Panasonic LUMIX S 18-40mm F4.5 – 6.3 Lens Introduced – Smallest and Lightest Zoom in Its Category

Lens News

by Alexandra ThompsonOctober 8^th, 2024

Panasonic added a new lens to their LUMIX full-frame line-up: the LUMIX S 18-40mm F4.5-6.3 lens. According to the company, this lens is currently the world’s smallest and lightest zoom lens among AF-compatible interchangeable zoom lenses for full-frame mirrorless systems, weighing just 155g/0.34 lbs and measuring only 40.9mm/1.6 in length when retracted. Let’s have a closer look!

In June, Panasonic introduced the LUMIX GH7 camera featuring a new 25.2MP Micro Four Thirds sensor. Now we have an ultra-compact lens – the LUMIX S 18-40mm F4.5-6.3 based on the L-mount standard. As of this date, this lens is the smallest and lightest zoom lens on the market among AF-compatible zoom lenses in its category; plus, it can cover ultra-wide to semi-standard focal lengths, offering quite a bit of flexibility.

Features

What stands out with this lens is its size and weight. The exceptionally light build means it’s very portable for a full-frame system. The lens only weighs 155g/0.34 lbs, and when retracted, it’s only 40.9mm/1.6in, yet it offers nice flexibility in focal lengths, covering everything from landscapes to portraits. The lens is also capable of 18-120mm with the Hybrid Zoom function on the LUMIX S9.

The dimensions of the LUMIX S9 camera with the lens are 126 x 73.9 x 87.6mm (4.96 x 2.9 x 3.4 in), and the weight is just 641g/1.4 lbs. In addition, the closest focusing distance at 15cm/5.9 in gives us some flexibility for close-up shots (6cm/2.36 in from the tip of the lens to the subject).

When used for video, the lens effectively minimizes focus breathing, a typical issue in many video lenses. Additionally, it’s designed to be dust, splash, and freeze-resistant (as low as -10°C/14°F), with a fluorine coating for added durability in different shooting environments.

LUMIX S 18-40mm – specs

• Focal Length: 18-40mm
• Aperture: F4.5-6.3
• Closest Focusing Distance: 0.15m (0.49ft)
• Weight: 155g (0.34lb) (combined weight with the LUMIX S9 camera is 641g/1.4 lbs)
• Dimensions: 67.9mm diameter, 40.9mm length (when retracted)
• Dimensions mounted on the LUMIX S9 camera: 126 x 73.9 x 87.6mm (4.96 x 2.9 x 3.4 in)
• Filter Thread: 62mm
• Weather-Sealed: Dust, splash, and freeze-resistant

Price and availability

The LUMIX S 18-40mm F4.5-6.3 will be available for purchase in mid-November 2024, priced at $498.99 for the lens alone and $1,797.99 for the Kit, which includes the LUMIX S9 body and the 18-40mm lens.

Additionally, LUMIX is introducing two new colors to the S9 lineup—Sakura Pink and Mint Green. In mid-November, all six color options will be available in a new kit, combining the S9 body with the 18-40mm lens.

How important is portability in your choice of gear, and how does this lens’s size and weight factor into your workflow? Let us know in the comments!