MaxCamera compares three portrait primes: the M.Zuiko 45mm, Lumix 42.5mm and Panasonic Leica 42.5mm

With three different 85mm equivalent AF primes available for Micro Four Thirds – the M.Zuiko 45mm f/1.8, the Lumix 42.5mm f/1.7 and the Panasonic Leica 42.5mm f/1.2 – it isn’t surprising that many users are unsure about which to buy.

To put the confused on the right track, Max Yuryev of MaxCamera has written up a very good comparison between the three lenses with a handful of sample images and a video that summarises the entire comparison.

As you might have suspected, the real comparison being conducted here is between the M.Zuiko 45mm and the Lumix 42.5mm. The Panasonic Leica, being a far more expensive premium prime, is in a class of its own.

In the end, Max’s vote goes to the Lumix 42.5mm for a number of reasons. At the same price point, you get slightly better image quality, optical stabilisation, a lens hood included in the package and better close focusing capabilities.

Check out Max’s full comparison of the 85mm equivalent primes here!

42.5mm vs 45mm