In this review, we'll compare the Panasonic 100-300mm F4-5.6 OIS for the MFT with the Panasonic 100-300mm F4-5.6 II OIS for the MFT, both Telephoto Zoom lenses designed by Panasonic. Both lenses have the same focal range of 100-300mm but different max apertures: Panasonic 100-300mm F4-5.6 OIS has a max aperture of F4.0 - F5.6 while the Panasonic 100-300mm F4-5.6 II OIS has a max aperture of F4-5.6.
We'll begin by briefly examining the main specifications of these two lenses. In the subsequent section, we'll delve into a more detailed analysis, outlining the strengths and weaknesses of each.
What type of photography are the Panasonic 100-300mm F4-5.6 OIS and Panasonic 100-300mm F4-5.6 II OIS lenses good for?
The type of photography that you are planning to use is an important decision factor. Here we have evaluated the Panasonic 100-300mm F4-5.6 OIS and the Panasonic 100-300mm F4-5.6 II OIS for their suitability to various photography scenarios:
Photography Type |
Panasonic 100-300mm F4-5.6 OIS |
Panasonic 100-300mm F4-5.6 II OIS |
Bird/Wildlife | Excellent | Excellent |
Sports | Excellent | Excellent |
Portrait | Poor | Poor |
Travel | Poor | Poor |
Street | Poor | Poor |
Wedding | Poor | Poor |
Walk Around | Fair | Fair |
Vlogging | Poor | Poor |
Landscape | Fair | Fair |
Macro | Fair | Fair |
Size and Weight Comparison
The weight of a lens is equally significant as its external dimensions, particularly if you intend to handhold your camera and lens combination for extended periods.
Below you can find the dimension and weight table of the Telephoto Zoom Lenses in Micro Four Thirds Mount for size comparison purposes.
Super Telephoto Lenses in Micro Four Thirds Mount for Size Comparison
Filter Threads
Both the Panasonic 100-300mm F4-5.6 OIS and the Panasonic 100-300mm F4-5.6 II OIS have the same Filter thread size of 67mm.
Below are links to the 67mm filters that we recommend you to consider for these lenses:
Lens Mounts
Both the Panasonic 100-300mm F4-5.6 OIS and the Panasonic 100-300mm F4-5.6 II OIS has the same Micro Four Thirds lens mount. Some of the latest released cameras that are compatible with the Micro Four Thirds lenses are OM System OM-1 II, Panasonic G9 II and OM System OM-5.
Focal Range
Both lenses have the same focal range of
100-300mm and the fastest aperture of
F4.0 - F5.6.