I have both lenses and my preference is the 15mm as well. However I found when I run the raw files done with the 17mm through DXO pure raw 3 the effect Robin describes gets corrected. Haven’t used the lens for years due to the distortion issue (the lens makes noses look too long :-)). But now I use it again and am happy with it. Thank you DXO
Great video Robin! I agree on 17mm being not wide and not tight, just not the "right" focal length. I can't see the "excessive correction" on the 17mm, and I still love it, but I use the PL15mm more due to the usefulness of the focal length. Cheers!
It all depends whether you are a 35mm shooter or not. The Fuji X100 lovers will swear by this focal length. Of course, for me it is neither here nor there, so I would avoid it if possible.
The picture of the man sleeping at 8:47 is wonderful. The view to the backside gives that photo a beautiful depth. I also don't like shooting on 35 mm. Don't know exactly why.
Hi Robin!! I’ve owned both of these lenses and I agree with you on the rendering of the Olympus. First off, they are both really small and fast auto focusing lenses. The Olympus renders things cooler and flatter. That was my experience. I wrestled with this for several shoots I did and decided I didn’t like the look. It was off and flat to me. The LUMIX lens was warmer and looked more photographic to me. I loved that lens.
Hi Robin, I bought the 17mm Olympus and it has been the only lens I have sold within a couple of months. At the time I couldn't put my finger on the problem, but the results were frankly just uninspiring. I did side by side comparisons with the Olympus 12mm f2.0 and 25mm f1.8, and although different focal lengths, both produced more pleasing and sharper images compared with the 17mm. All very weird.
Thanks for putting your opinion out there again! Great to see your shots with them both. Travelling now in Malaysia with the O17mm 1.8, and find it functions well but even after I process the shots in PL, it’s underwhelming. So seeing your Malaysian content look better (to me) on the PL15 was a big help. Cheers!
Picked up a 15mm 1.7 used but mint in the box. It was great but within a month the focus ring is like it's loose. It still functions. But it slips and almost rattles back and forth. Have you ever heard of this? Not sure what to do.
I didn't discover the 35mm focal length for quite some time. In was that in-between focal length I thought was flaky. Then, after getting a 35mm as part of a used full-frame camera I acquired, I found I really enjoyed the perspective. I actually thought it was a more "natural" view than my 50mm. The wider view of the 35 makes for a great travel prime. When I started using MFT, the 17mm was among the first lenses I acquired and enjoy using it as a walking-around travel camera in urban areas especially during twilight. I shoot in RAW and correct distortion in post and find no distracting distortion. I've never shot with the Panasonic 15mm but really don't feel a need. Heck, I'd probably crop back to a 17mm view anyway. Thanks for this video. Keep it up. I also like how you refer to the new OMDS and Oympus. I have yet to use the new phrase.
Love it when you show your artwork. Your subject composition coupled with use of color are amazing! I also like the 28mm perspective and would opt for the Panasonic lens for my Olympus cameras for this reason.
Hey Robin. Great comparison video. It’s always made me smile when you talk about the 17mm lens as I know you have reservations yet I’ve always loved it. But hey, that’s the whole fun of this field we work in. Personally I love them both but, like you say, that aperture control on the 15 would be great if it worked on both systems. There is of course the £100 price difference here in the UK which leaves the Olympus at £399.00 and the lumix 25% more expensive at £499.00 Best wishes
Thanks for being here, Brian, always appreciate your input. Yeah, the price difference is there in full retail for new units, but in the used market here in Malaysia, you can get the 17mm and 15mm at about the same price. But if the price difference exists, then I'd give the Olympus an advantage.
Good video Robin. Thanks for sharing your thoughts. I have the OLY 17mm F1.8 but have not tried the PL 15mm F1.7. I’m sure it’s a better lens but the extra cost is not worth it to me. I can get perfectly serviceable results with the 17mm F1.8. Yes, I do notice it’s a bit flat and dull but post processing gives it a look that fits my aesthetic.
Here in Malaysia, in the used market, both the Panasonic and Olympus lenses cost about the same. Depending on condition, or age, the Panasonic is only maybe 10-15% more expensive.
Hey Robin, thanks for that video. I never used the Lumix 15mm, but I love the 35mm focal length. For years I was using the 17mm f/1.8 and I love how compact and light it is. Now my son is using this lens and my daily workhorse is the 17mm f/.12 which I absolutely adore!
I was initially interested in the 17mm f1,8 but early reviews were mixed and it seemed it wasn't even better than the old 20mm f1.7 so my interest drop. I went straight for the 17mm f1.2 Pro though. Great lens. I did bite the bullet and got the 15mm too. The small-ish size and overall rendering is nice, but I was still shocked to see my old 20mm f1.7 is still sharper. At any aperture. Leica/Panny fans omitted mentioning that flaw. Yes, the aperture ring doesn't work on Olympus camera bodies, that's also a con, but I at least I already knew that coming in.
Your 15/1.7 needs adjustment. This happened to me. At first 15/1.7 was sharp like 14/2.5 and less sharp like 20/1.7. Now is the most acute of them all.
I was tempted to buy the Leica 15mm because of your review. Now I'm going back to the Olympus 17mm - maybe it's due to DxO PureRAW 4 that I don't notice the weaknesses you mentioned, but I simply get along better with 35mm (actually 34mm) than with 28mm (actually 30mm) - I just don't feel that focal length. At first, I found the Olympus a bit boring, but it's more about Olympus's slightly more restrained tuning. When I look at the images from a distance (post-development in Capture One), I prefer the Olympus images. I appreciate that your reviews also express a strong personal opinion - but they don't necessarily have to match mine - I will take that more into account in the future. Please don't misunderstand me - I greatly appreciate your videos and your photos speak for themselves - but not everyone can wear the same pants, and mine need to be size 35 rather than size 30 🙂
Great video Robin…good info and wonderful photos from both lenses! Like you I’m a bit annoyed that the lenses are not ‘fully compatible’, but darn close! Since you were showing the 15mm I’m guessing you used your 45mm Olympus for this. Looked good as well!
