Description
Panasonic LUMIX Mirrorless Micro Four Thirds camera lenses deliver a no-compromise approach to optical performance for modern interchangeable camera enthusiasts and professionals. As an optical partner of legendary LEICA Lenses, Panasonic LUMIX Professional Camera Lens LEICA DG VARIO-ELMARIT H-ES50200 features Panasonic’s Nano Surface Coating to reduce bothersome reflections across the entire light spectrum for the highest standards of detail and sharpness. Built for the outdoors, this professional grade metal body lens features a splash / dustproof design when mounted on a compatible LUMIX G Mirrorless camera. Featuring Power O.I.S. optical image stabilization compatibility with 5-Axis Dual I.S. 2.0 (Image Stabilization), you’ll shoot with unprecedented hand-held stability across both video and still. For added versatile high performance, this ultra-telephoto zoom lens offers a F2.8-4.0 ASPH and focal length of 50-200mm to render everything clearly, from corner to corner. Make the switch from bulky DSLRs to the smaller, lighter, more compact Mirrorless Micro Four Thirds system cameras and lenses from Panasonic LUMIX.NANO SURFACE COATING: Professional, high quality LEICA DG VARIO ELMARIT camera lens optics with Panasonic’s Nano Surface Coating to reduce unwanted ghosting and flaring for crystal clear pictures (21 Elements in 15 Groups, [2 UED Elements])
HIGH SPEED AUTO FOCUSING: Upgraded faster focus tracking via a 240 fps linear motor performs smooth aperture changes so there are no sudden jumps in exposure for improved video performance
ADVANCED OPTICAL IMAGE STABILIZATION: Panasonic POWER O.I.S. compatible with enhanced LUMIX Dual I.S. 2.0 LUMIX Mirrorless cameras immediately compensates even large camera shake and vibrations for sharp, blur free photos
ULTRA TELEPHOTO ZOOM LENS: Ultra telephoto zoom lens F2.8 4.0 (67mm lens filter threads) suitable for wildlife photography; Compatible with optional table converters DMW TC14 and DMW TC20
RUGGED HIGH PERFORMANCE, DESIGN: Durable metal body camera lens braves the elements in nearly any kind of weather or shooting location (Splashproof / Dustproof / Freezeproof)
Note: Products with electrical plugs are designed for use in the US. Outlets and voltage differ internationally and this product may require an adapter or converter for use in your destination. Please check compatibility before purchasing.
CORNELIUS –
In my 70 years, I have had both Nikon and Canon top or second to the top of line cameras and top of the line lenses which were all excellent. I had been using M43 cameras for six years. I recently bought this lens and a G9. It would be hard to overstate the quality and relative value of this lens and of that camera. The clarity of the lens is better than the other Panasonic lenses I have had. Its weight is manageable and the lens hood is easy to get on and off. It focuses quickly and doesnt search as much as some other Panasonic lenses. I have used it with both a GX85 and the G9. This is not a walk around lens as is my favorite 14140 for that purpose but the PL50200 is a superior lens in every regard except in the zoom range over the 14140. I believe optically, the top of the line lenses of both Nikon and Canon are better but for the price for ease of use, I would take the PL50200 in a heartbeat. One could buy every Panasonic Leica lens for what a couple of the most expensive lenses from either company, Nikon or Canon, would cost. Just saying….
Van –
I have had the new 50200 a couple of weeks, and I know it will be used frequently. With it and the 1260, I have 90 of my shooting covered. The build is nothing short of excellent. The glass is fast, sharp and clear. This is what I expect and get from the Leica lenses. Thanks Panasonic adding this zoom range.
Mary Jo –
I really like the range on this lens and with the teleconverter added to it makes it even better.
Hugh –
High quality, great performance throughout its zoom range, and you get all you pay for. Read other online reviews for technical quality, which is superb and beyond my ability to test. As a user, it fills a vital range. Stabilization is superb, it has a solid, wellbalanced feel, and if you are not getting great shots, it is your fault. I use it on a GX8 and couldnt be happier. Sample shot is f2.8, 11000, 50mm, ISO400
Marco –
Ottimo obiettivo, arrivato nei tempi di consegna, tutto oK, felice dell acquisto
David –
This is a very nice lens as it should be considering the price. The range makes it very useful. It is really sharp Leica lens design after all and the color rendition is very nice and pleasing. With the Dual IS I have a GX8, the stabilization is truly amazing. I came to Panasonic from Canon so comparing this lens to the 100400L lens, this lens is a bit less expensive, less the half the weight, and faster to boot. The Leica lens series 818, 1260, and this 50200 were the reason I was able to switch with reasonable confidence. Dont get me wrong the Canon system is really good but it is also really heavy and to cover the range I have now, really expensive.
