OM System's updated version of the legendary 12-40mm PRO with improved coatings and sealing.
The OM System M.Zuiko Digital ED 12-40mm f/2.8 PRO II was released in 2022 as an update to the original Olympus M.Zuiko 12-40mm f/2.8 PRO (2013), the workhorse professional standard zoom for the MFT system. The primary change is the addition of ZERO (Zuiko Extra-low Reflection Optical) coating, which reduces ghosting more effectively in backlit and mixed-lighting conditions than the coating applied to the PRO I. The MSC3 autofocus motor was also updated for faster subject acquisition.
The optical design retains the 14 elements in 9 groups formula of the original, with the ZERO coating applied as the principal optical improvement. The 62mm filter thread is shared with the Olympus 7-14mm f/2.8 PRO and Panasonic Leica DG 12-60mm f/2.8-4.0 ASPH, making filter carry-over practical across high-end MFT zooms. At approximately 382g the lens is the standard professional MFT zoom weight — heavier than consumer kit alternatives but manageable for all-day use. Minimum focus distance of 0.20m throughout the zoom range enables close documentary and product photography at any focal length. Comprehensive weather sealing provides protection in rain, dust, and temperatures down to -10°C. The focus clutch allows instant switching between autofocus and manual focus.
The 12-40mm f/2.8 PRO II covers the core professional standard zoom range on MFT — 24-80mm equivalent — with a constant f/2.8 aperture that maintains consistent exposure and background separation across the zoom range. The constant aperture simplifies video exposure, and the focus clutch enables reliable manual focus pull in narrative production. ZERO coating improves contrast retention in situations where the PRO I showed ghosting; the difference is most apparent in strong backlighting and mixed artificial lighting environments. Compared to the PRO I, optical quality is identical at all apertures — the PRO II's advantage is coating and AF speed.
On the used market the PRO II is a recent lens with limited availability; the PRO I remains widely available at lower prices. For photographers not regularly shooting in backlit or high-flare conditions, the PRO I provides equivalent optical performance at lower cost. Condition checks: focus clutch operation (confirm it engages and releases cleanly), weather sealing at the mount, and front element for any abrasion. The OM System 12-40mm f/2.8 PRO II is the core professional standard zoom for the MFT system — the natural starting point for professional and advanced MFT shooters.