OM System M.Zuiko Digital 25mm f/1.8 II specifications and in-depth review

OM System M.Zuiko Digital 25mm f/1.8 II

Manufacturer: OM System

The OM System M.Zuiko Digital 25mm f/1.8 II is a compact and lightweight prime lens designed for Micro Four Thirds cameras. With a fixed focal length of 25mm and a wide 1.8f aperture, it offers a versatile option for general photography.

This lens features a minimum focus distance of 0.25 meters and does not include optical image stabilization. It uses 7 aperture blades for smooth background blur, and the 46mm filter size ensures compatibility with various accessories. Additionally, it supports full-time manual focus and has a maximum angle of view of 47°.

Pros
  • Lightweight design at just 156g, making it easy to carry and handle for extended shooting sessions.
  • Wide 1.8f aperture allows for better performance in low-light conditions and creative control over depth of field.
  • Full-time manual focus capability provides flexibility for precise adjustments during shooting.
Cons
  • No built-in optical image stabilization, which may limit handheld shooting stability in certain situations.
  • Not weather-sealed, making it less suitable for shooting in harsh or wet conditions.
  • Fixed focal length of 25mm limits flexibility compared to zoom lenses for varying compositions.
Who is this for?

The OM System M.Zuiko Digital 25mm f/1.8 II is ideal for photographers looking for a lightweight and compact prime lens for everyday use, street photography, or general portrait work. Its 1.8f aperture provides good low-light performance and depth-of-field control, making it a great choice for those who value simplicity and precision in their lens choice.

Who is this NOT for?

This lens may not be suitable for users needing versatile focal lengths or those who frequently shoot in challenging conditions. Without optical image stabilization or weather-sealing, it may struggle in low-light handheld situations or wet environments. Additionally, the fixed 25mm focal length may be limiting for those who require a zoom lens for varied compositions.

General info:

lens type Prime
lens mount Micro Four Thirds
release date February 2025
is weather-sealed (splashproof)
weight 156 g
filter size 46 mm

The OM System M.Zuiko Digital 25mm f/1.8 II is a prime lens designed for Micro Four Thirds cameras, with a lightweight build of just 156g for portability. It has a 46mm filter size, making it compatible with various filter options. While it is not weather-sealed, this lens offers a practical choice for everyday use and general photography.

Optics:

maximum focal length 25 mm
minimum focal length 25 mm
has built-in optical image stabilization
maximum angle of view 47°
minimum angle of view 47°
magnification 0.12x
optical zoom 1x

The OM System M.Zuiko Digital 25mm f/1.8 II features a fixed focal length of 25mm, offering a wide angle of view with both the maximum and minimum angle of view being 47°. It provides a magnification of 0.12x and has no optical image stabilization. With no optical zoom, this lens offers a straightforward 1x magnification for capturing natural perspectives.

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 25mm f/1.8 II features a wide 1.8f aperture throughout its focal length range, allowing for excellent low-light performance and shallow depth of field. It is equipped with 7 aperture blades, which are rounded to create smooth bokeh. The smallest aperture is f/22, providing greater control over depth of field when needed.

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 25mm f/1.8 II offers the ability to focus to infinity, making it versatile for a wide range of photography scenarios. It does not have a focus motor but does support full-time manual focus, allowing for precise adjustments during shooting. The lens also features a minimum focus distance of just 0.25 meters for close-up shots.

Benchmarks:

Final Verdict

The OM System M.Zuiko Digital 25mm f/1.8 II is a compact and lightweight prime lens designed for Micro Four Thirds cameras, offering excellent low-light performance with its 1.8f aperture. Its simple, fixed focal length makes it a great choice for everyday photography and precise manual focus control. However, the lack of optical image stabilization and weather-sealing may limit its versatility in certain shooting environments. Overall, it's a reliable, easy-to-use option for photographers seeking a straightforward, portable lens with strong aperture capabilities.