Nikon NIKKOR Z 50mm f/1.2 S Lens Review (by ePHOTOzine)

 

ePhotozine published the Nikon NIKKOR Z 50mm f/1.2 S Lens (Tested on the 45.7MP Nikon Z7) review saying that “The Nikkor Z 50mm f/1.2S has plenty of performance and plenty of character to justify its price. Editor’s Choice.”

Nikon NIKKOR Z 50mm f/1.2 S Lens Key Features

• Z-Mount Lens/FX Format
• Aperture Range: f/1.2 to f/16
• Two ED and Three Aspherical Elements
• ARNEO and Nano Crystal Coatings
• Multi-Focus Stepping Motor AF System
• Programmable Control Ring
• Information OLED Panel and L.Fn Button
• Weather-Sealed Design, Fluorine Coating
• Rounded 9-Blade Diaphragm

Nikon NIKKOR Z 50mm f/1.2 S Lens Pros:

• Outstanding sharpness
• Virtually zero CA
• Excellent flare resistance
• Excellent handling
• Quality manufacture
• Custom functions for L-Fn button
• Beautiful rendition of light sources
• Virtually no distortion
• Beautiful bokeh effects

Nikon NIKKOR Z 50mm f/1.2 S Lens Cons:

• High price
• Bulky lens

From the conclusion:

Another very expensive standard lens for the Nikon Z system, offering a lens not quite as fast as the f/0.95 Noct but at a fraction of the price. In terms of performance, the two lenses act in a very similar way and at the widest apertures the more expensive lens just has the edge. However, all we are comparing are degrees of outstanding, so it is doubtful that the difference will be seen in images. If you don’t need the f/0.95 aperture then a fair bit of cash can be saved by going for the new f/1.2 lens.

Of course, all 50mm lenses tend to be pretty good, so differences will be in terms of construction quality, longevity, and the absolute performance at the top grade of lens making. Photographers do buy the highest quality lenses at sometimes very high prices indeed, but they also have a need for the specific subtlety that they extract for their particular style; the character of the lens.

The Nikkor Z 50mm f/1.2S has plenty of performance and plenty of character to justify its price. Editor’s Choice.

Nikon NIKKOR Z 50mm f/1.2 S Lens: $2,096.95 at B&H, Adorama.

Read more:

• Best Lenses for Nikon Z7 II
• Best Lenses for Nikon Z6 II
• Best Lenses for Nikon Z7
• Best Lenses for Nikon Z6