OM System Unveils 14-42mm f/3 Lens
OM System has introduced the M.Zuiko Digital 14-42mm f/3.5-5.6 III, an updated Micro Four Thirds standard zoom released alongside the new PEN camera. The lens retains the 14-42mm focal range of its predecessor, equivalent to 28-84mm on full frame, while adding weather protection and improved close-focusing capabilities.
The optical construction remains eight elements in seven groups, including three aspherical elements, while the maximum aperture varies from f/3.5 at the wide end to f/5.6 at 42mm. A seven-blade diaphragm is used, and the lens retains a retractable design that reduces its size when not in use.
The main change is environmental sealing. The 14-42mm III is dustproof, splash-resistant to the IPX1 standard and rated for operation at temperatures down to -10°C, allowing it to form a weather-sealed combination with compatible OM System bodies. These additions increase the weight from 112 grams on the previous model to 125 grams, while the new lens measures approximately 60mm in diameter and 50.5mm in length. The filter diameter has also increased from 37mm to 46mm.
Close focusing has also been revised. Minimum focusing distance is now 0.13 meters at 14mm and 0.30 meters at 42mm, with maximum magnification reaching 0.26x at the wide end, equivalent to approximately 0.53x in full-frame terms. The lens also supports OM System’s in-camera Focus Stacking function on compatible cameras.
Here are two sample pictures, courtesy of OM System:
The M.Zuiko Digital 14-42mm f/3.5-5.6 III is offered both separately and as the standard zoom option for the new OM System PEN. In the United States, the lens is priced at $349.99, with shipments scheduled for late October 2026. In Europe, OM System lists it at €399, while the PEN kit including the lens is priced at €1,099.
