The first lens under the new OM SYSTEM brand has launched, dispelling the scaremongering about the brand. This new glass looks like a significant addition to the M.Zuiko arsenal, proving that MFT is a thriving format with a bright future.
The new M.Zuiko Digital ED 20mm f/1.4 PRO will be a crowd please for owners of Micro Four Thirds (MFT) cameras. This fast, high-resolution pro lens brings all the advantages that MFT users are looking for. At just 247 grams (8.7 Oz), it’s lightweight, it’s compact, weather-sealed, and OM SYSTEMS claims it has beautiful bokeh, which seems to be backed up by images by Swedish photographer Rania Ronntoft, when she trialed the lens.
This is the second lens out of the M.Zuiko stable where the weather sealing has an IPX1 level of splash-proof performance. It also boasts a dustproof and freeze-proof construction (-10°C/ 14°F), which means it should be a great choice for those working in extreme conditions, thus complimenting the range of Olympus OM-D E-M5 and E-M1 cameras.
The lens features 11-element, 10-group lens configuration, comprising Super ED, ED, Super HR, and aspherical lenses. The OM SYSTEM proprietary ZERO coating, along with suppression of internal reflections within the barrel, is designed to reduce flare and ghosting.
20mm on Micro Four Thirds is a very versatile focal length, suitable for portraits, street photography, landscapes, still life, and more. Additionally, its exceptionally fast f/1.4 maximum aperture will make it a superb lens for low-light use, especially when coupled with the exceptional image stabilization of OM-D cameras, and the improved high ISO performance of contemporary MFT cameras.
A wide aperture is, of course, only part of the story when it comes to bokeh. The other major contributing factor on any camera is proximity to the subject, and this lens can get in close. It has a minimum focusing distance of 25 cm, giving a 0.22 x magnification. But, as many Zuiko lens owners know, these lenses can often be pushed beyond their theoretical minimum distances.
Image by Rania Ronntoft
The lens also sports 9 circular aperture blades
This is good news for those who have invested in or are migrating to Micro Four Thirds, and especially OM SYSTEM cameras, previously known as Olympus. It’s the third piece of kit released since JIP took over the imaging arm of Olympus, and demonstrates that they are serious about continuing to develop the brand and range of products, something OM Digital Solutions are keen to emphasize.
After being split from Olympus Corporation in 2021, OM Digital Solutions was newly formed to infuse its imaging heritage of 85 years – including its technologies, products, services, and brand legacy – into a new agile company, unleashing the full potential of its business.
Today, OM Digital Solutions develops best-in-class products that challenge the boundaries of product design and functionality, fulfilling the needs of consumers and professionals alike.
The lens becomes available at the end of this month, and the recommended retail price is $799/ £649/ €699.
I'm surprised to see such an advanced lens design for such a compact lens. Most recent FF compacts seem to be entry level.
That's the great thing about M.Zuiko lenses. OM Digital Solutions (formerly Olympus) have always made superb glass, and their pro-lenses are as sharp as hyperemic needles. Then, they are light, small and fast. Thanks for the comment.