To see product details, add this item to your cart.
Ships from: Wholesale Photo Sold by: Wholesale Photo
To see product details, add this item to your cart.
Ships from: DHNETWORKS Sold by: DHNETWORKS
Other Sellers on Amazon
100% positive over last 12 months
91% positive over last 12 months
Nikon AF S NIKKOR 85mm f/1.8G Fixed Lens with Auto Focus for Nikon DSLR Cameras
Return this item for free
Free returns are available for the shipping address you chose. You can return the item for any reason in new and unused condition: no shipping charges
Learn more about free returns.- Go to your orders and start the return
- Select the return method
- Ship it!
Purchase options and add-ons
Brand | Nikon |
Focal Length Description | 85 mm |
Lens Type | Telephoto |
Compatible Mountings | Nikon F (FX) |
Camera Lens Description | 85 month |
About this item
- Fast aperture medium telephoto lens
- Internal focus, focal length: 85 millimeter, minimum focus range: 0.80 meter
- Silent wave motor (SWM). Number of diaphragm blades: 7 (rounded diaphragm opening)
- M/a focus mode switch. Filter-attachment size is 67 millimeter (p=0.75 millimeter)
- Nikon super integrated coating (sic)
- 85 millimeter fixed lens, maximum reproduction ratio 0.12 x
Frequently bought together
Similar items that may deliver to you quickly
- Nikon AF-S DX Micro-NIKKOR 40mm f/2.8G Close-up Lens for Nikon DSLR CamerasFREE Shipping by AmazonGet it as soon as Sunday, Mar 24
- Nikon AF-S DX NIKKOR 35mm f/1.8G Lens with Auto Focus for Nikon DSLR Cameras, 2183, BlackFREE Shipping by AmazonGet it as soon as Sunday, Mar 24
- Meike 85mm f1.8 Wide Aperture Full Frame Auto Focus Telephoto Lens for Nikon F Mount DSLR Camera and Compatible with Nikon APS-C Cameras D610 D750 D780 D810FREE Shipping by AmazonGet it as soon as Sunday, Mar 24
- Nikon AF-S FX NIKKOR 85mm f/1.4G Lens with Auto Focus for Nikon DSLR CamerasFREE Shipping by AmazonGet it as soon as Sunday, Mar 24Only 15 left in stock (more on the way).
- Nikon AF-S FX NIKKOR 50mm f/1.4G Lens with Auto Focus for Nikon DSLR CamerasFREE Shipping by AmazonGet it as soon as Sunday, Mar 24
- Nikon AF-S FX NIKKOR 50mm f/1.8G Lens with Auto Focus for Nikon DSLR CamerasAmazon's Choicein SLR Camera LensesFREE Shipping by AmazonGet it as soon as Sunday, Mar 24
Important information
Legal Disclaimer
SERIAL #304337. FULL 14 DAY SATISFACTION GUARANTEE, FULL 90 DAY PARTS AND LABOR WARRANTY.
To report an issue with this product or seller, click here.
