We’ve all been there, trying to pack light for a trip but torn about leaving our bulky camera gear behind.
Enter pancake lenses, the unsung heroes of compact photography and videography.
These slim, lightweight wonders are a game changer for photographers and videographers on the go.
Let’s jump into the world of the best pancake lenses that’ll keep your bag light and your shots sharp.
Best Pancake Lenses
Let’s take a look at some of the top pancake lenses for sleek photo & video work.
1. Panasonic Lumix G 20mm F/1.7 II ASPH Lens
When we’re looking for outstanding image quality in a slim profile, the Panasonic Lumix G 20mm f/1.7 II ASPH Lens often tops our list.
Its f/1.7 aperture ensures that even in low light, the photos remain sharp and vibrant.
With a 40mm equivalent focal length, this lens is ideal for street photography and daily shooting.
The compact size belies its ability to capture detailed and nuanced images.
Optically, the lens comprises seven elements in five groups and uses two aspherical lenses to reduce distortion and chromatic aberrations.
Every shot benefits from the crispness and clarity provided by this high-grade lens design.
Autofocus performance is yet another strong suit of the Lumix G 20mm lens.
It’s quick, silent, and highly accurate, enabling us to catch fleeting moments with ease.
Durability is also a key feature here.
The metal mount adds robustness without compromising on the lightweight ethos that’s central to pancake lenses.
Key features of this lens include: – 20mm focal length with a bright f/1.7 aperture – Durable metal mount – Two aspherical elements for optical excellence – Compact design for ultimate portability
As photographers and videographers, versatility is crucial, and this lens doesn’t disappoint.
Whether we’re exploring urban environments or capturing intimate indoor scenes, the Lumix G 20mm lens adapts effortlessly.
- 20mm focal length, equivalent to 40mm on a 35mm film camera
- Closest Focusing Distance : 0.2m / 0.66ft, Maximum magnification Approx. 0.13x / 0.25x (35mm camera...
- F1.7 brightness for beautiful, soft focus, Comprised of seven lenses in five groups
- Used with Lumix G Micro System Cameras, allows for use of the advanced contrast Auto Focus (AF)...
- Lens not Zoomable
2. Canon EF-S 24mm F/2.8 STM Lens
Moving on to a superb choice for Canon users, the Canon EF-S 24mm f/2.8 STM lens stands out as a must-have for those who prefer the brand’s APS-C format cameras.
Its ultra-slim design makes it an excellent companion for travel and on-the-go photography.
This lens, known for its wide aperture, allows us to capture stunning shots in low light conditions.
Also, its 38mm effective focal length, when mounted on an APS-C camera, offers an angle of view similar to that of the human eye.
The EF-S 24mm f/2.8 STM boasts a stepping motor technology –
- Quiet and smooth autofocus ideal for video recording,
- Precise manual focus for creative control.
Marked by its lightweight build, we can carry it all day without any strain.
It’s a testament to Canon’s commitment to portability without sacrificing image quality.
One of the striking features of this lens is its advanced optical design.
We’ll find that it uses an aspherical element to minimize distortions and spherical aberrations, ensuring our images are sharp corner to corner.
Not to forget, this pancake lens integrates well with the Canon ecosystem.
This compatibility is perfect for us who already own Canon cameras and wish to expand our lens collection without the extra bulk.
In terms of build quality, the Canon EF-S 24mm f/2.8 STM does not disappoint.
A sturdy metal mount adds to the durability while the compact form factor keeps it inconspicuous – perfect for candid shots.
We recognize that this lens won’t be the only one in our camera bag, but its versatility makes it a staple for any Canon enthusiast seeking quality and compactness in one package.
Whether we’re capturing street scenes or filming an impromptu video, the EF-S 24mm f/2.8 STM lens is a reliable choice that we can depend on for excellent performance and consistent results.
- Wide angle lens for Canon APS C cameras (equivalent to 38 millimeter on a full frame camera)
- Focal length & maximum aperture: 24 millimeter 1:2.8, maximum magnification of x0.27
- Slimmest and lightest lens of the EF S series
- Circular aperture (7 blades) delivers beautiful, soft backgrounds
- Full time manual focus allows manual focus adjustment while in One Shot AF mode
3. Sony E 20mm F/2.8 Pancake Lens
For those who shoot with Sony cameras, we have another gem in the pancake lens category – the Sony E 20mm f/2.8.
