OM System M.Zuiko Digital ED 12-40mm f/2.8 PRO II
Announced February 15, 2022
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 OM System M.ZUIKO DIGITAL ED 12-40mm f/2.8 PRO II is a versatile, weather-sealed workhorse that provides sharp image quality across its entire zoom range. While some users may find the cost high or the design familiar, it remains a reliable tool for diverse subjects, from landscapes to detailed close-up photography.
Weighted from 6 reviewer scores
Pros
- Exceptional optical sharpness and minimal distortion
- Lightning-fast, silent, and accurate autofocus
- Useful close-focusing capabilities
- Durable IP53-rated weather sealing
- Convenient manual focus clutch mechanism
Cons
- Minor optical imperfections like vignetting, flare, and edge softening
- High price point
- Incremental updates over the original version
- Notchy zoom action
- Launch price $999 (USD)
- Focal length & aperture 12-40mm f/2.8
- Mount & coverage Micro Four Thirds Micro Four Thirds
- Stabilization None
- Close focus 20 cm (0.3x)
- Filter thread 62mm
- Autofocus motor Stepper motor
- Weight & size 382g (13.5 oz) · 70 x 84 mm (2.76 x 3.31 in)
What the Reviewers Say
All 6 expert reviews, weighted into the PixelMeter score.
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There is little sign here that the smaller MFT format is causing much in the way of diffraction issues with this lens.
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[I]f you can look beyond the sensor size, the OM System OM-1 is one hell of a camera, one that will certainly please current Olympus owners and which also deserves to expand the system's appeal.
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[T]his is the same fantastic 24-80mm f/2.8 equivalent lens that's bright enough to shoot almost anything and light enough to shoot almost anywhere.
- Photo Review 8.8/10
The 12-40mm (24-80mm in 35mm format) zoom range is useful for general photography as it takes in ideal focal lengths for landscape and portrait photography –as well as other genres in between.
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And all in all, I do like this lens a lot. It's not something sexy and special lens, but it's one of those workhorses that gets you really good image quality and get the job done, and it's a quite versatile lens.
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The OM System M.Zuiko 12–40mm f/2.8 Pro II (or the Olympus original) isn’t just a general-purpose lens—it’s a creative tool that, when paired with the right gear and a bit of out-of-the-box thinking, becomes a powerhouse for almost any diving situation.