Compare with similar items
This Item Nikon AF S NIKKOR 85mm f/1.8G Fixed Lens with Auto Focus for Nikon DSLR Cameras | Recommendations | dummy | dummy | dummy | dummy | |
Try again! Added to Cart | Try again! Added to Cart | Try again! Added to Cart | Try again! Added to Cart | Try again! Added to Cart | Try again! Added to Cart | |
Price | $476.95$476.95 | -24% $599.00$599.00 New Price: $796.95 | $216.95$216.95 | -28% $1,502.08$1,502.08 New Price: $2,096.95 | $526.95$526.95 | $196.95$196.95 |
Delivery | Get it as soon as Sunday, Mar 24 | Get it as soon as Wednesday, Mar 20 | Get it as soon as Sunday, Mar 24 | Get it as soon as Wednesday, Mar 20 | Get it as soon as Sunday, Mar 24 | Get it as soon as Sunday, Mar 24 |
Customer Ratings | ||||||
Picture quality | 4.8 | — | 4.7 | — | 4.4 | 4.7 |
Quality of material | 4.7 | — | 4.7 | — | 4.3 | 4.7 |
Auto focus | 4.5 | — | 4.7 | — | 4.6 | 4.5 |
For portrait photography | 4.7 | — | 4.8 | — | — | 4.6 |
Durability | 4.7 | — | 4.7 | — | — | 4.6 |
Sold By | Amazon.com | Minty Gadgets (we track serial numbers) | Amazon.com | Minty Gadgets (we track serial numbers) | Amazon.com | Amazon.com |
lens type | Telephoto | Standard | Standard | Telephoto | Wide Angle | Standard |
compatible mountings | Nikon F (FX) | Nikon F (DX) | Nikon F (FX) | Nikon F | Nikon F (FX) | Nikon F (DX) |
lens design | Prime | Prime | Prime | Prime | Zoom | Prime |
focus type | Ultrasonic | Auto Focus | Ultrasonic | Auto Focus | Auto Focus | Auto Focus |
minimum focal length | 85 millimeters | 20 millimeters | 50 millimeters | 105 millimeters | 35 millimeters | 35 millimeters |
max focal length | 85 millimeters | 20 millimeters | 50 millimeters | — | 35 millimeters | 35 millimeters |
From the manufacturer
About us
Nikon is famous for its cameras and binoculars, but we make a whole range of other products too. For example, did you know we manufacture equipment used to fabricate the semiconductors found in your PC and smartphone? And that we make measuring instruments that detect microscopic defects in electronic components? Nikon technologies contribute to people's lives in ways you may never have imagined.
Videos
Videos for this product
1:11
Click to play video
A lens that's always in my bag
Chavez Savvy Insights
Videos for this product
3:45
Click to play video
Review: Nikon AF S NIKKOR 85mm f/1.8G Fixed Lens
Honest Family Reviews
Videos for this product
4:49
Click to play video
Worthy upgrade from 85mm 1.8 lens
Should I Get It Reviews
Looking for specific info?
What's in the box
Product information
Product Dimensions | 2.87 x 3.15 x 3.15 inches |
---|---|
Item Weight | 12.3 ounces |
ASIN | B006TAP096 |
Item model number | 2201 |
Batteries | 1 Lithium Ion batteries required. |
Customer Reviews |
4.8 out of 5 stars |
Best Sellers Rank | #187 in SLR Camera Lenses |
Is Discontinued By Manufacturer | No |
Date First Available | January 6, 2012 |
Manufacturer | Nikon |
Warranty & Support
Feedback
Product guides and documents
Product Description
To focus using autofocus with manual override (M/A): Slide the lens focus-mode switch to M/A. If desired, autofocus can be over-ridden by rotating the lens focus ring while the shutter-release button is pressed halfway (or, if the camera is equipped with an AF-ON button, while the AF-ON button is pressed). To refocus using autofocus, press the shutter-release button halfway or press the AF-ON button again. The fast maximum aperture of f/1.8 performs brilliantly under any lighting conditions and delivers beautiful, natural background blur that brings out the best in any subject. Compatible Format(s) - FX, DX, FX in DX Crop Mode, 35mm Film.
Customer reviews
Customer Reviews, including Product Star Ratings help customers to learn more about the product and decide whether it is the right product for them.
To calculate the overall star rating and percentage breakdown by star, we don’t use a simple average. Instead, our system considers things like how recent a review is and if the reviewer bought the item on Amazon. It also analyzed reviews to verify trustworthiness.
Learn more how customers reviews work on AmazonCustomers say
Customers like the clarity, image quality, performance, and value of the camera lens. They mention that it produces excellent IQ, from sharpness to color rendition, and bokeh is remarkable. That said, some are happy with the focus, sharpness, and weight.
AI-generated from the text of customer reviews
Customers are satisfied with the quality of the camera lenses. They mention that the lens is top notch, great for macro and close-up shots, and outstandingly good for the price. The construction of the lens feels nice and solid, and the focusing is fast. Overall, customers are happy with their purchase and recommend it to others.
