Nikkor 50mm f/1.8 or 50mm f/1.4

Joe T · 24-06-2005, 16:29

Hi all

Im trying to chose between the above two lenses. The f/1.4 is just over twice the price of the f/1.8. Is it worth the extra, in your opinion?

Opinions gratefully received.

CT · 24-06-2005, 16:47

The 1.4 is worth the extra if you do a lot of available light photography and that large max aperture will throw backgrounds beautifully out of focus. Having said that, there isn't that much difference really between the two lenses (Speed wise anyway) so it's up to you whether or not you go for the 1.4. If it's only going to see occasional use you might be as well served by the 1.8?

Chez · 24-06-2005, 18:29

CT - are you talking purely from a specification point of view, or have you used these lenses?

Everything I have ever heard regarding the Nikon lenses is that the picture quality is superior on the F1.8...

Chez · 24-06-2005, 18:34

Quotes from this thread - http://www.photo.net/equipment/canon/ef50/

"Canon's 50mm f/1.4 is sharper, has better bokeh and construction than their f/1.8, whereas for Nikon the f/1.4 is better built and has better bokeh but is less sharp than the f/1.8. This simplifies the decision-making process, as there is only price vs. quality to consider, not multiple trade-offs"

"I retract any positive suggestion about the quality of the Nikon 1.4. I sold that lens and went with their very fine 1.8D lens"

CT · 24-06-2005, 21:11

Quote:

Originally Posted by Chez

CT - are you talking purely from a specification point of view, or have you used these lenses?

Everything I have ever heard regarding the Nikon lenses is that the picture quality is superior on the F1.8...

No -I haven't used them which is why I made the observation " Having said that, there isn't that much difference really between the two lenses (Speed wise anyway)" I accept that the f1.8 may be the sharper lens, although it's a bit 'off' if it is considering the price difference.

Chez · 24-06-2005, 22:52

Quote:

Originally Posted by CT

I accept that the f1.8 may be the sharper lens, although it's a bit 'off' if it is considering the price difference.

I agree, but at least that gives you a reason to spend less...not something that happens every day!

24-06-2005, 16:29	#1 (permalink)
Joe T Forum Regular Join Date: Mar 2005 Location: Amersham, Bucks Posts: 978	Nikkor 50mm f/1.8 or 50mm f/1.4 Hi all Im trying to chose between the above two lenses. The f/1.4 is just over twice the price of the f/1.8. Is it worth the extra, in your opinion? Opinions gratefully received.

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24-06-2005, 16:47	#2 (permalink)
CT Feet under the table Join Date: Mar 2005 Location: West Mids UK Posts: 3,500	The 1.4 is worth the extra if you do a lot of available light photography and that large max aperture will throw backgrounds beautifully out of focus. Having said that, there isn't that much difference really between the two lenses (Speed wise anyway) so it's up to you whether or not you go for the 1.4. If it's only going to see occasional use you might be as well served by the 1.8?

24-06-2005, 18:29	#3 (permalink)
Chez Been here a while Join Date: May 2005 Location: Northampton Posts: 289	CT - are you talking purely from a specification point of view, or have you used these lenses? Everything I have ever heard regarding the Nikon lenses is that the picture quality is superior on the F1.8...

24-06-2005, 18:34	#4 (permalink)
Chez Been here a while Join Date: May 2005 Location: Northampton Posts: 289	Quotes from this thread - http://www.photo.net/equipment/canon/ef50/ "Canon's 50mm f/1.4 is sharper, has better bokeh and construction than their f/1.8, whereas for Nikon the f/1.4 is better built and has better bokeh but is less sharp than the f/1.8. This simplifies the decision-making process, as there is only price vs. quality to consider, not multiple trade-offs" "I retract any positive suggestion about the quality of the Nikon 1.4. I sold that lens and went with their very fine 1.8D lens"