Quick answer
A light manual-focus 50mm f/1.8 with a 6-element, 5-group design and a 52mm filter thread. It weighs about 220g and focuses down to 0.45m.
Pros
- Light at about 220g
- Close focus of 0.45m
- 52mm filter thread
- Sharp when stopped down
Cons
- Manual focus only
- Basic coatings
- Soft wide open
Verdict
A light, sound manual 50mm.
About this lens
The Nikon AI-S Nikkor 50mm f/1.8 is a fast standard prime lens covering 50mm at f/1.8 for Nikon F mount cameras. The natural field of view suits street, documentary and everyday photography.
Nikon AI-S Nikkor 50mm f/1.8 specifications
- Brand
- Nikon
- Mount
- Nikon F
- Focal length
- 50mm
- Maximum aperture
- f/1.8
- Lens type
- Prime
- Format coverage
- full-frame
- Optical construction
- 6 elements in 5 groups
- Autofocus motor
- none
- Filter thread
- 52 mm
Specification source: en.wikipedia.org
What can you shoot with the Nikon AI-S Nikkor 50mm f/1.8?
- Learning film photography
- Portraits
- Adapted use on Z
Its fast maximum aperture helps in dim light and gives good subject separation.
Full-frame equivalent and field of view
Calculated from the focal length and crop factor. Not measured.
| Sensor | Crop | Equivalent | Horizontal FOV | Diagonal FOV |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Full frame | 1.0x | 50mm | 39.6° | 46.8° |
| APS-C | 1.5x | 75mm | 27° | 32.2° |
Frequently asked questions
Is the Nikon 50mm f/1.8 AI-S sharp?
It is sharp once stopped down to about f/2.8. Wide open it is a little soft.
Can I use the 50mm f/1.8 AI-S on Z cameras?
Yes, via the FTZ or FTZ II adapter. Focus is manual, and entering the lens data in the camera menu enables metering and lets in-body stabilization work.
What is the minimum focus distance of the 50mm f/1.8 AI-S?
0.45m.
Alternatives for Nikon F from other brands
All Nikon F lensesSame mount, overlapping focal range, closest maximum aperture first.
