prime35mmdiscontinued
Nikkor 50mm f/1.8 AI-S
Nikon · 1981-2005
Perhaps the best value in manual focus lenses. Sharper than the f/1.4 wide open, lighter, and significantly cheaper. Many photographers prefer this over the faster version.
Known for
- Budget photography
- Travel
- Learning
- Sharp results wide open
Considerations
- Slower than f/1.4
- Less impressive bokeh
- Plastic focus ring feel
Optical Characteristics
Sharpness (wide)4/5
Sharpness (stopped)5/5
Contrast4/5
Flare Resistance4/5
CA Control4/5
Vignetting Control4/5
Distortion Control5/5
Bokeh: Smooth, slightly nervous on busy backgrounds
Rendering: Clean, sharp, slightly clinical
Color: Neutral
Versions
Pancake (E series)
1979-1985
Plastic barrel, very compact
Budget version, optically excellent
AI-S Standard
1981-2005
Metal barrel, AI-S markings
Most common version
The Series E 50mm f/1.8 is a budget version with plastic construction but identical optics.
Common Issues
- Focus ring loosening
- Minor coating wear
Buying Guide
An excellent first manual lens. Check focus smoothness and aperture click stops. Even heavily used copies typically perform well.
Specifications
MountNikon F
Focal Length50mm
Max Aperturef/1.8
Min Aperturef/22
Aperture Blades7
Min Focus0.45m
Filter Size52mm
Weight155g
Optical Design
FormulaDouble Gauss
Elements6
Groups5
CoatingNIC (Nikon)
Pricing
£50 - £100
Typical used price
Mint: ~£150
One of the best bargains in photography
Adapts To
Sony EFujifilm XCanon RFNikon Z
Compatible Cameras
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Last verified: Jan 2026Report an error