Nikon Z 50mm F/1.8S Lens Review - Verdict

Value For Money

The Nikkor Z 50mm f/1.8S lens is priced at £499.00

For the Nikon Z full-frame series, alternatives might be:

• Laowa 58mm f/2.8 2x Ultra Macro APO, £539
• Nikkor Z 40mm f/2, £259
• Nikkor Z MC 50mm f/2.8 Macro, £579
• Nikkor Z 50mm f/1.2S, £2099
• Nikkor Z 50mm f/0.95, £8299
• Voigtlander Apo-Lanthar 50mm f/2, £849
• Voigtlander Nokton 40mm f/1.2, £729

Especially considering the outstanding performance, that makes the Nikkor Z 50mm f/1.8S look like excellent value for money. 

For more options have a look at our lens top lists which feature optics we've reviewed and compiled into easy-to-read lists so you can make more informed decisions. 

Nikon Z 50mm F/1.8S Verdict

From the moment this lens is picked up and the camera lifted to the eye, it is apparent that we are seeing the world with a special degree of clarity and precision. My first reaction was that this is a good lens, and this is confirmed by the technical results as well as the location shots that this is in fact a great lens. It does tend to make us more critical of our results, and this leads to more care being taken because when the image is absolutely right the result is truly superb. High standards encourage high standards.

Using a prime lens again is not that limiting, although yes, for general shooting where the unexpected can occur at any time, then quality zooms may have the edge in convenience. They make sure we can get the shot, whatever it might be, and they still produce excellent images. For more specific requirements, perhaps such as street photography or architecture then the prime is no disadvantage and may be an advantage for street as we do not hesitate to readjust a zoom to recompose. Capturing the moment without that slight delay could be the critical difference.

It is no surprise that this is an 'Editor's Choice'.

Editor's Choice – An outstanding 50mm lens for full frame Nikon Z mirrorless cameras.

Own this lens? Let us know what you think of it in the EQDB.