Panasonic Leica DG Vario-Elmarit H-ES12035 12-35mm
Nikon NIKKOR Z 20054 600mm
What Buyers Say
Panasonic Leica DG Vario-Elmarit H-ES12035 12-35mm
This Panasonic Leica 12-35mm f/2.8 lens is widely praised for its exceptional sharpness, solid build, and constant aperture, making it a versatile workhorse for both photo and video on Micro Four Thirds cameras. Users highlight its impressive image quality that rivals larger formats, fast and reliable autofocus, and effective image stabilization, especially when paired with compatible bodies. A few note the lens is somewhat heavy and that depth of field at f/2.8 is limited on MFT, but overall it is considered a worthwhile investment for those seeking a high-quality standard zoom.
Pros
- Exceptional sharpness
- Constant f/2.8 aperture
- Solid build quality
- Fast and reliable autofocus
- Effective image stabilization
Cons
- Somewhat heavy
- Limited depth of field at f/2.8 on MFT
- Image stabilization barely noticeable at wide angles
- Not as sharp as prime lenses
- Plastic lens hood
Nikon NIKKOR Z 20054 600mm
The Nikon 600mm f/4E FL ED VR is widely praised for its sharpness, fast autofocus, and significant weight reduction compared to previous models, making it more manageable for handheld use and travel. However, a notable minority report serious reliability issues, with the autofocus system failing without warning and Nikon's repair service facing parts shortages, leading to extended downtime. The lens delivers exceptional image quality, especially with teleconverters, but the high price and occasional quality control concerns give potential buyers pause.
Pros
- Exceptional sharpness and image quality
- Significant weight reduction (3 lbs lighter)
- Fast and accurate autofocus
- Improved balance for handheld use
- Excellent with teleconverters
Cons
- Autofocus reliability issues
- Nikon repair parts shortage
- High price point
- Tripod foot not Arca-Swiss compatible
- Heavy for extended handheld use
Scores
Specifications
| Panasonic Leica DG Vario-Elmarit H-ES12035 12-35mm | Nikon NIKKOR Z 20054 600mm | |
|---|---|---|
| Optics | ||
| Type | zoom | super-telephoto |
| Focal Length Min | 12 mm | 600 mm |
| Focal Length Max | 35 mm | 600 mm |
| Elements | 14 | 16 |
| Groups | 9 | 12 |
| Aspherical Elements | 4★ | 0 |
| ED Elements | 1 | 4★ |
| Coating | Nano Surface Coating | Nano Crystal & Super Integrated Coatings |
| Aperture | ||
| Max Aperture | f/2.8 | f/22 |
| Min Aperture | f/2.8 | f/4 |
| Constant | ✓ | ✓ |
| Diaphragm Blades | 7 | 9★ |
| Build | ||
| Mount | Micro Four Thirds | Nikon F |
| Format | micro-four-thirds | full-frame★ |
| Weather Sealed | ✓ | ✓ |
| Weight | 0.31 kg★ | 3.81 kg |
| Filter Thread | 58 mm | 41 mm |
| AF & Stabilization | ||
| AF Type | Autofocus | Silent Wave Motor |
| Stabilization | ✓ | ✓ |
| Stabilization Stops | 5 stops★ | 4 stops |
| Focus | ||
| Min Focus Distance | 150 mm★ | 4.40 m |
| Max Magnification | 0.21x | 1:7★ |
Pros & Cons
Panasonic Leica DG Vario-Elmarit H-ES12035 12-35mm
- Strong stabilization (97th percentile)97th %ile
- Strong optical (87th percentile)87th %ile
- Strong build (85th percentile)85th %ile
- Strong social proof (85th percentile)85th %ile
Nikon NIKKOR Z 20054 600mm
- Strong stabilization (93rd percentile)93rd %ile
- Strong optical (87th percentile)87th %ile
- Below average build (7th percentile)7th %ile
- Below average aperture (20th percentile)20th %ile
- Below average bokeh (23rd percentile)
- Below average macro (32nd percentile)
Verdict
Scores 90 overall, wins 9 of 9 usage categories and 4 of 22 specs.