Leslie –
Performs just like I thought it would. Fast in conjuction with the G9, Havent used it on my GH5 nor GX85.
Isa –
I bought this for use with my GH5 and the results are amazing. Colour is fantastic and sharpness right through the range.
alangrace29 –
This lens is incredibly sharp. I ran bench tests with a test chart. It provides fast focus and very high contrast with no visible distortion, edge to edge. I am replacing my 35100mm f2.8 with this lens because with the added reach to 200mm 400mm equivalent I can use it for wildlife, not just landscape. What I great cary around lens for street photos without intruding on the subject.
Jack –
Quick focus, sharp, solid feel, smooth zoom.Just enough weight to make hand holding comfortable. A little expensive, but for a 2.8 to 4.0, not too bad.
Nancy –
I have the Panasonic 100400, which is a big lens for which I usually need a tripod. I wanted more reach than the lovely Panasonic 35100 f2.8 that I could actually handhold and use for travel. I am a total amateur, but I love taking photos of animals and birds and any other wildlife I encounter and so far this lens fulfills my needs. Ive loved the photos Ive taken and my photo pals are impressed.
Michael –
Excellent optics but the lack of a tripod mount and especially a lock for the barrel shows thoughtless design. If you carry in holster not an issue but I carry on a shoulder strap and the barrel keeps extending while I walk making it more likely to bang it into something.
David –
Im enjoying wildlife grabs right now so this lens was perfect for me The build quality is what you should expect at this price point. Solid and hefty without being heavy. I feel like I could play catch with it on thanksgiving day and it would be fineZoom and focus rings are smooth with good confirmation. Ive had mine for about 6 months and I havent had any issues with the trombone unwinding on me if Im holding the camera in a down position. If you can compose something nice, this glass will definitely help you capture it with sharpness. These two herons are my best examples of this lens at full reach. When paired with the battery grip, this lens balances comfortably in my hand. I would love to get my hands on a G9 to see how fast the focus is when tracking with this lens My only experience with this 50200 is on a GH5 fwiw.
David –
Great build quality but not heavy. Fast AF and the analog mechanics feel high end. I use this with the GH5. Love it
John –
I cant add a whole lot to what other reviewers have said about this lens. What I like most about it is the OIS. If youre considering it, check out Gordon Laings Cameralabs review httpswww.cameralabs.companasonicleicadg50200mmf284hes50200review He found the lens stabilization to be slightly superior to the OMD EM1 MkII IBIS which is saying something Even if you have IBIS, youll appreciate the alwaysstabilized view through the viewfinder versus having to halfpress the shutter to trigger the IBIS. Havent shot a lot with it yet but this is a lens I expect to keep for a long, long time. Now, if Panasonic would just bring the 1.4x TC to the U.S., that would be icing on the cake. Practically 2 lenses in one A great, fast telephoto and with the TC, a focal length and aperture very close to the OlyPana superteles.
Daniel –
This lens is incredibly sharp, very lightweight and extremely compact. It also works exceptionally well with the Lumix 1.4X teleconverter which unfortunately is not available in the US as a separate item. The 1.4X teleconverter is only available if you buy the much pricier Leica 200mm F2.8. Its also, a phenomenal lens worth every penny but many people just dont want to spend that kind of money. I do know people who have purchased the 1.4X teleconverter from Japan via Ebay. You wont get a US warranty but theres not much that can go wrong with a teleconverter. I highly recomennd this lens
Robert –
This lens has great utility. If you look at all the MFT telephoto zooms today, there are longer lenses and a few that hold f2.8 through their range, but this lens starts at a 100 mm f2.8 and ends at 400 f4. I went up on an Alaskan vacation with this and a wide zoom, and so I had 24 mm to 400 mm covered, with a short gap.The real surprise was that this thing focuses really close, so when we visited a garden, I was shooting tight flower shots at 400 mm.The lens shade is the best Ive seen on any camera, period. The reason this is special is this lens, with the lens hood turned backwards, takes up about as much space in a bag as, say, an 85 mm f1.4 lens for a Nikon DSLR. Take it out, pop on the shade, twist and lock it quickly, and youre shooting long telephoto shots. And yes, it extends out maybe twice its length at 400. It has motion stabilization in the lens and Panasonic cameras add stabilization in the camera. I didnt need a tripod.Did I mention its sharp Pricey, for sure, but I think its worth it.
