Film-era Olympus OM System lenses do not mount directly on an OM SYSTEM PEN body. The practical solution is an OM-to-Micro Four Thirds adapter, such as the Olympus/OM SYSTEM MF-2 reference adapter. Once adapted, the lens is operated manually: you set focus and aperture on the lens, and the camera cannot provide the normal electronic lens communication. The E-PL3 instruction manual states, "Focus and aperture must be adjusted manually." See the official PEN E-PL3 manual and OM SYSTEM’s PEN product information.
Because “PEN” covers several bodies, confirm your exact model before buying an adapter or following a menu path. The MF-2 is documented for Olympus OM System lenses on a Micro Four Thirds camera; other Olympus lens families may use different mounts and are not automatically compatible.
As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.
The short answer: use an OM-to-Micro Four Thirds adapter
An older Olympus lens from the film-era Olympus OM System line has a different mount from the Micro Four Thirds mount used by OM SYSTEM PEN cameras. A metal or composite adapter provides the mechanical connection between those mounts. It does not turn the old lens into a modern electronic lens: the camera has no autofocus control, no electronic aperture control from the body, and no lens data unless a particular adapter adds features that are not established in the manufacturer documentation.
Olympus identifies the MF-2 OM adapter as the accessory for using existing OM System lenses on a Micro Four Thirds camera. The E-PL3 manual also makes the operating limitation explicit: "Focus and aperture must be adjusted manually." OM SYSTEM’s PEN information identifies the PEN system as Micro Four Thirds, while the company’s compatibility material should be checked for the specific body and lens combination.
#1 Best Overall
- Read Before You Buy — No Video Output: These adapters support charging and USB 2.0 data transfer, but cannot transmit video signals. Except for standard USB webcams (which use USB data only), they are not compatible with HDMI/DisplayPort cables, video-capable USB-C hubs, or docking stations with video output.
- Convert USB-A Ports to USB-C: Designed to connect USB-C earphones, cables, flash drives, card readers, and other USB-C accessories to standard USB-A ports. Plug-and-play with no drivers or software required.
- Aluminum Alloy Housing: Built with a sturdy aluminum alloy shell that aids in heat dissipation and protects against daily wear and scratches. Designed to maintain a stable and secure connection.
- Compact & Travel-Friendly: The ultra-compact design allows the adapter to stay plugged into your device without blocking adjacent ports or adding bulk, reducing wear and tear on your original USB ports.
- 12-Month Warranty: Backed by a 12-month manufacturer warranty for peace of mind. Designed to meet strict quality control standards for reliable everyday performance.
The safe buying formula is therefore: identify the lens as an OM System lens, identify the exact PEN model, then select an adapter explicitly labeled for Olympus OM to Micro Four Thirds and that body. Current stock and pricing for the MF-2 are not established here, so treat it as the official reference rather than an assurance that it is currently sold everywhere.
First identify the lens mount
“Older Olympus lens” is not precise enough for an adapter purchase. The recommendation in the official documentation is specifically for an Olympus OM System lens, the manual-focus lens family made for Olympus OM film cameras. Look for the OM-series mounting interface and the lens’s original OM-system designation. The MF-2 documentation does not establish compatibility with every lens Olympus has ever produced.
What the adapter guidance covers
- Covered by the cited guidance: Olympus OM System lenses adapted to a Micro Four Thirds PEN body.
- Not automatically covered: a different Olympus lens family, a lens with an incompatible mount, or a lens whose mount has been modified.
- Still required: an adapter that has an OM-lens side and a Micro Four Thirds camera side. A generic “Olympus adapter” label is not enough.
If the lens marking is unclear, do not rely on the camera brand alone. Photograph or read the mount markings and compare them with the adapter manufacturer’s specification before ordering. A mechanically similar-looking adapter can be the wrong diameter, register distance, or locking arrangement.