This lens is a standout for its combination of portability and performance.
Its 20mm focal length offers a versatile wide-angle view, making it perfect for everything from landscapes to everyday snapshots.
We appreciate the lens’s fast f/2.8 aperture, providing excellent low-light capabilities and the ability to create a shallow depth of field.
The autofocus is reliable and agile, ensuring we don’t miss those spontaneous moments.
Here’s what makes the Sony E 20mm f/2.8 a must-have:
- Exceptional sharpness across the frame,
- Lightweight and compact form factor.
Photographers and videographers alike will find the lens’s size advantageous for discreet shooting and travel.
It’s designed with an aluminum alloy exterior, giving it a high-quality feel without adding unnecessary weight.
Its optical construction includes three aspherical elements to reduce aberrations and deliver outstanding images.
The Sony E 20mm f/2.8 integrates seamlessly with the comprehensive Sony E-mount system, allowing users to pair it with a wide range of cameras.
Videographers will benefit from the lens’s quiet and smooth focusing mechanism – a crucial feature when capturing video to minimize audio interference.
We’ve found that this lens is especially useful for vlogging, providing a broad field of view without the distortion often associated with wider lenses.
- Sony E 20mm f/2.8 Lens (Black) - Lens Hood - Front Lens Cap - Rear Lens Cap - Sony 1 Year Limited...
- Adorama Camera Lens Valuable Bundle. Kit Includes.
- Sony Alpha E-mount 20mm F2.8 Lens, Front Lens Cap, Rear Lens Cap, 49mm Filter Kit (UV/CPL/ND2), Lens...
- Pro Optic 49mm Digital Essentials Filter Kit, With Ultra Violet (UV), Circular Polarizer and Neutral...
- Adorama Slinger Soft Lens Case Medium, Black. Universal Lens Cap Tether.
4. Fujifilm XF 27mm F/2.8 R WR Lens
In our search for the best pancake lenses, we can’t overlook the Fujifilm XF 27mm f/2.8 R WR.
This prime lens is a true gem for Fujifilm X-series shooters who prioritize a minimalist setup without sacrificing image quality.
It’s renowned for its remarkably slim profile and exceptional optic performance.
As a portable powerhouse, the lens features weather resistance – a must for adventurers and street photographers alike.
Its compactness doesn’t compromise on its capability to produce sharp, vibrant images.
In fact, its f/2.8 aperture is adept at channeling ample light in dim scenarios ensuring that our shots are never hindered by challenging environments.
We appreciate the lens’s focal length, equivalent to 41mm on a 35mm camera, offering a natural field of view.
This makes it particularly versatile for:
- Everyday photography,
- Portrait sessions,
- Urban landscapes.
Integrating swiftly with our creative workflow, the lens also sports a high-torque DC motor.
This ensures autofocus is both swift and silent, which is essential for capturing candid moments or shooting video without unwanted noise interference.
The Fuji XF 27mm lens so aligns perfectly with the demands of discreet shooting and dynamic videography.
With a rounded seven-blade aperture diaphragm, bokeh from the XF 27mm lens exhibits a pleasing quality.
Whether it’s subtle background blur in portraits or the smooth rendering of highlights in nighttime cityscapes, the bokeh contributes significantly to the aesthetic value of our photos.
Also, the lens’s simplicity is matched by its intuitive aperture ring.
This provides tactile control over exposure settings, making it a joy to use for those who prefer manual adjustments.
It’s an invitation to engage more deeply with the craft of photography, all while enjoying the lightweight convenience this lens offers.
- TAKE COMPLETE CREATIVE CONTROL: Stay discreet and remain completely immersed in the moment with...
- CREATE IN ANY CONDITION: With an extremely small and lightweight design, XF27mmF2.8 R WR is an ideal...
- REACT IN A SPLIT SECOND: framing a fraction of a second is no easy task, so ensuring your lens is...
- PROTECT BUT DON’T PROHIBIT: Lens hoods play an important role in photography. By blocking stray...
- PROFESSIONAL PERFORMANCE WITHIN REACH: On top of so many fantastic and new features, XF27mmF2.8 R WR...
