The Panasonic Lumix S 18-40mm f/4.5-6.3 is a compact and lightweight lens designed to be an ideal companion for smaller full frame mirrorless cameras. It pairs especially well with models like the Lumix S9, creating a portable setup that’s easy to carry around for travel, street, and everyday use.
Coming to you from Gareth Evans with Park Cameras, this excellent video explores why the Panasonic Lumix S 18-40mm f/4.5-6.3 is a practical addition to your kit. The video highlights the lens’ compact design, noting that despite its small size, it still includes features like a zoom ring, manual focus ring, and an AF/MF switch. These controls are often omitted on lenses of this size, so having them makes the lens easier to use in different shooting scenarios. Evans emphasizes that the lens is sharp across its zoom range, even when shot wide open. Although it doesn’t produce the smoothest out-of-focus areas, this isn’t a major issue given the lens’ intended use. Its design prioritizes versatility and portability, making it a go-to option for those who need a reliable, everyday lens.
The video also points out the benefits of using this lens for video. With its 18-40mm focal range, it can capture wide angle shots and moderate close-ups, giving you more flexibility for different types of scenes. Evans mentions that Panasonic’s strong video features pair nicely with this lens, making it a solid choice for handheld or gimbal setups. The lack of built-in image stabilization is worth noting, but with modern cameras offering internal stabilization, this might not be a dealbreaker.
Key Specs
- Focal Length: 18 to 40mm
- Maximum Aperture: f/4.5 to 6.3
- Lens Mount: L mount
- Focus Type: Autofocus
- Image Stabilization: No
- Filter Size: 62 mm (Front)
- Angle of View: 100° to 57°
- Minimum Focus Distance: 5.91" / 0.15 m
- Maximum Magnification: 0.28x
- Optical Design: 8 Elements in 7 Groups
- Dimensions: 2.7 x 1.6" / 67.9 x 40.9 mm
- Weight: 5.5 oz / 155 g
Evans continues by discussing how the lens’ compact build makes it well-suited for travelers. Whether you’re shooting landscapes, street scenes, or quick vlogs, having a lightweight lens that doesn’t compromise on performance can make all the difference. It’s dust- and splash-resistant too, which adds an extra layer of durability. Although it may not be the fastest lens, its affordable price point and ease of use mean that you don’t have to break the bank to have a versatile, everyday zoom. Check out the video above for the full rundown from Evans.
