Nikon AF Nikkor 50mm f/1.8D
Announced February 21, 2002
PixelMeter The PixelMeter is our 1–100 aggregate of reviewer scores from trusted publications and creators. Weighted by source tier — not a raw average, and not PetaPixel’s own review.
Reviewer Consensus
Strong
The Nikon AF Nikkor 50mm f/1.8D is a highly affordable and compact prime lens that delivers sharp images across much of its aperture range. While it offers excellent value for beginners, the lens suffers from loud autofocus and lackluster contrast when shot wide open.
Weighted from 5 reviewer scores
Pros
- Sharp image quality
- Extremely affordable price point
- Compact and lightweight design
- Fast aperture and effective autofocus
- Well-controlled distortion
Cons
- Plastic build quality with a tight mount fit
- Noisy and rotating autofocus mechanism
- Optical flaws including vignetting, bokeh fringing, and unpleasant bokeh
- Soft edges and low contrast at wide apertures
- Requires camera body with internal motor for autofocus
- Launch price $150 (USD)
- Focal length & aperture 50mm f/1.8
- Mount & coverage Nikon F Full-Frame
- Stabilization None
- Close focus 45 cm (0.15x)
- Filter thread 52mm
- Weight & size 155g (5.5 oz) · 63.5 x 39 mm (2.50 x 1.54 in)
What the Reviewers Say
All 5 expert reviews, weighted into the PixelMeter score.
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The center resolution is very good wide open already (but the lens lacks contrast here) and reaches excellent values at f/2.8 and beyond.
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[T]his cheap little lens only set you back about $120, depends where you are, so it's dirt cheap. I don't see why you wouldn't get one just to have it.
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[T]his inexpensive lens is as sharp and over twice as sensitive to dim light as the $1,700 24-70mm f/2.8AF-S lens.
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This lens is still very popular. It's very very affordable, especially if you're just starting out. So if you're just starting out, buy it; it's really really cheap.
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[I]f you shoot with a Nikon camera and want a cheap, fast lens, this is the way to go.
