Review: Nikon Series E 50mm f/1.8
The Nikon Series E 50mm f/1.8 is a compact, affordable lens offering sharp images and classic Nikon color rendering. Ideal for photographers who value portability and vintage charm, it’s a solid choice for both everyday shooting and exploring manual focus techniques.
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Introduction to the Nikon Series E 50mm f/1.8
The Nikon Series E 50mm f/1.8 is a lens that hits the sweet spot for photographers seeking a lightweight, budget-friendly option without compromising on optical quality. Launched as part of Nikon’s Series E lineup in the 1980s, this lens was built to deliver sharp, vibrant images at a fraction of the cost of Nikon’s premium glass. Whether you're a seasoned pro or just getting started, this 50mm has a lot to offer, especially if you appreciate the nostalgic charm of vintage gear.
Unboxing and First Impressions of the Nikon Series E 50mm f/1.8
Opening the box of the Nikon Series E 50mm f/1.8 takes you back to a time when simplicity was key, and every gram of weight saved was a win. The lens itself is surprisingly light, a result of its mostly plastic construction, which might give some pause. However, once you mount it on your camera, that initial hesitation fades away. The focus ring, while plastic, turns smoothly enough, and the aperture ring provides reassuring clicks as you dial through the stops. It’s clear that this lens was designed with functionality in mind, making it a reliable companion for everyday shooting.
Nikon Series E 50mm f/1.8 Specifications
Here are the key specs that make the Nikon Series E 50mm f/1.8 what it is:
| Brand #: | Nikon |
| Manufacturer #: | Nippon Kogaku K.K. |
| Country of manufacture #: | Japan |
| Model #: | Series E 50mm f/1.8 |
| Focal range: | 50mm |
| Magnification range: | 0.15x |
| Maximum aperture: | f/1.8 |
| Minimum aperture: | f/22 |
| Number of aperture blades: | 7 |
| Angle of view: | 46 degrees |
| Optical formula: | 6 Elements in 5 Groups |
| Minimum focal distance (MFD): | 0.6m / 2 feet |
| Filter thread size: | 52mm |
| Lens hood: | HN-3 (optional) |
| Mount type: | Nikon F-Mount |
Build Quality and Design Features of the Nikon Series E 50mm f/1.8
When you first pick up the Nikon Series E 50mm f/1.8, the lightweight plastic construction might make you wonder if it can really deliver. But don't let that fool you—this lens was built during a time when Nikon was all about making photography accessible without cutting corners on performance. The plastic focus ring might not feel as luxurious as a metal one, but it still provides a decent tactile experience. And the aperture ring? It’s surprisingly satisfying to use, with each click feeling deliberate and precise. This lens doesn't extend when focusing, which helps maintain its compact profile, making it an ideal choice for street photographers and those who appreciate traveling light.
Optical Performance of the Nikon Series E 50mm f/1.8
Optically, the Nikon Series E 50mm f/1.8 punches well above its weight class. Wide open at f/1.8, it delivers sharp images, especially in the center, with a pleasing background blur that adds depth to your shots. Sure, the corners might be a bit soft when shooting wide open, but stop down to f/4 or f/5.6, and you’ll see a noticeable improvement. Chromatic aberration is present but controlled, and the vignetting, while there, actually adds a bit of character to portraits. This lens offers that classic Nikon color rendering—rich but not overly saturated—making it a great choice for both film and digital shooters looking for a bit of that vintage vibe.
Sample Images from the Nikon Series E 50mm f/1.8
To truly appreciate what this lens can do, you need to see it in action. Below are some sample images that showcase the sharpness, color rendering, and bokeh that the Nikon Series E 50mm f/1.8 brings to the table. Whether you're capturing portraits, street scenes, or everyday moments, this lens consistently delivers images with a distinct character that’s hard to replicate with modern glass.
Sample Images from the Nikon Series E 50mm f/1.8 (Gallery)
Ideal Use Cases for the Nikon Series E 50mm f/1.8
The Nikon Series E 50mm f/1.8 is a versatile lens that shines in a variety of shooting scenarios. Its compact size and lightweight design make it an ideal travel companion, perfect for street photography where discretion is key. The fast f/1.8 aperture allows for beautiful portrait work, offering a shallow depth of field that isolates your subject with a creamy background blur. It’s also a great choice for low-light situations, giving you the flexibility to shoot in a range of environments without needing to crank up your ISO. In short, this lens is a solid all-rounder that’s well-suited to anyone looking to add a bit of vintage flair to their photography.
Comparison: Nikon Series E 50mm f/1.8 vs. Other Lenses
Nikon 50mm f/1.8 AI-S
When comparing the Nikon Series E 50mm f/1.8 to its sibling, the Nikon 50mm f/1.8 AI-S, the differences come down to build quality and optical performance. The AI-S version is known for its all-metal construction, giving it a more premium feel and a durability that’s hard to beat. It’s heavier, for sure, but that weight translates into a smoother, more refined focusing experience. Optically, the AI-S offers slightly better corner sharpness and flare resistance, thanks to its advanced coatings. However, the Series E holds its own, especially in terms of center sharpness and color rendering, while being much lighter and more affordable.