Hi Robin, great review again👍. Been a Olympus user and ower I have to say that the Olympus 17mm looks so so good on the Olympus Pen-F camera very classic looking combination. Thanks for the review. Gerry
Salut Robin, j'ai une question pour toi Quel est le plus petit (en taille) objectif M4/3 qui est tropicalisé (ou du moins protégé des éclaboussures)? Merci pour ta réponse et pour toutes tes vidéos 🙂 Hi Robin, I have a question for you What is the smallest (in size) M4/3 lens that is tropicalized (or at least splash protected)? Thank you for your response and for all your videos 🙂
The Olympus 17/1.8 was my first 35 mm (FF) after years of photography. It has been my favourite focal length ever since. The love goes so far that I bought the 17mm 1.2 pro. I haven't used the 1.7 since then. The lack of an aperture ring is the biggest mistake made by all camera manufacturers (why do they do that?)
Well, I bought the Panasonic Leica 15mm, f1.7 bout a year ago and just love it for street work. As I seee from your work, the closer portraits also come out well.
I've owned both lenses, and I liked the focal length and feel of the Olympus lens more than the Leica. I even tested two copies of the Olympus because I thought the first one might be a bad copy. I then kept the Leica. The image quality is simply awesome, unlike the Olympus.
Hi Robin, greetings from Canada. Happy Lunar New Year to you and to all your followers! I used to own both these lenses and gave up the Olympus after few outings but kept the Panasonic till I changed system. 35mm focal length has never been my cup of tea and to me (hope only me) the Olympus doesn't have that correct perspective look while the Panasonic was always a joy to use (love lenses with aperture rings) and the images are clearly pleasing to my eyes....
I have been very fortunate to have access to many Leica lenses over the years because of my involvement with the photo industry as a store manager and photo technologist. I tried out the Leica/Panasonic a few years back and for me I did not discern the usual Leica 'look or signature" that I am familiar with. That particular formula did not sway me to purchase it for my Panasonic camera at the time. I do love the clutch employed by Olympus, a very convenient feature.
To be fair, the Leica is just a brand that Panasonic used on their lenses, nothing more, nothing less. I'd not expect a cheap lens to perform like a real Leica lens.
I enjoy very much watching your street photography videos! I already have the Olympus 12mm/2.0, and I like shooting with that lens a lot. I have considered buying another wide prime for some time now, so I finally decided last week that I wanted to go wider and ordered the Panasonic 9mm/1.7.
Hi Robin I own an Olympus EM10 Mark IV. On Saturday I want to shoot an ice camoe race with my Photo Club. It will not be snowing and lots of sunshine is predicted. Because the EM10 is not weather sealed do tou think I will be okay using the camera outdoors for a couple of hours?? Thanks in advance for your reply.
I own the olympus 17, a perfect focal lenght for fairs and event reports due to a natural perspective. Unforrunately my sample suffers of a frequently common issue: a continuous clicking while filming with AF-C. It results in useless clip unless using an external mic. Not a big deal in professional works but annoying. Thank you for the comparison!
I have the P Leica 15 f1.7 and it is a fantastic little lens. That one together with the P Lumix 42.5 f1.7 always bring a smile to my face when using them and they are my absolutely most used primes 😊 with great image quality.
Now I have more doubts than before about which one to take, you know what I do, I buy both. The beauty of the micro 4/3 is that the system costs so little and is so easily found on the second-hand market that it is not a problem to create a complete set with all the lenses
I keep sticking with 17mm since it has the distance focus meter on its ring, since neither Lumix or Olympus body has focus meter on the interface. such an important thing to zone focus on the street. 17mm works perfectly at Lumix body, but 15mm had a flaw on Olympus body... the F ring didnt works.. as expected.
Hi Robin, many thanks for the comparison - your example images are excellent. I use the PL15mm f/1.7 on a Lumix GX9 for street photography, often in low light, and am very satisfied with the RAW results. The images are sharp and the colours are good, and I particularly like using the aperture ring in good light environments. The near 28mm FF equivalent FL suits my needs well.
The Leica 15mm is a great mate for the Lumix GX-9 on the street. Just awesome! I now own a Nikon Z5 with a Nikkor Z 40mm lens, which is yet another great pair. The Olympus 25mm and 45mm, of course are great lenses, and are compact -- good for street. The Lumix 30mm Macro is sharp edge to edge, with a slightly long snoot, but now and then I take it to the street when wanting tight shots, just like the Olympus 45mm -- portrait close shots, which are sharp as a tack! There is a wonderful combo of Lumix 14mm + Olympus PEN PL-8 for a small carry about, at a low-low cost. It slips into a coat pocket with ease! Take care, Loren
I I now also have the Z40mm. It's unbelievable what this lens can do. I would love to have it in 35 mm, with an aperture ring and metal. Must come because of the Nikon Zf.
How would you compare both lenses to the Oly 20mm f1.4? I own that but after several months I still have some "problems" with the focal length. I don´t know if we´re ment for each other and I think I´d feel more related to 15 or 17mm... I think that there shouldn´t be such a difference between f1.4 and f1.7/1.8. PS: I use it with an EM1 III. Thanks, Sven
I have an oly mark iv camera. if i use the panasonic 15mm can i still adjust the aperture in camera? I understand i won't be able to adjust from the aperture ring
Great video Robin. I've spent too much time deciding. Had the opportunity to try both these for a day, in different circumstances. Viewed on my computer screen there is not a lot in pure IQ. But subjectively the 15 strangely looks more like what I expect from my 25/1.8. The problem is in Australia you will pay at least +60% for an equivalent 15 over the Oly 17, which is a lot.
Had the Olympus 17mm f/1.8, and wanted to like it, but I agree there was something off about the images it produced. It genuinely put me off using the E-M5 it was mounted on (not ideal !) so I sold it fairly quickly.
