In this review, we will be comparing the Nikon 85mm f1.8G for the F(FX) Mount and the Nikon 85mm f1.4D for the F(FX) Mount, two Telephoto Prime lenses by Nikon. Both lenses have the same focal range of 85mm but different max apertures: Nikon 85mm f1.8G has a max aperture of F1.8 while the Nikon 85mm f1.4D has a max aperture of F1.4.
We will start by looking briefly at the main specs of these two lenses, and in the next section, we will start analyzing them in more detail and listing the pros and cons of each lens.
What type of photography are the Nikon 85mm f1.8G and Nikon 85mm f1.4D lenses good for?
The type of photography that you are planning to use is an important decision factor. Here we have evaluated the Nikon 85mm f1.8G and the Nikon 85mm f1.4D for their suitability to various photography scenarios:
| Photography Type |
Nikon 85mm f1.8G |
Nikon 85mm f1.4D |
| Bird/Wildlife | Average | Average |
| Sports | Good | Good |
| Portrait | Excellent | Excellent |
| Travel | Fair | Fair |
| Street | Average | Average |
| Wedding | Very Good | Very Good |
| Walk Around | Fair | Fair |
| Vlogging | Average | Average |
| Landscape | Fair | Fair |
Size and Weight Comparison
The weight of a lens is as important as its external dimensions, especially if you are planning to hand hold your camera and lens combination for longer periods. Nikon 85mm f1.8G weighs 350g, which means it is 200g (36%) lighter than the Nikon 85mm f1.4D which has a weight of 550g.
Below you can find the dimension and weight table of the Telephoto Prime Lenses in Nikon F (FX) Mount for size comparison purposes.
Telephoto Prime Lenses in Nikon F (FX) Mount for Size Comparison
Lens Mounts
Both the Nikon 85mm f1.8G and the Nikon 85mm f1.4D has the same Nikon F (FX) lens mount. Some of the latest released cameras that are compatible with the Nikon F (FX) lenses are Nikon D6, Nikon D780 and Nikon D3500.
Focal Range
Both lenses have the same focal range of 85mm but while Nikon 85mm f1.8G has the fastest aperture of F1.8, the Nikon 85mm f1.4D's widest aperture value is F1.4.