Panasonic's motorised power zoom for MFT with ultra-compact retractable design.
The Panasonic Lumix G X Vario PZ 14-42mm f/3.5-5.6 ASPH. Power O.I.S. is a premium collapsible power zoom kit lens for Panasonic MFT bodies, providing a 28-84mm full-frame equivalent range with motorised focal length control via a rocker switch on the barrel. The G X Vario designation places it above the standard G Vario range. At 95g and 37mm filter thread it is among the lightest MFT zooms, enabling a compact travel kit while providing smooth video zoom capability.
The optical design uses 9 elements in 8 groups. Seven rounded aperture blades. The 37mm filter thread is a small, uncommon size. At 95g the lens is extremely light. Minimum focus distance of 0.20m throughout. Power OIS provides handheld stability. The power zoom rocker controls focal length at selectable speeds — no manual zoom ring. Variable aperture from f/3.5 at 14mm to f/5.6 at 42mm. The collapsible barrel retracts for transport.
The premium G X Vario optical formula provides better correction across the 28-84mm equivalent range than the standard G Vario kit zoom, while retaining the power zoom mechanism suited to video use. The power zoom speed control enables smooth focal length pulls in video that manual zoom cannot replicate consistently. For compact Panasonic body pairings — G9, GX9, G100 — the collapsible 95g design adds minimal size and weight for a full standard zoom range.
On the used market the G X Vario PZ 14-42mm is affordable as the Panasonic premium power zoom kit lens. Condition checks: power zoom motor operation at all speed settings, OIS engagement, collapsible barrel mechanism, and front element condition. The 37mm filter thread requires step-up rings for most standard filter sizes. Compatible with all Micro Four Thirds bodies from Panasonic, Olympus, and OM System.