Olympus's premium MFT pancake-ish prime — 34mm equiv at f/1.8 with metal build and snap MF.
The Olympus M.Zuiko Digital 17mm f/1.8 launched in 2012 as a premium wide prime for MFT, providing 34mm equivalent at f/1.8. It replaced the optically modest 17mm f/2.8 pancake with dramatically improved optics and the innovative Snapshot Focus mechanism.
Optically very good — sharp from f/2.8 with good performance at f/1.8. The Snapshot Focus mechanism allows pulling the focus ring back to switch to a manual focus distance scale with hard stops — ideal for pre-focused street shooting. MSC motor for fast, quiet AF.
Micro Four Thirds mount with 46mm filter thread. Weighs 120g — compact though not quite a pancake. Metal construction with premium feel. Minimum focus distance 25cm. Aperture ring markings. Compatible with all MFT bodies.
Available used at mid-range prices. The Snapshot Focus mechanism is unique and beloved by street photographers. The Panasonic 14mm f/2.5 pancake is smaller but slower and less sharp. A favourite for MFT street photography — compact, fast, and with an innovative focus mechanism.