54mm 1:2.8-3.5 II Olympus Zuiko Digital ED 50-200mm 1:2.8-3.5 SWD +4 more
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