"...It is a heftier lens, solidly built but just not the best choice available for my travel kit or budget...." Read more
"...using this lens with an adapter on m4/3 and NEX bodies as it allows the use of precise, easily set and repeatable aperture settings...." Read more
"...as the Nikkor 85mm 1.4g (of course- the 1.4g is metal) but maintains a quality build by any measurement and many will appreciate the lighter weight..." Read more
"...AF-S 60mm f/2.8 micro: Great macro lens: I use this for very close up shots...." Read more
Customers are satisfied with the image quality of the lens. They mention that it is great for shooting beautiful portraits, and flowers. The bokeh is remarkable, and they are consistently stunned by the quality of photos they are able to take with it. The lens is well-balanced, sharp, and has great contrast. It is able take flashless photos that look more natural, and it allows them to take candid shots. The design is simple and should give customers many years of faithful service.
"...The bokeh is remarkable, as good or better as anything I have seen. But again, that is a subjective matter...." Read more
"...The 1.4G is a bit sharper, has better bokeh, less vignetting at the same aperture setting, even less purple fringing, better flare resistance,..." Read more
"...for portraits as well (with some lighting support) and I can get really good candid shots since I can be much farther away 10-20ft from my subjects..." Read more
"...I do keep the hood on at all times though.Bokeh - Very nice and pleasant...." Read more
Customers are satisfied with the sharpness of the camera lenses. They mention that it is exceptionally sharp, tack sharp in the center of the frame, even wide open. The f/1.8 is a great alternative to the much pricier f/2. However, some customers find the 1.4G to be a bit sharper, with better bokeh and less vignetting.
"...used it but but there are sufficient reviews that agree it is exceptionally sharp, that the VC is effective, but there are also some reports of..." Read more
"...The 1.4G is a bit sharper, has better bokeh, less vignetting at the same aperture setting, even less purple fringing, better flare resistance,..." Read more
"...serve as my main portrait lenses (on a DX) due to their tack sharpness, low light capability, and bokeh (ability to blur background)...." Read more
"...The f/1.8 is tact sharp and at great alternative to the much pricier f/1.4 option ($1500). The performance between the 2 lens is marginal...." Read more
Customers appreciate the value of the camera lenses. They mention that it is well worth the price, and provides incredible performance and value for slower-paced shooting.
"...Sigma from competitors so far is that it came up with a good, cheap solution that can correct focus shift and any compatibility problems (so far)..." Read more
"...This prime lens is a safe, affordable and way to see for yourself how good a prime lens can be as against the kit zoom lens...." Read more
"...The Nikon 85mm 1.8g is one of the best bargains and best performing lenses for beginners, hobbyists, advanced hobbyists, and real part-time pros..." Read more
"...Nikon (Black)]] which offers incredible performance and value for slower-paced shooting...." Read more
Customers like the focus of the camera lenses. They say it's fairly quick, the autofocus is consistently more precise, and significantly quieter. The focusing ring is nice and smooth, and both the auto focus and manual focus work very well.
"...so far is that it came up with a good, cheap solution that can correct focus shift and any compatibility problems (so far) with Nikon cameras, using..." Read more
"...In addition, the 1.8G autofocus is now consistently more precise and significantly quieter...." Read more
"...on both a D300s and a D800 is incredibly fast and the manual focusing ring is smooth as butter with manual over ride in auto...." Read more
"...great priceCons:- slow focus- corner softness at wide apertures, goes away at about f4.0 (on DX bodies)-..." Read more
Customers are satisfied with the performance of the lens. They mention that it performs almost flawlessly as a classic portrait lens, and even better stopped down. It's compact, affordable, and produces very impressive results. Customers are also pleased with the test results so far compared to what they consider to be the best lenses. The manual focusing ring is smooth, nicely weighted, and has no play.
