OM System M.Zuiko ED 100-400mm F5.0-6.3 IS II Lens – Telephoto Zoom, Image Stabilization, Weather Sealing, Micro Four Thirds
The OM System M.Zuiko ED 100-400mm F5.0-6.3 IS II Lens positions itself at the leading edge of professional telephoto zoom lenses for Micro Four Thirds, answering the demand for lightweight, high-magnification optics with advanced stabilization. Designed for wildlife, sports, and outdoor photographers, this lens solves the challenge of capturing distant subjects with sharpness and clarity, even in dynamic or low-light conditions. Its core innovation lies in its powerful 200-800mm (35mm equivalent) focal range, integrated image stabilization, and robust weather-sealed construction, setting a new standard for versatility and portability in the super-telephoto category.Engineered with cutting-edge optical elements and a responsive autofocus system, the M.Zuiko 100-400mm F5.0-6.3 IS II delivers edge-to-edge sharpness, impressive subject isolation, and color fidelity that rivals much larger full-frame competitors. The lens is an essential tool for professionals who need reach and reliability without the bulk, offering seamless compatibility with OM System and Olympus Micro Four Thirds bodies. Its advanced feature set and ergonomic design make it a compelling upgrade from the original M.Zuiko 100-400mm and a serious alternative to heavier DSLR telephoto options.
Extreme Telephoto Zoom Range (200-800mm Equivalent)
With a native 100-400mm focal length, this lens provides an extraordinary 200-800mm equivalent reach on Micro Four Thirds cameras, making it ideal for birding, sports, and distant wildlife photography. The extended zoom range allows users to capture close-up details of faraway subjects without the need for cropping or digital zoom. This enables professionals to achieve frame-filling shots in the field, maximizing image quality and compositional flexibility.
Advanced Optical Design with ED and HR Elements
The optical formula features 21 elements in 15 groups, including:
- 4 Extra-low Dispersion (ED) elements
- 2 Super HR (High Refractive) elements
- 2 HR elements
These specialized elements minimize chromatic aberration, color fringing, and distortion, resulting in sharp images with high contrast across the zoom range. This ensures photographers get professional-grade clarity and color accuracy, even at the lens’s maximum focal lengths.
Built-in 5-Axis Image Stabilization (IS)
The integrated 5-axis image stabilization compensates for camera shake up to 3 stops, enabling handheld shooting at slower shutter speeds and longer focal lengths. This is especially valuable for low light performance or when tripods are impractical in the field. With this stabilization, photographers can confidently shoot sharp telephoto images without extra support equipment.
Fast, Precise Autofocus with MSC Mechanism
Utilizing the Movie & Still Compatible (MSC) autofocus drive, the lens offers silent, high-speed focusing that is ideal for both stills and 4K video. The internal focusing system reduces focus breathing and ensures smooth, accurate subject tracking. This allows users to capture fast-moving wildlife or athletes with reliable precision and minimal noise.
Weather-Sealed Construction (IPX1 Equivalent)
The lens body is sealed against dust, splashes, and light rain, matching the durability of OM System and Olympus pro camera bodies. Gaskets at all critical points provide robust protection in challenging outdoor environments. This enables professionals to shoot confidently in inclement weather or rugged locations without fear of equipment failure.
Minimum Focusing Distance of 1.3m Across Zoom Range
A close focusing distance of 1.3 meters (4.3 feet) at all focal lengths allows for impressive telephoto macro capabilities, with a maximum magnification of 0.57x (35mm equivalent). This makes it possible to capture detailed close-ups of small subjects like insects or flowers while maintaining a comfortable working distance. Photographers can expand their creative options with near-macro performance in a telephoto lens.
Teleconverter Compatibility (MC-14 & MC-20)
The lens is fully compatible with OM System MC-14 (1.4x) and MC-20 (2.0x) teleconverters, extending the effective focal length up to 1600mm (35mm equivalent) without sacrificing autofocus performance. This adaptability is unmatched in its class, allowing users to tailor reach for extreme wildlife or astrophotography scenarios. Professionals can respond to any shooting situation with confidence in their gear’s flexibility.
Lightweight and Compact for Its Class
Weighing approximately 1,120g (2.47 lbs), the lens is significantly lighter and more compact than full-frame equivalents, making it ideal for travel and handheld use. The retractable design and balanced ergonomics reduce fatigue during long shooting sessions. Photographers benefit from enhanced mobility and less physical strain, especially on extended outdoor assignments.
Fluorine Coating and ZERO Coating
The front element features a fluorine coating for easy cleaning and resistance to water, oil, and dust, while the proprietary ZERO (Zuiko Extra-low Reflection Optical) coating minimizes flare and ghosting. These coatings ensure consistently high image quality even in backlit or challenging lighting conditions. Users can maintain pristine optics and shoot confidently in diverse environments.
Customizable Controls and Focus Limiter Switch
The lens includes a focus limiter switch with three positions (FULL, 1.3-6m, and 6m-infinity) and customizable function buttons for rapid adjustment in the field. These controls streamline workflow and allow photographers to lock focus ranges or assign frequently used settings for efficiency. This ensures fast, intuitive operation and helps users react quickly to changing subjects.
Summary
The OM System M.Zuiko ED 100-400mm F5.0-6.3 IS II Lens stands out as a top-tier super-telephoto zoom for Micro Four Thirds, offering unmatched reach, advanced stabilization, and professional-grade optics in a highly portable package. Its weather-sealed design, fast autofocus, and macro capabilities make it the go-to choice for wildlife, sports, and outdoor photographers seeking both flexibility and reliability in the field.Compared to previous generations and full-frame competitors, this lens delivers superior value through its lightweight build, teleconverter compatibility, and robust feature set. Available now at ebphotovideo.com, the M.Zuiko 100-400mm F5.0-6.3 IS II empowers professionals to push creative boundaries and capture distant subjects with confidence.