Jesse –
Okay, I have an unusual setup. I use this lens on my GH5S for video and it has been a excellent addition to my kit. I tend to value weight and size just a bit over say a constant aperture or tac sharp details. This lens, in my informed opinion, has the perfect balance of aperture, size, weight, and performance.I want to get the performance question out of the way first. This lens is supremely sharp through the range and has excellent bokeh and optical performance even wide open at f2.8.The OIS built into the lens is quite stellar and I can easily hand hold rock solid video at 200mm 400mm FF equiv without a problem. Solid through and through. Remember the GH5S doesnt have built in IBIS. If you have a G9 and want a great walk around telephoto lens. This is it.AF speed has been great. Maybe a bit slow when having to focus from extremely close to far away with back button focus but if you are already close the AF is extremely responsive and snappy.My only gripe is the price. Its expensive for a m43 lens, but its also quite a special lens. Steep price but also superb performance.
Brian –
Cons Somewhat heavy and unwieldy. I also have the Lumix 45200 II, and the 50200 is considerably larger and heavier. Given the focal and aperture range of the 50200 however, this is to be expected. The 50200 is certainly manageable, but a walkaround lens it is not. Yes, this is an expensive lens. Even with BH holiday savings applied, purchasing this lens is quite an investment.Pros Stunning build quality. If this is as important to you as it is to me, you will not be disappointed. Optically this lens is tack sharp across the zoom range. I do a lot of rural photography barns, bridges, waterfalls, and abandoned structures. In the short time Ive owned it the 50200 has not disappointed. In fact I look for excuses to use it and look forward to unlocking its full potential.I guess you get what you pay for.
Gary –
The Panasonic Leica 50200 2.84 thus far has performed in an excellent manner. I will be using this lens for overseas travel along with my other PL 818 1260 lenses with a G9. The lens weighs 23 ounces vs 40 ounces for my Tamron FX 100400 3.56.3 used with my Nikon D750. The color, rapid precise focusing and light weight certainly meet my expectations.
Herve –
Based on the price and the reviews, I was expecting a great lens but it is even better than I thought. This zoom is the perfect compromise between focal range, weight, size and image quality. As others have said this lens will feel more comfortable to use with the larger bodies like GH, G9..I used it extensively for a Safari along with the g9 and the battery grip. I am not a zoom guy but this is easily the BEST ZOOM I have ever used regardless of the platform . the dual IBIS really allows amazing handheld speeds. The must have telezoom for Panasonic owners
William –
First the negative. It has lens creep you set it to 50mm and after you walk around a bit, its at 200mm. That is, the weight of the lens pulls it to maximum zoom whenever the lens if pointed down. Another slightly negative point is that it has no tripod shoe, so you mount the camera on the tripod, not the lens such as with the 100400.The positives, quick focus and minimal hunting except for extreme closeups, where manual focus works nicely.If it had a focus lock plus a tripod mount, it would be 5stars. Optically, 5stars.
Robert –
I read all the positive reviews and when it showed up, it fit in my bag, seems to have superior quality and is a pleasure to use. What I didnt expect is that this lens is extremely good at closeup photography. For instance, stand a few feet away from a rose, rack the lens to 200mm and Im shooting closeups, the equivalent of a 400mm macro. For sure, it isnt a macro lens that goes to 11, but it gets very tight. So, with a wide angle zoom and this lens, you can do a lot. There are some very long telephoto zooms that cost less, but when you rack them out to their extreme telephoto range, on a practical level, you can only use them for things like surfing in full sunlight. This lens is very versatile and practical if you can afford it, and I think its worth the price.
Darryl –
Great Lens. Excellent with combine with the Panasonic G9 for tracking birds and other animals
Nanette –
Two years ago I bought one of these used and hated it. The focus hunted like a nose blind hound. This one bought new at the holiday sale performs much better. After playing with camera settings to spot focus not to big or too small it did great catching birds in trees and focusing through branches. My only complaint is the weight and that I will need a wrist support to carry on long birding hikes.