"...sufficient reviews that agree it is exceptionally sharp, that the VC is effective, but there are also some reports of consistent focus issues...." Read more
"...This lens is light, compact affordable, but produces very impressive results...." Read more
"...The auto focus speed of the 1.8g on both a D300s and a D800 is incredibly fast and the manual focusing ring is smooth as butter with manual over..." Read more
"...Set my aperture around f/4 and f/5.6. I was extremely pleased with the end results. Pictures were sharp...." Read more
Customers like the weight of the camera lens. They say it's very light, easy to carry, and feels like metal. Some customers also mention that it' s compact and magnetic when they look it wide.
"...nearly as inexpensive as this Nikkor 85G AND also be as small and light weight...." Read more
"...This lens is light, compact affordable, but produces very impressive results...." Read more
"...by any measurement and many will appreciate the lighter weight and smaller size, especially on the smaller D600 body (compared to D800 or D4)...." Read more
"...1. Super light weight2. Fast focus3. Tact sharp4. Awesome low light performance5. Great bokeh..." Read more
Customers are satisfied with the clarity of the lens. They mention that it produces excellent image quality, with sharpness to color rendition and bokeh. Customers also appreciate the lens' ability to freeze the action and give a fair representation of depth of field. They also appreciate that the lens has better flare resistance, better micro-contrast, and richer color.
"...setting, even less purple fringing, better flare resistance, better micro-contrast and richer color...." Read more
"...Gorgeous bokeh, super sharp images and it's decently fast." Read more
"I love prime lenses for their low light abilities, background blur, and my ability to "see" the shot before I take it because the distance..." Read more
"I love how clear the image comes out when you nail the focus. It's just perfection. But note I said when you nail the focus...." Read more
Reviews with images
-
Top reviews
Top reviews from the United States
There was a problem filtering reviews right now. Please try again later.
On the other end of the price scale, if you are on a tight budget you can still find deals on older 85D auto focus lenses like these ones presently starting around $300 on Amazon, Nikon 85mm f/1.8D Auto Focus Nikkor Lens for Nikon Digital SLR Cameras - Fixed . There is also a faster, well respected, more expensive model, the 85D 1.4 that still has many loyal fans, Nikon 85mm f/1.4D AF Nikkor Lens for Nikon Digital SLR Cameras . All of these Nikkor 85 mm lenses offer very good to excellent optical quality. In general, from what I have seen over the years I think most newer lenses have more contrast and better color saturation because of improved internal coatings but the optical quality of the older glass is still superb. The "D" models have advantages of distance scales for DoF and infinity hard stops. As a Nikon user you have a lot of 85mm lenses from which to choose. And if you do not need auto focus Nikon's even older lenses might interest you and come at a great price. As a general rule, the problem with manual focus today is that digital cameras do not usually offer view screens that are close to being the most appropriate for manual focus and that is compounded by modern lenses' barrels, except for Zeiss, that no longer make it easy to control critical focus by offering more distance to gradually move the barrel as needed. Yes, I can and do manual focus but it is not remotely as easy as it was to control focus as in the film camera days when cameras used specialized screens and lenses were designed exclusively for manual focus. Otherwise my recommendations would be a bit different.
Do I have a list of Cons? Just two. The Nikkor 85G does not have image stabilization. Frankly, that would not be reasonably expected at this price, currently about $476. I have rarely, if ever, had image blur using this lens in the studio or outdoors. In part, that is also explained by using it most of the time between f4 and f5.6 at fast shutter speeds so motion is a less likely factor and the auto focus is dependable. Nonetheless, if you have any problems keeping your camera steady without a tripod, then the lack of VR would not be your best choice. Read on below for an 85 mm lens from Tamron that is also very sharp and it has image stabilization. One problem often reported for this Nikkor that I do see is CA on edges where there is quite high contrast. Thankfully, LR and other programs quickly and easily remove it. An lastly, although not really a con, this lens is not intended to be used for things like landscape photography. It performs best at or near wide open depending upon how much DoF you require. That doesn't mean you can't use it. It is still a good lens stopped down but there are simply better lens choices for things like landscape. You can still go ahead and use it in a pinch.
