Olympus E-PL5 10x High Definition Close-Up Lens (46mm) - Macro Add-On

Our review of the Olympus E-PL5 10x High Definition close-up lens finds it is a straightforward, low-cost way for hobbyists and travel photographers to get into close-up and macro-style shooting without changing lenses. The main reason to buy is simplicity: it screws onto a lens front like a filter and, with the included stepping ring, adapts to larger openings while preserving the camera lens' native optical performance. For those who want fast setup, improved close-focus capability and minimal weight, this lens is an effective accessory.

Key Features

• High Definition Beveled Design: Improves edge-to-edge clarity for close-up subjects so fine detail remains visible across the frame.
• 2 Element Optical Glass: Uses two achromatic elements to reduce chromatic aberration and preserve color accuracy for macro work.
• High-Index / Low-Dispersion Glass: Balances refractive properties to maintain sharpness while keeping the attachment compact and light.
• Fully Multi-Coated & Threaded: Reduces reflections and flare and lets the lens screw on securely like a standard filter for quick attachment.
• Stepping Ring 46-58mm: Expands compatibility so the 46mm close-up can mount to lenses with a 58mm thread without special adapters.
• Infrared Compatible: Keeps autofocus and IR-based metering usable when working in mixed light or with IR-capable bodies.

Who It's For

This accessory is best for enthusiast photographers using the Olympus E-PL5 or similar compact system bodies who want a fast, low-cost way to shoot close-ups without carrying a dedicated macro lens. It suits travel and field work where packing light and changing lenses are inconvenient.

It is less appropriate for professional macro work that demands 1:1 reproduction, working distance control or specialized optics; photographers who require the utmost resolution or who shoot demanding commercial macro should look to dedicated macro lenses instead.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Very easy to use: screws on like a filter for instant close-up capability.
• Corrects chromatic aberration with two achromatic elements, improving color and edge rendering.
• Multi-coating reduces flare, preserving contrast when shooting toward bright highlights.
• Stepping ring increases compatibility across lens thread sizes, reducing the need for multiple close-up rings.

Cons

• Not a substitute for a true 1:1 macro lens if you need extreme magnification or working distance control.
• As an add-on optical element, it may slightly alter the character of some lenses compared with native optics.

Specifications

Product Type	Close-up (diopter) lens
Magnification	10x High Definition
Optical Construction	2 achromatic elements (high-index / low-dispersion)
Thread Size	46mm (58mm with stepping ring 46-58mm)
Coating	Fully multi-coated, anti-reflection
Compatibility Notes	Screws onto lens front like a filter; stepping ring expands fit

Our Verdict

The Olympus E-PL5 10x High Definition close-up lens is a practical, inexpensive accessory for photographers who need quick macro capability without extra weight or complex adapters. It delivers improved close-focus performance, reduced chromatic aberration and broad compatibility via the stepping ring, making it good value for enthusiasts who prioritize convenience over pro-level macro control.

Frequently Asked Questions

Will this attach to lenses larger than 46mm?
Yes, the included stepping ring lets the 46mm close-up lens mount to 58mm thread openings without special adapters.

Does it affect autofocus or metering?
The design is compatible with high speed autofocus and infrared metering, so typical autofocus and exposure functions remain usable.

Is this equivalent to a dedicated macro lens?
No, it offers fast close-up capability but does not replace a true macro lens for 1:1 reproduction or precise working distance control.