Nikon NIKKOR Z 85mm f/1.8 S vs Samyang MF 85mm f/1.4 Z
Both are Nikon Z mount primes for portrait and low-light — here's how the specs differ and which to pick. Every spec is from the manufacturer's own catalog.
| Spec | Nikon NIKKOR Z 85mm f/1.8 S | Samyang MF 85mm f/1.4 Z |
|---|---|---|
| Focal length | 85mm | 85mm |
| Max aperture | f/1.8 | f/1.4 |
| Type | prime | prime |
| Coverage | full-frame | full-frame |
| Mount | Nikon Z | Nikon Z |
Which should you buy?
- the Samyang MF 85mm f/1.4 Z opens wider (f/1.4) — brighter in low light and more background blur
- the Nikon NIKKOR Z 85mm f/1.8 S is first-party (Nikon) for guaranteed full autofocus and in-camera corrections; the Samyang MF 85mm f/1.4 Z is third-party — usually the value pick
Where to buy
Nikon NIKKOR Z 85mm f/1.8 SSee price on Amazon
Samyang MF 85mm f/1.4 ZSee price on Amazon
FAQ
What's the difference between the Nikon NIKKOR Z 85mm f/1.8 S and the Samyang MF 85mm f/1.4 Z?
The Nikon NIKKOR Z 85mm f/1.8 S is 85mm f/1.8 prime, full-frame; the Samyang MF 85mm f/1.4 Z is 85mm f/1.4 prime, full-frame. Both fit the Nikon Z mount.
Which is better in low light, the Nikon NIKKOR Z 85mm f/1.8 S or the Samyang MF 85mm f/1.4 Z?
The Samyang MF 85mm f/1.4 Z — its f/1.4 maximum aperture lets in more light and gives more background blur than the f/1.8 of the other.
Do the Nikon NIKKOR Z 85mm f/1.8 S and Samyang MF 85mm f/1.4 Z fit the same camera?
Yes — both are Nikon Z mount lenses, so they fit Nikon Z series (Z6/Z7/Z8/Z9 full-frame, Z50/Zfc APS-C).
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