Nikon 50mm 1.4 or 1.8? Best performer? Which one and why?

I have read some reviews when it comes to those two lenses and opinions are mixed. Which one is the best performer?

Opinions are mixed because you're asking about the "best". That means it's subjective. Example: If keeping costs down is important to you, the f/1.4 is definitely not the "best".

Don't take my word for it, go to photozone.de and check out their sharpness charts and sample photos.

Generally speaking, when comparing a lens with a specific focal length to another lens with the same focal length, the lens with the larger aperture will be the better and sharper lens. There are exceptions to this such as the Canon 50mm f/1.0 isn't as sharp as the Canon 50mm f/1.4. However, the 50mm f/1.0 is designed for it's light gathering capabilities and not overall sharpness.

The price increase for the f/1.4 may be to big for some who don't need the extra light gathering capability that this lens offers over the f/1.8 version. The f/1.4 is better built too.

Here's the link to photozone.de - http://photozone.de/...e/nikon_ff

https://www.youtube.com/...yE0pNWoGcQ

"Better"? It's somewhat subjective thinking. I have the f/1.4D and I can only speak for myself. I find it to be a superb lens and the quality of images are always spot on. I have NEVER had a single complaint, and I find it to be worth every penny I paid for it. Of course, I didn't go by performance comparisons that are often biased by company influence… I tested both and found the f/1.4 more to my own personal liking, which took some time since I started using it with film cameras (I still own and treasure). Some experienced photographers prefer the f/1.8 and some prefer the f/1.4… I prefer the f/1.4.

The f/1.4 is better but the f/1.8 is cheaper.