Quick wins for a faster PC:
Fix the driver behind crashes, sound loss and screen glitchesFind Drivers →Repair Windows errors before they cause bigger problemsFix Now →Confirm the exact PEN camera
OM SYSTEM’s PEN line contains multiple models and generations. The supplied official product information confirms the Micro Four Thirds lens mount for the PEN line, but it does not provide one universal menu path for every current or older body. Write down the complete model name printed on the camera, such as the model designation on the front or base, before checking manuals and compatibility lists.
Rank #2
- 5-in-1 USB-C Hub: Experience comprehensive connectivity featuring a Power Delivery input, two USB-A 2.0 ports, a USB-A 3.0 port, and an HDMI port. (Note: The USB-C power delivery input port is only for connecting an external wall charger to power your laptop and cannot power peripheral devices.)
- 90W Pass-Through Charging: Achieve optimal charging with 90W pass-through power to your laptop, supported by a total input of 100W, with the hub reserving 10W for operational efficiency. (Note: Wall charger not included.)
- Quick Data Transfers: Accelerate your productivity with rapid data transfers using a high-speed 5Gbps USB 3.0 port and two 480Mbps USB 2.0 ports.
- 4K HDMI Display: Enhance your visual experience with a hub capable of delivering 4K resolution at 30Hz in both mirror and extend modes. Please note that this hub is compatible with MacBook (macOS 12 and newer), Windows 10 and 11, ChromeOS, and laptops equipped with DP Alt Mode and Power Delivery. Note: This device is not compatible with Linux.
- What You Get: Anker USB-C Hub (5-in-1, 4K HDMI), welcome guide, 18-month warranty, and our friendly customer service.
Use OM SYSTEM’s compatibility lists and the support page for that exact body. A procedure shown in an E-PL3 manual should not be presented as the identical button sequence for every PEN model. Settings names, firmware behavior, and whether a particular adapted-lens option is exposed can vary by body.
Choose an adapter: MF-2 or a compatible manual adapter
There are two practical routes. The first is the documented Olympus/OM SYSTEM MF-2. The second is a third-party manual OM-to-Micro Four Thirds adapter that explicitly lists both mounts. Neither route restores autofocus or electronic aperture control for a conventional OM lens.
| Choice | What is established | What to verify before purchase |
|---|---|---|
| Olympus/OM SYSTEM MF-2 | Official documentation identifies it as the OM adapter for existing Olympus OM System lenses on a Micro Four Thirds camera. | Current availability, price, condition, and fit for the exact PEN body are not established here. |
| Compatible third-party OM-to-Micro Four Thirds adapter | Can provide the same basic mechanical bridge when its specifications are correct. | Explicit OM-lens compatibility, Micro Four Thirds camera fit, locking and release design, construction quality, light-tightness, and return terms. |
Adapter checks that prevent most mistakes
- Both mount names must appear in the specification: Olympus OM on the lens side and Micro Four Thirds on the camera side.
- The listing should describe a manual adapter, not an adapter for a different Olympus mount.
- Check that the adapter has a positive lens lock and a secure camera-side lock. Excessive play can make focusing difficult and may damage the mount.
- Check the seller’s return policy. Fit can depend on the exact body and on tolerances between a particular lens and adapter.
- Do not assume that an adapter with electronic contacts will provide autofocus or aperture control. The manufacturer’s documented behavior for this setup is manual focus and manual aperture.
How to mount the lens safely
Use the instructions supplied with the exact adapter and camera. The following sequence describes the operation, while avoiding a universal power-switch or button instruction that the cited manuals do not establish for every PEN body.
What’s actually slowing this PC down?
Pick the symptom - the matching free tool is one click away.
- Inspect the lens and adapter. Confirm that the lens is an Olympus OM System lens and that the adapter’s two sides are clearly labeled for OM and Micro Four Thirds. Check for dirt, bent levers, damaged bayonet tabs, or a loose aperture ring.
- Check the camera model. Record the full PEN model and consult its manual or OM SYSTEM compatibility information. Do not assume that an E-PL3 menu or setting label is identical on another PEN.