I have the 17mm f1.8. I got it as part of the deal in getting the 45mm f1.8. I did not use it for months based on the negatives I had read about it. I must say it is now one of my favourite m43 lenses, i really like the look I get from this lens and look forward to the photos I get from it. Do you have a bad copy? Or do I just like crappy lenses 🙂
As I have owned neither lens, I only have what I have learned about them in reviews to go on. But, I would pick the Panasonic 15mm f1.7 every time. There are several Olympus lenses, I'd pick over similar Panasonic lenses, but not in this case.
In my opinion, both Panasonic and Olympus M4/3 systems have lenses that appeal to certain people for their needs. Not every lens will be great to some aspects for some people, but will to others. Everyone has their own opinion, and it is just that. I appreciate your opinions on the lenses you use for your photography. I am interested in these focal lengths for my photography. I'm glad you "reviewed" these 2 lenses.
Picked up an Olympus Pen-F with the 17mm F1.8 at the weekend, liking the lens so far, but disappointed that the manual focus clutch doesn’t work as expected with the Pen-F ☹️ As usual, thanks for the great content, Robin 🙌
@@keithvlogs1 on the E-M1 Mk ii using the 17mm lens, the camera can be set to S-AF mode, and when you pull the clutch back it goes into manual focus mode, with focus peaking any magnification activated. On the PEN-F in S-AF mode, pulling the clutch back changes to manual focus mode, but focus peaking and magnification aren't available. The only way to use focus peaking & magnification on the PEN-F is by setting it to S-AF/M, but this makes the manual focus clutch completely redundant.
@@robinwong The manual clutch works, it's just that it doesn't automatically turn on MF assist features such as 'Magnify' and 'Focus Peaking' (I think this is a limitation of the 17mm f1.8 lens). There is a workaround, as @keithvlogs1 stated, which is to assign a function button for MF assist features. Just a bit disappointed, as I'm used to the 12-40 Pro lens, which automatically turns on MF assist features as soon as you activate the manual clutch. Not a big problem, just need to get used to a different way of working when jumping between the two lenses.
My Oly 17mm f1.8 is great. I like the 35mm equiv. field of view. I don't see anything odd in the photos. I dont have a Leica 15mm to compare it against though 😉
I have been using Olympus Om-d EM5 mark III and 17 mm F1.8 to shoot. I notice occasionally this combination did not produce sharp images when compared with images shot with 25 mm F1.8. I wonder whether other people have similar experience.
Use the manual focus clutch on the 17mm and you will never get the "wrong" focus (i.e. AF focused on leaves, not the flowers). When I want the best/right focus I always use manual focus.
I have never used the PL15 f/1.7, but get fine results with the Oly 17mm processed from RAW with DxO Photolab. At 15mm, the PL has the wrong focal length, I love the 35mm as it was te first lens I owned and used on my first SLR, a Canon FTb
@@robinwong ah cool. Here in the UK there is about a £100 difference used (according to likes of MPB anyhow) ;) That’s partly why I went for the Ollie, and also as I have Ollie bodies.
I own both Leica 25mm f1.4 and the LUMIX 14mm f2.5. Do you think there is a reason to trade my LUMIX 14mm for either of the lenses in your video? I shoot with the Pen F.
Yes, I sold out the 17mm and bought in the 15mm because, well, the rendering of the 17 didn't quite look right to me! The 15 is a good trick, like we get a real Leica lens for Panasonic prices;-)
NIce details of these two lenses. I've owned the Olympus 17mm/1.8 for years, and for some reason, I've just never loved it. It's fine. It's sharp enough. It's contrasty enough. It renders colours nicely, but the images have always looked a little flat, less dimensional than images shot with the 25mm/1.8. I see the same thing in the 17mm photos here. To me, the PL/15mm just has that "something extra," that depth and three-dimensional quality that is lacking in the Oly 17mm. So, it's time to trade the 17mm in for the 15mm. It'll solve a lot of things for me. I find the 17mm field of view is often just a little too tight, and the 12mm is often too wide. (Though, I'd rather a little too wide than a little too tight. It's often easier to get closer than it is to get farther away when shooting in tight quarters.) I've always wished Olympus had made a 14mm/1,8. Maybe the 15mm/1.7 will find its way to the sweet spot. Thanks for this video, and your discussion of the two lenses. Now, I'm off to buy a lens.
I’m much more of a 28mm street shooter so find the 15mm fantastic… I love the 30mm perspective…. Just lthat bit more tighter in framing is a unique selling point
On my full-frame cameras, I prefer to use the 35mm focal length. I use a 35mm f/1.4 on my Leica M6 and M10 rangefinders. I use a 35mm f/1.4 and a 35mm f/2 on my Nikon SLRs. On my APS-C cameras, I prefer to use 23mm focal length lenses. I use a 23mm f/1.4 and a 23mm f/2 on my Fuji X digital mirrorless. However, on my micro 4/3 cameras, I have a 17mm f/2.8, but I prefer to use a 20mm f/1.7 instead.
It's a shame that the diaphragm ring can't be used with Olympus/OM System equipment, which is why I have a hard time paying for something I can't use. And it hurts me, because I love the lenses signed by Leica (may it be their design or optical treatments... I think they have something special). Regarding the M.Zuiko 17mm 1.8, I like it so much that I have two, one black and one silver. It's unique, I wouldn't know what to say about that special touch, personally I attribute it to the fact that it has a microcontrast that gives personality to the shots (but as you say, it might just be my imagination😅).
Nope, not even close. The 14mm has severe purple fringing issues (even on Panasonic bodies, yes I have checked), slower AF, and optically it is just not as good. Not to mention, it isn't F1.7/F1.8 that can make a whole world of difference in low light.
