Physical
The appearance of the objective is noble and high quality. It is mainly made of plastic what you feel but not see. The knurling of the broad zoom ring like absorbs dirt and can not be cleaned easily.
The zoom moves smoothly and a little stiff in my copy.
The lens does not Zoomlock what but at least the moment is not necessary. It shows no tendency to extend under its own weight. The focus ring is usual with MFT without any tactile feedback.
Picture performance
I've done about 1000 images so far in holidays and everyday. My copy is distinguished very sharply. That's impressive. The photos are immediately distinguishable from my 14-150 even at low magnification. Also it seems sharper than my 40-150. The contrast is impeccable.
Interpretation
On my two Pens (E-PL3 / E-PM1) the camera with this lens is an appendage. At my OM-D EM-5 it's just when the handle is mounted.
The KB equivalent focal length of 150 mm is telelasting, the frequent change is announced. If the lens starting at about 100 mm (equivalent to 50mm MFT) would be considerably more practical. Even this would result in no more gap to 12-50. Unfortunately, keeping the range of 50-75 without serving.
Autofocus
The pretty short focusing distance causes if the camera Focus is lost completely beside it. Unfortunately there is no way to split or narrow the focus area. That would be just for the distant Photography (aircraft, etc.) is intended for the lens in my eyes very helpful.
The autofocus is accurate. Occasionally, however, he finds at the long end no focus point when is focused away from close to. I did even if the contrast and brightness should these stretch easily. Then only helps on the short end for zooming away to Focussieren and to get back on the long end.
I have the impression that the Focus running as fast by the edge of the level at 600 mm (300mm) is already flat, that the contrast of the camera is not seen. A strange phenomenon that calls for a firmware update.
The autofocus is fast, as in all recent constructions of Olympus MFT.
Stabi need
The lens is quite faint and require the long end often higher ISO and the stabilizer. I suspect, therefore, that it would not be the right choice for Panasonic. The viewfinder image is sure to result in 600 mm (300 mm) very restless and only beding of hand.
Conclusion
Overall it is a very sharp lens for photographers who can live with the limitations described.
The price of about 500 EUR is now moving in a sensible order.
But if you want to pay attention to small luggage remains this lens probably at home. For its weight can 3 pack of the light MFT lenses.
The usual way is missing the sun visor and can be purchased at the price of a Kitzooms is still annoying.
