Olympus M.Zuiko Digital ED 100-400mm f/5-6.3 IS Super-Telephoto Zoom Lens
The Olympus 100-400mm f/5-6.3 IS is a 100–400mm f/5 lens designed for Micro Four Thirds mount cameras. Used copies start from $866.06 on GearFocus, with buyer protection on every purchase.
Olympus M.Zuiko Digital ED 100-400mm f/5-6.3 IS Super-Telephoto Zoom Lens
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Lens Overview — Olympus 100-400mm f/5-6.3 IS
Key Features — Olympus 100-400mm f/5-6.3 IS
200-800mm Equivalent Reach: The MFT 2x crop factor transforms the 100-400mm range into an effective 200-800mm equivalent, delivering extreme reach for wildlife and sports shooting.
f/5-6.3 Variable Aperture: Opens to f/5 at the wide end for reasonable light gathering across a super-telephoto zoom range.
Built-In Optical Stabilization: Lens-based image stabilization compensates for camera shake during handheld use, particularly valuable at the 400mm end of the range.
Sync IS Compatible: Optical stabilization works in coordination with in-body stabilization on compatible Olympus and OM System bodies for enhanced shake correction.
Auto and Manual Focus: Supports both AF and MF modes, giving shooters the flexibility to switch between tracking fast-moving subjects and precise manual control.
Micro Four Thirds Mount: Native MFT mount ensures full electronic compatibility with Olympus, OM System, and Panasonic MFT mirrorless bodies.
Lens Specifications — Olympus 100-400mm f/5-6.3 IS
| Spec | Detail |
|---|---|
| Use Cases | Wildlife, Sports, Birding, Adventure, Travel |
| Lens Type | Zoom |
| Format | Micro Four Thirds (MFT) |
| Zoom/Prime | Zoom |
| Focal Length | 100–400mm |
| Maximum Aperture | f/5 |
| Camera System | Mirrorless |
| Lens Mount | Micro Four Thirds |
| Autofocus | Yes |
| Focus Type | Auto, Manual |
| Image Stabilization | Optical |
| Filter Thread | 72mm |
Description — Olympus 100-400mm f/5-6.3 IS
The Olympus M.Zuiko Digital ED 100-400mm f/5-6.3 IS is a super-telephoto zoom lens designed for Micro Four Thirds mirrorless camera systems. With a focal length range spanning 100mm to 400mm and a maximum aperture of f/5, it provides substantial reach for subjects that demand distance — from wildlife in the field to athletes on the track. The lens features optical image stabilization, working to steady the image during handheld shooting, which is especially valuable at the longer end of the zoom range.
Both auto and manual focus modes are supported, giving photographers control over their focusing approach regardless of subject behavior. The 72mm filter thread accommodates standard circular filter accessories with ease. Weighing 1,120 grams, this is a serious telephoto tool that reflects the optical demands of its range.
Mounted via the Micro Four Thirds lens mount, it integrates directly with compatible MFT mirrorless bodies for a seamless shooting experience across the full focal length range.
Pros — Olympus 100-400mm f/5-6.3 IS
- ✓Wide focal length range of 100-400mm covers a broad super-telephoto spectrum for the Micro Four Thirds system
- ✓Maximum aperture of f/5 at the wide end provides reasonable light gathering for a super-telephoto zoom
- ✓Built-in optical image stabilization helps reduce camera shake during handheld shooting
Cons — Olympus 100-400mm f/5-6.3 IS
- ✗At 1,120g, the lens is heavy and may require additional support for extended handheld use
- ✗Maximum aperture of f/5-6.3 is relatively narrow, which can limit performance in lower light conditions
- ✗Focal length starts at 100mm with no wider coverage, so a separate lens is needed for shorter telephoto or standard shooting
Reviews — Olympus 100-400mm f/5-6.3 IS
Videos — Olympus 100-400mm f/5-6.3 IS
Olympus 100-400mm F5.0-6.3 IS Review — DPReview TV
Frequently Asked Questions — Olympus 100-400mm f/5-6.3 IS
What camera systems is this lens compatible with?+
This lens uses a Micro Four Thirds mount, making it compatible with MFT-mount mirrorless camera bodies. It is designed specifically for the mirrorless camera system.
Does this lens have image stabilization?+
Yes, the lens includes optical image stabilization built into the lens itself. This helps reduce the effects of camera shake, which is particularly useful when shooting handheld at longer focal lengths.
What filter size does this lens use?+
The lens has a 72mm filter thread, which is a widely supported size. Standard 72mm circular filters such as UV, polarizing, or ND filters can be used directly on the front of the lens.
Can I use manual focus with this lens?+
Yes, the lens supports both auto and manual focus modes. Shooters can switch between them depending on the subject and shooting conditions.
How heavy is this lens?+
The lens weighs 1,120 grams. Photographers planning extended handheld sessions at the longer focal lengths should factor in this weight when considering support options.