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Olympus 14-42mm f/3.5-5.6 II R MSC M.Zuiko Autofocus Lens for MFT (Micro Four Thirds), Black {37}
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$126.00
Olympus 14-42mm f/3.5-5.6 II R: the kit lens that earns its place
At 3.9 oz and 1.9" long, this 14-42mm covers the 28-84mm equivalent range without adding meaningful bulk to a Micro Four Thirds kit. Three aspherical elements in an 8-element, 7-group design keep distortion and spherical aberration in check across the zoom range, which matters most at the wide end where lesser optics tend to barrel. The 37mm filter thread is small enough that a set of filters costs almost nothing.
The MSC (Movie and Still Compatible) autofocus system is what separates this from older kit glass. It's fast and near-silent, which means focus pulls during video don't bleed into the audio track. The minimum focusing distance of 9.8" gives you genuine close-up flexibility at the wide end, useful for product shots or table-top work. This lens is proof that a walk-around zoom doesn't require a bag to itself, and for Micro Four Thirds shooters who travel light, that's the whole argument.
Who It's For
Travel photographers working with Olympus or Panasonic Micro Four Thirds bodies will appreciate the 111g weight on long shooting days, with the 28-84mm equivalent range covering architecture, street scenes, and environmental portraits without a lens swap. Video creators benefit from the near-silent MSC autofocus, which keeps focus transitions clean in-camera without external noise. New mirrorless shooters building a first kit get a focal range that teaches composition without locking them into a single perspective. Street photographers prioritizing discretion get a lens small enough to avoid drawing attention.
Key Features
- 14-42mm focal length with 28-84mm equivalent range
- Three aspherical elements correct distortion across zoom range
- MSC autofocus system delivers fast, near-silent focusing for video and stills
- 9.8-inch minimum focusing distance for close-up work
- 37mm filter thread on compact 3.9 oz design
- Micro Four Thirds mount with 8 elements in 7 groups
FAQ
- What's the 35mm equivalent focal length?
- 28-84mm, which gives you wide-angle coverage at 14mm and short telephoto reach at 42mm on Micro Four Thirds bodies.
- How close can you focus with this lens?
- 9.8 inches at any focal length, so you can shoot product work or close-up details without needing macro glass.
- Does the MSC autofocus work well for video?
- Yes-it's fast and near-silent, meaning focus transitions won't bleed into your audio track.
- What size filters does it take?
- 37mm, which is cheap and easy to source. A basic ND and polarizer set costs next to nothing.
- How much does it weigh?
- 3.9 oz with a max diameter of 2.2 inches and length of 1.9 inches. It doesn't meaningfully bulk up a travel kit.
- Does this lens have image stabilization?
- No-optical stabilization isn't built in, so you'll rely on your camera body's in-sensor stabilization if available.
| Specification | Value |
|---|---|
| Focal Length | 14-42mm |
| Max Aperture | f/3.5 |
| Min Aperture | f/22 |
| Mount | Micro Four Thirds |
| Filter Size | 37mm |
| Focal Length Equivalent | 28-84mm (35mm equivalent) |
| Aperture Range | f/3.5 - f/22 |
| Minimum Focusing Distance | 9.8" (24.89 cm) |
| Lens Groups | 7 |
| Lens Elements | 8 |
| Angle Of View | 75 - 29 degrees |
| Lens Format | Micro Four Thirds |
| Length | 1.9" |
| Maximum Diameter | 2.2" |
| Package Weight | 0.415 lb |
| Box Dimensions | 3.8 x 3.4 x 3.3" |
| Weight | 3.9 oz (111 g) |
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 |