Beginner Nikon 50mm f/1.8 D or Nikon 50mm f/1.8G lens

meddyliol

meddyliol

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Brian
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I have a Nikon D90 and am in the process of deciding between the Nikon 50mm f/1.8 D or Nikon 50mm f/1.8G lens. I am bending towards the D lens because it is much cheaper (about £82) and I have two new filters that will fit (UV and Polarising). Also the D90 has a built in focus motor. The G lens is more expensive at around £145 and I would have to buy new filters. I know that filters are not a big deal in the grand scheme of things but it is something to think about. Another possible reason for going for the D lens is that it has an aperture control ring which the G doesn't. What I am not sure of is the optical quality like on the D? I have googled all over the place and am almost answering my own question but a little feedback from someone who might have one would be good.

Thanks

Brian
 
D90 is a few years old now & what if you decide you want to upgrade it in a year or two. Will a newer Nikon DSLR be able to focus the lens? Not up on the spec of Nikon DSLR's but you may only get that with the pro bodies? Maybe this makes the G a better option than the D going forward?

I picked up the 1.8D version a few months ago. I don't use it much, but have been happy with it when I have. Bjorn Roslett's opinions on lenses tend to be highly regarded & he rates it highly. See here: http://www.naturfotograf.com/lens_norm.html

I got the D because I shoot more film that digital & wanted to be able to use it with older cameras that cannot select the aperture from the body. My DSLR doesn't have the inbuilt focus motor, but I had not intention of using it with digital.
 
Both lenses are sharper than your sensor can resolve so optically they are both fantastic. The only thing about the AFD is that it is a bit noisy when it focusses (quick though) so for that reason alone I'd go for the AFS but you pays your money and you takes your choice...
 
I've owned both of these at one point or another. The AFS is the nicer lens over although not too much in it. I think the AFS lens works better than the AFD wide open, focuses quieter and generally feels higher quality so if you think you will be using it a lot, that would be my suggestion. If it's for occasional use, it's hard to argue against the AFD at that price point though.
 
Thanks for your replies. I have decided to go for the D lens as it has the aperture control ring and was £82. I don't anticipate upgrading the D90 anyway so that's not a problem.
 
I have just received the lens and am very pleased with it. As regards the autofocus noise, I think it is quite quiet and I'm not hard of hearing. Some of the lenses I used to have were almost deafening (slight exaggeration).
 
It's a great lens and I'm sure you will bag yourself some great images.
And with the money you have saved on the lens plus not having to replace your filters, treat yourself to a day out some where taking pictures.
 
Thanks, I will be having a 'day out', (actually, we won't be coming back), in Canada next spring LOL
 
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