Small Test

I was curious to see how well the DA16-45 lens compares with my A28mm 2.8 at the same focal length so I did a quick little test just for fun.
I'm no professional lens tester or anything... so this is just for curiosity.
ISO200, RAW, *istD, tripod, 2sec timer/lockup, Norman Koren test target.

Very interesting indeed. I'm a great believer in doing our own lens testing so that the resulkts reflect what is possible with the equipment and techniques that we use.

Looking at the high resolution originals, what conclusions do you draw from your tests?

well, these are all 100% crops and the 16-45 looks a little soft wide open in comparison to this 28mm (although it is a prime I'm comparing with!)
But stopped down a little the 16-45 reigns in very close to the prime especially at f16. (perfect for my landscapes)
I love the 16-45... no question! Hugely versatile... these little tests just show me how to work with what I have... and squeeze that extra bit of sharpness out when it calls for it.

What I'd be interested in seeing is how the 16-45 compares with the 18-55. I'd always expect a zoom lens to get spanked by a good prime, especially at wider apertures.

Judging by the above images, I'd say the 16-45 is pretty good for a zoom and worthy of it's reputation.

That's just the sort of test that we can find useful, along with shots of a colour chart.

Ya! I thought the 16-45 held up pretty good next to a prime!
That's what I'm always curious about, as I know a zoom will never beat a "good" prime, but I wonder just how close it comes to matching it!