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The 85mm lens is a staple for portrait, event, and even some landscape photographers, offering beautiful compression and pleasing bokeh. For Nikon shooters, the options are plentiful, making the selection process both exciting and potentially overwhelming.
Choosing the best 85 mm lens for nikon is crucial, as it directly impacts the quality of your images and your overall creative expression. This review aims to simplify your decision-making.
We understand that photographers prioritize different aspects, from absolute sharpness to overall value and build. Therefore, we’ll explore a range of lenses, considering factors like optical performance, autofocus capabilities, and price point.
Finding the best 85 mm lens for nikon doesn’t just mean buying the most expensive; it means finding the perfect tool to match your individual needs and photographic style.
IN THIS ARTICLE
Top 10 Best 85 Mm Lens For Nikon Compared
🏆 BEST OVERALL Nikon NIKKOR Z 85mm f/1.8 S | Premium large apertu
- Excellent bokeh with nine-blade diaphragm.
- ED glass elements and Nano Crystal coating for improved image quality.
- Dust and drip-resistant construction.
- Customizable control ring for personalized use.
4.5/5
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🥈 2ND RUNNER UP Nikon AF S NIKKOR 85mm f/1.8G Fixed Lens with Auto
- Fast f/1.8 aperture for low light and shallow depth of field
- Silent Wave Motor (SWM) for quick and quiet autofocus
- Internal focus system
- Nikon Super Integrated Coating (SIC) reduces flare and ghosting
4.5/5
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� BEST VALUE 85mm f1.8 Portrait Lens – F Lens for Nikon
- Affordable entry into portrait photography.
- Large F1.8 aperture creates pleasing bokeh and shallow depth of field.
- Suitable for various photography types: portrait, street, close-up.
- Manual focus allows for precise control.
4.4/5
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Nikon NIKKOR Z 85mm f/1.2 S | Professional extra-l
- Exceptional shallow depth of field with pleasing bokeh.
- Compatible with both FX and DX format Nikon Z series cameras.
- Customizable control ring and L-Fn button for enhanced control.
- Promises high image sharpness and three-dimensional image rendering.
4.5/5
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Meike 85mm F1.8 Auto Focus Full Frame Large Apertu
- Versatile 85mm focal length suitable for portraits and landscapes.
- Wide f/1.8 aperture for shallow depth of field and pleasing bokeh.
- Decent build quality.
- Compatible with both full-frame and APS-C Nikon cameras.
4.5/5
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Nikon AF-S FX NIKKOR 85mm f/1.4G Lens with Auto Fo
- Fast f/1.4 aperture for shallow depth of field
- Nano Crystal Coat reduces flare and improves contrast
- Compatible with both FX and DX cameras
- M/A Focus Mode Switch for quick focus adjustments
4.8/5
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Nikon 85mm f/1.8G AF-S FX Nikkor Lens – (Renewed)
- Fast aperture for low-light and shallow depth of field
- Internal Focus (IF) for faster AF
- Silent Wave Motor (SWM) for quiet autofocus
- M/A focus mode switch for easy AF/MF switching
4.7/5
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Brightin Star AF 85mm F1.8 Lens for Nikon Z-Mount Mirrorless Camera
- Ideal focal length (85mm) for portrait photography with minimal distortion.
- Large F1.8 aperture for low-light performance and shallow depth of field.
- STM motor enables fast, quiet, and accurate autofocus with face/eye detection.
- Optical design with ED and HD elements improves image quality and reduces aberrations.
4.5/5
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Meike 85mm f1.8 Wide Aperture Full Frame Auto Focu
- Classic 85mm focal length ideal for portraits.
- Wide f/1.8 aperture for shallow depth of field and low-light shooting.
- Autofocus and automatic aperture.
- USB port for firmware updates.
4.8/5
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Sigma 85mm f/1.4 DG HSM Art Lens for Nikon F (3219
- Improved Hyper Sonic Motor (HSM) for faster autofocus.
- Wide compatibility with Nikon APS-C and Full-Frame DSLRs.
- Classic 85mm focal length ideal for portraiture.
- Part of the Sigma Art series, known for optical quality.
4.7/5
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Detailed Reviews of the Best 85 Mm Lens For Nikon
Nikon NIKKOR Z 85mm f/1.8 S | Premium large apertu – Excellent bokeh with nine-blade diaphragm.
This 85mm f/1.8 lens aims to deliver attractive bokeh thanks to its nine-blade diaphragm. The inclusion of two ED glass elements and Nano Crystal coating suggests a focus on image quality, promising accurate color rendition and reduced flare. Its dust and drip-resistant construction is a welcome feature for outdoor photographers, offering some peace of mind in challenging conditions.
