Panasonic Leica DG 100-400mm F4.0-6.3 vs Panasonic Leica DG 8-18mm F2.8-4.0: Spec Comparison
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You are comparing the panasonic lumix g leica dg vs lumix professional 8 18mm camera lenses. Both are Micro Four Thirds optics from Panasonic. The main difference is their focal length range. One is a telephoto zoom for distant subjects. The other is a wide-angle zoom for expansive scenes. You need to decide which perspective fits your shooting style. The specs below show how they differ in size, aperture, and intended use.
Key differences
| Aspect | Panasonic Leica DG 100-400mm F4.0-6.3 Telephoto Lens | Panasonic Leica DG 8-18mm F2.8-4.0 Lens |
|---|---|---|
| Focal Length | 100-400mm | 8-18mm |
| Maximum Aperture | F4.0-6.3 | F2.8-4.0 |
| Weight | 2.17 pounds | 11 ounces |
| Minimum Focusing Distance | 1.3 meter | not listed |
| Image Stabilization | Power Optical Image Stabilization | not listed |
| Lens Construction | not listed | 1 ASPH ED / 3 ASPH 2 ED / 1 UHR |
Which one should you choose?
Choose Panasonic Leica DG 100-400mm F4.0-6.3 Telephoto Lens if
- You need to capture distant wildlife or sports
- You want built-in image stabilization for handheld shots
- You prefer a longer reach for nature photography
Choose Panasonic Leica DG 8-18mm F2.8-4.0 Lens if
- You shoot landscapes or architecture
- You want a lighter lens for travel
- You need faster autofocus for 4K video
Verdict: Choose the 100-400mm if you need reach for distant subjects and stabilization. Pick the 8-18mm if you prioritize wide angles, low weight, and fast video autofocus. Your choice depends on whether you shoot far away or close wide scenes.
Telephoto Versus Wide Angle Specs
Focal length range
The Panasonic Leica DG 100-400mm F4.0-6.3 Telephoto Lens covers a 100-400mm range, which equals 200-800mm in 35mm terms. This makes it ideal for distant subjects like wildlife or sports. The Panasonic Leica DG 8-18mm F2.8-4.0 Lens offers an 8-18mm range. This wide-angle view captures expansive landscapes, architecture, or tight interiors. You choose based on whether you need to reach far away or fit more scene into the frame. They serve opposite creative purposes.
Maximum aperture
Aperture controls light intake and depth of field. The 8-18mm lens starts at f/2.8, allowing more light than the 100-400mm lens, which starts at f/4.0. At the long end, the 100-400mm drops to f/6.3, while the 8-18mm goes to f/4.0. The wider lens maintains a brighter maximum aperture throughout its range. This helps in low-light situations or when you want to isolate subjects with background blur. The telephoto lens sacrifices speed for reach.
Image stabilization
Both lenses include built-in stabilization to counter camera shake. The 100-400mm lens features Power Optical Image Stabilization (O.I.S.). This is crucial for telephoto work where minor movements are magnified. The 8-18mm lens data does not explicitly list optical stabilization. However, it supports Dual I.S. when paired with compatible cameras. You should check your specific camera body for stabilization support. The telephoto lens explicitly highlights its internal stabilization system.
Build and weather sealing
Durability matters for outdoor photography. The 100-400mm lens has a splash and dustproof sealed body. It works best with compatible splashproof LUMIX G cameras. The 8-18mm lens features a durable metal body. It is rated as splashproof, dustproof, and freezeproof. This suggests broader environmental resistance. You get a robust design in both cases. The wide-angle lens explicitly mentions freeze protection, which is useful in cold conditions.
Weight and size
Portability affects how much gear you carry. The 100-400mm lens weighs 2.17 pounds. It is described as smaller and lighter than comparable DSLR lenses. The 8-18mm lens weighs only 11 ounces. This is significantly lighter than the telephoto option. You will notice a major difference in balance and fatigue during long shoots. The wide-angle lens is much easier to carry for extended periods.
Video performance features
Video creators need specific lens traits. The 8-18mm lens uses a linear motor for smooth aperture changes. This prevents sudden exposure jumps during recording. It also offers silent autofocus operation, which helps preserve audio quality. It supports 4K video recording with precise focusing. The 100-400mm lens data does not detail video-specific features like aperture control or motor type. The wide-angle lens is clearly optimized for video work.
Which lens matches your shooting style
Wildlife and sports photographers
You need reach for distant subjects. This telephoto lens offers a 100-400mm focal range, equivalent to 200-800mm. It features Power Optical Image Stabilization to reduce blur. The splash and dustproof body handles outdoor conditions. You can focus as close as 1.3 meters. This setup captures sharp details of wildlife or action from afar.
Landscape and architecture shooters
You require a wide field of view. This 8-18mm lens provides a 73.4-degree angle. It features Nano Surface Coating to reduce ghosting and flaring. The metal body is splash, dust, and freezeproof. It supports smooth aperture changes for 4K video. The wide angle captures intricate details and expansive scenes in low light or adverse conditions.
Video creators needing silent focus
You prioritize smooth video performance. This lens uses a linear motor for fast focus tracking at 240 fps. It ensures silent operation and smooth aperture changes. This prevents sudden exposure jumps and audio interference. The design supports precise focusing for 4K video. You get clean audio and stable exposure while recording dynamic scenes or interviews.
The products compared
Panasonic Leica DG 100-400mm F4.0-6.3 Telephoto Lens
Best for: wildlife and nature photography
- Lens Mount
- Micro Four Thirds
- Focal Length
- 100-400mm
- Maximum Aperture
- F4.0-6.3
- Sensor Format
- Micro Four Thirds
- Image Stabilization
- Power Optical Image Stabilization
- Minimum Focusing Distance
- 1.3 meter / 4.27 feet
View on Amazon: Panasonic Leica DG 100-400mm F4.0-6.3 Telephoto Lens Affiliate link
This is a Micro Four Thirds telephoto zoom lens with a 100-400mm focal length and a variable aperture of f/4.0-6.3. It weighs 2.17 pounds and measures 1 inch in diameter. The lens features splash and dustproof sealing and integrated optical image stabilization. It is designed for nature photography and offers a 35mm equivalent reach of 200-800mm. You get a close focusing distance of 1.3 meters and a built-in sliding hood.
Pros
- 100-400mm focal length provides 200-800mm equivalent reach
- Splash and dustproof sealed body for outdoor use
- Integrated Power Optical Image Stabilization
- Built-in sliding lens hood included
Cons
- Variable maximum aperture narrows to f/6.3 at full zoom
- Minimum focusing distance is 1.3 meters
- Lens dimensions are listed as 1 inch, which may be incomplete
Good fit if
- You need long reach for wildlife or nature photography
- You shoot in environments where weather sealing is important
- You want a compact telephoto option for Micro Four Thirds cameras
Skip if
- You require a constant wide aperture for low light
- You need macro capabilities with a very close focusing distance
- You prefer a lens with a fixed maximum aperture throughout the zoom range
Verdict: Panasonic 100-400mm f/4.0-6.3 Lens is a practical telephoto zoom for Micro Four Thirds users who prioritize weather sealing and reach over maximum aperture speed.
Panasonic Leica DG 8-18mm F2.8-4.0 Lens
Best for: rugged wide-angle shooting and 4K video
- Lens Mount
- Micro Four Thirds
- Focal Length
- 8-18mm
- Maximum Aperture
- F2.8-4.0
- Sensor Format
- Micro Four Thirds
- Focus Type
- Auto Focusing
- Color
- Black
View on Amazon: Panasonic Leica DG 8-18mm F2.8-4.0 Lens Affiliate link
This is a Micro Four Thirds lens with an 8-18mm focal length and F2.8-4.0 maximum aperture. It features a linear motor for fast autofocus and supports 4K video with smooth aperture changes. The metal body is splashproof, dustproof, and freezeproof. It weighs 11 ounces and includes Nano Surface Coating to reduce flaring. You get a wide-angle view ideal for landscapes or tight interiors.
Pros
- 8-18mm focal length provides a 73.4-degree wide-angle view
- Linear motor enables 240 fps autofocus for smooth video exposure
- Metal body is splashproof, dustproof, and freezeproof
- Nano Surface Coating reduces ghosting and flaring
Cons
- Maximum aperture narrows to F4.0 at 18mm
- Requires a 67mm filter thread size
- No image stabilization listed in specifications
Good fit if
- You need a rugged lens for outdoor shooting in various weather conditions
- You prioritize fast and silent autofocus for 4K video recording
- You shoot landscapes or architecture requiring a wide field of view
Skip if
- You require a constant F2.8 aperture throughout the zoom range
- You need a compact lens that weighs less than 11 ounces
- You prefer a lens with built-in optical image stabilization
Verdict: Panasonic LUMIX 8-18mm Wide-Angle Lens offers a durable, weather-sealed build with fast linear motor autofocus. It is a practical tool for videographers and wide-angle shooters who need reliable performance in challenging environments.
Specifications side by side
| Spec | Panasonic Leica DG 100-400mm F4.0-6.3 Telephoto Lens | Panasonic Leica DG 8-18mm F2.8-4.0 Lens |
|---|---|---|
| Lens Mount | Micro Four Thirds | Micro Four Thirds |
| Focal Length | 100-400mm | 8-18mm |
| Maximum Aperture | F4.0-6.3 | F2.8-4.0 |
| Sensor Format | Micro Four Thirds | Micro Four Thirds |
| Focus Type | not stated | Auto Focusing |
| Image Stabilization | Power Optical Image Stabilization | not stated |
| Minimum Focusing Distance | 1.3 meter / 4.27 feet | not stated |
| Color | Black | Black |
| Aperture | f/4.0 | f/2.8 |
| Dimensions | 1 × 1 × 1 inches | 3.46 × 4.49 × 7.24 inches |
| Weight | 2.17 pounds | 11 ounces |
| Model | H-RS100400 | H-E08018 |
| Size | not stated | Lens Only |
Frequently asked questions
What is the weight difference between the two lenses?
The Panasonic Leica DG 100-400mm F4.0-6.3 Telephoto Lens weighs 2.17 pounds. The Panasonic Leica DG 8-18mm F2.8-4.0 Lens weighs 11 ounces. This means the telephoto lens is significantly heavier. You should consider this if you plan to carry your gear for long periods. The wide-angle lens is much lighter and easier to handle.
Are both lenses weather sealed?
Yes, both lenses offer weather sealing. The Panasonic Leica DG 100-400mm F4.0-6.3 Telephoto Lens has a splash and dustproof body. The Panasonic Leica DG 8-18mm F2.8-4.0 Lens is described as having a durable, weather-sealed build. This makes both options suitable for shooting in challenging outdoor environments.
Which lens is better for wildlife photography?
The Panasonic Leica DG 100-400mm F4.0-6.3 Telephoto Lens is best for wildlife and nature photography. It provides a 100-400mm focal range, which equals 200-800mm in 35mm terms. This reach allows you to capture distant subjects clearly. The wide-angle lens is not designed for this type of shooting.
Does the wide-angle lens support 4K video?
Yes, the Panasonic Leica DG 8-18mm F2.8-4.0 Lens is noted as being good for 4K video. It features a fast linear motor autofocus, which helps with smooth focusing during recording. If you need a wide-angle optic for videography, this lens offers reliable performance for that purpose.
What sensor format do these lenses use?
Both lenses are designed for the Micro Four Thirds sensor format. This means they are compatible with Panasonic Lumix G series cameras. You cannot use them on full-frame or APS-C cameras without adapters. They are built specifically for the Micro Four Thirds system.
How wide is the aperture on the wide-angle lens?
The Panasonic Leica DG 8-18mm F2.8-4.0 Lens has a maximum aperture of f/2.8 at its widest setting. This allows more light to enter the lens compared to the telephoto option. It is useful for low-light situations or when you want to blur the background.
Is the telephoto lens good for sports?
Yes, the Panasonic Leica DG 100-400mm F4.0-6.3 Telephoto Lens is ideal for sports. Its 100-400mm focal range lets you capture action from a distance. It also includes Power Optical Image Stabilization to reduce blur. This combination helps you get sharp images of fast-moving subjects.
What are the dimensions of the wide-angle lens?
The Panasonic Leica DG 8-18mm F2.8-4.0 Lens measures 4.49 inches in width, 7.24 inches in height, and 3.46 inches in length. These dimensions apply to the lens only. You should check if this size fits comfortably in your camera bag or backpack.