Olympus M.ZUIKO DIGITAL ED 40‑150mm 1:4.0‑5.6 R Noir

Good Points: This is not a pro lens so you cannot expect the same quality that you would from a pro lens. However, that being said, for general photography the lens does produce very good images. For general users and even enthusiasts I would recommend this item. Improvement Points: This is a lower end product from the range that OM provides. Given the price, weather sealing would have been handy.

A handy little lens with surprisingly good optics. It is fully suitable for critical use at all its focal lengths. There is some reduction in contrast at 150mm. I don't particularly care about the plastic mount, but the construction feels nasty and the zoom doesn't turn smoothly. With my Lumix GX80 camera I compared it with the Lumix 45-150 OIS lens and had a slight preference for the optics of this one, which also - believe it or not - focused more consistently and with less hesitation than the Lumix, which was, however, smoother to operate.

The lens takes pretty good pics for being so inexpensive, but it is built so cheaply it feels less sturdy than your average Tonka Toy. Due to this flimsiness when zooming or making any adjustment to the lens, there is a disappointing grinding feeling which makes it almost unusable. I’ve bought 2, hoping the 2nd would be better in this area, but nope—that’s how they are made. Near impossible for me to get a nice, smooth zoom. If you’re new or just looking for a cheap throwaway that won’t end the world if it gets damaged, this is a great lens for you. For advanced users, you will fight this thing trying to get the shots you are envisioning, where other lenses are actually helping you get the shot. I do not recommend.

I got this lens today and took it straight out on a quarantine hike on a local trail. My main reason for this lens was to shoot the moon but since the quarantine, I have been noticing the birds a lot more. I had a great time and captured quite a few birds with no problem. I did see a review on here with one star stating that the person had used the camera lens on a tripod on AUTO mode and it came out blurry, Blamed it on the lens. The lens was not the problem. Auto is unpredictable. You cannot trust it to use the right setting for every situation hence the blurry shot. Anyways rant over. I used it in manual mode and I got some great shots! Can't wait to shoot the moon! Will update with photos soon.

It is a great addition for the price. I’m very glad I picked it up for my trip but still desire more focus strength for future photography projects.