The Panasonic Leica DG Vario-Elmar 100-400mm f/4-6.3 is a Panasonic 100–400mm zoom for Micro Four Thirds, released in 2015. It covers 200–800mm in full-frame terms at a maximum aperture of f/4–6.3. It offers weather sealing, Dual IS compatible OIS, and a 985g build.
Best for: Wildlife and bird photography with long reach
Pros
- OIS with Dual IS support for Panasonic bodies
- Weather sealed for outdoor and adverse conditions
- Long telephoto reach up to 800mm equivalent
Cons
- Heavy at 985g
- Variable aperture narrows at longer focal lengths
- High price point
What this lens is good for
Bird and wildlife photography
The original Leica 100-400mm, a 200-800mm full-frame equivalent super-telephoto zoom with OIS, handholdable for the range it covers. Ideal for distant wildlife and birds, with Leica optics and stabilisation that coordinates with Dual IS on Panasonic bodies. Often the value choice against the Mark II. Full guide →
The Moon and far detail
The 800mm equivalent reach and weather sealing make it effective for the Moon, distant detail, and field wildlife in varied conditions. The variable f/4-6.3 aperture means good light helps, but the stabilisation and manageable weight make long handheld sessions practical.
Dual IS compatibility
This lens triggers Dual IS on compatible Panasonic bodies, combining lens OIS with body IBIS for improved stabilisation.
No confirmed Dual IS pairings in the database yet.
Specifications
| Lens | |
| Brand | Panasonic |
| Type | zoom |
| Status | current |
| Released | 2015-12 |
| Mount | mft |
| Optics | |
| Focal length | 100-400mm |
| FF equivalent | 200-800mm |
| Max aperture | f/4 |
| Min aperture | f/22 |
| Aperture blades | 7 |
| Elements / Groups | 20 / 14 |
| Focus | |
| Autofocus | Linear Motor |
| MF override | Yes |
| Min focus distance | 1.3m |
| Max magnification | 0.27x |
| Stabilisation | |
| OIS | power_ois |
| Dual IS compatible | Yes |
| Physical | |
| Weather sealed | Yes |
| Filter size | 72mm |
| Weight | 985g |
| Dimensions | 172.1mm length x 83.7mm diameter |
| Pricing | |
| Price (approx.) | $1,197 USD |