BENOISON vs Nikon 55-

Introduction to the Lenses

When deciding between the 85mm f1.8 Portrait Lens and the Nikon 55-200mm f/4-5.6G ED IF AF-S DX VR, it's crucial to understand their distinct features and intended uses. The 85mm f1.8 Portrait Lens offers a fixed focal length designed for portrait photography, while the Nikon 55-200mm zoom lens provides a versatile range ideal for various shooting scenarios. Each lens serves different purposes, catering to specific photography styles and preferences.

Pricing Comparison

The 85mm f1.8 Portrait Lens is priced at $96.22, whereas the Nikon 55-200mm lens costs $135.00. This makes the 85mm lens about 29% cheaper than its competitor. For budget-conscious photographers, the lower price of the 85mm lens could be appealing, especially for those focused on portraiture. However, the price difference also reflects the functionality and versatility offered by the Nikon lens, which may justify its higher cost for users who require a zoom capability.

Lens Type and Focusing

The 85mm f1.8 Portrait Lens is a manual focus lens, meaning it requires users to adjust focus manually, making it ideal for photographers who prefer a hands-on approach to their craft. In contrast, the Nikon 55-200mm lens features a Silent Wave Motor that provides quick and quiet autofocus, allowing for easier and faster focusing. This difference in focusing mechanism could significantly influence a photographer's choice based on their shooting style and comfort with manual adjustments.

Aperture and Low Light Performance

The 85mm f1.8 lens has a large maximum aperture of f1.8, making it exceptional for shooting in low-light conditions and for achieving a beautiful background blur, or bokeh. This is particularly useful for portrait photography, where subject isolation is often desired. On the other hand, the Nikon 55-200mm lens has a maximum aperture range of f4-5.6, which may limit its performance in darker settings compared to the 85mm lens. Photographers needing to shoot in challenging lighting may find the 85mm lens more suitable for their needs.

Weight and Portability

The weight of a lens can significantly impact a photographer's decision, especially for those who often shoot on location. The Nikon 55-200mm lens weighs 9 ounces, which is manageable for extended use. Unfortunately, the weight of the 85mm lens is not explicitly provided, but it is generally understood that prime lenses of this type tend to be lightweight as well. For users prioritizing a lightweight option, both lenses seem to cater to this need, but the Nikon lens may offer a slight edge in portability due to its zoom feature.

Versatility and Use Cases

The Nikon 55-200mm lens's zoom range offers versatility, making it suitable for various photography styles, from landscapes to portraits. Its ability to zoom allows photographers to frame their shots without physically moving closer or further away from their subjects. In contrast, the 85mm f1.8 lens is tailored primarily for portraiture, capturing half-body and full-body shots with stunning clarity. For photographers who require a single lens for multiple scenarios, the Nikon lens could be the better choice.

Build Quality and Warranty

The Nikon 55-200mm lens comes with a 1-year warranty, providing peace of mind for buyers concerned about potential defects or issues. While there is no warranty information mentioned for the 85mm f1.8 lens, it's essential to consider the build quality and durability of each lens. Nikon's reputation for producing high-quality optics means that the 55-200mm lens is likely to be robust and reliable. In contrast, the 85mm lens, designed for specific use, may not have the same level of durability expected from a versatile zoom lens.

Which should you buy?

Choosing between the 85mm f1.8 Portrait Lens and the Nikon 55-200mm f/4-5.6G ED IF AF-S DX VR ultimately depends on your photography needs. If you prioritize budget, low-light performance, and portrait-specific features, the 85mm f1.8 lens is an excellent choice at $96.22. However, if you seek versatility, quick autofocus, and a broader range of applications, the Nikon lens at $135.00 may better suit your requirements. Consider your shooting style and preferences to determine which lens aligns with your photographic goals.