Panasonic's compact MFT kit zoom with Mega OIS — covering 28-84mm equivalent in a lightweight package.
The Panasonic Lumix G Vario 14-42mm f/3.5-5.6 II ASPH Mega OIS is a compact kit zoom for Micro Four Thirds, covering a 28-84mm full-frame equivalent range. At 110g and 46mm filter thread it is among the lightest MFT zooms available. Two aspherical elements. Mega OIS (optical image stabilisation). Suitable as a compact travel standard zoom on any MFT body.
The optical design uses 9 elements in 8 groups with 2 aspherical elements. Seven aperture blades. The 46mm filter thread is compact. At 110g the lens is very lightweight. Minimum focus distance of 0.2m (14-20mm range), 0.3m (21-42mm range). Mega OIS optical stabilisation. Variable aperture from f/3.5 at 14mm to f/5.6 at 42mm.
The 110g weight is the 14-42mm II's primary advantage: at this mass, the lens adds near-zero burden when travelling, making the 28-84mm equivalent range accessible without a dedicated bag. Mega OIS provides stabilisation for both video and stills on MFT bodies without in-body IBIS. The MFT mount provides full electronic communication with all MFT bodies including Panasonic Dual I.S.2 for enhanced combined stabilisation.
On the used market the Panasonic 14-42mm f/3.5-5.6 II ASPH Mega OIS is very affordable as a compact MFT standard zoom. Condition checks: zoom ring smoothness, OIS engagement, 46mm front element for marks, and aperture blade operation. Compatible with all Micro Four Thirds bodies from Panasonic, Olympus, and OM System.