The customizable control ring adds a level of personalization and efficiency to the shooting experience. However, potential buyers should consider if an 85mm prime lens fits their shooting style, as it’s more specialized than a zoom. Overall, it presents itself as a solid option for portrait and low-light photography.
Pros
- Excellent bokeh with nine-blade diaphragm.
- ED glass elements and Nano Crystal coating for improved image quality.
- Dust and drip-resistant construction.
- Customizable control ring for personalized use.
Cons
- 85mm focal length is specialized and may not be suitable for all photography styles.
- No built-in image stabilization.
Nikon AF S NIKKOR 85mm f/1.8G Fixed Lens with Auto – Fast f/1.8 aperture for low light and shallow depth of field
The Nikon 85mm f/1.8G lens is a medium telephoto prime lens well-suited for portraiture and general photography. Its fast f/1.8 aperture allows for excellent low-light performance and shallow depth of field. The internal focus system ensures quick and quiet autofocus, thanks to the Silent Wave Motor (SWM).
The M/A focus mode switch offers flexibility between manual and autofocus. Image quality is enhanced by Nikon’s Super Integrated Coating (SIC), which minimizes ghosting and flare. With a minimum focus distance of 0.8 meters and a 67mm filter thread, this lens offers versatility for various shooting scenarios.
While the maximum reproduction ratio of 0.12x isn’t ideal for macro photography, it’s still a solid performer in its intended range.
Pros
- Fast f/1.8 aperture for low light and shallow depth of field
- Silent Wave Motor (SWM) for quick and quiet autofocus
- Internal focus system
- Nikon Super Integrated Coating (SIC) reduces flare and ghosting
- M/A focus mode switch for flexible control
- Relatively compact and lightweight
Cons
- Maximum reproduction ratio of 0.12x not ideal for macro
- Filter size 67mm may require additional investment if you don’t have that size already
85mm f1.8 Portrait Lens – F Lens for Nikon – Affordable entry into portrait photography.
This 85mm F1.8 manual lens offers a cost-effective option for Nikon DSLR users seeking a portrait-style lens with a shallow depth of field and pleasing bokeh. The fully manual operation requires users to adjust focus, aperture, shutter speed and ISO manually, which might be challenging for beginners, but rewarding for experienced photographers looking for more control. The lens is well-suited for portraiture, street photography, and close-up work.
Note that the lens communicates no electronic information to the camera, so the camera must be set to Manual mode. The build quality feels adequate for the price point. Overall, a decent manual lens for those wanting to get into manual photography without spending a fortune.
Pros
- Affordable entry into portrait photography.
- Large F1.8 aperture creates pleasing bokeh and shallow depth of field.
- Suitable for various photography types: portrait, street, close-up.
- Manual focus allows for precise control.
- Compatible with a wide range of Nikon D-series DSLRs.
Cons
- Fully manual operation requires knowledge of manual settings (focus, aperture, shutter speed, ISO).
- No electronic communication with the camera (no autofocus, no aperture readings).
Nikon NIKKOR Z 85mm f/1.2 S | Professional extra-l – Exceptional shallow depth of field with pleasing bokeh.
The Nikon 85mm f/1.2 lens offers a compelling package for portrait and shallow depth-of-field photography. Its wide f/1.2 aperture, coupled with 11 rounded aperture blades, promises a pleasing bokeh. The lens boasts compatibility with both full-frame and APS-C Nikon Z series cameras, providing versatility for different users.
Features like linear focusing (with compatible bodies) and customizable control ring and L-Fn button enhance the shooting experience, enabling precise manual control and quick access to functions. Image sharpness is touted as exceptional, contributing to a three-dimensional effect. However, the large aperture and premium build are likely to translate to a significant size and weight, which should be considered before purchase.
It’s a specialized lens tailored for users prioritizing image quality and shallow depth of field over compact size.
Pros
- Exceptional shallow depth of field with pleasing bokeh.
- Compatible with both FX and DX format Nikon Z series cameras.
- Customizable control ring and L-Fn button for enhanced control.
- Promises high image sharpness and three-dimensional image rendering.
- Linear focusing option available with compatible camera bodies.
Cons
- Likely to be large and heavy.
- High price point due to the fast aperture and premium build.
Meike 85mm F1.8 Auto Focus Full Frame Large Apertu – Versatile 85mm focal length suitable for portraits and landscapes.
This 85mm f/1.8 lens offers a standard focal length suitable for various photographic genres, including portraiture and landscapes. Its wide f/1.8 aperture, coupled with a 9-blade diaphragm, promises a pleasing bokeh effect. The lens’s optical construction, consisting of 9 elements in 6 groups, aims to deliver sharp and clear images, complemented by a build quality that seems adequate based on the product description.
It’s noteworthy that while it’s a full-frame lens, it also works with Nikon APS-C cameras, providing an equivalent focal length of 127.5mm. A convenient micro USB interface allows for firmware updates, ensuring the lens can adapt to future camera developments and bug fixes.
Pros
- Versatile 85mm focal length suitable for portraits and landscapes.
- Wide f/1.8 aperture for shallow depth of field and pleasing bokeh.
- Decent build quality.
- Compatible with both full-frame and APS-C Nikon cameras.
- Micro USB port for firmware updates.
Cons
- Build quality described as only ‘decent’ may indicate less durability than premium lenses.
- Performance claims relies on product description alone, real-world testing is needed to confirm sharpness and clarity.
Nikon AF-S FX NIKKOR 85mm f/1.4G Lens with Auto Fo – Fast f/1.4 aperture for shallow depth of field
The 85mm f/1.4 lens appears to be a solid choice for portrait photographers seeking a fast aperture and sharp image quality. The Nano Crystal Coat is a welcome addition for reducing flare and improving contrast. Its compatibility with both FX and DX format cameras adds versatility.
The minimum focus distance of 3.0 feet is fairly standard for this type of lens. The M/A focus mode switch allows for quick adjustments between manual and autofocus, a feature that many photographers will appreciate. The internal focus system contributes to faster and quieter autofocus performance, making it suitable for various shooting situations.
However, potential buyers should consider the specific autofocus performance with their camera body, as this can vary.
Pros
- Fast f/1.4 aperture for shallow depth of field
- Nano Crystal Coat reduces flare and improves contrast
- Compatible with both FX and DX cameras
- M/A Focus Mode Switch for quick focus adjustments
- Internal Focus (IF) system for fast and quiet autofocus
Cons
- Minimum focus distance of 3.0 feet may limit close-up shots.
- Autofocus performance might vary depending on the camera body used.
Nikon 85mm f/1.8G AF-S FX Nikkor Lens – (Renewed) – Fast aperture for low-light and shallow depth of field
The 85mm lens offers a fast aperture, making it suitable for low-light photography and achieving shallow depth of field. The internal focus system is a welcome feature, contributing to faster and more silent autofocus operation. The minimum focus range of 0.80 meters allows for relatively close-up shots.
The Silent Wave Motor (SWM) ensures quiet autofocus, which is beneficial for video recording and discreet shooting. The rounded 7-blade diaphragm is expected to produce pleasing bokeh. The inclusion of an M/A focus mode switch allows for quick switching between manual and autofocus, providing flexibility in different shooting scenarios.
Overall, this lens seems well-suited for portraiture and other applications where a medium telephoto perspective and fast aperture are desired.
Pros
- Fast aperture for low-light and shallow depth of field
- Internal Focus (IF) for faster AF
- Silent Wave Motor (SWM) for quiet autofocus
- M/A focus mode switch for easy AF/MF switching
- Rounded 7-blade diaphragm for pleasing bokeh
Cons
- Minimum focus range of 0.80m may be limiting for macro photography
- Lacks image stabilization
Brightin Star AF 85mm F1.8 Lens for Nikon Z-Mount Mirrorless Camera – Ideal focal length (85mm) for portrait photography with minimal distortion.
This 85mm lens is designed for portrait photography, offering a less distorted perspective ideal for close-ups and full-body shots. Its F1.8 aperture performs well in low-light conditions, creating a shallow depth of field with pleasing bokeh. The STM stepper motor enables fast and quiet autofocus, incorporating face and eye detection for accurate portrait focusing.
Optically, the lens includes ED and HD elements to enhance resolution, reduce chromatic aberration, and improve overall image quality. AI-powered subject recognition aims to enhance video shooting by improving tracking accuracy. Overall, this lens seems to offer a good balance of features for both still and video work, especially for portrait enthusiasts.
It offers a range of functionality suited to photographers looking for an upgrade without breaking the bank.
Pros
- Ideal focal length (85mm) for portrait photography with minimal distortion.
- Large F1.8 aperture for low-light performance and shallow depth of field.
- STM motor enables fast, quiet, and accurate autofocus with face/eye detection.
- Optical design with ED and HD elements improves image quality and reduces aberrations.
- AI-powered subject recognition enhances video tracking.
Cons
- AI subject recognition may not be perfect in all scenarios.
- The lens may exhibit some level of chromatic aberration or distortion, which may require post-processing.
Meike 85mm f1.8 Wide Aperture Full Frame Auto Focu – Classic 85mm focal length ideal for portraits.
This 85mm f/1.8 lens is designed for Nikon F mount full-frame mirrorless and DSLR cameras. It boasts a classic portrait focal length and a wide f/1.8 aperture, which should enable pleasing background blur and decent low-light performance. The lens is also suitable for other subjects like landscapes and sports.
It features autofocus and automatic aperture control, as well as electronic contacts for camera communication. A USB port allows for firmware updates. The lens’s optical design consists of 11 elements in 6 groups, aiming for image sharpness.
While offering modern conveniences like autofocus and firmware updates, users should verify compatibility with their specific camera model, particularly newer mirrorless systems, as some older lenses may have limitations.
Pros
- Classic 85mm focal length ideal for portraits.
- Wide f/1.8 aperture for shallow depth of field and low-light shooting.
- Autofocus and automatic aperture.
- USB port for firmware updates.
- Versatile for various subjects beyond portraits.
Cons
- Compatibility with newer Nikon mirrorless systems should be verified.
- Image sharpness might not match higher-end lenses.
Sigma 85mm f/1.4 DG HSM Art Lens for Nikon F (3219 – Improved Hyper Sonic Motor (HSM) for faster autofocus.
The Sigma 85mm 1.4 DG HSM Art lens is a promising addition to Sigma’s Art series, known for its high-quality optics. The inclusion of a newly designed Hyper Sonic Motor (HSM) suggests improvements in autofocus performance, boasting 1.3 times better torque than previous models. The lens is compatible with a wide range of Nikon DSLR cameras, from enthusiast APS-C models like the D7xxx and D3xxx/D5xxx series to full-frame options like the D750, D8xx, and D4/D5.
With a minimum focusing distance of 33.5 inches and a magnification ratio of 1:8.5, it offers decent close-up capabilities. The 28.6° angle of view on a full-frame camera makes it a classic portrait lens.
Pros
- Improved Hyper Sonic Motor (HSM) for faster autofocus.
- Wide compatibility with Nikon APS-C and Full-Frame DSLRs.
- Classic 85mm focal length ideal for portraiture.
- Part of the Sigma Art series, known for optical quality.
- Reasonable minimum focusing distance for close-up shots.
Cons
- Relatively long minimum focusing distance compared to macro lenses.
- Larger size and weight compared to some other 85mm lenses.
Buying Guide: What to Look For in a Best 85 Mm Lens For Nikon
Understanding the 85mm Focal Length
The 85mm lens is a favorite among portrait photographers due to its flattering perspective. It minimizes distortion, making subjects appear natural and pleasing. When choosing the best 85 mm lens for Nikon, consider your primary use. Are you shooting professional portraits, casual snapshots, or a mix of both? The focal length itself remains constant, but the features and image quality can vary significantly between models.
Key Features to Consider
Aperture is crucial. A wider aperture (f/1.8, f/1.4, or even f/1.2) allows more light in, enabling shallower depth of field and beautiful bokeh. Autofocus speed and accuracy are also essential, especially for capturing moving subjects. Lens coatings, like Nano Crystal Coat or Super Integrated Coating, reduce flare and ghosting. Build quality, including weather sealing, is important for durability. For Nikon Z series users, ensure the lens is a Z-mount lens.
Choosing Between Autofocus and Manual Focus
While autofocus is convenient, manual focus can provide precise control, especially in challenging lighting conditions. Some lenses offer a switch for easy transition between autofocus and manual focus. Consider whether you prefer the speed and convenience of autofocus or the creative control of manual focus. Some of the budget options for the best 85 mm lens for Nikon are manual focus only.
Nikon F vs. Z Mount
Nikon has two primary lens mounts: F mount (for DSLRs) and Z mount (for mirrorless cameras). If you have a Nikon DSLR, you’ll need an F-mount lens. If you have a Nikon Z series mirrorless camera, you’ll need a Z-mount lens, or an F-mount lens with an adapter. The best 85 mm lens for Nikon will depend on the mount of your camera.
Budget Considerations
85mm lenses range in price from budget-friendly options to high-end professional models. Consider your budget and how often you plan to use the lens. A more expensive lens may offer superior image quality and features, but a budget-friendly option can still deliver excellent results. Renewed lenses are a great option to save some money, while still getting a quality lens.
Frequently Asked Questions about Best 85 Mm Lens For Nikon
What makes an 85mm lens ideal for portraits?
The 85mm focal length provides a flattering perspective for portraits by minimizing distortion and compressing facial features in a pleasing way. This helps to avoid the wide-angle distortion that can make subjects look less appealing. Additionally, 85mm lenses often have wide apertures, allowing for shallow depth of field and beautiful background blur (bokeh), further isolating the subject and creating a professional-looking portrait. Finding the best 85 mm lens for Nikon for your needs is key.
What is the difference between an f/1.8 and an f/1.4 aperture?
The f/1.4 aperture is wider than f/1.8, letting in more light. This allows for shallower depth of field, creating even more background blur and subject isolation. It also enables faster shutter speeds in low-light situations. However, f/1.4 lenses are typically more expensive and heavier than f/1.8 lenses. Both are excellent for portraiture, the choice depends on your budget and desired level of background blur. Choosing the best 85 mm lens for Nikon depends on your needs.
What is “bokeh” and why is it important?
Bokeh refers to the aesthetic quality of the blur in the out-of-focus areas of an image, often seen in the background. Good bokeh is smooth and pleasing, while bad bokeh can be distracting and harsh. The number of aperture blades and their shape influence bokeh quality. Rounded blades generally produce smoother bokeh. Bokeh is particularly important for portrait photography, where a blurred background helps to isolate the subject.
What are the benefits of a lens with Nano Crystal Coat?
Nano Crystal Coat is a lens coating that reduces flare and ghosting, which are unwanted artifacts that can occur when shooting in bright light or with strong light sources in the frame. By minimizing these issues, Nano Crystal Coat helps to improve contrast and color accuracy, resulting in sharper and more vibrant images. This is beneficial for all types of photography, especially landscape and portraiture.
Can I use an F-mount lens on a Nikon Z series camera?
Yes, you can use an F-mount lens on a Nikon Z series camera, but you will need an adapter. Nikon makes an FTZ adapter that allows you to mount F-mount lenses on Z-mount cameras. However, not all F-mount lens features may be fully supported when used with the adapter. Check compatibility before purchasing. The best 85 mm lens for Nikon will depend on the type of camera you have.
What is the difference between AF-S and AF-P lenses?
AF-S (Silent Wave Motor) and AF-P (Pulse Motor) are different autofocus motor technologies used in Nikon lenses. AF-S lenses use a silent wave motor for quick and quiet autofocus, while AF-P lenses use a pulse motor, which is even quieter and smoother, especially for video recording. AF-P lenses may not be compatible with older Nikon DSLR cameras, so check compatibility before purchasing.
What is the advantage of an internal focus (IF) system?
An internal focus (IF) system means that the lens elements move internally during focusing, without the front element rotating or extending. This is beneficial because it makes it easier to use filters (like polarizers) and prevents the lens from changing size during focusing. It also contributes to faster and quieter autofocus performance.
What does the M/A focus mode switch do?
The M/A focus mode switch allows you to quickly switch between autofocus (A) and manual focus (M) modes. This is useful when you need to fine-tune focus manually after the autofocus has locked on, or when you prefer to use manual focus entirely for creative control. It provides flexibility and convenience in various shooting situations.
Are third-party 85mm lenses a good option?
Third-party 85mm lenses from brands like Sigma, Tamron, and Meike can be a good option, especially for budget-conscious photographers. These lenses often offer similar features and image quality to Nikon lenses at a lower price point. However, it’s important to research and read reviews to ensure that the lens is compatible with your camera and meets your quality expectations. Finding the best 85 mm lens for Nikon doesn’t always mean buying a Nikon branded lens.
What is the importance of weather sealing in a lens?
Weather sealing protects the lens from dust and moisture, making it more durable and reliable in challenging shooting conditions. This is particularly important for photographers who shoot outdoors in various weather conditions. Weather-sealed lenses can withstand light rain, snow, and dust, allowing you to continue shooting without worrying about damaging your equipment. The best 85 mm lens for Nikon should have weather sealing if you shoot in bad weather.
Conclusion: The Final Verdict
The Nikon NIKKOR Z 85mm f/1.8 S | Premium large apertu this lens appears to be a well-built and optically sound option for portrait photographers. its weather sealing and customizable control ring add to its appeal. if you’re seeking a dedicated 85mm prime lens and value image quality and build, this is worth considering.