5. Olympus M.zuiko Digital 17mm F/2.8 Lens
When it comes to top-notch pancake lenses, we must talk about the Olympus M.Zuiko Digital 17mm f/2.8.
This compact powerhouse is a favorite among photographers who prioritize portability without compromising on quality.
Its micro-four-thirds format ensures that it’s not only incredibly lightweight but also a perfect companion for Olympus and Panasonic mirrorless cameras.
The 17mm focal length of this lens is equivalent to 34mm on a 35mm camera – making it ideal for a variety of shooting situations.
The f/2.8 maximum aperture is fast enough for low light scenarios and produces a lovely shallow depth of field.
Also, the lens utilizes a high-speed Imager AF (MSC) system which provides rapid and silent focusing, perfect for discreet photography and live video recording.
Our experience with the M.Zuiko Digital 17mm has shown that it delivers sharp images corner to corner even wide open.
Coupled with the Olympus camera’s in-body stabilization, we’ve found we can capture stunningly clear shots even in challenging conditions.
It’s a high-quality lens that’s well-suited to both professionals and hobbyists looking for something light and inconspicuous.
Key features of the Olympus M.Zuiko 17mm f/2.8 include:
- Lightweight and ultra-compact design,
- 17mm focal length – equivalent to 34mm in 35mm format,
- Fast f/2.8 aperture – great for low-light shooting,
- High-speed Imager AF (MSC) for quick and silent focusing,
- Compatible with Olympus and Panasonic mirrorless cameras.
Minimalist and functional, this lens allows you to shoot with ease and bring your creative visions to life.
Whether you’re traveling, exploring urban environments, or just in need of a versatile lens that won’t weigh down your camera, the M.Zuiko 17mm f/2.8 checks all the boxes.
- Compact, discreet pancake-type lens
- Fast f/2.8 aperture, great for low-light shooting
- Wide-angle field of view, great for landscapes or street shooting
6. Pentax HD DA 40mm F/2.8 Limited Lens
We’re moving on to a lens that’s known for its tiny footprint and excellent optical quality – the Pentax HD DA 40mm f/2.8 Limited Lens.
This lens stands out in the pancake category due to its superb build quality and remarkable sharpness.
Even though its size, the Pentax 40mm lens delivers detailed images that rival those from larger lenses.
Its f/2.8 aperture isn’t the fastest but provides enough control over depth of field to create pleasing bokeh when needed.
One of the key benefits of this lens is its intuitive quick-shift focusing system.
This allows for instant switches between auto and manual focus, ensuring that we never miss a shot due to focusing delays.
Another aspect to highlight is its HD coating – an advanced lens treatment which increases light transmission and reduces reflections.
Here’s what this HD coating does for us:
- Enhances clarity and contrast in our images,
- Minimizes flare and ghosting for cleaner, more compelling pictures.
Let’s talk about compatibility.
The Pentax HD DA 40mm works seamlessly with a variety of Pentax DSLRs, making it a great choice for Pentax enthusiasts looking to lighten their load.
Crafting images with the Pentax HD DA 40mm feels effortless.
Plus, its focal length is equivalent to 60mm on a 35mm camera, which is highly versatile:
- Excellent for portraits,
- Ideal for street photography,
- Capable in landscape scenarios.
We can’t overlook its all-metal construction, which adds to the premium feel without bogging down our kit.
It’s a lens that’s not only functional but also durable.
In use, the lens is discreet and unobtrusive, perfect for photographers and videographers who need to blend into the background.
It’s a favorite among those who document life candidly, without the bulk of traditional lenses.
7. Samsung NX 30mm F/2 Pancake Lens
When looking for lenses that provide excellent imaging capabilities without the bulk, we often recommend the Samsung NX 30mm f/2.
This lens is an exceptional choice for Samsung NX camera users requiring both portability and performance.
Optically, the NX 30mm stands out with its large f/2 aperture.
It’s capable of delivering beautiful bokeh and impressive low-light performance, crucial for both still photography and videography.
Should the need arise to capture expansive landscapes or dynamic street scenes, this lens is up to the task.
It offers a field of view equivalent to 46.2mm on a 35mm camera, striking a balance between wide and normal focal lengths.
