Olympus M.Zuiko Digital ED 100-400mm f/5-6.3 IS
Announced August 4, 2020
PixelMeter The PixelMeter is our 1–100 aggregate of reviewer scores from trusted publications and creators. Weighted by source tier — not a raw average, and not PetaPixel’s own review.
Reviewer Consensus
Strong
The Olympus M.Zuiko Digital ED 100-400mm f/5-6.3 IS provides a versatile 200-800mm equivalent range for wildlife and sports photographers seeking a compact, weather-sealed super-telephoto option. That said, the lens can struggle with sharpness at its maximum focal length and features a variable aperture that may necessitate higher ISO settings in low light.
Weighted from 12 reviewer scores
Pros
- Durable, weather-sealed construction
- Strong close-focusing and macro capabilities
- Integrated Arca-Swiss compatible tripod collar
- Effective in-lens image stabilization for handheld shooting
- Extensive 200-800mm equivalent zoom range
Cons
- Slow variable aperture limits low-light performance
- Reduced sharpness at the maximum zoom end
- Lacks premium features like the manual focus clutch or function buttons
- Noticeable weight and bulk
- Inconsistent autofocus in dim conditions
- Launch price $1,499 (USD)
- Focal length & aperture 100-400mm f/5-6.3
- Mount & coverage Micro Four Thirds Micro Four Thirds
- Stabilization Optical IS, 3 stops (CIPA)
- Close focus (0.57x)
- Filter thread 72mm
- Autofocus motor Linear motor
- Weight & size 1120g (2 lb 7.5 oz) · 86.4 x 205.7 mm (3.40 x 8.10 in)
What the Reviewers Say
All 12 expert reviews, weighted into the PixelMeter score.
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[S]till, if you're shooting in brighter conditions, you're a more casual user, and you want that compact kind of lens, this could be fantastic for you.
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If you’re a Micro Four Thirds photographer looking for a high-performance wildlife or birding lens and want zoom versatility and/or the price tag of the 300mm f/4 IS Pro is a bit too steep, then the Olympus 100-400mm f/5-6.3 IS should be the top of your list of considerations.
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The Olympus M.Zuiko Digital ED 100-400mm f/5-6.3 IS is a compelling super telephoto zoom for owners of Micro Four Thirds bodies who want to get close to small or distant subjects.
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Bird, wildlife and sports photographers looking for a big zoom lens that doesn't have a massive price-tag will love the new Olympus 100-400mm F5.0-6.3 lens.
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The Olympus M.Zuiko 100-400mm f/5.0-6.3 IS delivers pleasing results overall – albeit with the usual caveats that it's not at its sharpest when shooting at its maximum focal length, and you can't expect an f/6.3 lens to achieve the same results as faster and more expensive glass.
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The Olympus M.Zuiko ED 100-400mm F5.0-6.3 IS has many of the hallmarks of a serious lens for enthusiasts. But while we love how well the lens is made, it struggles to get sharp results at maximum zoom.
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It's an impressive lens that is incredibly versatile, and it may not be as fast as some of you may like, but it has pro level performance and will make a great pairing with the new Olympus E-M10 Mark IV if you're doing any type of traveling.
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So for the price and performance of the Olympus M.Zuiko Digital ED 100-400mm f/5-6.3 IS, it's a very easy recommendation, especially for those who want to capture a large focal length and to capture things on the moon.
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If you are not a professional photographer and you don't want to spend a fortune on a PRO grade lens (the coming M.Zuiko 150-400mm F4.5 IS PRO), then this 100-400mm F5-6.3 IS lens is the more affordable and practical alternative that won't burn a hole in your wallet.
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So if you're an already existing Olympus user or a Micro Four Thirds user in general, you'll find that this lens really beats a lot of the competition for the telephoto and super telephoto range.
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I love the super telephoto lenses on a Micro Four Thirds system, and this is no different. And certainly, in terms of image quality, this is lovely lovely lens.
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I really like this lens for wildlife photography.