Think you have misunderstood my post, I said "budget" - of course it's not as good as the 15mm, it's a quarter of the price, but for that price you get a sharp lens and I haven't experienced this "severe" purple fringing that you mention.
Both lenses should not be compared. One is 30mm equivalent, the other 24mm, I cannot imagine using both lenses in the same subject or situation, I'd approach using the lenses very differently.
Hi Robin, I don't mind that they aren't weather sealed I try to avoid shooting in the rain and sandy places. Both those lenses produce beautiful images. Thanks 😊
The iphone FOV is something like 24mm equivalent? I think it is a bit too wide, and the Panasonic 15mm (30mm equivalent) is better for a bit of isolation, yet having wide enough coverage for environmental shots.
Hi I want to ask since my type of photography is inspired by Japanese photographers like Daido Moriyama, Jun Abe and alike, will the Olympus 17mm F1.8 fit the criteria? I just got it today as recommended by the seller. I was gonna go for the 25mm F1.8 first then switched last min
I owned the 15 mm and traded it for a 17mm a year later. The problem I found is that Panasonic lenses on Olympus bodies suffer of tremendous chromatic aberration, while the other way around don't usually happen. It's me, I know, and I know of the "Fix in post" thing, but I hate CA: it's an eyesore for me and the issue I loathe the most in a lens. Olympus usually design better corrected lens while Panasonic let camera software to correct any issue in the file. I Use a lot of old manual lenses (Olympus and Nikon) on a 5DMkII converted with a split prism: I noticed how old lenses were more corrected then the new one, especially in CA, probably because film camera leave little room for post processing. I have to tell the 17mm is the worst among all the Olympus "premium" primes: due to lack of contrast and, relatively speaking, poor sharpness.
I have used Panasonic lenses on Panasonic bodies like G9, GH5, GM1, and believe me when I say, the purple fringing is as bad as it is on Olympus bodies.
Robin, I like your reviews but this one is not really fair. No where do you mention that the Panasonic lens is the superior Leica summilux version not the basic lumix lens.. The rendering of this lens is well known to be outstanding and natural. Perhaps you should have compared the lumix version against the Olympus??
Leica is just a branding, there is nothing superior in that 15mm lens. It is a great lens, it is NOT Leica great. There is no resemblance to any real Leica quality lenses.
I am in Kuala Lumpur for awhile with my wife. I am thinking of buying a Sony A6700 while here. Can you suggest a good place with good prices? Thank you. I am here with my Olympus PEN-F and E-M10 II, but have also become interested in the A6700.
You may feel free to make a video to address the disappointment and fill on whatever you feel is missing. I don't exist to make you happy. You can find your happiness elsewhere.
Want me to talk more about Micro Four Thirds lenses? Please join my membership here: ruclips.net/channel/UCjUwaonD9QVeDzEdSqwrGmAjoin
I have both lenses and my preference is the 15mm as well. However I found when I run the raw files done with the 17mm through DXO pure raw 3 the effect Robin describes gets corrected. Haven’t used the lens for years due to the distortion issue (the lens makes noses look too long :-)). But now I use it again and am happy with it. Thank you DXO
Great video Robin! I agree on 17mm being not wide and not tight, just not the "right" focal length. I can't see the "excessive correction" on the 17mm, and I still love it, but I use the PL15mm more due to the usefulness of the focal length. Cheers!
It all depends whether you are a 35mm shooter or not. The Fuji X100 lovers will swear by this focal length. Of course, for me it is neither here nor there, so I would avoid it if possible.
The picture of the man sleeping at 8:47 is wonderful. The view to the backside gives that photo a beautiful depth. I also don't like shooting on 35 mm. Don't know exactly why.
Thanks Bastian. I love that photo also. The man woke up and was laughing because I took his shot. Lovely guy
Hi Robin!! I’ve owned both of these lenses and I agree with you on the rendering of the Olympus. First off, they are both really small and fast auto focusing lenses. The Olympus renders things cooler and flatter. That was my experience. I wrestled with this for several shoots I did and decided I didn’t like the look. It was off and flat to me. The LUMIX lens was warmer and looked more photographic to me. I loved that lens.
Yeah there was just something unusual about this 17mm lens. I did not see the problem with other Olympus prime lenses.
Hi Robin, I bought the 17mm Olympus and it has been the only lens I have sold within a couple of months. At the time I couldn't put my finger on the problem, but the results were frankly just uninspiring. I did side by side comparisons with the Olympus 12mm f2.0 and 25mm f1.8, and although different focal lengths, both produced more pleasing and sharper images compared with the 17mm. All very weird.
Yeah as reported by many people here, there is just something off with the Olympus 17mm lens.
Thanks for putting your opinion out there again! Great to see your shots with them both. Travelling now in Malaysia with the O17mm 1.8, and find it functions well but even after I process the shots in PL, it’s underwhelming. So seeing your Malaysian content look better (to me) on the PL15 was a big help. Cheers!
Picked up a 15mm 1.7 used but mint in the box. It was great but within a month the focus ring is like it's loose. It still functions. But it slips and almost rattles back and forth. Have you ever heard of this? Not sure what to do.
I didn't discover the 35mm focal length for quite some time. In was that in-between focal length I thought was flaky. Then, after getting a 35mm as part of a used full-frame camera I acquired, I found I really enjoyed the perspective. I actually thought it was a more "natural" view than my 50mm. The wider view of the 35 makes for a great travel prime. When I started using MFT, the 17mm was among the first lenses I acquired and enjoy using it as a walking-around travel camera in urban areas especially during twilight. I shoot in RAW and correct distortion in post and find no distracting distortion. I've never shot with the Panasonic 15mm but really don't feel a need. Heck, I'd probably crop back to a 17mm view anyway. Thanks for this video. Keep it up. I also like how you refer to the new OMDS and Oympus. I have yet to use the new phrase.
Love it when you show your artwork. Your subject composition coupled with use of color are amazing! I also like the 28mm perspective and would opt for the Panasonic lens for my Olympus cameras for this reason.