Third party alternatives? There are lots. I would be remiss if I did not mention some of the highly regarded 85 mm lenses that other manufacturers offer including my favorites if budget no longer matters. Zeiss offers several, terrific 85 mm lenses both old and new. But for most folks their higher price and lack of auto focus could be deal breakers. Tamron offers a new, highly rated alternative with auto focus for $749 that is distinguished by being the first 85 mm lens with image stabilization (VC), Tamron AFF016N700 SP 85mm F/1.8 Di VC USD Lens (Black) . I have not used it but but there are sufficient reviews that agree it is exceptionally sharp, that the VC is effective, but there are also some reports of consistent focus issues. In general, if the user is not at fault, there are two common kinds of trouble. Any manufacturer's lenses can suffer from focus shift but thankfully, unless the lens is damaged, that can be fine tuned in-camera to correct by the user. The other kind is more complicated and it only affects third party lenses' in their auto focus compatibility. It is a quite a different focussing issue. All third party lenses can have such problems with Nikon because it does not share its proprietary, secret handshake between camera and lens to ensure the highest level and consistency of auto focus compatibility. Companies have no recourse except to reverse engineer. But care must be taken in doing so to avoid patent infringement. In fact, Nikon successfully sued Sigma for a lot of money on that account c. 2011.
Sigma makes my highest recommendation for an 85 mm lens, the recently released, 85 1.4 lens from its renowned Art series, Sigma 85mm f/1.4 DG HSM Art Lens for Nikon F (321955) which at this time sells for $1,200. What distinguishes Sigma from competitors so far is that it came up with a good, cheap solution that can correct focus shift and any compatibility problems (so far) with Nikon cameras, using its affordable $59 dock, Sigma USB Dock for Nikon . The dock does not work with every Sigma lens but it covers all of the Art series plus some others. I have had excellent results with these lenses. IMO, their 50 1.4 Art lens is the best lens I have ever used in terms of sharpness and resolution although there have been Leica and Zeiss lenses that are also stellar. This Art series is an especially great match for my Nikon D800e. At this moment, the Sigma 85 1.4 Art is the highest rated lens overall at DxOMark. And just like the Sigma 50 1.4 Art, this newly released Sigma 85 1.4 Art lens rivals the performance of the esteemed Zeiss Otus lenses at their respected focal lengths. The Zeiss Otus 85 mm 1.4 lens, Zeiss Otus 85mm f/1.4 Apo Planar ZF.2 Series Manual Focusing Lens for Nikon DSLR Cameras is outstanding, manual only, and at $4,400, is by far the most expensive 85mm lens you can buy that fits a Nikon. Zeiss offers other excellent performing 85 mm lenses for less with a Nikon F mount but they all are manual focus only and are still relatively expensive such as the Milvus 85 1.4, Zeiss Milvus 85mm f/1.4 ZF.2 Lens for Nikon F . Older, very good Zeiss 85 mm lenses will be less. I admit that I am a fan of Zeiss. Its lenses have always demonstrated a distinctive look with remarkably attractive color rendering and contrast. Just don't expect to see Zeiss lenses with auto focus for Nikon.
Before you buy an 85 mm focal length lens which I will assume is for portraiture, what are the best alternatives? This is a subjective matter. First of all nothing I can recommend is going to be as fine a performer or nearly as inexpensive as this Nikkor 85G AND also be as small and light weight. And of course, if you do primarily want it for portraits, 85 mm has been a favorite focal length for generations. But don’t feel constrained by convention. For example, some people prefer 50mm for portraits. However, if your subject has any feature that is larger than average you might find a 50mm lens exacerbates that. The counter argument would be that knowledgable posing technique and post production can minimize such problems. You will also being working closer to your subject for better or for worse. But if you do prefer a "normal" lens and you especially love bokeh, the Nikkor 58 mm Nikon AF-S FX NIKKOR 58mm f/1.4G Fixed Zoom Lens with Auto Focus for Nikon DSLR Cameras is exceptional for portraits. Sometimes it gets a bad rap but I think it is easily misunderstood because of its intended purpose. It is a kind of speciality lens because of the impressive way it makes distinctive transitions moving between what is sharpest to areas that are out of focus. The bokeh is remarkable, as good or better as anything I have seen. But again, that is a subjective matter. I just do not consider it to be an all purpose normal lens although I know people who disagree although with a few caveats.
