Compact Panasonic MFT telephoto zoom covering 70-200mm equivalent with OIS, ideal as a lightweight travel tele.
The Panasonic Lumix G Vario 35-100mm f/4-5.6 ASPH. Mega O.I.S. launched around 2012 as a budget telephoto zoom for the Micro Four Thirds system. It covers 70-200mm equivalent in a remarkably compact and lightweight package.
Optical quality is good for the class — sharp in the centre with acceptable edge performance. The Mega O.I.S. stabilisation helps compensate for the slower variable aperture. Autofocus is quiet and reasonably fast using a stepper motor.
Micro Four Thirds mount with 46mm filter thread. Incredibly light at just 135g. No weather sealing. Minimum focus distance 90cm. The compact size makes it an excellent travel companion paired with small MFT bodies like the GX85 or GF series.
Available used at very low prices. Build quality is plastic but adequate. The Panasonic 35-100mm f/2.8 is optically superior but much larger and heavier. This lens fills the telephoto gap affordably for casual MFT shooters.