50mm lens shoot-out, f/1.8 or f/1.4?

[autofocus]

This is a pretty good article on just why the 50mm, f/1.8's are not only less expensive, but in many ways better than their more expensive f/1.4 versions

50mm Lens Shoot-Out: f/1.8 or f/1.4? from Adorama Learning Center

[OsmosisStudios]

such minute differences mean one thing: for most use, you won't see a difference.

That being said, while Nikon's 50/1.4 (in particular) is very good, it doesnt compare to their latest 24/35/85 f/1.4 offerings.

[autofocus]

such minute differences mean one thing: for most use, you won't see a difference.

...only in the price, and why they're such great values

[i speak in math]

Interestingly, this article actually helps push that point that Pentax is smarter than the other brands. How?

Well, they have high quality small primes, but they aren't the fastest at f/2.4 and f/2.8. But they do have the best image quality for a lesser price than other brands. Many people complain that the only thing they are missing are the fast primes, but as this article points out, there isn't much benefit to the speed.

Instead, pentax used the best in class APS-C sensor. This allows the same shutterspeed by having the ability to crank up the ISO.

You do lose the ability to have an extremely thin depth of field.

[scootermcq]

Personally.... I am not a geek and don't give a rat's butt about their tests. All I know is I have found the 1.8 to not produce usable images until stopped down to about 3.5 the 1.4 is usable at 1.8

My personal experience is very similar to the tests on this page:

Nikon nikkor AF-D 50mm f/1.4 vs AF-D 50mm f/1.8

[thatBilly]

I intend to buy an old SMC Pentax KA 50mm f1.7 - from what I've read and seen, it looks like a good choice for some sharp portraits and small group photos at work?

I've just returned from the shops with a new SMC Pentax DA 50-200mm f/4-5.6 AL and a cheapo tripod. I should have most bases covered with the 50mm, shouldn't I?

[ScottWebb]

If you can afford it, get the 50mm f1.4 - it's priced the way it is because it's better than the f1.8. Killer lens and it also is nice to know that you have a lens that says you're a hint more serious about it all.

[candleman]

not a fan of primes at all..

I agree with Scott, DOF makes many images unuseable.

[Jim Bryant]

How bout the Canon EOS 85mm f1.2.............now that's a lens. I once owned it, but traded it in because of the slowwwwwwwwww focus. Great portrait lens, but shitty sports lens. Kind wished I kept it for portraits.

[roadshooter]

but i found so many usable image at 1.8 ,