Building off the success of its predecessor, this iteration of the mega-zoom, Micro Four Thirds Leica DG Vario-Elmar 100-400mm f/4-6.3 II ASPH. POWER O.I.S. Lens from Panasonic features the ability to expand the zoom range when paired with the optional 1.4x and 2x teleconverters while shaving off more than a centimeter of length for a more compact form factor.
The lens now offers macro capabilities, with a full-frame equivalent magnification of .5x that is expandable to 1x with the optional 2x teleconverter. The lens retains its Leica branding, with an optical design employing aspherical and extra-low dispersion elements to significantly reduce chromatic and spherical aberrations throughout the zoom range for a high degree of image clarity and sharpness. The POWER O.I.S. system also benefits image sharpness, minimizing the appearance of camera shake when shooting at longer focal lengths with its compatibility with Lumix G cameras' Dual I.S. function.
Operability has also improved with the introduction of a zoom limit switch on the lens body, improving the focus limiter function even further. The body's gapless construction that renders it dust- and moisture-resistant has an added level of freeze resistance, expanding the lens' field-readiness. And while its lightweight, compact form factor is suitable for handheld shooting, the 100-400mm f/4-6.3 also features a removable rotating tripod collar for fast switching between horizontal and vertical shooting orientations when working atop a monopod or tripod.
