Panasonic 100 300 vs Olympus 75 300 is one of the most discussed comparisons among Micro Four Thirds users. Both lenses promise long telephoto reach, compact size, and affordability,
making them attractive for wildlife, sports, and outdoor photography. The challenge for many photographers is deciding which one delivers the better balance of image quality, performance, and value.
Panasonic 100 300 vs Olympus 75 300 highlights two different design philosophies. Panasonic focuses on versatility with optical image stabilization, making handheld shooting more reliable in challenging conditions.
Olympus emphasizes portability, offering a lighter build that pairs beautifully with smaller Micro Four Thirds cameras. Both options extend up to 300mm, but the overall user experience differs depending on shooting style and needs.
Panasonic 100 300 vs Olympus 75 300 also sparks debates about sharpness, autofocus speed, and low-light handling. Wildlife enthusiasts often lean toward the Panasonic for its stabilization, while travelers appreciate the compact design of the Olympus.
Each lens brings strengths that cater to different photographers, and the decision ultimately rests on shooting priorities. By comparing their features, build quality, and performance, it becomes easier to see which telephoto lens deserves a spot in your camera bag.
Panasonic 100 300 vs Olympus 75 300: Camera Lens.
Panasonic 100 300 vs Olympus 75 300 is a topic many Micro Four Thirds users want clear answers to. Both lenses give photographers a long telephoto reach, compact design,
and reasonable prices. Wildlife shooters, bird photographers, and sports lovers often compare these two lenses to see which one fits their needs better. The choice is not always simple, because each lens has strengths and weaknesses.
This article gives a full breakdown of both lenses, including features, pros, cons, and overall opinions, followed by a detailed comparison, FAQs, and conclusion.
Panasonic LUMIX 100 300mm : Panasonic LUMIX G II Vario Lens.
Product Details
The updated Panasonic LUMIX 100 300mm lens replaces the older H FS100300 version. It comes with a focal length of 100-300mm and an aperture of f/4.0-5.6. It uses one extra-low dispersion element for better image clarity.
The closest focusing distance is 1.5 meters or 4.92 feet, which works well for distant subjects but is not ideal for close-ups. The lens also supports harsh shooting conditions with splash-proof and dustproof protection. Another strong point is compatibility with Panasonic’s POWER O.I.S. and
Dual I.S. 2.0 stabilization, making handheld shots more stable. The 240 fps linear motor ensures faster autofocus and better focus tracking, useful for moving subjects. The diagonal angle of view is 12° at wide end and 4.1° at tele end.
Features
– Focal length: 100-300mm f/4.0-5.6
– Closest focus distance: 1.5m / 4.92 ft
– Weather sealing: Splash-proof and dustproof
– Optical stabilization: POWER O.I.S. with Dual I.S. 2.0 support
– Autofocus: 240 fps linear motor for fast and accurate tracking
– Angle of view: 12° to 4.1°
What is the good?
The Panasonic 100 300mm lens delivers sharp images across much of its zoom range. Weather sealing makes it reliable for outdoor use in rain, dust, or rough conditions. Built-in stabilization helps reduce shake at long focal lengths, especially when paired with LUMIX cameras.
The 240 fps autofocus motor is quick and accurate, which is great for tracking fast-moving subjects like birds or sports action. The lens also feels solid and well-built, which adds confidence in long shooting sessions.
What is the bad?
The closest focusing distance of 1.5m can be a limitation for users who want closer shots of small subjects. The lens is not very light compared to the Olympus 75 300, which may cause some fatigue during long handheld sessions.
At 300mm, edge sharpness can drop slightly, especially in low light, which requires careful handling or higher ISO settings. The aperture of f/4.0-5.6 is also not very fast, so night shooting becomes challenging without a tripod or high ISO support.
Overall Opinion
The Panasonic 100 300mm is a strong option for wildlife and sports photographers who value stabilization and weather sealing. It balances reach and build quality well, making it a dependable telephoto choice.