Our hands-on experience shows that Samsung has incorporated features to enhance usability:
- Fast and accurate autofocus,
- Customizable focus ring for on-the-fly adjustments,
- Quiet operation ideal for video work.
Build quality shouldn’t be overlooked, and Samsung has designed the NX 30mm f/2 with a sleek metal casing.
This not only adds a premium feel but contributes to the lens’s overall longevity.
Versatility is a key factor in lens selection, and the NX 30mm excels in various shooting conditions.
Whether a sun-soaked beach or a dimly lit restaurant, this lens adapts effortlessly, ensuring that we capture high-quality images and video.
Incorporating this prime lens into our kit elevates our creative possibilities.
It’s a testament to how a well-crafted pancake lens can bridge the gap between compact design and exceptional functionality.
- 30mm Pancake Lens
- Auto Focus, f/2.0
- Lens for NX Series Cameras
8. Nikon 1 Nikkor 10mm F/2.8 Lens (for Nikon 1 Mirrorless Cameras)
When we jump into the world of Nikon’s mirrorless lineup, the Nikon 1 Nikkor 10mm f/2.8 stands out for its wide-angle prowess.
This prime lens offers a 27mm equivalent focal length when mounted on Nikon 1 cameras.
Its bright f/2.8 aperture assures in delivering sharp images with a natural depth of field.
This is especially advantageous in low-light conditions or when we’re aiming to achieve a blurred background effect.
Portability is a key feature here – the lens is remarkably lightweight and compact.
This makes it an ideal companion for on-the-go shooting, where carrying heavy gear is not an option.
The Nikon 1 Nikkor 10mm f/2.8 is also engineered with ease of use in mind.
It’s equipped with smooth autofocus mechanisms that operate with both speed and silence, crucial for capturing spontaneous moments and video recording.
Here are some of the highlights of this lens:
- Fast and quiet autofocus, perfect for video,
- Solid build quality even though its minimalistic size,
- A versatile prime lens for street photography, landscapes, and general use.
And it’s not just about the optics – the metal mount adds a touch of durability to the lens.
Its sleek design complements the stylish and modern aesthetic of Nikon 1 cameras.
Performance-wise, it consistently renders crisp and vibrant images.
Whether we’re photographing urban scenes or serene landscapes, the Nikon 1 Nikkor 10mm f/2.8 lens delivers with precision and creamy bokeh that we love in our photos.
Overall, for Nikon 1 camera owners, the Nikon 1 Nikkor 10mm f/2.8 lens is a noteworthy addition to one’s photography kit.
Its combination of a wide-angle perspective, high-quality optics, and compact form factor make it a standout choice for anyone looking to expand their creative possibilities.
- An elegant and thin wide-angle lens with super portability, perfect for daily casual snapshot and...
- Two aspherical lens elements
- Compatible with Nikon 1 J, V and S series.
- Filter-attachment size - 40.5mm
9. Sigma 30mm F/2.8 DN ART Lens (available In Various Mounts)
As we jump into the realm of compact lenses that deliver exceptional quality, the Sigma 30mm f/2.8 DN ART stands out.
This versatile lens is known for its optical performance and sleek design, making it a top contender for those who value both aesthetics and functionality.
The ART line by Sigma has garnered praise across the board – the 30mm f/2.8 DN is no exception.
Its key features include a refined optical design and a stepping motor that enables smooth, silent autofocus during video recording.
Photographers dedicated to capturing sharp, detailed images will appreciate the high-resolution prowess of this lens.
Coupled with its wide aperture, it allows for depth of field control and low-light shooting that few can rival.
Available for multiple mirrorless camera mounts, versatility is another strong point of the Sigma 30mm f/2.8 DN ART lens.
Whether you’re using a Sony E-mount, a Micro Four Thirds system, or others, this lens integrates seamlessly.
Its compact size paired with the following attributes ensures it’s a smart addition for any photographer or videographer:
- Exceptional sharpness,
- Pleasing color rendition,
- Effective distortion control.
Optical stability is a given, as the lens construction minimizes chromatic aberrations and provides consistent image quality.
Users will find that the lens excels in various photography styles, from street scenes to intimate portraits.
Mounted on your camera, the Sigma 30mm f/2.8 DN ART lens feels like an extension of your creative vision.
