Nikon SLR Cameras

Nikon 50 mm 1.8: Nikkor (AF) or Series E?

Guest
Guest

I'm considering these 2. The Nikkor one is like 3 times more expensive than the Series E one. Is it worth the price?

Added (1). I have a Nikon D3100 and manual focus isn't a matter for me. I only care about the picture quality here.

Andrew
Andrew

It depends on your camera - neither will autofocus on the D3000/D5000 series and the Series E won't meter either.

You need the 50mm f1.8 AF-S G to allow full functionality on the D3000/D5000.

The Series E's picture quality isn't bad, but you'll have to set your mode dial to manual and you'll need either a separate exposure meter or very good guesswork.

George Y
George Y

The Series E 50mm won't autofocus or meter on your D3100. There will be no electronic or mechanical connections between your camera and the lens. It will mount correctly, but from there on, you'll be on your own, manually focusing on a camera without a split/screen focusing screen and choosing exposure by trial and error.

You can get the 50mm AF-D f/1.8 for a very reasonable price (usually under $100).It's also manual focus, but it will meter with your camera.

bikinkawboy
bikinkawboy

I use an E on my D40 and D5100.It's refered to as the pancake lens, it being very short and compact. On the digital DSLRs, the aperture ring is somewhat obscured by the built in flash. The E has a reputation for darn good picture quality, and better than the more expensive f1.4. I've never used the AF version, but I believe the optics are supposed to be more or less of equal quality. I do know that on ebay the E is much less expensive, I bought mine complete with a film body for $40. I've done a lot of night street and night storm and lightning photography with my E, as well as extreme close ups with extension tubes and I'm satisfied with it.