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Olympus 14-42mm f/3.5-5.6 II MSC M.Zuiko Autofocus Lens for MFT (Micro Four Thirds), Black {37}
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$45.00
Olympus 14-42mm f/3.5-5.6 II MSC: The MFT kit zoom done right.
On Micro Four Thirds, 14-42mm covers the full standard zoom range, equivalent to 28-84mm in full-frame terms, making this the lens that lives on the camera most of the time. The MSC (Movie & Still Compatible) autofocus mechanism is engineered for quiet, quick focus acquisition, which matters both when shooting video and when working in situations where a noisy AF motor would be a distraction. The 37mm filter thread keeps the overall footprint small, consistent with the MFT system's core strength as a compact, travel-friendly kit.
The variable f/3.5-5.6 aperture is the honest tradeoff for that portability. Shoot wide at 14mm and you get f/3.5; zoom to 42mm and you're at f/5.6. In good light this is a non-issue, and the compact dimensions make it the right choice when you need a walk-around zoom that won't weigh down a bag or a mirrorless body. For MFT shooters building out a practical kit, this lens covers the range where most everyday images get made.
Who It's For
Travel photographers who prioritize pack weight will appreciate the small 37mm filter thread and compact build, this lens pairs with a Micro Four Thirds body without adding bulk. Video shooters benefit directly from the MSC autofocus, which operates quietly enough to stay off the audio track. Street photographers working in the 14-28mm range get a wide end with genuine usefulness for environmental framing. New MFT system shooters get a reliable standard zoom that covers wide-to-short-tele without needing multiple primes.
Key Features
- 14-42mm focal range covers 28-84mm full-frame equivalent on MFT
- f/3.5-5.6 variable maximum aperture
- MSC autofocus for quiet, continuous AF during video and stills
- 37mm filter thread keeps diameter compact
- Micro Four Thirds mount
- Standard kit zoom for everyday travel photography
FAQ
- What focal length range does this lens cover on MFT bodies?
- 14-42mm on Micro Four Thirds translates to a 28-84mm equivalent field of view in full-frame terms, making it a standard zoom that handles wide shots through moderate telephoto in a single lens.
- How does MSC autofocus differ from standard AF motors?
- MSC (Movie & Still Compatible) is Olympus's quiet, continuous autofocus system designed to work smoothly during video recording and in situations where motor noise matters, without sacrificing acquisition speed for stills.
- What's the filter thread size?
- 37mm, which keeps the overall diameter compact and lets you use small, lightweight filters if you need them.
- Why does the maximum aperture change across the zoom range?
- The f/3.5-5.6 variable aperture is a weight and size trade-off. You get f/3.5 at 14mm and f/5.6 at 42mm; this design keeps the lens portable without adding glass and mechanics that would defeat the purpose of a kit zoom.
- Is this lens weather-sealed?
- No weather sealing is listed in the specifications.
- What MFT cameras is this compatible with?
- Any camera with a Micro Four Thirds mount, including Olympus OM-D and Pen series bodies, as well as Panasonic Lumix MFT cameras.
| Specification | Value |
|---|---|
| Focal Length | 14-42mm |
| Max Aperture | f/3.5-5.6 |
| Mount | Micro Four Thirds (MFT) |
| Filter Thread | 37mm |
This description was generated using AI based on KEH's internal product standards, product expertise, and knowing what customers care about most. While we strive for accuracy, details may vary by individual item.
| Brand Name | Olympus |
|---|---|
| Filter Size | 37mm |
| Focus Type | Autofocus (lens motor) |
| Lens Mount | Micro Four Thirds |
| Lens Type | Wide-Angle, Standard / Normal |
| Max Focal Length | 42mm |
| Min Focal Length | 14mm |