I prefer shooting people and indoors, so I couldn't warrant spending too much on a zoom lens. This one had solid reviews and seems to be clearance priced (as it is discontinued, so out with the old?)
So why did I choose this discontinued (older) model over the newer one? Let's compare:
Old has F3.5-4.5, New has F4.0-5.6. Old weighs 15.75 oz/450g, New 7.8oz/220g Old runs about 30 bucks more (well based on marketlace) They both have the same Minimum Focal Length: 40mm Both have near same magnification .12x (old) and .14x (new) Old Dimensions: 4.21" Length x 3" Diameter New Dimensions: 2.83" Length x 2.58" Diameter
Bottom line is I wanted to be able to use this one indoors, so I paid more and will endure it weighing near twice as much. One plus side is that my 14-42 kit lens is f5.6@42mm, where as this one is f3.5@40mm. So, this lens is better for taking indoor (lower light) portrait shots with a good blurred background.
The pictures have been amazingly sharp too. Very satisfied with my purchase.
"Awesome lens!"
2008-12-18
- Reviewed By User: A1MTNIU2B9A3NF
This is a great ling lens for the price, $120.
As an amateur photographer, I wanted to get closer to the action w/o having to do it physically. I own an Olympus E-500.
* It is awesome for shooting tall building and close-ups of nature. * Not ideal for close range shooting. The auto focus has a hard time focusing even when set to 40mm for regular/indoor shooting.
Nothing wrong w/the lens itself, but I wish I had bought a macro lens instead as I see the need for it now that I want to shoot portraits.
Product is just what I wanted and expected. It works with my E-Volt 500 as advertised
"GET IT WHILE U CAN"
2008-05-13
- Reviewed By User: A30YW1ZVUBQI88
Well it is my time to say how good or bad. Well first auto focus is fast, 3.5 is bright enough, 4.5 is faster than the kit lens. Image quality is great all through the focal length, super sharp at 60 to 90 mm with tripod. I got this for my E510 at Cameta Camera for only $129. I was worried to get this from Cameta Camera because of the price but after a few weeks of wondering I just bought it from them. It came well packed with front & rear caps + lens hood in good bubble wrap, thanks Cameta Camera I will buy from you again. Soon I will get the 70 to 300mm. Factory demo EXCELLENT CONDITION. Works like new I have photo to prove it.
PROS Fast auto focus Very sharp images Large hood for blocking excess light Reasonable weight (Metal mount) better than hard plastic Smooth & firm zoom.
CONS Not so good in low light conditions & night Front barrel rotates for focus not good for circular polarized Minimum focus distance too long 1.5m.
Over all a wise choice and must have lens, with Olympus Cameras IS system I wouldn't worry too much about a tripod for daytime use.
"Excellent Product and Service"
2008-05-11
- Reviewed By User: A52AVSONL34WG
The service was wonderful. My camera lens actually arrived earlier than I expected. The lens is wonderful as well.The whole transaction was a joy.
"Bang for the buck"
2008-03-25
- Reviewed By User: A2OFQ8ZNGWAYPV
I have a E-510 and bought this lens, because I frequently shoot in the shade of trees and reeds and want the extra stop of light (f3.5-4.5 vs f4.0-5.6) this lens offers when zoomed all the way out (150mm) over the current Olympus kit 40-150mm and also because its being offered at closeout prices.
Comparing it to the current 410/510 kit 40-150mm, it is a bigger, heavier lens (not twice the size but maybe 1.5 times the size and probably the weight as well). It feels and looks like the construction was more expensive on it than the current kit lens (probably why they're not making these anymore). Adorama packed it very well. If you're looking for a economical 40-150mm or want that extra stop of light out at 150mm over your 410/510 kit 40-150mm, this is a great deal. I doubt they'll be available much longer - judging by the price. Recommended.
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"Awesome lens!"