OM System M.Zuiko Digital ED 12-40mm F2.8 PRO II vs Panasonic LEICA DG VARIO-ELMARIT 8-18mm f/2.8-4
The bottom line
These two are closely matched. The differences below are where they diverge — weigh the ones that map to what you shoot, and let size, price and handling break the tie.
Choose the OM System M.Zuiko Digital ED 12-40mm F2.8 PRO II if…
- ✓You need more reach — it goes to 40mm vs 18mm for distant subjects, wildlife and sport.
- ✓You like close-focus work — 0.21x magnification vs 0.1x.
Choose the Panasonic LEICA DG VARIO-ELMARIT 8-18mm f/2.8-4 if…
- ✓You shoot wide — it starts at 8mm vs 12mm for landscapes, interiors and architecture.
Where they differ
- ›Focal range: OM System M.Zuiko Digital ED 12-40mm F2.8 PRO II is 12-40mm, Panasonic LEICA DG VARIO-ELMARIT 8-18mm f/2.8-4 is 8-18mm — different framing and reach.
Frequently asked
Is the OM System M.Zuiko Digital ED 12-40mm F2.8 PRO II or the Panasonic LEICA DG VARIO-ELMARIT 8-18mm f/2.8-4 better?
These two are closely matched. The differences below are where they diverge — weigh the ones that map to what you shoot, and let size, price and handling break the tie.
Who should choose the OM System M.Zuiko Digital ED 12-40mm F2.8 PRO II?
Choose the OM System M.Zuiko Digital ED 12-40mm F2.8 PRO II if you need more reach — it goes to 40mm vs 18mm for distant subjects, wildlife and sport. Choose it if you like close-focus work — 0.21x magnification vs 0.1x.
Who should choose the Panasonic LEICA DG VARIO-ELMARIT 8-18mm f/2.8-4?
Choose the Panasonic LEICA DG VARIO-ELMARIT 8-18mm f/2.8-4 if you shoot wide — it starts at 8mm vs 12mm for landscapes, interiors and architecture.
What is the main difference between the OM System M.Zuiko Digital ED 12-40mm F2.8 PRO II and the Panasonic LEICA DG VARIO-ELMARIT 8-18mm f/2.8-4?
Focal range: OM System M.Zuiko Digital ED 12-40mm F2.8 PRO II is 12-40mm, Panasonic LEICA DG VARIO-ELMARIT 8-18mm f/2.8-4 is 8-18mm — different framing and reach.
| Product | ||
|---|---|---|
| Optical Design | ||
| Focal Length | 12-40mm | 8-18mm |
| Lens Type | Zoom | Zoom |
| Optical Elements | 15 | 15 |
| Optical Groups | 11 | 12 |
| Aperture & Iris | ||
| Maximum Aperture | f/2.8 | f/2.8 |
| Minimum Aperture | f/22 | f/22 |
| Aperture Blades | 9 | 7 |
| Rounded Aperture | Yes | Yes |
| Coverage & Angle | ||
| Format Coverage | Micro Four Thirds | Micro Four Thirds |
| Lens Mount | Micro Four Thirds | Micro Four Thirds |
| Angle of View | 84° – 30° | 107° – 62° |
| 35mm Equivalent | 24-80mm | 16-36mm |
| Focus | ||
| Autofocus | Yes | Yes |
| Focus Motor | Stepping | Stepping |
| Focus Limiter | No | No |
| AF/MF Switch | Yes | Yes |
| Min Focus Distance | 19 cm | 23 cm |
| Max Magnification | 0.21x | 0.1x |
| Stabilization & Video | ||
| Optical Stabilization | No | No |
| Aperture Ring | No | No |
| Declickable Aperture | No | No |
| Parfocal | No | No |
| Internal Zoom | No | No |
| General | ||
| Price (MSRP) | $999 | $999 |
| Filter Size | 62mm | 67mm |
| Diameter | 70mm | 73.6mm |
| Length | 84mm | 88mm |
| Weight | 382g (13.5 oz) | 315g (11.1 oz) |
| Weather Sealed | Yes | Yes |
| Tripod Collar | No | No |
