The Olympus M.Zuiko Digital ED 60mm f/2.8 Macro is a compact, versatile macro lens that excels in close-up photography. If you’re looking for an option that balances impressive magnification with portability at a competitive price, this lens offers a practical solution, making it a solid choice for capturing detail-rich images of insects, plants, and other small subjects.
Coming to you from Robin Wong, this informative video outlines why the Olympus M.Zuiko Digital ED 60mm f/2.8 Macro lens is one of the best options available for Micro Four Thirds users. Wong emphasizes that this lens’s small size and light weight are perfect for handheld shooting, particularly in macro photography, where stability and flexibility are essential. Its 120mm equivalent focal length offers a comfortable working distance, helping you capture detail without disturbing delicate subjects.
The lens' image quality is another standout feature, with Wong highlighting its sharpness and impressive lack of distortion and chromatic aberration, even when used wide open at f/2.8. The optical design ensures that even at full magnification, the lens delivers clarity and definition. This makes it ideal for close-up shots that require crisp detail. Additionally, the lens is weather-sealed, making it suitable for outdoor photography in changing conditions, a benefit Wong appreciates as it allows him to shoot confidently in rain-prone Malaysia.
Key Specs
- Focal Length: 60mm (120mm equivalent on 35mm format)
- Maximum Aperture: f/2.8
- Lens Mount: Micro Four Thirds
- Focus Type: Autofocus
- Image Stabilization: No
- Filter Size: 46mm
- Minimum Focus Distance: 7.48 inches (19 cm)
- Maximum Magnification: 1x
- Optical Design: 13 elements in 10 groups
- Diaphragm Blades: 7, rounded
- Dimensions: 2.2 x 3.23 inches
- Weight: 6.53 oz (185 g)
For those who value autofocus in their workflow, Wong notes that the 60mm f/2.8 performs reliably, offering a practical advantage over budget macro lenses that require manual focus. This autofocus capability significantly streamlines the shooting process, especially when you need to capture moving subjects like insects. While manual focus may offer precision in some settings, having a dependable autofocus system can make macro work faster and easier, especially in dynamic environments.
In comparing this lens to the more recent OM System 90mm f/3.5 Macro, Wong acknowledges that while the 90mm lens has higher magnification and built-in stabilization, it’s also significantly larger and heavier, plus triple the price. For many, especially hobbyists or those not specializing in macro work, the additional cost and bulk of the 90mm lens may not be worth it. The Olympus 60mm f/2.8 provides ample magnification, excellent image quality, and remains easy to handle, making it an excellent value for those prioritizing portability and simplicity without compromising performance. Check out the video above for the full rundown from Wong.
