Nikon NIKKOR Z 50mm f/1.4 Lens Officially Announced

Nikon has officially announced the Nikkor Z 50mm f/1.4, a fast, normal prime lens for Z-mount cameras that covers the classic 50mm focal length. This new lens appears to be a close companion to the Nikkor Z 35mm f/1.4, released just three months ago in June. Both lenses share identical dimensions of 87mm in length and 75mm in diameter, and the 50mm version weighs only slightly more at 420 grams (14.8 ounces), just 1% heavier than its 35mm counterpart.

Nikon NIKKOR Z 50mm f/1.4 Lens (Nikon Z) at B&H, Adorama.

Interestingly, the Nikkor Z 50mm f/1.4 is priced slightly lower than Nikon’s own 50mm f/1.8 S, part of the premium ‘S’ series. The new non-S model is said to focus on delivering a more character-driven image quality, rather than the clinical sharpness emphasized by the ‘S’ line. Optically, the lens is constructed with 10 elements in 7 groups, including one aspherical element, and features a 9-bladed aperture. It lacks the Nano Crystal Coatings of the premium model, making it optically simpler. The lens offers a minimum focusing distance of 0.37 meters (14.5 inches) and a maximum magnification ratio of 0.17x.

The Nikkor Z 50mm f/1.4 is designed to be versatile, featuring a manual focus ring and a customizable control ring, which the ‘S’ model lacks. It is also well-suited for video work, thanks to its twin STM motors, suppressed focus breathing, and clickless control ring. Additionally, it is built to be drip and dust-resistant. The lens is expected to be available in late September with a suggested retail price of $499.

Press release:

The Nikkor Z 50mm F1.4 is Nikon’s Latest Affordable and Fast Prime Lens for the Nikon Z System

Classically Captivating Focal Length and Large f/1.4 Aperture is the Simple Formula for Breathtaking Creativity

MELVILLE, NY (September 10, 2024) Today, Nikon Inc. announced the NIKKOR Z 50mm f/1.4, a lightweight prime lens with a wide and bright f/1.4 aperture. This affordable lens is compact enough to take anywhere, while offering a versatile and classic focal length that’s ideal for portraits, landscapes, street snaps, travel, still life and more.

“The NIKKOR Z 50mm f/1.4 is a modern take on a classic lens design, giving creators the benefits of the latest imaging technology and optical innovations at a very appealing price,” said Fumiko Kawabata, Sr. Vice President, Nikon Inc. “With the recently released NIKKOR Z 35mm f/1.4, photographers and videographers now have access to a great pair of fast, affordable primes that will help them to take their creativity further.”

The large f/1.4 aperture of this lens affords users the ability to create images and video with three-dimensional emphasis and naturally soft backgrounds that draw the viewers’ attention to a subject.

The NIKKOR Z 50mm f/1.4 lens features a compact, comfortable and lightweight design, measuring approximately 2.9 in x 3.4 in (74.5 × 86.5 mm) and weighing only 14.8 oz (420 g). The lens is engineered with a premium feel and superb handling, featuring a dedicated focus ring and customizable control ring.

Additional Features of the NIKKOR Z 50mm f/1.4

• Close minimum focus distance lets users get as near as 14.5 in (0.37 m) from the subject, which is great for flowers, still life and food photography.
• Nine-blade diaphragm helps to create a natural, circular bokeh for a pleasing out of focus area.
• Focus breathing is effectively suppressed to minimize the shift of the angle of view when adjusting the focus.
• Near Silent operation for video production, with a click-less control ring and near silent lens drive thanks to the use of STM motors.
• Weather Sealed and designed with careful consideration for dust- and drip-resistant performance*.

Price and Availability

The new NIKKOR Z 50mm f/1.4 will be available in late September 2024 for a suggested retail price of $499.95** For more information about the latest Nikon products, including the extensive lineup of NIKKOR Z lenses and the entire range of Z series cameras, please visit Nikonusa.com.

Specifications, equipment, and release dates are subject to change without any notice or obligation on the part of the manufacturer.

*Thorough dust and moisture-resistance is not guaranteed in all situations.

**SRP (Suggested Retail Price) listed only as a suggestion. Actual prices are set by dealers and are subject to change at any time.