Mary Jo –
I really like the range on this lens and with the teleconverter added to it makes it even better.
Van –
I have had the new 50200 a couple of weeks, and I know it will be used frequently. With it and the 1260, I have 90 of my shooting covered. The build is nothing short of excellent. The glass is fast, sharp and clear. This is what I expect and get from the Leica lenses. Thanks Panasonic adding this zoom range.
Elizabeth –
This is a stellar lens. It focuses fast and is very sharp throughout the entire focal range. I keep it on my camera most of the time for backyard bird shooting and more.
Robert –
I read all the positive reviews and when it showed up, it fit in my bag, seems to have superior quality and is a pleasure to use. What I didnt expect is that this lens is extremely good at closeup photography. For instance, stand a few feet away from a rose, rack the lens to 200mm and Im shooting closeups, the equivalent of a 400mm macro. For sure, it isnt a macro lens that goes to 11, but it gets very tight. So, with a wide angle zoom and this lens, you can do a lot. There are some very long telephoto zooms that cost less, but when you rack them out to their extreme telephoto range, on a practical level, you can only use them for things like surfing in full sunlight. This lens is very versatile and practical if you can afford it, and I think its worth the price.
Julius –
Outstanding professional lens with edge to edge sharpness even at wide open.Lenses can not get any better, top performer, highly recommended.
Daniel –
I had originally bought the Panasonic 45200mm mark 2 to see if I would find the focal range useful for me and I was also kinda hoping that it was going to be sharp enough. But it wasnt, so I bought this lensYes its quite a chunk of change, but what you get in return is a spectacular lens that is brighter, sharper, and much better built. This focusing is very fast even when it has to rack due to being very far from in focus. It construction is the best of any lens I have ever used Owned a bunch of Canon L glass in the past. The image stabilization is with the best of them. Weather sealing seems to be solid been is some rain with it. While the lens is not light, its also not heavy. I have walked around with it attached to the camera for a few hours much of it holding the camera lens setup single handed.Overall I find this lens to strike a balance I have rarely seen in any system. The only thing I kinda wish it has was a foot on the lens, but this might increase the weight to the point were walking around with it attached to the camera would be too tiring.
Julius –
Outstanding professional lens with edge to edge sharpness even at wide open.Lenses can not get any better, top performer, highly recommended.
David –
This is a very nice lens as it should be considering the price. The range makes it very useful. It is really sharp Leica lens design after all and the color rendition is very nice and pleasing. With the Dual IS I have a GX8, the stabilization is truly amazing. I came to Panasonic from Canon so comparing this lens to the 100400L lens, this lens is a bit less expensive, less the half the weight, and faster to boot. The Leica lens series 818, 1260, and this 50200 were the reason I was able to switch with reasonable confidence. Dont get me wrong the Canon system is really good but it is also really heavy and to cover the range I have now, really expensive.
Jonathan –
I purchased this lens to supplement the 1260mm lens I got as part of my Panasonic G9 kit. I really like the midrange lens in the PL Elmarit trio, but quickly realized it didnt have the reach I wanted. There are plenty of lens choices out there, and telephoto zooms are no exception. I chose this lens specifically because of its range and build quality. Make no mistake, this is very highquality glass, and it has a price tag to match. The old adage you get what you pay for is true in spades here.The weight of the lens is immediately noticeable. It is twice as heavy as the other two in the trio. On my G9 it feels decently balanced and would probably feel even more so if I had the additional battery grip. I would have liked to see a tripod foot on the lens to help support the weight however, I trust the camera mount to properly support it.Another nice feature of the lens is its compatibility with Panasonics teleconverters. Strangely, this isnt advertised anywhere. Even Panasonics own materials dont provide this information. Im not sure why, as the teleconverters in conjunction with this lens provide an extremely versatile kit. Put the 2x converter behind the lens and youve now got the equivalent focal range of the PanasonicLeica 100400mm, albeit at a cost of 2 stops of light the maximum aperture range goes from f2.84 to f5.68. This is just a bit slower than the 100400, which offers a maximum aperture range from f46.3.As with the other two lenses in the trio, the maximum aperture of f2.8 is only available at the smallest focal length. In the case of this lens, that means 50mm. As soon as you move that ring, the maximum aperture starts to close down. For example, it moves to f2.9 at 53mm and f3 at 56mm. If we go by the focal lengths marked on the lens, youll see that at 50mm its f2.8, at 70mm its f3.3, at 100mm its f3.6, at 150mm its f3.9 and at 200mm its f4. It actually gets to f4 at 179mm and that remains the maximum aperture from there.This lens defines the Micro Four Thirds system vision. If you compare it to a full frame lens like the Sony FE 100400mm f4.55.6 GM OSS, it is smaller, lighter and cheaper for the same equivalent focal length range. Yes, the Sony lens is a touch faster f4.5 vs f5.6 equivalent. However, that Sony lens weighs over twice as much and costs about 1000 more.This isnt a cheap lens by any stretch of the imagination. It is, however, an extremely good one.
