A 50mm lens is a gear that every photographer has used once in their life. Unsurprisingly, we often encounter an iteration by camera manufacturers that continues to expand this focal length every year. Nikon, in that regard, is no different. The company presented various fast aperture 50mm lenses for F mount, and the tradition continued with the mirrorless Z mount. In the past, the Nikon introduced 50mm Z F1.8 S and F1.2 S, the ‘S’ standing for the higher-end lenses. They also introduced the 50mm Z F2.8, which had its own issues. Now, the company seems to be turning the wheel by adding to its nifty fifty series with the launch of the Nikon Z 50mm F1.4. However, is the lens better than the rest? You will find that out in a minute — or you can check out our review of this new lens.
Nikon Z 50mm F1.4 Sits Ahead of F1.8 S And F1.2 S
Before we get into the details, let’s have a look at the specs:
- 10 elements in 7 groups, one aspherical element.
- 9 rounded diaphragm blades.
- 14.5 in (0.37 m) close focusing distance.
- STM motors.
- Measures 2.9in x 3.4in (74.5mm x 86.5 mm) and weighs 14.8oz (420g).
- Multi-focus system and internal focusing.
- Dust- and drip-resistant performance. But it is better that you get insurance coverage.
We can’t discuss the quality since we haven’t finished our review of the lens, but you can see what we’ve got in progress. However, from the pricing perspective, the Nikon Z 50mm F1.4 seems far more affordable. The lens is priced at $499.95, whereas the F1.8 S is priced at $526.95 (the original price is $629.95), and the F1.2 S a whopping $2,099 (priced at $1,899 on the website). While there is not much difference between the F1.8 S and F1.4 in terms of price, the F1.2 S is certainly more costly, thanks to the wider aperture and more premium features like glass elements and coatings.
However, we also need to consider the lineup in which the Nikon Z 50mm F1.4 is specifically going to feature — which they’re calling a character lens. It is a new focal range revealed after the popular Nikon Z 35mm F1.4. According to Fumiko Kawabata, Sr. Vice President, Nikon Inc., the 50mm is a “modern take on a classic lens design,” which is supposed to provide photographers and videographers with the best imaging technology at a “very appealing price.” The company also hopes that those who have used the 35mm are likely to invest in the 50mm, which will help them “to take their creativity further.”
What Can Be Expected From The 50mm F1.4?
When the 35mm F1.4 was announced in August, we called it confusing. While it offers a faster aperture, it does not stand out. There are no nano-coatings or additional features. In fact, the press release didn’t mention anything out of the ordinary. So, why must one buy it? However, when we tested it, we absolutely loved the results. In our review, Editor-in-Chief Chris Gamapt wrote: “The image quality is beautiful while not being overly sharp and emphasizing how nice the bokeh is. It’s also weather-resistant — which means that it’s going to be reliable. In fact, overall, this lens is pretty perfect for anyone that’s been really bored of the sterile image quality brands have been putting out.”
With that in mind, we have much hope for the Nikon Z 50mm F1.4. The lens will likely produce exceptional image quality since it is created with the same philosophy as the 35mm. It may also offer a fast autofocus at a price of $100 lower than the 35mm. Does it sound like a good deal? On paper, it does. However, we ideally would like to wait and see what our reviewers find about the gear. In the meantime, we also shared a few images above shot using the lens from the press release. Until then, keep an eye on The Phoblographer.
The Nikon Z 50mm F1.4 will be available in late September 2024. For more information, visit Nikon USA’s website.