Lens Comparison: M.Zuiko 75-300mm II vs. M.Zuiko 100-400mm IS II
This document provides a detailed technical and practical comparison between the ultra-compact M.ZUIKO DIGITAL ED 75-300mm f/4.8-6.7 II and the high-performance M.ZUIKO DIGITAL ED 100-400mm f/5-6.3 IS II.
1. Technical Specifications
| Feature |
M.Zuiko 75-300mm f/4.8-6.7 II |
M.Zuiko 100-400mm f/5-6.3 IS II |
| Full-Frame Reach |
150–600mm |
200–800mm |
| Optical Design |
18 Elements / 13 Groups |
21 Elements / 15 Groups |
| Image Stabilization |
None (Lens), Body Only |
Lens IS (Sync IS Compatible) |
| Weather Sealing |
None |
IPX1 Rated |
| Teleconverter Support |
No |
Yes (MC-14 & MC-20) |
| Weight |
423g |
1,125g (without collar) |
| Filter Diameter |
58mm |
72mm |
| Max Magnification |
0.18x |
0.57x (Semi-Macro) |
2. Key Advantages of the 100-400mm IS II
Enhanced Reach and Expandability
While the 75-300mm tops out at a 600mm equivalent, the 100-400mm reaches 800mm natively. Crucially, the 100-400mm is compatible with the MC-14 and MC-20 teleconverters, allowing for a maximum reach of 1600mm equivalent, which is a game-changer for distant wildlife.
Stabilization and Handheld Shooting
The 100-400mm features built-in optical stabilization that works in tandem with the camera’s IBIS (Sync IS). This provides significantly steadier framing and sharper results at long focal lengths compared to the body-only stabilization used by the 75-300mm.
Professional Build Quality
The 100-400mm is IPX1 weather-sealed, making it suitable for unpredictable outdoor conditions. It also features dedicated physical controls:
- Focus Limiter: Speeds up autofocus by restricting the search range.
- AF/MF Switch: For quick manual overrides.
- IS On/Off: Dedicated control for the stabilization system.
3. Image Quality Analysis
- Sharpness: The 100-400mm maintains high resolution and contrast even at the full 400mm extension. In contrast, the 75-300mm tends to soften slightly at its maximum zoom.
- Optical Coatings: The 100-400mm utilizes advanced ED and HR glass elements to significantly reduce chromatic aberration (fringing) and flare.
- Bokeh: With 9 circular aperture blades, the 100-400mm produces smoother, more pleasing background blur than the 7-blade system in the 75-300mm.
4. Use Case Recommendation
Choose the 75-300mm II if:
- Portability and minimal weight are the absolute priority.
- You primarily shoot in bright, fair-weather conditions.
- You are on a strict budget but need significant telephoto reach.
Choose the 100-400mm IS II if:
- You are serious about wildlife and bird photography.
- You need the flexibility of teleconverters for maximum reach.
- You shoot in varied weather conditions and require weather sealing.
- You want the highest possible image quality at the long end of the zoom range.