Micro NIKKOR 85mm f/3.5G ED VR vs AF-S Micro NIKKOR 60mm f/2.8G ED?

What are the pros and cons of these two lenses?

Both are supposedly very sharp. The 60mm will work on film and FX format. It's a bit faster as well. The 85mm has VR.

My recommendation: If you are in the market for a macro lens, and if your Nikon has a built-in focusing motor, get a used AF-D 105mm f2.8, or the Tokina 100mm f2.8. Both will cost around $400, and are tremendously sharp. I like the ~100mm focal length, even on DX because it gives you more room between the lens and the little critters. At 60mm, and even 85mm, you are running into the situation where the light is blocked by how close you are.

If you don't have a built in motor (if you have a D40, D60, D5000, D3000, and D3100), I would probably get the 85mm.

I think you should go with Nikon 85mm f/3.5G AF-S DX ED VR Micro Nikkor Lens for Nikon Digital SLR Cameras

85mm lens ideal for close-up, nature, portrait and general photography
Close focusing to 0.9 feet
Nikon VR II (Vibration Reduction) Image Stabilization
Extra-low Dispersion (ED) element; Nikon Super Integrated Coating (SIC)
Exclusive Nikon Silent Wave Motor (SWM)