Quick answer
For adapting vintage M42 screw-mount lenses, choose the Kiwi M42 to Micro 4/3 adapter. If you already own 4/3 mount lenses, the 4/3 mount adapter ring is the better fit.
Know your lens mount first
The biggest difference between these two adapters is the lens mount they accept. The Kiwi adapter is built for M42 thread lenses, the classic screw-mount used by many older Pentax, Praktica, and other film cameras. The 4/3 mount adapter ring is designed for lenses made for the original Four Thirds system, which were used on Olympus and Panasonic DSLRs.
Your choice depends entirely on the lenses you already own or plan to use. If you have a box of vintage M42 primes, the Kiwi adapter is the straightforward path. If you're upgrading from a Four Thirds DSLR to a Micro 4/3 mirrorless body, the 4/3 mount adapter ring lets you keep your existing glass.
Both adapters share a common goal: they let you mount lenses on a Micro 4/3 camera body, but they are not interchangeable. Matching the adapter to your lens mount is the first and most important step.
What you give up with adapted lenses
Adapting lenses from another mount almost always means losing some automation. The catalog notes for the 4/3 mount adapter ring state that some or all automation, metering and focusing functions may not function. That's a real trade-off to plan for.
With the Kiwi M42 adapter, you should expect fully manual operation: you'll focus by hand and set exposure using the camera's manual or aperture-priority modes. The 4/3 mount adapter may retain some electronic communication depending on the specific lens and camera, but you shouldn't count on autofocus or automatic metering.
Neither adapter is a simple 'plug and play' solution. Be prepared to learn manual focus and exposure techniques to get the best results.
Which adapter should you choose?
- Kiwi M42 to Micro 4/3: Choose this if you have M42 screw-mount lenses. It's a simple mechanical adapter that gives you manual focus and manual aperture control. Expect to set exposure yourself. Confirm your lens has an M42 thread mount before buying.
- 4/3 mount adapter ring: Choose this if you own Four Thirds lenses. It lets you mount them on a Micro 4/3 body, but automation may not work. Be ready for manual operation. Check whether your specific lens and camera support any electronic functions.
- If you have neither lens type: If you don't already own M42 or Four Thirds lenses, think about which system you want to invest in. Vintage M42 lenses are often cheaper and offer character; Four Thirds lenses are designed for digital but may be heavier. Decide on your lens system before choosing an adapter.
Product facts at a glance
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Kiwi Adapter M42 Thread to Micro 4/3: The Kiwi Adapter M42 Thread to Micro 4/3 connects M42 thread lenses to Micro 4/3 camera bodies. This is the right adapter if you want to use vintage M42 screw-mount lenses on a modern Micro 4/3 body.
Kiwi Adapter M42 Thread to Micro 4/3
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Mount Adaptor Ring For 4/3 Mount to: This lens mount adapter allows you to mount a 4/3 mount lens on a Micro 4/3 mount camera, but some or all automation, metering and focusing functions may not function. It lets you keep your Four Thirds lenses when moving to Micro 4/3, but you may need to shoot fully manual.
Mount Adaptor Ring For 4/3 Mount to
Who should buy which adapter?
Best for
- Photographers with vintage M42 screw-mount lenses who want to use them on a Micro 4/3 camera.
- Shooters who enjoy full manual control and don't need autofocus or auto metering.
Not for
- Photographers who rely on autofocus or automatic exposure and aren't comfortable shooting fully manual.
