Travel, Events & Everyday Shooting — M.Zuiko Digital ED 12-40mm f/2.8 PRO II (2022): The go-to standard zoom for Micro Four Thirds — sharp, fast, and built to withstand the elements.
Low Light, Portrait & Events Photography — 18-35mm f/1.8 DC HSM Art (2013): The world's only constant f/1.8 zoom — an extraordinary APS-C lens that renders like a prime at every focal length.
Who should buy what
Quick take: The 18-35mm f/1.8 dc hsm art is the most affordable; only the m.zuiko digital ed 12-40mm f/2.8 pro ii is weather sealed. Scroll down for the full spec breakdown.
Full specifications
| Specification | M.Zuiko Digital ED 12-40mm f/2.8 PRO II (2022) | 18-35mm f/1.8 DC HSM Art (2013) |
|---|---|---|
| Price | £549 | £499 |
| Sensor | f/2.8 (constant max aperture) | f/1.8 (constant max aperture) |
| Video | 20cm minimum focus distance | 28cm minimum focus distance |
| Autofocus | Dual FAST AF with linear motors — fast, quiet, and precise | HSM (Hyper Sonic Motor) — fast and near-silent with full-time manual override |
| Stabilisation | None (relies on body IBIS) | None (relies on body IS if available) |
| Burst Rate | N/A | N/A |
| Battery Life | N/A | N/A |
| Weight | 382g | 810g |
| Dimensions | 69.9mm diameter × 84mm length | 78mm diameter × 121mm length |
| Weather Sealed | Yes | No |
| Viewfinder | N/A | N/A |
| Screen | N/A | N/A |
| Mount | Micro Four Thirds | Canon EF / EF-S |
| Memory Cards | N/A | N/A |
| Connectivity | N/A | N/A |
Suitability by genre
| Genre | M.Zuiko Digital ED 12-40mm f/2.8 PRO II | 18-35mm f/1.8 DC HSM Art |
|---|---|---|
| Travel | — | |
| Portrait | ||
| Street | ||
| Wedding & Events | — |
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