Andy Westlake puts an inexpensive fast normal prime lens for Micro Four Thirds cameras to the test.
Panasonic Lumix G 25mm f/1.7 Asph review
Panasonic Lumix G 25mm f/1.7 Asph – Our verdict
For all there is to like about mirrorless systems – particularly their compact size and light weight – one legitimate area of criticism has been the relatively high cost of many lenses. Aside from a few honourable exceptions, genuinely affordable optics have been in short supply. This is a shame, as adding a lens or two is always the best way to make the most of an interchangeable-lens camera, with fast normal primes at the top of the list of useful additions.
With the Lumix G 25mm f/1.7 Asph, Panasonic has addressed this need with an impressive little lens. It’s decently sharp, handles well, and focuses quickly and silently. Indeed, for the price, there’s very little to complain about at all. Micro Four Thirds users with more money to spend could also consider the Olympus M.Zuiko Digital 25mm f/1.8 or the Panasonic Lumix G 20mm f/1.7 Asph, with the latter being a particularly good choice when small size is required. But for those building up a system on a budget, the 25mm f/1.7 is a great choice.