Overall though, for portraiture, I recommend looking within the focal range of 85, 105, and to a lesser extent, 135 mm primes or else weigh the trade offs in using a relatively light weight zoom like the excellent Nikkor 70-200mm f/4 lens Nikon 70-200mm f/4G ED VR Nikkor Zoom Lens which costs about $1,400. I offer that range because there is never a single answer for all of us about what best suits our personal needs so keep your options open to begin with. If you like to work in low light obviously you will appreciate the fastest lens models at any focal length. But they will tend to be considerably larger, heavier and more expensive. No flying submarine exists although I come back to our little Nikkor 85G 1.8 lens that IMO just might come closest to offering a compelling case for being the best compromise. And you can't beat its quality for the price. Nonetheless, there are several alternatives I have mentioned here that deserve your consideration.
If feasible, nothing beats a side by side comparison of lenses using tests that are appropriate in covering everything it is you like to do and that you do the most frequently. See how it feels in yours, the balance with your camera as well as its optics. Those are the keys. Cameras come and go but it is solid planning to buy the best lenses you can when you can. It is very old but wise advice. I wish you great success in your hunt.
This lens is light, compact affordable, but produces very impressive results. I highly recommend the use of this lens for portrait, events and for landscape. Despite it being a fixed focal length and not being able to zoom, I highly recommend this lens for beginner Nikon dSLR users who own only the kit zoom lens that came with the camera. This lens allows you to shoot at low light and/or to blur the background of the subject of the photo. This prime lens is a safe, affordable and way to see for yourself how good a prime lens can be as against the kit zoom lens. It also shows what the other Nikon professional prime and professional lenses are capable of should you get serious in this hobby.
REVIEW OF THE LENS FOR EXPERIENCED USERS
What follows is a quick review is based on my use of this lens for around 2-weeks. It is intended for those already familiar with Nikkor's line of 85mm prime lenses but are wondering how this lens compare with the other Nikkor 85mm autofocusing lenses that Nikon makes. This review is based on my own copy of the Nikkor 85mm f/1.4D, 1.8D, 1.4G and 1.8G.
AGAINST THE NIKKOR 85mm f/1.8D
The Nikkor 85mm f/1.8G is bigger than the Nikkor 85mm f/1.8D but is a bit lighter. Unlike the 85mm f/1.8D, this lens comes with a reversible hood which does a good job in protecting and shading the lens. With the hood reversed, the 85mm f/1.8G becomes much more compact than the 85mm f/1.8D with the hood installed. But with the hood installed, the wider lens barrel and the wider and longer hood makes the 85mm f/1.8G significantly bulkier than the 85mm f/1.8D.
Reflecting the bigger-sized lens, the 85mm f/1.8G uses a 67mm filter while the 85mm f/1.8D uses a 62mm filter. As the "G" suffix indicates, the 85mm f/1.8G does not have an aperture ring while the 85mm f/1.8D has an aperture ring (see notes below in the 85mm f/1.4D for the significance of this).
The older Nikkor 85mm f/1.8D have always been very sharp at the center and at the corners even when used wide-open but the new Nikkor 85mm f/1.8G is stll a bit sharper still. Despite being bigger and wider, the 1.8G has slightly more vignetting wide open than the 1.8D but this quickly reverses in favour of the 1.8G from about f/2.5 onwards. The two areas where the 1.8G has improved significantly over the 1.8D is in having better bokeh and also having less purple fringing when shooting wide-open. The 1.8G focus speed is a bit faster on a D7000 than the 1.8D on the same body. In addition, the 1.8G autofocus is now consistently more precise and significantly quieter.
