Panasonic Leica DG Vario-Elmarit H-ES12035 12-35mm
Canon L-series EF 70-200mm f/4L 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-series EF 70-200mm f/4L 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-series EF 70-200mm f/4L USM | |
|---|---|---|
| Optics | ||
| Type | zoom | zoom |
| Focal Length Min | 12 mm | 70 mm |
| Focal Length Max | 35 mm | 200 mm |
| Elements | 14 | 16 |
| Groups | 9 | 13 |
| Aspherical Elements | 4★ | 0 |
| ED Elements | 1 | 2★ |
| Coating | Nano Surface Coating | Fluorite element |
| Aperture | ||
| Max Aperture | f/2.8 | f/4 |
| 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★ | 0.71 kg |
| Filter Thread | 58 mm | 67 mm |
| AF & Stabilization | ||
| AF Type | Autofocus | ring-type USM★ |
| Stabilization | ✓★ | ✗ |
| Stabilization Stops | 5 stops | 5 stops |
| Focus | ||
| Min Focus Distance | 150 mm★ | 1.19 m |
| 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 social proof (86th percentile)86th %ile
- Strong aperture (86th percentile)86th %ile
Canon L-series EF 70-200mm f/4L USM
- Strong af (93rd percentile)93rd %ile
- Strong social proof (91st percentile)91st %ile
- Strong optical (82nd percentile)82nd %ile
- Strong bokeh (81st percentile)81st %ile
- Below average macro (30th percentile)
Pricing
Panasonic Leica DG Vario-Elmarit H-ES12035 12-35mm offers 2.1x better value for money
Verdict
Scores 96 overall, wins 8 of 9 usage categories and 4 of 22 specs.
