prime35mmdiscontinued
Minolta MD 50mm f/1.4
Minolta · 1977-1999
Minolta's underrated standard lens. The Rokkor heritage delivers excellent optics at bargain prices. One of the best value fast fifties available.
Known for
- Budget photography
- Portraits
- Adapting to mirrorless
Considerations
- 6-blade aperture
- Some softness wide open
- System discontinued
Optical Characteristics
Sharpness (wide)3/5
Sharpness (stopped)5/5
Contrast4/5
Flare Resistance4/5
CA Control3/5
Vignetting Control3/5
Distortion Control4/5
Bokeh: Smooth, pleasant hexagonal
Rendering: Warm, organic
Color: Warm, slightly yellow
Versions
MC Rokkor-PG
1966-1977
MC designation, Rokkor branding
Earlier SR mount
MD
1977-1981
MD mount, green minimum aperture
First MD version
MD III
1981-1999
Compact design, rubberized grip
Final and most compact version
The MD III version is the most compact but all versions are optically excellent.
Common Issues
- Aperture oil contamination
- Focus ring wear
Buying Guide
Superb value. Check for sticky aperture. MD mount adapts easily to most mirrorless systems without optical adapter needed.
Specifications
MountMinolta MD
Focal Length50mm
Max Aperturef/1.4
Min Aperturef/16
Aperture Blades6
Min Focus0.45m
Filter Size49mm
Weight235g
Optical Design
FormulaDouble Gauss
Elements7
Groups6
CoatingMulti-Coated
Pricing
£60 - £120
Typical used price
Mint: ~£150
Incredible value - often overlooked
Adapts To
Sony EFujifilm XCanon RFNikon Z
Compatible Cameras
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Last verified: Jan 2026Report an error