Panasonic/Leica's MFT super-telephoto covering 200-800mm equivalent with dual OIS — a wildlife favourite.
The Leica DG Vario-Elmar 100-400mm f/4-6.3 ASPH. Power O.I.S. II is a super-telephoto zoom for Micro Four Thirds designed by Panasonic with Leica branding. The Mark II revision updated stabilisation and coatings, covering an impressive 200-800mm equivalent.
Optical quality is good for the focal length range — sharp in the centre with acceptable performance across the frame. The dual O.I.S. works with Panasonic body stabilisation for enhanced shake correction. Autofocus is reasonably fast though not instantaneous at 400mm.
Micro Four Thirds mount with 72mm filter thread. Weighs approximately 985g — heavy for MFT but light for the equivalent reach. Weather-sealed construction. Minimum focus distance 130cm. 1.4x teleconverter compatible for 280-560mm (560-1120mm equivalent).
Available used at mid-range prices. The MFT system's 2x crop factor makes this an outstanding wildlife lens relative to equivalent full-frame options. Check for dust ingress despite weather sealing. Competes well with the Olympus 100-400mm for MFT wildlife shooters.