Nikon 50mm f/1.4 or 1.8

[T06]

Has anyone used both of these lenses & what is the real world advantage of going to the lower 1.4. Is it worth having the greater aperture or not noticeable.

[erichlund]

There's not a lot of difference in light gathering. The 1.4 is about 1/3 stop faster. However, it does have other advantages. While both lenses are sharp, the 1.4 is sharp across a wider range of its f-stops. Also, it's photographic quality is a little bit nicer.

Bottom line: the 1.4 is a better lens, but the 1.8 is a great deal. I suspect most Nikon owners get the 1.8 ($110) because it's a great deal, and you would not be wrong to do so. But, if you want just a little bit better, don't get both, get the 1.4 ($280).

Arguably, a better lens than both is the 35mm f2 ($320). It's a little slower, but on your digital, it's angle of view makes it your actual normal lens, and it's image quality is very good. It has probably the best color reproduction of the three.