At the same time as releasing the Lumix S5D full-frame camera, Panasonic has unveiled a new kit zoom lens, the Lumix S 18 - 40 mm f/4.5 - 6.3. This lens is being praised for its key benefit over older kit zooms in the Lumix lineup: its small size. It has a diameter of just 67.9 millimeters, a length of 40.9 millimeters, and weighs only 155 grams.
Lightweight and Compact
This lens is perfect for the slim Lumix S9 full-frame camera, as the total weight of the camera and lens is merely 641 grams. Panasonic claims that this is the lightest and smallest full-frame zoom lens featuring autofocus. It is also designed to withstand splashes of water, frost down to -10 °C, and dust. Plus, the front of the lens has a special coating to keep dirt at bay.
Unique Focal Length
The focal length is particularly interesting, since at 18 mm, it competes with many ultra-wide fixed focal lengths. Meanwhile, the 40 mm at the longer end represents a trade-off for its compactness, just like the smaller maximum aperture, which is f/4.5 or f/6.3, depending on the focal length. It also boasts a short focus distance of 15 centimeters for added flexibility. The lens design consists of eight lenses arranged in seven groups, which includes three aspherical lenses, two ED lenses, and one UHR element.
Pricing and Release Info
The Panasonic Lumix S 18 - 40 mm f/4.5 - 6.3 is set to be launched in November 2024 with a suggested retail price of $499. Additionally, it will be available as a kit alongside the Lumix S9.
