For a while, the only way to get the Lumix G Vario 14-42mm f/3.5-5.6 II ASPH. Mega O.I.S. ($249.99) was to buy it bundled with a new Micro Four Thirds camera. Now Panasonic is selling it on its own, albeit at a premium when compared with the cost of buying it along with a body. It's one of a number of starter lenses available for the system, and a fine choice for anyone starting out with a mirrorless camera—but you shouldn't pay full retail price for it. DesignEven though it's not a collapsible lens like the competing Olympus M.Zuiko 14-42mm f3.5-5.6 II R ($224.00 at Amazon) zoom, the Lumix G Vario ($251.08 at Amazon) is fairly compact at 1.9 by 2.2 inches (HD), and there's no need to extend it via a latch mechanism prior to use as there is with the Olympus zoom. Panasonic also includes a reversible lens hood, which Olympus makes you buy separately. And, since Panasonic cameras (for the most part) don't include the in-body stabilization that Olympus uses in its Micro Four Thirds...
The Panasonic Lumix G Vario 14-42mm f/3.5-5.6 II ASPH. Mega O.I.S. is a good starter lens for Micro Four Thirds shooters, but it's not a standout.
Compact; Good sharpness through most of range; Minimal distortion; Optically stabilized; Includes lens hood
Soft edges and dim corners at widest angle; Plastic lens mount