It’s designed to be unobtrusive yet powerful, cementing its place as a staple in the compact photography world.
- Kit includes Sigma 30mm f/2.8 DN Art Lens, 128GB Memory Card, Memory Card Wallet, USB Card Reader,...
- Distinguished by compact design, the silver Sigma 30mm f/2.8 DN Art is a sleek and optically refined...
- Micro Four Thirds System | Micro Four Thirds System | 60mm (35mm Equivalent) | Two Aspherical...
- A Super Multi-Layer Coating has been applied to lens elements in order to minimize lens flare and...
- Complementing the optics is a Linear AF motor, which realizes smooth and quiet autofocus performance
10. Voigtlander Nokton 25mm F/0.95 Lens (for Micro Four Thirds)
When seeking a lens that provides outstanding low light performance for Micro Four Thirds cameras, the Voigtlander Nokton 25mm f/0.95 is a force to be reckoned with.
Its wide maximum aperture of f/0.95 enables photographers and videographers to capture images with a shallow depth of field, creating beautiful bokeh that emphasizes the subject.
With its robust metal build, the Voigtlander Nokton 25mm f/0.95 combines classic design sensibilities with modern performance.
This lens not only feels solid in hand but also provides the tactile experience that many enthusiasts crave.
Here are some of the key features of this remarkable lens –
- Exceptionally fast f/0.95 maximum aperture,
- Solid and durable all-metal construction,
- Manual focus design for precise control.
The manual focus mechanism is smooth and accurate, making it ideal for those who prefer full control over their focusing.
Videographers in particular will appreciate the subtlety and precision that manual focusing affords.
Sharpness is a hallmark of the Nokton 25mm f/0.95, delivering crisp images even when shooting wide open.
It’s perfect for capturing the finest details, whether you’re shooting stills or video.
Among compact lenses for the Micro Four Thirds system, the Voigtlander Nokton stands out as a lens that truly caters to artistic expression.
With its wide aperture and quality built, it appeals to both the aesthetic taste and practical needs of photographers.
- Wrapped bale handles for comfortable carrying
- Constructed of durable 1680D ballistic nylon
- Easily accessible quick-stash front pocket
- Padded, adjustable, removable shoulder strap
- Padded laptop compartment
Compact Photography Excellence
When we think about photography and videography, the portability of equipment can be just as crucial as the quality of the images.
To maximize both, photographers often turn to pancake lenses which offer outstanding performance in an exceptionally slim profile.
Pancake lenses are particularly favored for their discretion and lightweight design, making them ideal travel companions.
Their low profile makes them less obtrusive, encouraging more candid shots and a less intimidating presence for subjects.
What sets pancake lenses apart for compact photography excellence is their balance of optical quality with ease of use.
They excel in:
- Street photography – where size and speed are
paramount , - Everyday carry – as they don’t add much weight or bulk to your bag,
- Discreet shooting – perfect for those who prefer a fly-on-the-wall approach.
In terms of video, these lenses provide a variety of benefits.
Stabilization becomes less of an issue with such lightweight gear, and the ability to move freely without being weighed down allows for more dynamic and spontaneous footage.
And while many lenses can be cumbersome, pancake lenses manage to pack first-rate optics into their slim form factors.
Even with their small size, they ensure sharpness and clarity across the frame, evidencing that quality isn’t compromised.
For photographers aiming to maintain a low profile while capturing exceptional images, pancake lenses like the Sigma 30mm f/2.8 DN ART Lens or the Voigtlander Nokton 25mm f/0.95 stand out.
Integrated with advanced features like precision manual focus and superb low light capability, they are designed for both convenience and performance.
Top Pancake Lenses – Wrap Up
We’ve seen how pancake lenses like the Sigma 30mm and the Voigtlander Nokton 25mm transform our photography and videography experiences.
Their compact design doesn’t compromise on quality, ensuring we capture sharp, vivid images every time.
Whether we’re navigating crowded streets or shooting on the go, these lenses are the perfect companions for creators valuing portability without sacrificing performance.
They’re not just an addition to our gear—they’re a gateway to greater creative freedom.
Let’s keep our photography game strong and our equipment light with these slim yet powerful pancake lenses.
