I tend to use more the "E" version with digital just because the "almost pancake" design... very nice to use with its compact size. But I`d say the 1.4AiS is a better lens, I tend to think the 1.8E give a bit softer or flatter images, not bad at all but clearly not better. The 1.4AiS is to me the "reference Nikkor", good enough at f1.4 that get very sharp from f2.8 on.
Some "connoiseurs" like uncoated fancy lenses for b&w work, in fact there are lenses in multicoated and single coated versions; we could take the 1.8E as a "single coated" specialist.
My sharpest 50 has been the 50/1.8AFD, even a bit sharper -at its sweetest aperture- than the 50/1.4AFS, but with an ugly construction and ugly bokeh, as mentioned above. Anyway, I`d never recommend it; plasticy construction, too much wobbling [on mine, too], ugly manual focus ring, and from what I read, with sample issues.
If I were buying again [MF lens], for versatility I`d get the 50/1.4AiS again; maybe as a second choice I`d try the mentioned 50/1.8AiS or the 50/2Ai, although I have never used them. They are at a middle point between the 1.4AiS and the "E" versions in size. As mentioned, I tend to take the "E" on my D700 just because makes the bulk much smaller, but with film Nikons I rarely use other than the 50/1.4AiS.
Faster lenses use to be better in general terms, but the aperture difference between f1.4 and f1.8 is not so big, less than one stop. Two stops makes a difference, like shooting with an f1.4 instead of using e.g., a very nice and "true" pancake lens like the 45/2.8P.
[From Nikon lens literature] This exceptional low-light manual focus lens is perfect for travel and portrait work and any situation where a extremely limited depth of field is desired.
Key Features:
- High-speed normal lens
- Distortion-free images with superb resolution
- Great for travel and for shooting full-length portraits in available light
Note: Available through special order only against confirmed and non-cancelable orders. Allow 60 to 120 days for delivery. Subject to limited availability.
Nikon50mm f/1.4 AIS Nikkor
Nikon 50mm f/1.4 AIS Nikkor User Reviews
9.7/10average of 3 review[s] Build Quality10.0/10 Image Quality9.7/10
- 10 out of 10 pointsand recommended by shiraha11 [8 reviews] High-quality with Low-cost Recommend for Film or adapt to Mirrorless [such as Sony A7] Fast lens [ F 1.4 ] Manual focus Optical performance is great. [Better than AF 50.4 I guess.] More useful than AF lens to use digital mirrorless camera. MF lens has more better design for manual using. Use with Nikon FX [ such as D700, D3] is good too. They has MF guide with arrows. That arrows make manual focusing easly. Build quality is BEST. much better than plastic AF Lenses. This metal lens have strong durability. When I dropped This lens, the filter was break to pieces. but lens wasn't damaged. reviewed September 18th, 2022 [purchased for $65]
- 9 out of 10 pointsand recommended by Chop [7 reviews] Low light and small size. Great versatile normal lens Not too sharp wide open but stopped down - very sharp If you are shooting film and using a non AF this is a great walk around lens. I usually use a little wider normal lens but this is a very sharp lens and if I need a low light option then I pull this one. Probably a must have. reviewed October 16th, 2012 [purchased for $250]
10 out of 10 pointsand recommended by mohawk51 [5 reviews]
Build, Quality glass with SIC on the elements
A little softer wide open than I would like. Probably great for portraits soft.
I've been shooting Nikkors since 1968 and I like fast glass because I can handhold at higher shutter speeds. Don't like tripods. The one I have is the latest version made from 2006-Present with SIC. There's always been amongst the 50mm users, the battle over which one is better between the 1.8 AIS and the 1.4 AIS. I actually have both and I really like both to be honest. Both have their character. I think you can be more creative with the 1.4 as far as bokeh. This jewel is crafted very, very well, unlike the AF models. I usually shoot at 5.6-8 and the colors, contrast and resolution are outstanding along with no play in the focus ring. This is an excellent lens along with the 1.8 as well. Using these two will assure you that you will bring back some good pics. Unless the photographer messes up! It was worth it for me to add the 1.4 to the arsenal. Have never regretted it.
What is the difference between Nikon AI and AIS lenses?
The visible indications that a lens is AI-S rather than AI are: The minimum aperture [both the main larger and smaller direct read out figures] are marked in orange i.e. F16, A notch has been taken off the rear bayonet mount, above the lens locking notch.
When did the Nikon 50mm f1 4G come out?
The Nikkor AF-S 50mm f1. 4G was announced in September 2008 as the company's flagship standard prime lens. It shares the same bright f1. 4 aperture and standard focal length as the much older AF 50mm f1.
What is Nikon 50mm lens good for?
No matter what type of photography you like, there's a good chance you can use a 50mm lens. It's one of the most popular lenses on the market, and it can be used for anything from portraits and car photography to landscapes and nighttime shots.
How much does a Nikon 50mm 1.4 non AI weight?
Weight: 325g [11.5 oz]; Accessories: 52mm Snap-On front cap [108 - 00 - 400], rear cap type F [ 108 - 00 - 401], 52mm screw-in [108 - 00 - 203] or Snap-On [108 - 00 - 201] lens hood, leather case [108 - 00 - 303], plastic case type S [108 - 00 - 300], flexible pouch No.