Thanks, appreciate the kind words!
Hey Robin. Great comparison video. It’s always made me smile when you talk about the 17mm lens as I know you have reservations yet I’ve always loved it. But hey, that’s the whole fun of this field we work in. Personally I love them both but, like you say, that aperture control on the 15 would be great if it worked on both systems.
There is of course the £100 price difference here in the UK which leaves the Olympus at £399.00 and the lumix 25% more expensive at £499.00
Best wishes
Thanks for being here, Brian, always appreciate your input. Yeah, the price difference is there in full retail for new units, but in the used market here in Malaysia, you can get the 17mm and 15mm at about the same price. But if the price difference exists, then I'd give the Olympus an advantage.
Good video Robin. Thanks for sharing your thoughts. I have the OLY 17mm F1.8 but have not tried the PL 15mm F1.7. I’m sure it’s a better lens but the extra cost is not worth it to me. I can get perfectly serviceable results with the 17mm F1.8. Yes, I do notice it’s a bit flat and dull but post processing gives it a look that fits my aesthetic.
Here in Malaysia, in the used market, both the Panasonic and Olympus lenses cost about the same. Depending on condition, or age, the Panasonic is only maybe 10-15% more expensive.
Hey Robin, thanks for that video. I never used the Lumix 15mm, but I love the 35mm focal length. For years I was using the 17mm f/1.8 and I love how compact and light it is. Now my son is using this lens and my daily workhorse is the 17mm f/.12 which I absolutely adore!
Hey Anastas, and yeah if you are a 35mm shooter, that Olympus 17mm is an awesome lens!
@@robinwong yeap love it for environmental portraits!
I was initially interested in the 17mm f1,8 but early reviews were mixed and it seemed it wasn't even better than the old 20mm f1.7 so my interest drop. I went straight for the 17mm f1.2 Pro though. Great lens.
I did bite the bullet and got the 15mm too. The small-ish size and overall rendering is nice, but I was still shocked to see my old 20mm f1.7 is still sharper. At any aperture. Leica/Panny fans omitted mentioning that flaw. Yes, the aperture ring doesn't work on Olympus camera bodies, that's also a con, but I at least I already knew that coming in.
Your 15/1.7 needs adjustment. This happened to me. At first 15/1.7 was sharp like 14/2.5 and less sharp like 20/1.7. Now is the most acute of them all.
I was tempted to buy the Leica 15mm because of your review. Now I'm going back to the Olympus 17mm - maybe it's due to DxO PureRAW 4 that I don't notice the weaknesses you mentioned, but I simply get along better with 35mm (actually 34mm) than with 28mm (actually 30mm) - I just don't feel that focal length.
At first, I found the Olympus a bit boring, but it's more about Olympus's slightly more restrained tuning. When I look at the images from a distance (post-development in Capture One), I prefer the Olympus images.
I appreciate that your reviews also express a strong personal opinion - but they don't necessarily have to match mine - I will take that more into account in the future.
Please don't misunderstand me - I greatly appreciate your videos and your photos speak for themselves - but not everyone can wear the same pants, and mine need to be size 35 rather than size 30 🙂
Great video Robin…good info and wonderful photos from both lenses! Like you I’m a bit annoyed that the lenses are not ‘fully compatible’, but darn close! Since you were showing the 15mm I’m guessing you used your 45mm Olympus for this. Looked good as well!
I was shooting the video with 12-40mm PRO
Hi Robin, great review again👍. Been a Olympus user and ower I have to say that the Olympus 17mm looks so so good on the Olympus Pen-F camera very classic looking combination. Thanks for the review. Gerry
Salut Robin, j'ai une question pour toi
Quel est le plus petit (en taille) objectif M4/3 qui est tropicalisé (ou du moins protégé des éclaboussures)?
Merci pour ta réponse et pour toutes tes vidéos 🙂
Hi Robin, I have a question for you
What is the smallest (in size) M4/3 lens that is tropicalized (or at least splash protected)?
Thank you for your response and for all your videos 🙂
The Olympus 17/1.8 was my first 35 mm (FF) after years of photography. It has been my favourite focal length ever since. The love goes so far that I bought the 17mm 1.2 pro. I haven't used the 1.7 since then. The lack of an aperture ring is the biggest mistake made by all camera manufacturers (why do they do that?)
Well, I bought the Panasonic Leica 15mm, f1.7 bout a year ago and just love it for street work. As I seee from your work, the closer portraits also come out well.
Fantastic. Just thought about this 15 vs 17.
Hope you find the video useful
I personnaly use the 15mm 1.7 and the 25 1.8 for street. Both are great little lenses and I think they complete each others very well
I've owned both lenses, and I liked the focal length and feel of the Olympus lens more than the Leica. I even tested two copies of the Olympus because I thought the first one might be a bad copy. I then kept the Leica. The image quality is simply awesome, unlike the Olympus.
Hi Robin, greetings from Canada. Happy Lunar New Year to you and to all your followers! I used to own both these lenses and gave up the Olympus after few outings but kept the Panasonic till I changed system. 35mm focal length has never been my cup of tea and to me (hope only me) the Olympus doesn't have that correct perspective look while the Panasonic was always a joy to use (love lenses with aperture rings) and the images are clearly pleasing to my eyes....
Happy New Year to you too! I agree, the 35mm is just not my cup of coffee too.
I have been very fortunate to have access to many Leica lenses over the years because of my involvement with the photo industry as a store manager and photo technologist. I tried out the Leica/Panasonic a few years back and for me I did not discern the usual Leica 'look or signature" that I am familiar with. That particular formula did not sway me to purchase it for my Panasonic camera at the time. I do love the clutch employed by Olympus, a very convenient feature.
To be fair, the Leica is just a brand that Panasonic used on their lenses, nothing more, nothing less. I'd not expect a cheap lens to perform like a real Leica lens.
