Panasonic Lumix S 70-300mm f/4.5-5.6 MACRO O.I.S.
Announced February 17, 2021
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 S 70-300mm f/4.5-5.6 MACRO O.I.S. is a versatile, weather-sealed telephoto zoom that provides impressive macro capabilities and effective image stabilization for L-mount users. Although the variable aperture design involves some compromises in speed and sharpness at the wide-open setting, it remains a portable and reliable choice for travel and general photography.
Weighted from 10 reviewer scores
Pros
- Highly effective optical image stabilization and fast, quiet autofocus
- Excellent image quality featuring sharp results, minimal distortion, and well-controlled aberrations
- Rugged, weather-sealed build that remains lightweight and portable
- Pleasing bokeh quality from the 11-blade circular aperture
- Impressive macro performance with a 0.5x magnification capability and close focusing distance
Cons
- Physical design factors including protruding zoom barrels and large filter thread requirements
- Softness when shooting wide open and occasional autofocus inconsistencies
- High price point relative to perceived value and build materials
- Variable aperture limitations compared to constant-aperture alternatives
- Incompatibility with teleconverters
- Launch price $1,249 (USD)
- Focal length & aperture 70-300mm f/4.5-5.6
- Mount & coverage L-Mount Full-Frame
- Stabilization Optical IS, 5.5 stops (CIPA)
- Close focus 54 cm (0.5x)
- Filter thread 77mm
- Autofocus motor Linear motor
- Weight & size 790g (1 lb 11.9 oz) · 84 x 148 mm (3.31 x 5.83 in)
Expert Reviews
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- DPReview 85/100
The Panasonic S 70-300mm F4.5-5.6 is a well-built telephoto zoom that autofocuses very quickly and very closely, and has solid image quality across the zoom range.
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[...] I'm really impressed with the image quality I'm getting out of this lens.
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We can see this lens being a popular choice for a wide range of of photographers, who are likely to be pleased with the image quality, build quality and performance that it offers.
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The lens takes a classic telephoto zoom range and packs it into a cutting edge design for L-mount mirrorless cameras, and I love it.
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Every photographer and videographer needs a solid and reliable telephoto zoom range. And as cameras get lighter, the lenses need to follow suit and the Panasonic 70-300mm f/4-5.6 certainly meets that criteria.
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I think Panasonic shows us that a 70-300mm variable aperture lens doesn't have to be a boring lens with not a lot of features and bad image quality.
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If you are looking for a lighter carry, the 70-300mm would be a good fit for hiking or travel. However, if your approach is more meticulous and if you use a tripod, the PRO 70-200 has a tripod collar, and the extra weight may not bother you that much.
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It's very versatile. This would be a great zoom lens for someone coming off with maybe you've got a kit lens and a prime and you want a longer zoom, you want a more versatile zoom, this would be a great option.
- cliftoncameras.co.uk 8/10
Whilst you are operating with a larger focal range over the likes of the Panasonic LUMIX S 70-200mm F4 OIS, you sacrifice the perks that a constant aperture can give you.
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I think it's a it is a good lens. I can't say that it is amazing, but even with minor issues I had shooting with it, its focal range, size, weight, and of course the final results overweigh any niggling problems.
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