Lensrentals puts a batch of “45mm” Micro Four Thirds primes to the test, which performs best?

 

 

For Micro Four Thirds systems, there are numerous potential advantages for lens manufacturers to take advantage of when designing optics for the smaller sensors. Of course, sometimes these advantages are simply theoretical and are not realized for various reasons, potentially profit-related reasons. As Roger Cicala points out in his latest blog post over at Lensrentals, sometimes the smaller sensor allows for excellent optical performance in a compact form factor, and sometimes it results in distinct problems.

The latest testing batch at Lensrentals includes a variety of prime lenses in and around the 40-45mm focal length. In total, there are six lenses being tested and they are as follows: Olympus M. Zuiko 45mm f/1.8, Olympus M.Zuiko 45mm f/1.2 PRO, Panasonic Leica DG Macro 45mm f/2.8, Panasonic Leica DG Nocticron 42.5mm f/1.2 ASPH, Panasonic Lumix 42.5mm f/1.7 and the Voigtlander 42.5mm f/0.95. The lenses range in price from a few hundred dollars to over $1,000 and interestingly enough, sometimes the performance doesn't correlate to the price.

 

Field curvature test results for the Olympus 42.5mm f/1.2 PRO. Image credit: Lensrentals

Roger and his team have evaluated the six lenses on the basis of wide open MTF charts, stopped down charts, field curvature and sample variation. With respect to the lattermost test, not all the lenses had ten samples available to test, but they all were tested with multiple samples nonetheless. To see the full test results and all the charts, click here.

(Via Lensrentals)