OM System M.Zuiko 45mm f/1.8 vs Panasonic Lumix G 42.5mm f/1.7
OM System M.Zuiko 45mm f/1.8 has more in its favour on paper. The Lumix G 42.5mm f/1.7 gathers more light for low light and background blur; the M.Zuiko 45mm f/1.8 is cheaper.
Choose the M.Zuiko 45mm f/1.8 for
- less weight (116g vs 130g)
- a lower price (about £100 vs £200)
Choose the Lumix G 42.5mm f/1.7 for
- a brighter maximum aperture (f/1.7, about 0.2 stops more light)
- optical stabilisation
| M.Zuiko 45mm f/1.8 | Lumix G 42.5mm f/1.7 | |
|---|---|---|
| Brand | OM System | Panasonic |
| Focal length | 45mm | 42.5mm |
| Maximum aperture | f/1.8 | f/1.7 |
| Weight | 116 g | 130 g |
| Stabilisation | No | Yes |
| Weather sealing | No | No |
| Filter size | 37mm | 37mm |
| Made for | MFT | MFT |
| New price | £249 | £399 |
| Used at MPB (Micro Four Thirds) | £85–£106 | £189–£209 |
Frequently asked questions
Is the OM System M.Zuiko 45mm f/1.8 better than the Panasonic Lumix G 42.5mm f/1.7?
The M.Zuiko 45mm f/1.8 offers less weight (116g vs 130g), a lower price (about £100 vs £200); the Lumix G 42.5mm f/1.7 offers a brighter maximum aperture (f/1.7, about 0.2 stops more light), optical stabilisation.
Which is better value, the M.Zuiko 45mm f/1.8 or the Lumix G 42.5mm f/1.7?
On Micro Four Thirds, the OM System M.Zuiko 45mm f/1.8 costs about £100 against about £200 for the Panasonic Lumix G 42.5mm f/1.7 (MPB used where listed, otherwise new; checked 5 November 2026).
Is f/1.7 worth it over f/1.8?
f/1.7 gathers about 0.2 stops more light, which helps indoors, at night and for background blur. If you mostly shoot in good light, the slower lens is usually lighter and cheaper.
Do both lenses fit the same cameras?
Both are available for Micro Four Thirds. Both are made for crop sensors.