Hi Robin I just bought the Lumix 25mm f1.7 and it's lovely lens great quality and I'm using it with my Olympus camera.❤
Lumix 25mm is an awesome lens too
Robin you're my favorite youtuber!
Thanks Zoltan, appreciate that!
I enjoy very much watching your street photography videos! I already have the Olympus 12mm/2.0, and I like shooting with that lens a lot. I have considered buying another wide prime for some time now, so I finally decided last week that I wanted to go wider and ordered the Panasonic 9mm/1.7.
Hi Robin I own an Olympus EM10 Mark IV. On Saturday I want to shoot an ice camoe race with my Photo Club. It will not be snowing and lots of sunshine is predicted. Because the EM10 is not weather sealed do tou think I will be okay using the camera outdoors for a couple of hours?? Thanks in advance for your reply.
I own the olympus 17, a perfect focal lenght for fairs and event reports due to a natural perspective. Unforrunately my sample suffers of a frequently common issue: a continuous clicking while filming with AF-C. It results in useless clip unless using an external mic. Not a big deal in professional works but annoying. Thank you for the comparison!
I have the P Leica 15 f1.7 and it is a fantastic little lens. That one together with the P Lumix 42.5 f1.7 always bring a smile to my face when using them and they are my absolutely most used primes 😊 with great image quality.
Both those 15mm and 42.5mm are awesome lenses.
I agree, have both, having the 15mm I would also skip the oly 12mm 2.0 and bringing directly the pana 9mm 1.7, with 17mm I feel the need of 12mm.
Now I have more doubts than before about which one to take, you know what I do, I buy both. The beauty of the micro 4/3 is that the system costs so little and is so easily found on the second-hand market that it is not a problem to create a complete set with all the lenses
I keep sticking with 17mm since it has the distance focus meter on its ring, since neither Lumix or Olympus body has focus meter on the interface. such an important thing to zone focus on the street. 17mm works perfectly at Lumix body, but 15mm had a flaw on Olympus body... the F ring didnt works.. as expected.
yeah the focusing distance indicator can come in handy for some situations.
Hi Robin, many thanks for the comparison - your example images are excellent. I use the PL15mm f/1.7 on a Lumix GX9 for street photography, often in low light, and am very satisfied with the RAW results. The images are sharp and the colours are good, and I particularly like using the aperture ring in good light environments. The near 28mm FF equivalent FL suits my needs well.
For many years the Olympus 17mm f/1.8 was on my camera more than any other. I just love that lens!
The Leica 15mm is a great mate for the Lumix GX-9 on the street. Just awesome! I now own a Nikon Z5 with a Nikkor Z 40mm lens, which is yet another great pair. The Olympus 25mm and 45mm, of course are great lenses, and are compact -- good for street. The Lumix 30mm Macro is sharp edge to edge, with a slightly long snoot, but now and then I take it to the street when wanting tight shots, just like the Olympus 45mm -- portrait close shots, which are sharp as a tack! There is a wonderful combo of Lumix 14mm + Olympus PEN PL-8 for a small carry about, at a low-low cost. It slips into a coat pocket with ease! Take care, Loren
I can imagine the 15mm pairing very well with the GX9 for street shooting!
I I now also have the Z40mm. It's unbelievable what this lens can do. I would love to have it in 35 mm, with an aperture ring and metal. Must come because of the Nikon Zf.
@@_cyclofob8990 Also have a look at Z28mm 2.8 :)
How would you compare both lenses to the Oly 20mm f1.4? I own that but after several months I still have some "problems" with the focal length. I don´t know if we´re ment for each other and I think I´d feel more related to 15 or 17mm... I think that there shouldn´t be such a difference between f1.4 and f1.7/1.8. PS: I use it with an EM1 III. Thanks, Sven
I have an oly mark iv camera. if i use the panasonic 15mm can i still adjust the aperture in camera? I understand i won't be able to adjust from the aperture ring
Great video Robin. I've spent too much time deciding. Had the opportunity to try both these for a day, in different circumstances. Viewed on my computer screen there is not a lot in pure IQ. But subjectively the 15 strangely looks more like what I expect from my 25/1.8. The problem is in Australia you will pay at least +60% for an equivalent 15 over the Oly 17, which is a lot.
Had the Olympus 17mm f/1.8, and wanted to like it, but I agree there was something off about the images it produced. It genuinely put me off using the E-M5 it was mounted on (not ideal !) so I sold it fairly quickly.
Thanks for the video. I would also love to see a comparison of Panasonic 15mm vs 20mm as the latter (focal length) is quite popular in recent years.
Comparing 15mm to 17mm is still ok, because of 2mm difference, but 15mm vs 20mm is just impossible to make. Both are so different.
Hi Robin great video!❤❤❤❤❤
Cheers
I have the 17mm f1.8. I got it as part of the deal in getting the 45mm f1.8. I did not use it for months based on the negatives I had read about it. I must say it is now one of my favourite m43 lenses, i really like the look I get from this lens and look forward to the photos I get from it. Do you have a bad copy? Or do I just like crappy lenses 🙂
I have also used more than 20 different copies over the past 10 years. I worked for Olympus before.
As I have owned neither lens, I only have what I have learned about them in reviews to go on. But, I would pick the Panasonic 15mm f1.7 every time. There are several Olympus lenses, I'd pick over similar Panasonic lenses, but not in this case.
Yeah the Panasonic 15mm is a gem!
Hi Robin, i agree. What do you think about Olympus 17 f1.2 pro?
In my opinion, both Panasonic and Olympus M4/3 systems have lenses that appeal to certain people for their needs. Not every lens will be great to some aspects for some people, but will to others. Everyone has their own opinion, and it is just that. I appreciate your opinions on the lenses you use for your photography. I am interested in these focal lengths for my photography. I'm glad you "reviewed" these 2 lenses.
I guess to simplify things, it all comes down to whether you are a 28mm or 35mm shooter, that should determine which lens is more suitable for you.