Priced reasonably, this 85mm f/1.8G lens can auto focus on Nikon bodies that do not have a built-in focusing motors (such as the Nikon D3000, D3100, D3200, D5000, D5100, D40, and D60). For those who use this focal length regularly, upgrading from the 1,8D to the 1.8G is easy to justify. For 1st time buyers of the 85mm lens, I highly recommend choosing the 1.8G over the 1.8D given the minimum price difference between these 2 lenses.
AGAINST THE NIKKOR 85mm f/1.4D
The Nikkor 85mm f/1.8G is of the same width as the than the Nikkor 85mm f/1.4D but is shorter and also significantly lighter by 200 grams. Unlike the 85mm f/1.4D, the 85mm 1.8G comes with a reversible hood which does a good job in protecting and shading the lens. Unlike the 85mm f/1.4D which uses a 77mm filter, the 85mm f/1.8G uses a 67mm filter.
Wide-open at f/1.8 to f/2.5, the new Nikkor 85mm f/1.8G is sharper at the center, borders and at the corners than the 85mm f/1.4D. At f/2.8 and above, the 85mm f/1.4D improves considerably. The bokeh of the 85mm f/1.4D is still better and creamier but the 85mm f/1.8G is no slouch in this regard. There is also less purple fringing on the 1.8G than on the 1.4D used wide-open. Focus on the 85mm f/1.8G is a bit faster than the 85mm f/1.4D on a Nikon DX D7000 but the difference is small and insignificant. Focus precision between these two lenses are about the same but the 85mm f/1.8G focuses much quieter than the 85mm f/1.4D.
The primary advantage of the 85mm f/1.4D over the 85mm f/1.8G is primarily in it being 2/3 of a stop faster and it having an aperture ring. The 2/3 stop advantage is significant for still and video while the aperture ring is very helpful for use in video. The aperture ring is also particularly helpful in still photography when using this lens with an adapter on m4/3 and NEX bodies as it allows the use of precise, easily set and repeatable aperture settings. This is the reason why I still have the Nikkor 85mm 1.4D and 1.8D lenses even after getting the 2 new Nikkor 85mm 1.4G and 1.8G lenses.
For portrait photography where the subject is framed at or near the center, I would likely still opt for the 85mm f/1.4D but for anything else where the 2/3 stop advantage is not used, I would likely choose the 85mm 1.8G.
AGAINST THE NIKKOR 85mm f/1.4G
In terms of size, the 85mm f/1.4G is significantly bigger and heavier than the 85mm f/1.8G. Both lenses comes with reversible hood. The 85mm f/1.4G uses a 77mm filter while the 85mm f/1.8G uses a 67mm filter.
In terms of performance, the Nikkor 85mm f/1.4G is better than the 85mm f/1.8G in all respects. The 1.4G is a bit sharper, has better bokeh, less vignetting at the same aperture setting, even less purple fringing, better flare resistance, better micro-contrast and richer color. It's very tough to compete against the 85mm f/1.4G when it comes to performance. Yet while the 85mm f/1.8G comes up a bit short, it comes in at a close second. At almost 3x the cost, it is not surprising that the 1.4G is better than the 1.8G. Whether one should get 1.4G or the 1.8G will depend on how much one is willing to pay more for the small performance difference. Consideration should also be given to the bigger size and weight of the 1.4G vs the 1.8G.
For someone who already has a Nikkor 85mm f/1.4G, would it still make sense to get a Nikkor 85mm f/1.8G? The answer is yes if one needs a smaller, lighter and more compact 85mm. I use this lens with my smaller Nikon DX bodies as well as with my Sony NEX and Panasonic GH2. The 1.8G smaller size and lighter weight would also be a very good match for the rumored upcoming Nikon full frame in a small body, the D600.
Top reviews from other countries
Reviewed in Canada on July 27, 2022
Remember it’s 85mm and it’s not the one for landscape or group photography! But one of the best for portrait, night shoot, food, baby, pets photography.