For photographers who shoot in different weather conditions, this lens feels like a safe investment. While it may not be the lightest or the fastest in aperture, it still provides a powerful telephoto range with solid performance.
Olympus 75 300mm : Compact Powerful Zoom lens.
Product Details
The Olympus 75 300mm lens is built for compact telephoto shooting. It has a focal length range of 75-300mm and is much lighter compared to its Panasonic rival. The lens offers excellent imaging performance and is affordable for beginners and hobbyists.
It features MSC (Movie & Still Compatible) technology, which allows fast and quiet autofocus, ideal for both stills and video work. The closest focusing distance is 0.9m at 75mm and 1.5m for the rest of the focal range. The maximum magnification is 0.18x (equivalent to 0.36x in 35mm terms).
Users should note that edges of images may be cut if thick filters are stacked, and flash use may be blocked by the lens hood or body.
Features
– Focal length: 75-300mm f/4.8-6.7
– Closest focus distance: 0.9m at 75mm, 1.5m at longer focal lengths
– Autofocus: MSC mechanism for silent and fast AF
– Maximum magnification: 0.18x (35mm equivalent 0.36x)
– Compact and lightweight design
– Affordable price range
What is the good?
The Olympus 75 300mm stands out for its lightweight build, making it very easy to carry during long walks or travel. The compact size pairs nicely with smaller Micro Four Thirds bodies. Autofocus is fast and nearly silent,
making it excellent for video recording. The image quality is sharp across much of the zoom range, especially in good light conditions. The price is also attractive, offering long reach without heavy cost.
What is the bad?
The Olympus 75 300mm does not include built-in stabilization, so it depends on camera body stabilization for steady shots. The maximum aperture is narrower, especially at the tele end (f/6.7),
which limits low-light performance. It also lacks weather sealing, so shooting in rain or dusty environments may be risky. Flash use can be tricky because the lens body or hood may block the light in some situations.
Overall Opinion
The Olympus 75 300mm is perfect for users who want a light and affordable telephoto lens. It works very well for travel, casual wildlife, and outdoor photography in good lighting. Video shooters benefit from the quiet autofocus system. While it does not have weather sealing or stabilization, it still shines as a budget-friendly and portable option for long telephoto shooting.
Detailed Comparison : Panasonic 100 300 vs Olympus 75 300.
Panasonic 100 300 vs Olympus 75 300 presents two different approaches to telephoto zooms. The Panasonic is heavier but includes stabilization and weather sealing,
making it more reliable for outdoor adventures and unstable shooting conditions. Its faster autofocus motor also gives it an edge in wildlife and sports photography. The Olympus is lighter and easier to carry, which suits travel photographers who want portability above all.
Both lenses deliver good image quality, but the Panasonic tends to hold sharpness better at the tele end, while the Olympus provides more convenience in weight and handling.
Low-light shooters may lean toward the Panasonic, while those who prefer light gear will appreciate the Olympus. Price also plays a role, with Olympus often being the cheaper option.
FAQs
Which lens is better for wildlife photography?
The Panasonic 100 300mm is better for wildlife due to stabilization, weather sealing, and faster autofocus tracking.
Which lens is easier to carry for travel?
The Olympus 75 300mm is lighter and more compact, making it easier for travel and long handheld use.
Does the Olympus 75 300mm work well in low light?
Low-light performance is limited due to its smaller maximum aperture of f/6.7 at the tele end. It works best in good lighting conditions.
Is the Panasonic 100 300mm worth the higher price?
Yes, for users who need stabilization, weather sealing, and faster autofocus, the higher price is justified.
Conclusion
Panasonic 100 300 vs Olympus 75 300 shows that both lenses have clear strengths. Panasonic gives more confidence in harsh weather and delivers reliable stabilization, making it ideal for wildlife and sports.
Olympus offers a lightweight and affordable telephoto solution that suits travel and casual shooting. The choice depends on personal needs: durability and performance with Panasonic, or portability and price with Olympus.