Daniel –
This lens is incredibly sharp, very lightweight and extremely compact. It also works exceptionally well with the Lumix 1.4X teleconverter which unfortunately is not available in the US as a separate item. The 1.4X teleconverter is only available if you buy the much pricier Leica 200mm F2.8. Its also, a phenomenal lens worth every penny but many people just dont want to spend that kind of money. I do know people who have purchased the 1.4X teleconverter from Japan via Ebay. You wont get a US warranty but theres not much that can go wrong with a teleconverter. I highly recomennd this lens
Leslie –
Performs just like I thought it would. Fast in conjuction with the G9, Havent used it on my GH5 nor GX85.
Isa –
I bought this for use with my GH5 and the results are amazing. Colour is fantastic and sharpness right through the range.
Herve –
Based on the price and the reviews, I was expecting a great lens but it is even better than I thought. This zoom is the perfect compromise between focal range, weight, size and image quality. As others have said this lens will feel more comfortable to use with the larger bodies like GH, G9..I used it extensively for a Safari along with the g9 and the battery grip. I am not a zoom guy but this is easily the BEST ZOOM I have ever used regardless of the platform . the dual IBIS really allows amazing handheld speeds. The must have telezoom for Panasonic owners
David –
Great build quality but not heavy. Fast AF and the analog mechanics feel high end. I use this with the GH5. Love it
David –
Not for any close items. But brings far off items in nice and close.
CORNELIUS –
In my 70 years, I have had both Nikon and Canon top or second to the top of line cameras and top of the line lenses which were all excellent. I had been using M43 cameras for six years. I recently bought this lens and a G9. It would be hard to overstate the quality and relative value of this lens and of that camera. The clarity of the lens is better than the other Panasonic lenses I have had. Its weight is manageable and the lens hood is easy to get on and off. It focuses quickly and doesnt search as much as some other Panasonic lenses. I have used it with both a GX85 and the G9. This is not a walk around lens as is my favorite 14140 for that purpose but the PL50200 is a superior lens in every regard except in the zoom range over the 14140. I believe optically, the top of the line lenses of both Nikon and Canon are better but for the price for ease of use, I would take the PL50200 in a heartbeat. One could buy every Panasonic Leica lens for what a couple of the most expensive lenses from either company, Nikon or Canon, would cost. Just saying….
Darryl –
Great Lens. Excellent with combine with the Panasonic G9 for tracking birds and other animals
Nancy –
I have the Panasonic 100400, which is a big lens for which I usually need a tripod. I wanted more reach than the lovely Panasonic 35100 f2.8 that I could actually handhold and use for travel. I am a total amateur, but I love taking photos of animals and birds and any other wildlife I encounter and so far this lens fulfills my needs. Ive loved the photos Ive taken and my photo pals are impressed.
Yalek –
The quality of the lens is very good but the conversion is not truly 100400mm as 35mm camera standard.
David –
Not for any close items. But brings far off items in nice and close.
Brian –
Cons Somewhat heavy and unwieldy. I also have the Lumix 45200 II, and the 50200 is considerably larger and heavier. Given the focal and aperture range of the 50200 however, this is to be expected. The 50200 is certainly manageable, but a walkaround lens it is not. Yes, this is an expensive lens. Even with BH holiday savings applied, purchasing this lens is quite an investment.Pros Stunning build quality. If this is as important to you as it is to me, you will not be disappointed. Optically this lens is tack sharp across the zoom range. I do a lot of rural photography barns, bridges, waterfalls, and abandoned structures. In the short time Ive owned it the 50200 has not disappointed. In fact I look for excuses to use it and look forward to unlocking its full potential.I guess you get what you pay for.