Canon FD 50mm f/1.8
The Canon FD 50mm f/1.8 is another popular vintage option that’s often compared to the Nikon Series E. The Canon lens has a reputation for delivering warm, high-contrast images, which some photographers find appealing. It’s built with an all-metal body, which gives it a more substantial feel compared to the plastic construction of the Series E. However, the Nikon Series E 50mm f/1.8 is lighter and more compact, making it easier to carry around for extended shoots. Both lenses are manual focus, but the Series E is known for its smooth operation and precise control, making it a reliable choice for photographers who value ease of use.
Pentax-M 50mm f/1.7
The Pentax-M 50mm f/1.7 is another strong contender in the vintage lens market, known for its exceptional sharpness and slightly faster f/1.7 aperture. This lens is often praised for its all-metal construction and solid build, which gives it a premium feel. However, the Nikon Series E 50mm f/1.8 offers similar optical performance while being lighter and more affordable. The Series E might not match the sharpness of the Pentax-M at wide apertures, but it makes up for it with its portability and ease of use, making it a great option for photographers who prioritize a lightweight, versatile lens.
History and Background of the Nikon Series E 50mm f/1.8
The Nikon Series E 50mm f/1.8 was introduced as part of Nikon’s Series E lineup in the early 1980s. These lenses were designed to be more affordable alternatives to Nikon’s premium Nikkor lenses, making high-quality optics accessible to a broader audience. Despite their budget-friendly price, the Series E lenses, including the 50mm f/1.8, were built to deliver impressive optical performance. The Series E line was Nikon’s response to the growing demand for lighter, more portable lenses that didn’t compromise on image quality. Over the years, the Nikon Series E 50mm f/1.8 has earned a reputation as a reliable and versatile lens, particularly among photographers who appreciate the unique qualities of vintage glass.
Current Market Price and Availability of the Nikon Series E 50mm f/1.8
Today, the Nikon Series E 50mm f/1.8 remains a popular choice among vintage lens enthusiasts. It’s widely available on the used market, typically ranging from $50 to $100 depending on its condition. This lens continues to hold its value well, thanks to its solid optical performance and the growing appreciation for vintage Nikon glass. Whether you’re a collector or a photographer looking for a reliable 50mm prime, the Nikon Series E 50mm f/1.8 offers excellent value for money.
User Reviews and Feedback on the Nikon Series E 50mm f/1.8 Lens
User reviews of the Nikon Series E 50mm f/1.8 are generally positive, with many praising its sharpness, portability, and affordability. Photographers appreciate the lens's ability to deliver sharp, vibrant images, especially in the center of the frame. Some users note that the plastic build feels less durable compared to Nikon’s metal-bodied lenses, but most agree that the lightweight design makes up for it. The manual focus operation is often highlighted as smooth and precise, making it a favorite among those who enjoy the tactile experience of manual shooting. Overall, the Nikon Series E 50mm f/1.8 is seen as a solid choice for anyone looking to explore the world of vintage photography.
Pros and Cons of the Nikon Series E 50mm f/1.8 Lens
Here’s a quick rundown of what makes the Nikon Series E 50mm f/1.8 great, and where it might fall short:
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| ➕ Lightweight and compact design | ❌ Plastic build may feel less durable |
| ➕ Sharp center performance | ❌ Corners can be soft when wide open |
| ➕ Affordable and widely available | ❌ Some chromatic aberration wide open |
| ➕ Classic Nikon color rendering | ❌ Lacks the premium feel of metal lenses |
| ➕ Easy to use, great for manual focus | ❌ No modern coatings, prone to flare |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) about the Nikon Series E 50mm f/1.8
Q: Can this lens be used on modern Nikon DSLRs?
A: Yes, with the appropriate F-mount, the Nikon Series E 50mm f/1.8 can be used on most modern Nikon DSLRs, though it will be manual focus only.
Q: Is the Nikon Series E 50mm f/1.8 good for video?
A: While it can be used for video, its manual focus and older design may not be ideal for fast-moving subjects or situations requiring quick focus changes.
Q: Does this lens hold its value?
A: Generally, yes. The Nikon Series E 50mm f/1.8 holds its value well, especially if it's in good condition with original accessories.
Conclusion: Is the Nikon Series E 50mm f/1.8 Worth It?
If you're looking for a lightweight, affordable lens that offers classic Nikon image quality, the Nikon Series E 50mm f/1.8 is definitely worth considering. It may not have the premium build of Nikon’s higher-end lenses, but it delivers where it counts—with sharp, vibrant images and a user-friendly design. Whether you’re a vintage lens enthusiast or just need a reliable 50mm prime, the Series E 50mm f/1.8 is a solid addition to any camera bag.
