TurboVS
OM System M.Zuiko Digital 17mm f/1.8 II specifications and in-depth review

OM System M.Zuiko Digital 17mm f/1.8 II

Manufacturer: OM System

The OM System M.Zuiko Digital 17mm f/1.8 II is a compact prime lens built for Micro Four Thirds cameras. It features a wide f/1.8 aperture, making it suitable for low-light shooting and achieving a shallow depth of field.

This lens offers a fixed 17mm focal length, with a minimum focus distance of 0.25 meters. It lacks built-in image stabilization and focus motor, but includes full-time manual focus. With a 46mm filter size, it is lightweight at just 112g and features 7 rounded aperture blades for smoother bokeh.

Pros
  • Lightweight at 112g, making it easy to carry for extended shooting sessions.
  • Has a wide f/1.8 aperture for improved low-light performance and depth of field control.
  • Offers full-time manual focus for precise adjustments during shooting.
  • Compatible with Micro Four Thirds cameras, providing a versatile option for users of that system.
  • Features rounded aperture blades for smoother bokeh.
Cons
  • Lacks built-in optical image stabilization, requiring stable shooting conditions or a tripod for steady shots.
  • Does not include autofocus due to the absence of a focus motor, limiting convenience in fast-moving scenes.
  • Not weather-sealed, which could limit its use in harsh or wet conditions.
  • Fixed focal length with no zoom, which may not offer the flexibility needed in dynamic shooting environments.
Who is this for?

The OM System M.Zuiko Digital 17mm f/1.8 II is ideal for photographers using Micro Four Thirds cameras who prioritize a lightweight design for portability and ease of use. Its wide f/1.8 aperture makes it well-suited for low-light conditions and creative control over depth of field. The full-time manual focus and compact build also make it a good option for street and landscape photographers who need a reliable, small lens for precise focus adjustments.

Who is this NOT for?

This lens is not suitable for users who need optical image stabilization or autofocus, as it lacks both features, limiting its usability in fast-paced or dynamic shooting situations. It also doesn't offer the flexibility of zoom, making it less ideal for situations requiring a range of focal lengths without changing lenses. Additionally, the lack of weather sealing means it is not ideal for shooting in harsh or wet conditions.

General info:

lens type Prime
lens mount Micro Four Thirds
release date February 2025
is weather-sealed (splashproof) ✕
weight 112 g
filter size 46 mm

The OM System M.Zuiko Digital 17mm f/1.8 II is a prime lens designed for Micro Four Thirds cameras. It has a lightweight build of just 112g, making it easy to carry for extended shooting. The lens features a 46mm filter size and does not include weather sealing, meaning it is not splashproof. The lens mount is also compatible with Micro Four Thirds systems, making it a versatile option for users of that format.

Optics:

maximum focal length 17 mm
minimum focal length 17 mm
has built-in optical image stabilization ✕
maximum angle of view 65°
minimum angle of view 65°
magnification 0.08x
optical zoom 1x

The OM System M.Zuiko Digital 17mm f/1.8 II has a fixed focal length of 17mm, offering a 65° maximum angle of view. This lens provides no optical zoom, as it features a 1x optical zoom ratio. It has a magnification of 0.08x and does not include built-in optical image stabilization, making it suitable for steady shooting when mounted on a stabilized camera or tripod.

Aperture:

wide aperture (main camera) 1.8f
widest aperture at maximum focal length 1.8f
aperture blades 7
Has rounded aperture blades ✓
smallest aperture at maximum focal length 1.8f
smallest aperture at minimum focal length 22f

The OM System M.Zuiko Digital 17mm f/1.8 II features a wide f/1.8 aperture, which remains consistent at both minimum and maximum focal lengths. The lens has 7 rounded aperture blades, contributing to smoother bokeh in your shots. At its smallest aperture, it reaches f/22 at minimum focal length, ensuring flexibility for different lighting conditions.

Focus:

Can focus to infinity ✓
Has focus motor ✕
Has full-time manual focus ✓
minimum focus distance 0.25 m

The OM System M.Zuiko Digital 17mm f/1.8 II allows for infinity focus, making it suitable for wide landscape and astrophotography shots. It also offers full-time manual focus for greater control over your focus adjustments. However, it does not include a focus motor, so autofocus is not available. The lens has a minimum focus distance of 0.25 meters, allowing for close-up shots with sharp detail.

Benchmarks:

Final Verdict

The OM System M.Zuiko Digital 17mm f/1.8 II is a compact and lightweight prime lens that offers a wide f/1.8 aperture for excellent low-light performance and shallow depth of field control. It is well-suited for photographers looking for a portable, manual-focus lens for street or landscape photography. While it lacks optical image stabilization and autofocus, making it less versatile for fast-moving subjects, it excels in environments where precise manual control and image quality are prioritized. Overall, it is a solid choice for those seeking a reliable, fixed focal length lens for their Micro Four Thirds system.