Hugh –
High quality, great performance throughout its zoom range, and you get all you pay for. Read other online reviews for technical quality, which is superb and beyond my ability to test. As a user, it fills a vital range. Stabilization is superb, it has a solid, wellbalanced feel, and if you are not getting great shots, it is your fault. I use it on a GX8 and couldnt be happier. Sample shot is f2.8, 11000, 50mm, ISO400
David –
Im enjoying wildlife grabs right now so this lens was perfect for me The build quality is what you should expect at this price point. Solid and hefty without being heavy. I feel like I could play catch with it on thanksgiving day and it would be fineZoom and focus rings are smooth with good confirmation. Ive had mine for about 6 months and I havent had any issues with the trombone unwinding on me if Im holding the camera in a down position. If you can compose something nice, this glass will definitely help you capture it with sharpness. These two herons are my best examples of this lens at full reach. When paired with the battery grip, this lens balances comfortably in my hand. I would love to get my hands on a G9 to see how fast the focus is when tracking with this lens My only experience with this 50200 is on a GH5 fwiw.
William –
First the negative. It has lens creep you set it to 50mm and after you walk around a bit, its at 200mm. That is, the weight of the lens pulls it to maximum zoom whenever the lens if pointed down. Another slightly negative point is that it has no tripod shoe, so you mount the camera on the tripod, not the lens such as with the 100400.The positives, quick focus and minimal hunting except for extreme closeups, where manual focus works nicely.If it had a focus lock plus a tripod mount, it would be 5stars. Optically, 5stars.
Jonathan –
I purchased this lens to supplement the 1260mm lens I got as part of my Panasonic G9 kit. I really like the midrange lens in the PL Elmarit trio, but quickly realized it didnt have the reach I wanted. There are plenty of lens choices out there, and telephoto zooms are no exception. I chose this lens specifically because of its range and build quality. Make no mistake, this is very highquality glass, and it has a price tag to match. The old adage you get what you pay for is true in spades here.The weight of the lens is immediately noticeable. It is twice as heavy as the other two in the trio. On my G9 it feels decently balanced and would probably feel even more so if I had the additional battery grip. I would have liked to see a tripod foot on the lens to help support the weight however, I trust the camera mount to properly support it.Another nice feature of the lens is its compatibility with Panasonics teleconverters. Strangely, this isnt advertised anywhere. Even Panasonics own materials dont provide this information. Im not sure why, as the teleconverters in conjunction with this lens provide an extremely versatile kit. Put the 2x converter behind the lens and youve now got the equivalent focal range of the PanasonicLeica 100400mm, albeit at a cost of 2 stops of light the maximum aperture range goes from f2.84 to f5.68. This is just a bit slower than the 100400, which offers a maximum aperture range from f46.3.As with the other two lenses in the trio, the maximum aperture of f2.8 is only available at the smallest focal length. In the case of this lens, that means 50mm. As soon as you move that ring, the maximum aperture starts to close down. For example, it moves to f2.9 at 53mm and f3 at 56mm. If we go by the focal lengths marked on the lens, youll see that at 50mm its f2.8, at 70mm its f3.3, at 100mm its f3.6, at 150mm its f3.9 and at 200mm its f4. It actually gets to f4 at 179mm and that remains the maximum aperture from there.This lens defines the Micro Four Thirds system vision. If you compare it to a full frame lens like the Sony FE 100400mm f4.55.6 GM OSS, it is smaller, lighter and cheaper for the same equivalent focal length range. Yes, the Sony lens is a touch faster f4.5 vs f5.6 equivalent. However, that Sony lens weighs over twice as much and costs about 1000 more.This isnt a cheap lens by any stretch of the imagination. It is, however, an extremely good one.
Jack –
Quick focus, sharp, solid feel, smooth zoom.Just enough weight to make hand holding comfortable. A little expensive, but for a 2.8 to 4.0, not too bad.
John –
I cant add a whole lot to what other reviewers have said about this lens. What I like most about it is the OIS. If youre considering it, check out Gordon Laings Cameralabs review httpswww.cameralabs.companasonicleicadg50200mmf284hes50200review He found the lens stabilization to be slightly superior to the OMD EM1 MkII IBIS which is saying something Even if you have IBIS, youll appreciate the alwaysstabilized view through the viewfinder versus having to halfpress the shutter to trigger the IBIS. Havent shot a lot with it yet but this is a lens I expect to keep for a long, long time. Now, if Panasonic would just bring the 1.4x TC to the U.S., that would be icing on the cake. Practically 2 lenses in one A great, fast telephoto and with the TC, a focal length and aperture very close to the OlyPana superteles.
alangrace29 –
This lens is incredibly sharp. I ran bench tests with a test chart. It provides fast focus and very high contrast with no visible distortion, edge to edge. I am replacing my 35100mm f2.8 with this lens because with the added reach to 200mm 400mm equivalent I can use it for wildlife, not just landscape. What I great cary around lens for street photos without intruding on the subject.
