Portraits & Everyday Photography — M.Zuiko Digital 45mm f/1.8 (2012): An outstanding portrait prime that punches far above its price point — compact, sharp, and beautifully built.
Everyday Photography, Portraits & Low Light — AF-S NIKKOR 50mm f/1.8G (2011): The most recommended first prime for any Nikon DSLR owner — superb value, genuine f/1.8 speed, and works equally well on the D850 and D7500.
Who should buy what
Quick take: The af-s nikkor 50mm f/1.8g is the most affordable. Scroll down for the full spec breakdown.
Full specifications
| Specification | M.Zuiko Digital 45mm f/1.8 (2012) | AF-S NIKKOR 50mm f/1.8G (2011) |
|---|---|---|
| Price | £199 | £169 |
| Sensor | f/1.8 (max aperture) | f/1.8 (max aperture) |
| Video | 50cm minimum focus distance | 45cm minimum focus distance |
| Autofocus | MSC (Movie and Still Compatible) — quiet, fast stepping motor AF | Silent Wave Motor (SWM) — fast and near-silent with full-time manual override |
| Stabilisation | None (relies on body IBIS) | None (relies on body VR if available) |
| Burst Rate | N/A | N/A |
| Battery Life | N/A | N/A |
| Weight | 116g | 185g |
| Dimensions | 56mm diameter × 46.3mm length | 72mm diameter × 52.5mm length |
| Weather Sealed | No | No |
| Viewfinder | N/A | N/A |
| Screen | N/A | N/A |
| Mount | Micro Four Thirds | Nikon F-mount (FX / DX) |
| Memory Cards | N/A | N/A |
| Connectivity | N/A | N/A |
Suitability by genre
| Genre | M.Zuiko Digital 45mm f/1.8 | AF-S NIKKOR 50mm f/1.8G |
|---|---|---|
| Portrait | ||
| Street | ||
| Travel |
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