Panasonic launches new Micro Four Thirds kit zoom lens

Panasonic has launched the new Lumix G Vario 14-42mm F3.5-5.6 II ASPH Mega OIS zoom lens for mirrorless cameras with Micro Four Thirds-format image sensors.

Panasonic has focused on Lumix cameras with fixed lenses at the Consumer Electronics Show 2013. Now that the CES 2013 event is over, the company has moved on to another major digital imaging event.

CP+ 2013 is coming soon and it will also feature the Panasonic Lumix G Vario 14-42mm f/3.5-5.6 II ASPH Mega OIS lens. This zoom optic has been designed for Micro Four Thirds cameras and will become available for purchase within a couple of months.

White metallic version of the new Panasonic Lumix G Vario 14-42mm f/3.5-5.6 II ASPH Mega OIS lens for Micro Four Thirds cameras.

The CP+ Camera & Photo Imaging Show 2013 has brought a new lens from Panasonic. The new Lumix G Vario 14-42mm f/3.5-5.6 II ASPH Mega OIS lens is designed to be an affordable lens for Micro Four Thirds cameras.

Panasonic’s new zoom lens is packed in a smaller size form than its earlier versions, thanks to its newly added two aspherical elements. As a result, it is the perfect solution for a compact and lightweight mirrorless camera setup.

The new lens offers a focal length range of 14-42mm (28-84mm full-frame equivalent) with a maximum f/3.5-5.6 aperture speed. It also incorporates a stepping motor that allows the optic to autofocus quickly and smoothly during stills and video recording.

Panasonic has added its Optical Image Stabilizer technology into the Lumix G Vario 14-42mm lens, called MEGA O.I.S., that allows photographers to capture clear images in low-light without blur.

Its minimum focus distance stands at 20 centimeters, while ensuring a maximum photographic magnification of 0.17x. Panasonic promises users that the lens is capable of providing beautiful bokeh, as it incorporates 7-rounded aperture blades.

The new lens will be available in two metallic colors: white and black. The Lumix G Vario 14-42mm, f/3.5-5.6 II ASPH, MEGA O.I.S. will also be sold as a kit lens with the DMC-GF5 and DMC-G5 mirrorless cameras.

Panasonic will release its standard zoom lens as of March 2013. However, the price details were not disclosed at the time this text was written. We are inviting you to stay close to Camyx, as we will reveal these details as soon as they become official.