Panasonic Leica DG Vario-Elmarit H-ES12035 12-35mm
Laowa Argus 45mm f/0.95 45mm
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
Laowa Argus 45mm f/0.95 45mm
The Laowa 45mm f/0.95 lens offers a unique rendering that appeals to photographers seeking a distinctive look rather than technical perfection. Users appreciate its special character but note significant design flaws, including a heavy feel due to the center of gravity being far from the mount and the lack of electronic communication with the camera. It is a fully manual lens with no weather sealing, and while it can be a good alternative to hard-to-find competitors, it requires compromise.
Pros
- Unique rendering
- Special character
- Good alternative to rare lenses
Cons
- Heavy feel due to center of gravity
- No electronic communication with camera
- Fully manual focus
- No weather sealing
- Design flaws
Scores
Specifications
| Panasonic Leica DG Vario-Elmarit H-ES12035 12-35mm | Laowa Argus 45mm f/0.95 45mm | |
|---|---|---|
| Optics | ||
| Type | zoom | prime |
| Focal Length Min | 12 mm | 45 mm |
| Focal Length Max | 35 mm | 45 mm |
| Elements | 14 | 13 |
| Groups | 9 | 9 |
| Aspherical Elements | 4★ | 1 |
| ED Elements | 1 | 1 |
| Coating | Nano Surface Coating | — |
| Aperture | ||
| Max Aperture | f/2.8 | f/16 |
| Min Aperture | f/2.8 | f/0.95 |
| Constant | ✓ | ✓ |
| Diaphragm Blades | 7 | 15★ |
| Build | ||
| Mount | Micro Four Thirds | Sony E |
| Format | micro-four-thirds | full-frame★ |
| Weather Sealed | ✓★ | ✗ |
| Weight | 0.31 kg★ | 0.83 kg |
| Filter Thread | 58 mm | 72 mm |
| AF & Stabilization | ||
| AF Type | Autofocus | manual focus only |
| Stabilization | ✓★ | ✗ |
| Stabilization Stops | 5 stops★ | — |
| Focus | ||
| Min Focus Distance | 150 mm★ | 500 mm |
| Max Magnification | 0.21x | 1:8★ |
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
Laowa Argus 45mm f/0.95 45mm
- Strong optical (65th percentile)
- Below average social proof (3rd percentile)3rd %ile
- Below average user sentiment (5th percentile)5th %ile
- Below average af (13th percentile)13th %ile
- Below average build (23rd percentile)
Pricing
Panasonic Leica DG Vario-Elmarit H-ES12035 12-35mm offers 2.7x better value for money
Verdict
Scores 90 overall, wins 9 of 9 usage categories and 6 of 22 specs.