Picked up an Olympus Pen-F with the 17mm F1.8 at the weekend, liking the lens so far, but disappointed that the manual focus clutch doesn’t work as expected with the Pen-F ☹️
As usual, thanks for the great content, Robin 🙌
Hey, what do you mean it doesnt work as expected ?
@@keithvlogs1 on the E-M1 Mk ii using the 17mm lens, the camera can be set to S-AF mode, and when you pull the clutch back it goes into manual focus mode, with focus peaking any magnification activated.
On the PEN-F in S-AF mode, pulling the clutch back changes to manual focus mode, but focus peaking and magnification aren't available.
The only way to use focus peaking & magnification on the PEN-F is by setting it to S-AF/M, but this makes the manual focus clutch completely redundant.
Pretty sure you can assign a function button as peaking?
The manual clutch works perfectly on PEN-F. You must have disabled it internally.
@@robinwong The manual clutch works, it's just that it doesn't automatically turn on MF assist features such as 'Magnify' and 'Focus Peaking' (I think this is a limitation of the 17mm f1.8 lens).
There is a workaround, as @keithvlogs1 stated, which is to assign a function button for MF assist features.
Just a bit disappointed, as I'm used to the 12-40 Pro lens, which automatically turns on MF assist features as soon as you activate the manual clutch.
Not a big problem, just need to get used to a different way of working when jumping between the two lenses.
My Oly 17mm f1.8 is great. I like the 35mm equiv. field of view. I don't see anything odd in the photos. I dont have a Leica 15mm to compare it against though 😉
If there is a problem, it is not distortion. Panasonic's raw file shows one percent more distortion.
I have been using Olympus Om-d EM5 mark III and 17 mm F1.8 to shoot. I notice occasionally this combination did not produce sharp images when compared with images shot with 25 mm F1.8. I wonder whether other people have similar experience.
My 17mm is perfectly sharp all the time though
Use the manual focus clutch on the 17mm and you will never get the "wrong" focus (i.e. AF focused on leaves, not the flowers). When I want the best/right focus I always use manual focus.
Hi Robin, do you know if it is possible to update the firmware of a Panasonic lens if I have an Olympus camera?
Hi Robin
can this lens be used in the em10ii?
The Dji have the same lens r they the same or compatible, selling in Tabao for half the price.
TQ
I have never used the PL15 f/1.7, but get fine results with the Oly 17mm processed from RAW with DxO Photolab. At 15mm, the PL has the wrong focal length, I love the 35mm as it was te first lens I owned and used on my first SLR, a Canon FTb
I had oly 17mm for few years, had no issues with it, also with original lens hood it loooks awesome (you can store it backwards on the lens)
I made a video to talk about why I don't use hoods.
Perfect timing. Thank you. Are they similar prices? Or is that a factor to bring into focus as well (no pun intended).
In the used market here, they are about the same price
@@robinwong ah cool. Here in the UK there is about a £100 difference used (according to likes of MPB anyhow) ;) That’s partly why I went for the Ollie, and also as I have Ollie bodies.
Hi Robin, I thought my Olympus 17mm F1.8 lens was a bad copy, no matter which system I tried on (Lumix or Oly) I was never happy with the image.
Yeap, there is just something wrong with the rendering of the lens.
I own both Leica 25mm f1.4 and the LUMIX 14mm f2.5. Do you think there is a reason to trade my LUMIX 14mm for either of the lenses in your video? I shoot with the Pen F.
Yes, I sold out the 17mm and bought in the 15mm because, well, the rendering of the 17 didn't quite look right to me! The 15 is a good trick, like we get a real Leica lens for Panasonic prices;-)
Thanks for commenting, and yes, many people have also noticed this issue too.
NIce details of these two lenses. I've owned the Olympus 17mm/1.8 for years, and for some reason, I've just never loved it. It's fine. It's sharp enough. It's contrasty enough. It renders colours nicely, but the images have always looked a little flat, less dimensional than images shot with the 25mm/1.8. I see the same thing in the 17mm photos here. To me, the PL/15mm just has that "something extra," that depth and three-dimensional quality that is lacking in the Oly 17mm. So, it's time to trade the 17mm in for the 15mm. It'll solve a lot of things for me. I find the 17mm field of view is often just a little too tight, and the 12mm is often too wide. (Though, I'd rather a little too wide than a little too tight. It's often easier to get closer than it is to get farther away when shooting in tight quarters.) I've always wished Olympus had made a 14mm/1,8. Maybe the 15mm/1.7 will find its way to the sweet spot. Thanks for this video, and your discussion of the two lenses. Now, I'm off to buy a lens.
I’m much more of a 28mm street shooter so find the 15mm fantastic… I love the 30mm perspective…. Just lthat bit more tighter in framing is a unique selling point
yeah if you love the 28mm focal length, the Panasonic 15mm is the lens
owned them both, couldn't agree more with what he's saying. even though 35mm is my fav focal length
On my full-frame cameras, I prefer to use the 35mm focal length. I use a 35mm f/1.4 on my Leica M6 and M10 rangefinders. I use a 35mm f/1.4 and a 35mm f/2 on my Nikon SLRs.
On my APS-C cameras, I prefer to use 23mm focal length lenses. I use a 23mm f/1.4 and a 23mm f/2 on my Fuji X digital mirrorless.
However, on my micro 4/3 cameras, I have a 17mm f/2.8, but I prefer to use a 20mm f/1.7 instead.
That is very interesting indeed. Why not the 17mm on Micro Four Thirds?
@@robinwong
I use my 17mm f/2.8 as a backup to my 20mm.
I prefer the faster aperture of my 20mm and I prefer the image quality of my 20mm.
Which lens do you use most often?
Hi Robin, I own both lenses PL 15/1.7 and OZ 17/1.8 Both lenses performing great.
