Panasonic Leica DG Vario-Elmarit H-ES12035 12-35mm
Canon EF-S 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 IS II
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 EF-S 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 IS II
This kit lens is generally well-regarded as a versatile and affordable starter option for Canon DSLR beginners, delivering sharp images and effective image stabilization for the price. However, many users note its limitations in low light, slow and sometimes unreliable autofocus, and a plastic build that can wear out over time. While it's a great value for learning, most reviewers recommend upgrading to a faster or higher-quality lens as skills improve.
Pros
- Sharp image quality
- Effective image stabilization
- Versatile focal range
- Lightweight and compact
- Great value for beginners
Cons
- Slow autofocus in low light
- Plastic build quality
- Limited aperture at telephoto
- Autofocus hunting
- Noise during video recording
Scores
Specifications
| Panasonic Leica DG Vario-Elmarit H-ES12035 12-35mm | Canon EF-S 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 IS II | |
|---|---|---|
| Optics | ||
| Type | zoom | zoom |
| Focal Length Min | 12 mm | 18 mm |
| Focal Length Max | 35 mm | 55 mm |
| Elements | 14 | 11 |
| Groups | 9 | 9 |
| Aspherical Elements | 4★ | 1 |
| ED Elements | 1 | 1 |
| Coating | Nano Surface Coating | Super Spectra coating |
| Aperture | ||
| Max Aperture | f/2.8 | f/3.5 |
| Min Aperture | f/2.8 | 3.5-5.6 |
| Constant | ✓★ | ✗ |
| Diaphragm Blades | 7★ | 6 |
| Build | ||
| Mount | Micro Four Thirds | Canon EF-S |
| Format | micro-four-thirds | APS-C★ |
| Weather Sealed | ✓★ | ✗ |
| Weight | 0.31 kg | 0.20 kg★ |
| Filter Thread | 58 mm | 58 mm |
| AF & Stabilization | ||
| AF Type | Autofocus | Micro Motor |
| Stabilization | ✓ | ✓ |
| Stabilization Stops | 5 stops★ | 4 stops |
| Focus | ||
| Min Focus Distance | 150 mm★ | 250 mm |
| Max Magnification | 0.21x | 0.34x★ |
Pros & Cons
Panasonic Leica DG Vario-Elmarit H-ES12035 12-35mm
- Strong stabilization (96th percentile)96th %ile
- Strong user sentiment (92nd percentile)92nd %ile
- Strong aperture (88th percentile)88th %ile
- Strong bokeh (87th percentile)87th %ile
Canon EF-S 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 IS II
- Strong stabilization (92nd percentile)92nd %ile
- Strong af (85th percentile)85th %ile
- Strong build (84th percentile)84th %ile
- Strong aperture (83rd percentile)83rd %ile
- Below average user sentiment (17th percentile)17th %ile
Pricing
Panasonic Leica DG Vario-Elmarit H-ES12035 12-35mm
No current pricing available
Canon EF-S 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 IS II
Verdict
Scores 96 overall, wins 6 of 9 usage categories and 6 of 22 specs.