Panasonic Leica DG Vario-Elmarit H-ES12035 12-35mm
Canon L EF 70-200mm f/4L IS II USM
What Buyers Say
Panasonic Leica DG Vario-Elmarit H-ES12035 12-35mm
The Panasonic Leica DG Vario-Elmarit 12-35mm f/2.8 lens is widely praised for its excellent optical performance, sturdy yet lightweight build, and fast autofocus. Users highlight its versatility as a workhorse zoom for both photo and video, with particular appreciation for the linear focus mode on compatible cameras. A few note the shallow depth of field is limited due to the Micro Four Thirds system, but overall sentiment is overwhelmingly positive.
Pros
- Excellent optical performance
- Sturdy yet lightweight build
- Fast and reliable autofocus
- Versatile zoom range
- Linear focus mode for video
Cons
- Limited shallow depth of field
- Focus-by-wire system not linear
- No built-in gear ring for cine use
- Slight chromatic aberration in high contrast
Canon L EF 70-200mm f/4L IS II USM
The Canon EF 70-200mm f/4L IS II USM is widely praised for its exceptional sharpness, lightweight design, and effective image stabilization. Users consistently highlight the lens's superb image quality, fast autofocus, and excellent value compared to the heavier f/2.8 version. A few criticisms include the lack of an included tripod collar and some reports of IS noise or autofocus issues in low light. Overall, it is considered a top-tier telephoto zoom for enthusiasts and professionals who prioritize portability.
Pros
- Exceptional sharpness across zoom range
- Lightweight and portable design
- Effective 5-stop image stabilization
- Fast and accurate autofocus
- Excellent image quality and color
Cons
- Tripod collar not included
- IS noise in some units
- Autofocus issues in low light
- No teleconverter compatibility
- High price point
Scores
Specifications
| Panasonic Leica DG Vario-Elmarit H-ES12035 12-35mm | Canon L EF 70-200mm f/4L IS II USM | |
|---|---|---|
| Optics | ||
| Type | zoom | zoom |
| Focal Length Min | 12 mm | 70 mm |
| Focal Length Max | 35 mm | 200 mm |
| Elements | 14 | 16 |
| Groups | 9 | 15 |
| Aspherical Elements | 4★ | 0 |
| ED Elements | 1 | 2★ |
| Coating | Nano Surface Coating | Super Spectra Coating |
| Aperture | ||
| Max Aperture | f/2.8 | f/32 |
| Min Aperture | f/2.8 | f/4 |
| Constant | ✓ | ✓ |
| Diaphragm Blades | 7 | 9★ |
| Build | ||
| Mount | Micro Four Thirds | Canon EF |
| Format | micro-four-thirds | full-frame★ |
| Weather Sealed | ✓ | ✓ |
| Weight | 0.31 kg★ | 0.78 kg |
| Filter Thread | 58 mm | 77 mm |
| AF & Stabilization | ||
| AF Type | Autofocus | USM★ |
| Stabilization | ✓ | ✓ |
| Stabilization Stops | 5 stops | 5 stops |
| Focus | ||
| Min Focus Distance | 150 mm★ | 600 mm |
| Max Magnification | 0.21x | 0.28x★ |
Pros & Cons
Panasonic Leica DG Vario-Elmarit H-ES12035 12-35mm
- Strong stabilization (97th percentile)97th %ile
- Strong user sentiment (91st percentile)91st %ile
- Strong aperture (86th percentile)86th %ile
- Strong social proof (86th percentile)86th %ile
Canon L EF 70-200mm f/4L IS II USM
- Strong stabilization (97th percentile)97th %ile
- Strong social proof (94th percentile)94th %ile
- Strong af (93rd percentile)93rd %ile
- Strong optical (84th percentile)84th %ile
- Below average aperture (5th percentile)5th %ile
- Below average bokeh (8th percentile)8th %ile
Pricing
Panasonic Leica DG Vario-Elmarit H-ES12035 12-35mm offers 2.4x better value for money
Verdict
Scores 94 overall, wins 8 of 9 usage categories and 3 of 22 specs.
