Best Walk Around Lens for Olympus OM-D EM5: A Comprehensive Guide
When it comes to choosing the best walk-around lens for your Olympus OM-D EM5, you want something that offers versatility, quality, and ease of use. With so many options available, it can be overwhelming to make the right choice. In this detailed guide, we’ll explore the top lenses that are perfect for your EM5, considering factors like image quality, build quality, and price.
1. Olympus M.Zuiko Digital ED 12-40mm f/2.8 Pro
The Olympus M.Zuiko Digital ED 12-40mm f/2.8 Pro is a fantastic choice for a walk-around lens. This lens offers a versatile 24-80mm equivalent focal length, making it ideal for a wide range of situations. With a constant f/2.8 aperture, you’ll enjoy excellent performance in low-light conditions and the ability to create beautiful bokeh effects.
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Focal Length | 24-80mm equivalent |
| Aperture | f/2.8 constant |
| Image Stabilization | Yes |
| Weather Sealing | Yes |
One of the standout features of this lens is its build quality. It’s weather-sealed and constructed with high-quality materials, ensuring durability and reliability. The lens also boasts a fast autofocus system and a silent drive mechanism, making it perfect for capturing those fleeting moments.
2. Olympus M.Zuiko Digital 14-42mm f/3.5-5.6 II R
For those looking for a more budget-friendly option, the Olympus M.Zuiko Digital 14-42mm f/3.5-5.6 II R is an excellent choice. This lens offers a 28-84mm equivalent focal length, making it versatile for everyday photography. While it doesn’t have the constant f/2.8 aperture of the Pro lens, it still delivers impressive image quality and is a great value for money.
The build quality of this lens is solid, with a metal lens mount and a plastic body. It’s not weather-sealed, but it’s still a durable option for everyday use. The lens also features a compact and lightweight design, making it perfect for travel and walk-around photography.
3. Panasonic Lumix G Vario 14-42mm f/3.5-5.6 ASPH. Power O.I.S.
For Olympus OM-D EM5 users looking for a third-party lens option, the Panasonic Lumix G Vario 14-42mm f/3.5-5.6 ASPH. Power O.I.S. is a great choice. This lens offers a 28-84mm equivalent focal length and is compatible with Olympus cameras, including the EM5. It’s a compact and lightweight lens that provides excellent image quality and includes an optical image stabilization system to help reduce camera shake.
The build quality of this lens is good, with a metal lens mount and a plastic body. While it’s not weather-sealed, it’s still a durable option for everyday use. The lens also features a fast autofocus system and a silent drive mechanism, making it perfect for capturing those fleeting moments.
4. Olympus M.Zuiko Digital 17mm f/1.8
For those who prefer a prime lens for walk-around photography, the Olympus M.Zuiko Digital 17mm f/1.8 is an excellent choice. This lens offers a 34mm equivalent focal length, making it ideal for street photography and candid shots. The f/1.8 aperture allows for excellent low-light performance and beautiful bokeh effects.
The build quality of this lens is exceptional, with a metal lens mount and a weather-sealed design. It’s a bit larger and heavier than the other lenses on this list, but it’s worth the extra weight for the superior image quality and build quality.
5. Olympus M.Zuiko Digital 25mm f/1.2 Pro
For those who want the best image quality and performance, the Olympus M.Zuiko Digital 25mm f/1.2 Pro is
