Panasonic Leica DG Vario-Elmarit H-ES12035 12-35mm
Sony G Master SEL2470GM2 24-70mm
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
Sony G Master SEL2470GM2 24-70mm
The Sony FE 24-70mm f/2.8 GM II is widely praised for its exceptional sharpness, fast autofocus, and improved lightweight design compared to its predecessor. Many users consider it the best standard zoom for Sony full-frame cameras, ideal for professional work and travel. However, a significant minority report serious quality control issues, including lens defects, autofocus problems, and even the lens falling apart, with some expressing frustration over Sony's warranty and customer service. The high price is a common concern, though most agree the optical performance justifies the cost.
Pros
- Exceptional sharpness across the frame
- Fast and accurate autofocus
- Lighter and more compact than predecessor
- Excellent color rendition and contrast
- Versatile 24-70mm focal range
Cons
- High price point
- Quality control issues (defects, misalignment)
- Some units have autofocus problems
- Lens can fall apart or break
- Heavy and bulky for some users
Scores
Specifications
| Panasonic Leica DG Vario-Elmarit H-ES12035 12-35mm | Sony G Master SEL2470GM2 24-70mm | |
|---|---|---|
| Optics | ||
| Type | zoom | zoom |
| Focal Length Min | 12 mm | 24 mm |
| Focal Length Max | 35 mm | 70 mm |
| Elements | 14 | 20 |
| Groups | 9 | 15 |
| Aspherical Elements | 4★ | 2 |
| ED Elements | 1 | 4★ |
| Coating | Nano Surface Coating | Nano AR Coating II |
| Aperture | ||
| Max Aperture | f/2.8 | f/22 |
| Min Aperture | f/2.8 | f/2.8 |
| Constant | ✓ | ✓ |
| Diaphragm Blades | 7 | 11★ |
| Build | ||
| Mount | Micro Four Thirds | Sony E |
| Format | micro-four-thirds | full-frame★ |
| Weather Sealed | ✓ | ✓ |
| Weight | 0.31 kg★ | 0.69 kg |
| Filter Thread | 58 mm | 82 mm |
| AF & Stabilization | ||
| AF Type | Autofocus | XD Linear Motors★ |
| Stabilization | ✓★ | ✗ |
| Stabilization Stops | 5 stops★ | — |
| Focus | ||
| Min Focus Distance | 150 mm★ | 210 mm |
| Max Magnification | 0.21x | 0.32x★ |
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
Sony G Master SEL2470GM2 24-70mm
- Strong af (98th percentile)98th %ile
- Strong optical (97th percentile)97th %ile
- Strong social proof (91st percentile)91st %ile
- Strong versatility (81st percentile)81st %ile
- Below average aperture (22nd percentile)
- Below average user sentiment (32nd percentile)
- Below average stabilization (34th percentile)
Pricing
Panasonic Leica DG Vario-Elmarit H-ES12035 12-35mm offers 2.4x better value for money
Verdict
Scores 96 overall, wins 9 of 9 usage categories and 5 of 22 specs.