- Prepare the parts. Remove caps and make sure the adapter’s locking marks and release controls are visible. Follow any power-off or handling direction in the exact camera and adapter manuals; that detail is not universal across the sources cited here.
- Attach the adapter to the lens or body as its instructions specify. Align the mounting marks without forcing the parts. Rotate until the lock engages, then check that the adapter does not wobble.
- Attach the combined lens and adapter to the PEN. Align the Micro Four Thirds side with the camera mount and rotate until it locks. A correctly fitted assembly should not rock or separate when gently supported.
- Set the lens controls. Turn the focus ring yourself and choose the aperture on the lens. The camera should not be expected to command either control electronically.
- Enable any adapted-lens or release option required by your body. Some cameras may require a setting that permits shooting without electronic lens communication, but the supplied sources do not establish one common label or path for every PEN. Use the exact body manual.
- Make a short test exposure. Check that the lens remains locked, the aperture ring moves correctly, and the image is recorded. Stop if the adapter binds, the shutter will not operate, or the lens cannot be removed normally.
How focusing and aperture work after adaptation
Focus is manual
Autofocus is not available for the OM-series lens use described by OM SYSTEM. You focus by rotating the lens’s focus ring. The camera cannot move the lens elements for you, and an adapter should not be advertised as restoring autofocus unless its own documentation proves a different, specific design. For critical subjects, take time to confirm focus at the shooting aperture rather than assuming the focus position is exact at every aperture.
Rank #3
- Sleek 7-in-1 USB-C Hub: Features an HDMI port, two USB-A 3.0 ports, and a USB-C data port, each providing 5Gbps transfer speeds. It also includes a USB-C PD input port for charging up to 100W and dual SD and TF card slots, all in a compact design.
- Flawless 4K@60Hz Video with HDMI: Delivers exceptional clarity and smoothness with its 4K@60Hz HDMI port, making it ideal for high-definition presentations and entertainment. (Note: Only the HDMI port supports video projection; the USB-C port is for data transfer only.)
- Double Up on Efficiency: The two USB-A 3.0 ports and a USB-C port support a fast 5Gbps data rate, significantly boosting your transfer speeds and improving productivity.
- Fast and Reliable 85W Charging: Offers high-capacity, speedy charging for laptops up to 85W, so you spend less time tethered to an outlet and more time being productive.
- What You Get: Anker USB-C Hub (7-in-1), welcome guide, 18-month warranty, and our friendly customer service.
Aperture is set on the lens
The aperture ring on the OM lens determines the selected f-stop. There is no body-controlled electronic aperture value to set for a conventional adapted OM lens. Stopping the lens down changes the light reaching the sensor and the depth of field; the camera’s exposure behavior therefore depends on the shooting mode and on how it meters through the adapted lens.
Stop-down metering is the manufacturer’s stated guidance
OM SYSTEM’s support page for OM-series lens use, dated 3 July 2009, describes autofocus as unavailable and refers to stop-down metering. It also warns that metering behavior differs by shooting mode. Because that page is dated and camera behavior can differ between PEN generations, treat it as manufacturer guidance rather than a universal promise. Consult the manual for the exact body, then verify exposure with a test frame and the camera’s own exposure display.
Set image stabilization deliberately
The PEN manual says image stabilization can be used with an adapted lens when the lens’s focal length is entered in the camera’s image-stabilization settings. This lets the body use the appropriate focal-length information for stabilization calculations. The cited manual does not establish one current menu path for every PEN model, so do not follow an E-PL3 button sequence blindly on another body.
- Open the exact PEN model’s instruction manual.
- Find the image-stabilization or adapted-lens focal-length setting.
- Enter the focal length printed on the OM lens, using the body’s specified units and value format.
- Save the setting and make a test shot at a shutter speed where camera shake is visible.
- If you change to an OM lens with a different focal length, update the setting before relying on stabilization.
Entering a focal length is not the same as giving the camera autofocus or aperture data. It is a stabilization setup step only.
