Panasonic Lumix G Vario 12-60mm f/3.5-5.6 ASPH. POWER O.I.S.
Announced February 24, 2016
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 Panasonic LUMIX G Vario 12-60mm f/3.5-5.6 ASPH. POWER O.I.S. is a compact, weather-sealed zoom that offers a versatile focal range for travel and everyday photography. While it provides sharp central images and effective stabilization, the lens struggles in low light and exhibits variable aperture constraints.
Weighted from 11 reviewer scores
Pros
- Weather-sealed construction for outdoor use
- Fast, silent, and accurate autofocus performance
- Versatile focal range with good central sharpness
- Compact and lightweight design ideal for travel
- Effective optical image stabilization
Cons
- Softness at the edges and corners
- Nervous or busy bokeh rendering
- Variable aperture leads to darker images when zooming
- Noticeable barrel distortion at 12mm
- Poor performance in low-light conditions
- Launch price $499 (USD)
- Focal length & aperture 12-60mm f/3.5-5.6
- Mount & coverage Micro Four Thirds Micro Four Thirds
- Stabilization Optical IS
- Close focus 20 cm (0.27x)
- Filter thread 58mm
- Autofocus motor Stepper motor
- Weight & size 210g (7.4 oz) · 66 x 71 mm (2.60 x 2.80 in)
What the Reviewers Say
All 11 expert reviews, weighted into the PixelMeter score.
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- OpticalLimits 5.5/10
The Panasonic Lumix G 12-60mm f/3.5-5.6 ASPH Power OIS is a jack of (almost) all trades but a master of none.
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In that context, the Lumix G Vario 12-60mm f/3.5-5.6 Asph Power OIS can be recommended if you want a capable all-round standard zoom without breaking the bank.
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The Panasonic Lumix G Vario 12-60mm f/3.5-5.6 is a good quality, compact and light lens perfect for travel and general photography.
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This lens is small and lightweight considering the zoom range on offer, making it well suited to life as a walk-around lens.
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For a kit zoom, I believe the 12-60mm performs admirably well at nearly all apertures and focal lengths and more than fulfils its role as an all-purpose lens for travel and everyday photography.
- Photo Review 9.0/10
For its coverage, portability and performance, this well-built, all-weather lens is ideal for travellers and makes a worthwhile alternative to the standard 14-42mm kit lenses offered with M4/3 cameras.
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There's a lot of plastic on it though, which may be a turn-off for certain users out there, but in terms of its functionality [...] it's a perfect lens for outdoor use.
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As it stands, I think the weather-sealed “kit” lens is a hell of a buy and if you’re acquiring a Panasonic body and this lens is available as a kit, I think its a no-brainer.
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So to sum up, I think that this is a kit lens done right. It excels where kit lens needs to excel, and that is the size and weight, focal range, and image stabilization.
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To sum it up, I drove back and forth in total 5,500 kilometers, it did not leave my camera body, so I think that says something about this lens.
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It's an optional purchase and I think it is definitely worth the money [...]