Daniel –
I had originally bought the Panasonic 45200mm mark 2 to see if I would find the focal range useful for me and I was also kinda hoping that it was going to be sharp enough. But it wasnt, so I bought this lensYes its quite a chunk of change, but what you get in return is a spectacular lens that is brighter, sharper, and much better built. This focusing is very fast even when it has to rack due to being very far from in focus. It construction is the best of any lens I have ever used Owned a bunch of Canon L glass in the past. The image stabilization is with the best of them. Weather sealing seems to be solid been is some rain with it. While the lens is not light, its also not heavy. I have walked around with it attached to the camera for a few hours much of it holding the camera lens setup single handed.Overall I find this lens to strike a balance I have rarely seen in any system. The only thing I kinda wish it has was a foot on the lens, but this might increase the weight to the point were walking around with it attached to the camera would be too tiring.
Robert –
This lens has great utility. If you look at all the MFT telephoto zooms today, there are longer lenses and a few that hold f2.8 through their range, but this lens starts at a 100 mm f2.8 and ends at 400 f4. I went up on an Alaskan vacation with this and a wide zoom, and so I had 24 mm to 400 mm covered, with a short gap.The real surprise was that this thing focuses really close, so when we visited a garden, I was shooting tight flower shots at 400 mm.The lens shade is the best Ive seen on any camera, period. The reason this is special is this lens, with the lens hood turned backwards, takes up about as much space in a bag as, say, an 85 mm f1.4 lens for a Nikon DSLR. Take it out, pop on the shade, twist and lock it quickly, and youre shooting long telephoto shots. And yes, it extends out maybe twice its length at 400. It has motion stabilization in the lens and Panasonic cameras add stabilization in the camera. I didnt need a tripod.Did I mention its sharp Pricey, for sure, but I think its worth it.
Jesse –
Okay, I have an unusual setup. I use this lens on my GH5S for video and it has been a excellent addition to my kit. I tend to value weight and size just a bit over say a constant aperture or tac sharp details. This lens, in my informed opinion, has the perfect balance of aperture, size, weight, and performance.I want to get the performance question out of the way first. This lens is supremely sharp through the range and has excellent bokeh and optical performance even wide open at f2.8.The OIS built into the lens is quite stellar and I can easily hand hold rock solid video at 200mm 400mm FF equiv without a problem. Solid through and through. Remember the GH5S doesnt have built in IBIS. If you have a G9 and want a great walk around telephoto lens. This is it.AF speed has been great. Maybe a bit slow when having to focus from extremely close to far away with back button focus but if you are already close the AF is extremely responsive and snappy.My only gripe is the price. Its expensive for a m43 lens, but its also quite a special lens. Steep price but also superb performance.
Gary –
The Panasonic Leica 50200 2.84 thus far has performed in an excellent manner. I will be using this lens for overseas travel along with my other PL 818 1260 lenses with a G9. The lens weighs 23 ounces vs 40 ounces for my Tamron FX 100400 3.56.3 used with my Nikon D750. The color, rapid precise focusing and light weight certainly meet my expectations.
Yalek –
The quality of the lens is very good but the conversion is not truly 100400mm as 35mm camera standard.
Michael –
Excellent optics but the lack of a tripod mount and especially a lock for the barrel shows thoughtless design. If you carry in holster not an issue but I carry on a shoulder strap and the barrel keeps extending while I walk making it more likely to bang it into something.
Nanette –
Two years ago I bought one of these used and hated it. The focus hunted like a nose blind hound. This one bought new at the holiday sale performs much better. After playing with camera settings to spot focus not to big or too small it did great catching birds in trees and focusing through branches. My only complaint is the weight and that I will need a wrist support to carry on long birding hikes.
Elizabeth –
This is a stellar lens. It focuses fast and is very sharp throughout the entire focal range. I keep it on my camera most of the time for backyard bird shooting and more.