Rank #4
- Dual Converters, Infinite Potential：Includes 2× USB C male to USB A female adapters and 2× USB A male to USB C female adapters. Perfect for a wide range of uses—tablets with Bluetooth keyboards, expand USB ports on macbook, and more. Two different converters for all your daily needs
- Next-Level 10Gbps & 3A Charging: No more slow 480Mbps, this usb to usb c adapter has a transfer speed of up to 10Gbps, allowing you to do more transferring in less time. This usb adapter fits both USB A and USB C charger, supporting up to 3A fast charging
- Upgraded Exquisite Craftsmanship: With an aluminum alloy housing and metal connector, the usbc to usb adapter is extremely durable and sturdy. Rigorously tested to withstand more than 10,000 times of plugging and unplugging, ensuring long-lasting performance
- Broad Compatible: The usb c to usb adapter widely supports all USB C/ USB A devices like laptops, tablets, cellphones, car chargers, and phone chargers. Such as compatible with MacBook Pro/Air 2023/2022, Thunderbolt 4/3 Devices,Apple MagSafe Watch 9/8/7/SE/Ultra, iPad Pro 2022/2021, Samsung Galaxy S23/S20/S10, and iPhone 17/16/15 Pro. Plug and play
- Please Note: To reach 10Gbps speed, keep the cable under 3.3 ft. For USB A Male to USB C adapters, try flipping the USB C connector. USB C Male to USB A adapters support bidirectional 10Gbps transfer within 3.3 ft
Exposure workflow for an adapted OM lens
Because focus and aperture are manual, expect a slower, more deliberate workflow than with a native electronic Micro Four Thirds lens. Choose the aperture on the lens, compose, focus, and then check the camera’s exposure indication in the mode supported by your body. Stop-down operation can make the viewfinder or screen darker at smaller apertures, depending on the lens and camera behavior.
- For a quick setup: select the lens aperture, focus, and use the PEN’s exposure mode according to its manual.
- For repeatable work: keep the lens at a known aperture, make a test exposure, and adjust shutter speed or sensitivity using the camera controls.
- For changing light: expect to adjust either the aperture ring or the camera’s shutter-speed/sensitivity controls because the body is not receiving the normal lens electronics.
- For critical exposure: review the recorded frame and highlight or shadow warnings available on your model rather than trusting a single unverified meter reading.
These are operating consequences of a manual adapted lens, not a claim that every PEN exposes identically. The exact metering options and menu labels belong to the camera’s own manual.
Common problems and fixes
| Symptom | Likely cause | What to check |
|---|---|---|
| The lens will not attach | Wrong mount or incorrect alignment | Confirm OM System lens on one side and Micro Four Thirds on the other; align the marks and never force the rotation. |
| The lens attaches but wobbles | Loose or poorly fitting adapter | Remove it, inspect the locks and bayonet tabs, and use the seller’s return process if the play remains. |
| The camera shows no lens information | Normal lack of electronic communication | Set focus and aperture on the lens and consult the body manual for any required release-without-lens option. |
| Autofocus does nothing | Expected manual operation | Rotate the lens focus ring; the documented OM-series behavior does not provide autofocus. |
| Exposure changes unexpectedly when stopping down | Stop-down metering and shooting-mode differences | Read the exact PEN manual, check the exposure display after changing aperture, and make a test frame. |
| Stabilization seems ineffective | Focal length not entered or wrong value selected | Enter the lens’s focal length in the body’s adapted-lens stabilization setting, if that body provides it. |
| The adapter is difficult to remove | Misalignment, excessive tolerance, or a damaged release mechanism | Stop applying force. Follow the adapter and camera removal instructions and seek service if the lock will not release. |
What an adapter does not provide
An adapter changes the physical mount spacing; it does not change an OM lens into a native PEN lens. Unless a particular product explicitly documents otherwise, do not expect:
- Autofocus.
- Electronic aperture control from the camera.
- Automatic transmission of focal length, aperture, or lens identification.
- Identical metering behavior across every PEN model and shooting mode.
