Panasonic GX80 street with a kit zoom

alcelc wrote:

Wishing you enjoy GX85.

Regarding the kit lens, I'm a bit surprise on your opinion. I don't own 14-42 M2, but so far members generally said it's IQ is better than 14-45 and could be the best Pany standard kit zoom today....

I think many go by MTF tests done online but do not consider 14-45mm tests were done on 12MB sensor whereas 12-42mm is tested on more recent 16MB sensor thus giving the impression the 14-42mm is better.

I did some indoor tests first (at 14mm on a tripod) and the 14-45mm was clearly outresolving the 14-42mm. Also the 14-45mm aperture does not close down as quickly when zooming in.

Realworld tests outdoors are not so conclusive and I need to take more street shots with the 14-45mm for comparison. Here's a few examples..

When I bought 12-32 with GX85, have been disappoint by its inconsistent result (good under ideal lighting condition but occasionally poor under bad lighting). Before bought 12-35 f/2.8 to replace 12-32, I had taken out the retired 14-45 to shoot on GX85... If your opinion is correct, likely 14-45 would still be a step ahead of its younger siblings (a reason that 14-42 M2 and 12-32... is cheaper than 14-45?).

I really liked my copy of the 12-32mm. So much so I sold my 14mm pancake. Only downside was somewhat crappy build, lack of manual focus ring and rather prone to flair when shooting towards the sun. Good contrast and sharpness though.

Regarding prices. The 14-45mm can be had for around £90 2nd hand in UK but 12-32mm is around £110. I got my 14-42mm MK2 for £75. It was the smaller size and dual IS support that made me get it. I think it better matches the smaller mft bodies. I'm still not ready to let go of the 14-45mm though and may keep it for landscape etc..