Panasonic 25mm f1.4 II vs 30mm Macro: Which Prime?
By Camix | Published: 2026-10-21
Category: Comparisons
Comparing the Panasonic 25mm f1.4 II Leica DG and the Lumix G Macro 30mm f/2.8 for portraits, close-ups, and everyday shooting. Find your fit.
Quick answer
Pick the Panasonic 25mm f1.4 II Leica DG for low-light portraits and a classic field of view. Choose the Lumix G Macro 30mm f/2.8 for true 1:1 close-ups and a sharper budget option.
Why aperture and close-up ability define your choice
The 25mm f1.4 II gives you a fast f/1.4 maximum aperture for shallow depth of field and better performance in dim light. The 30mm f/2.8 is two stops slower, so it's not ideal for indoor action or heavy background blur, but it offers true 1:1 macro magnification that the 25mm cannot match.
Both lenses share the same Micro Four Thirds mount and work on any Lumix G body, but they serve very different primary uses. The 25mm is a general-purpose prime with a classic 50mm-equivalent angle of view, while the 30mm is a dedicated macro lens that also works as a short telephoto for detail shots.
Trade-offs at a glance
- Maximum aperture: 25mm f1.4 II: f/1.4 lets in 4× more light than f/2.8, giving you creamy bokeh and better low-light performance. 30mm f/2.8: f/2.8 is adequate for well-lit macro work but limits background separation.
- Close-up capability: 30mm f/2.8: true 1:1 macro reproduction ratio for extreme close-ups of insects, coins, or textures. 25mm f1.4 II: minimum focus distance is much longer; not suitable for macro work.
- Price and value: 30mm f/2.8: USD 279.00 – the more affordable option, perfect if macro is your priority. 25mm f1.4 II: USD 386.92 – a premium for the faster aperture and Leica branding, but still a good deal compared to its original USD 569.00 price. If you only shoot portraits and general scenes, the 25mm f1.4 II is worth the extra cost. If macro is essential, the 30mm saves money and delivers the close-up performance you need.
Product facts at a glance
- Panasonic 25mm f1.4 II Leica DG Summilux ASPH Lens: In stock – Order NOW 1 Year Warranty FREE UK DELIVERY Brand New Stock The Panasonic 25mm f1.4 II Leica DG is priced at USD 386.92 (down from USD 569.00), making it a strong value for a fast, Leica-branded prime.
Panasonic 25mm f1.4 II Leica DG Summilux ASPH Lens - Panasonic Lumix G Macro 30mm f/2.8 ASPH. MEGA O.I.S. Lens: In stock – Order NOW 1 Year Warranty FREE UK DELIVERY Brand New Stock The Lumix G Macro 30mm f/2.8 costs USD 279.00 (down from USD 372.00), offering the lowest entry point for 1:1 macro on Lumix G without sacrificing image quality.
Panasonic Lumix G Macro 30mm f/2.8 ASPH. MEGA O.I.S. Lens
Which prime fits you?
Best for
- Portrait photographers who want shallow depth of field and a classic 50mm-equivalent view
- Low-light shooters who need a fast aperture without flash
Not for
- Close-up or macro enthusiasts who need 1:1 magnification
- Budget-conscious buyers who don't need f/1.4 speed