- A universal menu path that applies to every PEN generation.
The official operating statement is narrow and clear: focus and aperture are adjusted manually. Any additional feature should be treated as adapter-specific and verified in that adapter’s documentation.
Best Value
- 5-in-1 Connectivity: Equipped with a 4K HDMI port, a 5 Gbps USB-C data port, two 5 Gbps USB-A ports, and a USB C 100W PD-IN port. Note: The USB C 100W PD-IN port supports only charging and does not support data transfer devices such as headphones or speakers.
- Powerful Pass-Through Charging: Supports up to 85W pass-through charging so you can power up your laptop while you use the hub. Note: Pass-through charging requires a charger (not included). Note: To achieve full power for iPad, we recommend using a 45W wall charger.
- Transfer Files in Seconds: Move files to and from your laptop at speeds of up to 5 Gbps via the USB-C and USB-A data ports. Note: The USB C 5Gbps Data port does not support video output.
- HD Display: Connect to the HDMI port to stream or mirror content to an external monitor in resolutions of up to 4K@30Hz. Note: The USB-C ports do not support video output.
- What You Get: Anker 332 USB-C Hub (5-in-1), welcome guide, our worry-free 18-month warranty, and friendly customer service.
How to evaluate a listing before buying
When comparing the MF-2 with a compatible third-party adapter, base the decision on fit and construction rather than an unverified claim of better image quality. This adaptation method uses the same optical lens; the adapter’s essential job is to hold the lens at the correct distance and maintain a secure, light-tight connection.
- Read the complete mount specification, not just the product title.
- Confirm that the lens side says Olympus OM or OM System and the camera side says Micro Four Thirds.
- Check photographs of the locking surfaces and release mechanism.
- Look for a return policy that covers incompatibility or excessive play.
- Confirm whether the listing is for a complete adapter, not only a replacement ring or cap.
- After delivery, test the lens lock, aperture ring, focus ring, and camera release before taking the setup outdoors.
Care when using older lenses
Older lenses may have stiff aperture rings, haze, oil on the blades, worn helicoids, or damaged mounts. An adapter cannot correct those mechanical or optical conditions. Inspect the lens under good light, keep dust away from exposed mounts, and support the lens rather than letting the camera body carry an awkward heavy combination by the grip or strap. If an aperture ring sticks or the lens does not lock cleanly, remove it and have the lens or adapter assessed instead of forcing it.
Store the lens and adapter with caps fitted. When changing lenses, avoid touching the camera sensor or the adapter’s internal surfaces. Exact cleaning and service procedures should come from the lens, adapter, and PEN manuals for the products you own.
Do these 3 things before closing this tab:
1Scan for outdated or missing drivers - takes under a minute2Repair Windows errors before they cause bigger problems3Fix the driver behind crashes, sound loss and screen glitchesUse the right official reference for your model
The E-PL3 instruction manual is the source for the quoted manual guidance and its principal-accessories discussion of the MF-2. OM SYSTEM’s PEN product page identifies the camera family and Micro Four Thirds mount. The dated OM-series lens compatibility page provides the manufacturer’s stop-down-metering and unavailable-autofocus guidance. For a different PEN body, use the current model-specific documents and the compatibility-list hub before assuming that every setting or accessory applies.
A practical decision checklist
- Is the lens explicitly an Olympus OM System lens?
- Is the camera an OM SYSTEM PEN with a Micro Four Thirds mount?
- Does the adapter explicitly name both OM and Micro Four Thirds?
- Does it fit the exact PEN body and provide a secure lock?
- Are you prepared to focus and set aperture manually?
- Have you checked the exact body manual for release, metering, and stabilization settings?
- Have you entered the lens focal length for stabilization if the body supports that setting?
- Have you tested the complete assembly before relying on it for an important photograph?
If every answer is yes, the adaptation is straightforward: the adapter solves the mount mismatch, while you operate the OM lens as a manual lens and configure the PEN according to its own manual.
Quick Recap
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
