Nikon Z 35mm F1.4 Review & 35mm Lens Comparison
The Nikon 35mm F1.4 Z lens is here, and it's an interesting lens for Nikon since it's being priced as the budget lens despite its 1.4 large aperture.
In this video, I do a review of this lens and also run a comparison with the other 35mm prime options, the Nikkor 35mm F1.8 S lens and the Sigma F mount 35mm F1.4 Art lens.Which lens would you choose as the best 35mm prime for Nikon Z cameras?
Cheap 35mm prime lens
In an interesting move, Nikon releases the 35mm F1.4 for Z camera bodies. It’s cheaper than the 1.8 counterpart but doesn’t come with the “S” designation. It does seem to compromise with lesser sharpness and some flaws comparatively with the F1.8 S.
Smaller and cheaper
It has a 62mm filter thread diameter, and impressively compact and easy to carry for a 1.4 aperture lens.
Priced at $999 Singapore dollars, this lens is a good $300 cheaper than the Nikkor Z 35mm F1.8 S lens.
Image Quality
Despite not being an “S” lens, this lens delivers solid performance. It doesn’t seem as sharp as the Nikkor Z 35mm F1.8 S or the Sigma 35mm 1.4 Art lens, but still holds its own.
Focus
The Nikkor Z 35mm F1.4 autofocuses well, having no problems capturing even the high speeds of the skaters working their tricks at a skatepark. However, focus breathing remains an issue.
Vintage Out of Focus Effect
The bokeh this lens generates is rougher edge and not buttery smooth. It’s not strictly a bad thing and it’s a matter of preference.
Chromatic Aberration
This is where the lens struggles. A simple shot into the trees with the bright sun overhead reveals significant amounts of purple fringing. While it’s easily corrected in post processing, I’d prefer not having to deal with it. Corrected image on the right below.
Conclusion
Overall, the Nikkor Z 35mm F1.4 performs well but has some room for improvement. Besides the issue with chromatic aberration, I’ve also noticed that while it has acceptable sharpness, it looks worse in high iso situations.
Regardless, the lens is a good choice if you do not wish to shell out the extra $300 for the Nikkor Z 35mm F1.8 S. The Sigma Art 35mm F1.4 remains my top choice (watch the video for in-depth comparison). I’m in no hurry to purchase a new 35mm with the current options, though I’ll be eagerly awaiting the rumored Nikkor Z 35mm F1.2 S.
If you’re interested in other lenses:
