_TWrecks_'s reviews

  • Panasonic 12-60mm f/2.8-4 ASPH POWER OIS LEICA DG VARIO-ELMARIT

    4 out of 10 points and not recommended
    Small, light, weatherproof, sturdy build, smooth operation.
    Poor sharpness, color.

    I know many users have reported issues with the sharpness of this lens, I had doubts about buying it but pulled the trigger when it went on sale ($750 from B&H). However I will say that if the one I got is as good as they get, it simply is not worth it at even 50% off. Compared to my $550 14-140 lens (made in Japan) at 45mm F4 (4.9 for the 14-140), the 12-60mm simply is not as sharp - center or corner. And the colors seem duller. This was based on a controlled test of with a map hanging on wall under controlled lighting.

    I wish the 14-140 was weather sealed (and went down to 12mm), and then I would not be left longing for what this lens *should* have been. Perhaps it's the poor chinese quality control, I can't imagine what Panny was thinking in making a $1000 Leica branded lens there. There was some lint on the lens when I unpacked it, even inside the baggie and under the lens cap - obviously not made in a clean room.

    Now I'm torn between exchanging it (~$20) for new one in the hope it is luck of the draw, or simply returning it to wait for Panny to issue a zoom in this range actually worthy of the Leica badge.

    reviewed May 17th, 2018 (purchased for $750)