Panasonic Leica DG Vario-Elmarit H-ES12035 12-35mm
Nikon NIKKOR 2211 18-55mm
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 2211 18-55mm
This Nikon 18-55mm VR II lens is widely praised as an excellent value kit lens replacement. Users highlight its sharpness, compact size, light weight, and improved close-focus ability over older versions. A few note minor quirks like the lock mechanism and potential shadow from the on-camera flash, but overall sentiment is overwhelmingly positive.
Pros
- Excellent value for money
- Sharp image quality
- Compact and lightweight
- Improved close focus ability
- Effective vibration reduction
Cons
- Lock mechanism can confuse new users
- On-camera flash shadow at close focus
- Plastic mount feels less durable
- Slower autofocus than pro lenses
- No weather sealing
Scores
Specifications
| Panasonic Leica DG Vario-Elmarit H-ES12035 12-35mm | Nikon NIKKOR 2211 18-55mm | |
|---|---|---|
| Optics | ||
| Type | zoom | zoom |
| Focal Length Min | 12 mm | 18 mm |
| Focal Length Max | 35 mm | 55 mm |
| Elements | 14 | — |
| Groups | 9 | — |
| Aspherical Elements | 4★ | — |
| ED Elements | 1 | 2★ |
| Coating | Nano Surface Coating | — |
| Aperture | ||
| Max Aperture | f/2.8 | f/5.6 |
| Min Aperture | f/2.8 | f/3.5 |
| Constant | ✓★ | ✗ |
| Diaphragm Blades | 7★ | — |
| Build | ||
| Mount | Micro Four Thirds | Nikon F |
| Format | micro-four-thirds | APS-C★ |
| Weather Sealed | ✓★ | — |
| Weight | 0.31 kg | 0.20 kg★ |
| Filter Thread | 58 mm | — |
| AF & Stabilization | ||
| AF Type | Autofocus | AF-S |
| Stabilization | ✓ | ✓ |
| Stabilization Stops | 5 stops★ | 4 stops |
| Focus | ||
| Min Focus Distance | 150 mm | 55 mm★ |
| Max Magnification | 0.21x★ | — |
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 2211 18-55mm
- Strong macro (96th percentile)96th %ile
- Strong stabilization (93rd percentile)93rd %ile
- Strong user sentiment (91st percentile)91st %ile
- Strong social proof (85th percentile)85th %ile
Verdict
Scores 90 overall, wins 8 of 9 usage categories and 6 of 22 specs.