Very informative, thank you
It's a shame that the diaphragm ring can't be used with Olympus/OM System equipment, which is why I have a hard time paying for something I can't use. And it hurts me, because I love the lenses signed by Leica (may it be their design or optical treatments... I think they have something special). Regarding the M.Zuiko 17mm 1.8, I like it so much that I have two, one black and one silver. It's unique, I wouldn't know what to say about that special touch, personally I attribute it to the fact that it has a microcontrast that gives personality to the shots (but as you say, it might just be my imagination😅).
Thank you Robin Wong, let's do this.
Why not the lumix 14mm 2.8? (I've not used it. Has size going for it)
Because: 1) It is not F1.7/F1/8 2) The AF is slow 3) The purple fringing is terrible. I have made a video about that lens too, if you have missed it.
@@robinwong i've probably missed it. Purple fringing is no good ..
I would love to see some Sigma 14-25/1.8 for M43 ;)
I don’t believe such a lens exists.
Why not a 14-40 f1.8, right now we can only dream🤩
Sadly, as far as I know, Sigma does not make any MFT-lenses anymore. Well maybe together with OMS.
Does the manual focus clutch on the Oly lens works on a Panny body?
yes it does work.
Yes it does
Anyone wanting a budget 15mm PL, look at the Panasonic 14mm 2.5 - it's so sharp, lovely images and the lens is so cheap and small.
Nope, not even close. The 14mm has severe purple fringing issues (even on Panasonic bodies, yes I have checked), slower AF, and optically it is just not as good. Not to mention, it isn't F1.7/F1.8 that can make a whole world of difference in low light.
Think you have misunderstood my post, I said "budget" - of course it's not as good as the 15mm, it's a quarter of the price, but for that price you get a sharp lens and I haven't experienced this "severe" purple fringing that you mention.
Have you tried the simga19mm ex or Dn?
What about the lens? It is a different focal length
Hey Robin, you've been warning us against the Olympus 17mm f 1.8 for years! So I won't be getting one...
Yeah I have been consistent with my opinion for years
@@robinwong But I will get the the nice 2.8 standard zoom! Or would you suggest the new smaller 4.0?
Thank you :)
And now the question is: How does the Panasonic compare to the M. Zuiko 12mm F/2.0?
Both lenses should not be compared. One is 30mm equivalent, the other 24mm, I cannot imagine using both lenses in the same subject or situation, I'd approach using the lenses very differently.
@@robinwong Fair enough. The 12mm is surprisingly expensive.
Hi Robin, I don't mind that they aren't weather sealed I try to avoid shooting in the rain and sandy places. Both those lenses produce beautiful images. Thanks 😊
Yeah but having them weather-sealed would inspire more confidence in use!
@@robinwong Yes good point it could be Sunny and suddenly it could rain, and having weather sealed would come in handy. 😊
The 15mm is fantastic, but the FOV is very similar to an iPhone. I aim to get images that are out of that wheelhouse
The iphone FOV is something like 24mm equivalent? I think it is a bit too wide, and the Panasonic 15mm (30mm equivalent) is better for a bit of isolation, yet having wide enough coverage for environmental shots.
@@robinwong iPhone is 26mm f1.6 in “normal” and 13mm f2.4 in “ultrawide”
Hi I want to ask since my type of photography is inspired by Japanese photographers like Daido Moriyama, Jun Abe and alike, will the Olympus 17mm F1.8 fit the criteria? I just got it today as recommended by the seller. I was gonna go for the 25mm F1.8 first then switched last min
I owned the 15 mm and traded it for a 17mm a year later.
The problem I found is that Panasonic lenses on Olympus bodies suffer of tremendous chromatic aberration, while the other way around don't usually happen.
It's me, I know, and I know of the "Fix in post" thing, but I hate CA: it's an eyesore for me and the issue I loathe the most in a lens. Olympus usually design better corrected lens while Panasonic let camera software to correct any issue in the file.
I Use a lot of old manual lenses (Olympus and Nikon) on a 5DMkII converted with a split prism: I noticed how old lenses were more corrected then the new one, especially in CA, probably because film camera leave little room for post processing.
I have to tell the 17mm is the worst among all the Olympus "premium" primes: due to lack of contrast and, relatively speaking, poor sharpness.
I have used Panasonic lenses on Panasonic bodies like G9, GH5, GM1, and believe me when I say, the purple fringing is as bad as it is on Olympus bodies.
I love my 15mm f1.7! Especially that is has an MF switch.
Thanks for dropping by Marlene! I love my 15mm lens a lot too
Robin, I like your reviews but this one is not really fair. No where do you mention that the Panasonic lens is the superior Leica summilux version not the basic lumix lens.. The rendering of this lens is well known to be outstanding and natural.
Perhaps you should have compared the lumix version against the Olympus??
Leica is just a branding, there is nothing superior in that 15mm lens. It is a great lens, it is NOT Leica great. There is no resemblance to any real Leica quality lenses.
I am in Kuala Lumpur for awhile with my wife. I am thinking of buying a Sony A6700 while here. Can you suggest a good place with good prices? Thank you. I am here with my Olympus PEN-F and E-M10 II, but have also become interested in the A6700.
Perfect 👌
Thank you Robin .
Thanks Christine!
Disappointment. F1.7 and F1.8 and NO night shots.😮.. we need to see that and how flare from street lights are handled...🤷♂️
You may feel free to make a video to address the disappointment and fill on whatever you feel is missing. I don't exist to make you happy. You can find your happiness elsewhere.
You know I was raised in a retail store, so have zero problems with talking to strangers on the street.
Completely subjective, my experience is the opposite, 17 1,8 is like pulling great frames by itself, magical.
It all depends on your own shooting preference, if you love the 35mm focal length, then of course, it will be magical.
Thank you. Now go get some sleep! 😉👍
Cheers
panny 20mm all the way!
I don’t prefer women wide but for street I do 😉 15mm 👍
Hey Rob wassup