The M.Zuiko 100-400mm F5.0-6.3 IS II represents OM SYSTEM’s latest advancement in super-telephoto zoom technology. With its impressive reach and advanced stabilization, this lens aims to make super-telephoto photography more accessible and portable than ever before.
Build Quality & Design
The lens strikes an impressive balance between durability and portability. At 1,300g with the tripod collar, it’s remarkably lightweight for its focal range, especially when compared to full-frame equivalents. The metal construction feels solid and well-engineered, with smooth zoom and focus rings that operate with just the right amount of resistance.
The IPX1 weather sealing and fluorine coating on the front element demonstrate OM SYSTEM’s commitment to field usability, making this lens reliable in challenging weather conditions. The included tripod collar is removable and compatible with Arca-Swiss mounts, adding to its practical versatility.
Optical Performance
Sharpness
The lens delivers impressive sharpness throughout its range:
- At 100mm (200mm equivalent): Excellent centre sharpness from F5.0
- At 400mm (800mm equivalent): Very good sharpness even at F6.3
- Corner performance remains strong across the zoom range
Image Stabilization
The standout feature is the 5-axis sync IS system, providing:
- Up to 7.0 steps at 100mm
- 5.5 steps at 400mm
- Excellent viewfinder stability for composition This makes handheld shooting at extreme telephoto lengths genuinely practical.
Autofocus
The VCM-based autofocus system provides:
- Quick and decisive focusing
- Near-silent operation
- Three-position focus limiter for optimized performance
- Reliable tracking when paired with modern OM SYSTEM bodies
Real-World Applications
Wildlife Photography
- The 200-800mm equivalent range is perfect for wildlife
- Silent operation doesn’t disturb subjects
- Weather sealing allows for use in natural environments
- Focus limiter helps with quick subject acquisition
Sports Photography
- Fast autofocus keeps up with moving subjects
- Excellent stabilization for handheld shooting
- Reach allows for good coverage from the sidelines
- Relatively lightweight enables extended shooting sessions
Nature & Macro
- 1.3m minimum focus distance
- 0.57x equivalent maximum magnification
- Excellent for close-up nature work
- Focus stacking compatible with supported bodies
Value Proposition
The lens offers exceptional value when considering:
- The equivalent reach in full-frame terms
- Build quality and weather sealing
- Advanced stabilization system
- Optical performance
- Portability advantage
Pros
- Exceptional reach in a compact package
- Outstanding image stabilization
- Weather-sealed construction
- Excellent optical quality
- Relatively lightweight
- Compatible with teleconverters
Cons
- Moderate maximum aperture
- Some focus hunting in low light
- Better suited for stationary or predictably moving subjects
- Tripod recommended for optimal results at longer focal lengths
Who Should Buy This Lens?
This lens is perfect for:
- Wildlife photographers seeking portable reach
- Sports photographers need weather-sealed reliability
- Nature photographers requiring macro capabilities
- Travel photographers wanting versatile telephoto options
Conclusion
The M.Zuiko 100-400mm F5.0-6.3 IS II is a remarkable achievement in telephoto lens design. It combines impressive reach, excellent image quality, and professional-grade features in a package that remains practical for extended use. While the moderate aperture range might give pause to some, the exceptional stabilization system and overall optical performance make it a compelling option for photographers seeking serious telephoto capabilities without the bulk traditionally associated with such reach.
Visit Campkins Cameras in central Cambridge to experience this lens firsthand and receive expert guidance on incorporating it into your photography kit.
