Olympus's ultra-telephoto MFT zoom delivering 600mm equivalent reach at a budget price.
The Olympus M.Zuiko Digital ED 75-300mm f/4.8-6.7 II is Olympus's entry super-telephoto zoom for Micro Four Thirds, providing a 150-600mm full-frame equivalent field of view for wildlife, birds, and outdoor sports. The Mark II version added ZERO coating for improved contrast and flare resistance. On MFT bodies the 600mm equivalent reach at the long end is the primary draw — covering subjects that would require a much larger and heavier full-frame telephoto system.
The optical design uses 18 elements in 13 groups. Seven aperture blades produce acceptable out-of-focus rendering at wider apertures. The 58mm filter thread is shared with the 14-150mm II and several other MFT lenses. At 423g the lens is moderate in weight for its zoom range — notably lighter than full-frame 600mm telephoto equivalents. Minimum focus distance is 0.9m at 75mm; beyond 75mm the minimum extends to 1.5m, appropriate for the telephoto use case. ZERO coating reduces ghosting in backlit conditions. Variable aperture runs from f/4.8 at 75mm to f/6.7 at 300mm.
The 150-600mm equivalent is the primary practical argument for the 75-300mm on MFT: wildlife, birds in flight, and field sports subjects require 400-600mm equivalent reach that compact systems achieve at lower weight than full-frame alternatives. Body IBIS from compatible Olympus and OM System bodies substantially extends handheld capability at the long end. Optical quality is adequate through the mid-range; at 300mm wide open, sharpness softens in the manner expected for a consumer telephoto zoom at this price tier.
On the used market the 75-300mm II is widely available and affordable for MFT super-telephoto reach. Condition checks: zoom ring smoothness, AF motor response at both focal length extremes. The Olympus M.Zuiko 100-400mm f/5-6.3 IS provides a substantially longer reach and better optical quality at higher cost. For budget-oriented MFT telephoto the 75-300mm II is the accessible entry point.