Nikon NIKKOR Z vs Rokinon

Overview of the Nikon NIKKOR Z 85mm f/1.8 S

The Nikon NIKKOR Z 85mm f/1.8 S is a premium lens designed for portrait photography, offering exceptional quality and versatility. It features a large aperture of f/1.8, which is ideal for creating stunning bokeh and achieving soft, rounded backgrounds. This lens is priced at $796.95, and its design incorporates nine blade diaphragm technology for superior image quality. The NIKKOR Z 85mm is also built to withstand challenging conditions, being dust and drip resistant, making it a reliable choice for photographers who frequently shoot outdoors or in changing environments.

Overview of the Rokinon 14mm f/2.8 IF ED Super Lens

The Rokinon 14mm f/2.8 IF ED Super Lens offers an ultra-wide perspective ideal for landscapes and astrophotography. Priced at $231.25, it provides a remarkable 115.7° angle of view, making it an excellent option for capturing expansive scenes. This lens features a fast f/2.8 maximum aperture, which enhances low-light performance, allowing photographers to take bright and clear images even in dim conditions. Additionally, the robust build of the lens ensures durability, making it suitable for various professional applications, including real estate photography.

Image Quality Comparison

When it comes to image quality, the Nikon NIKKOR Z 85mm f/1.8 S excels in portrait photography with its advanced optical design and breathtaking resolution. The lens features two ED glass elements and Nano Crystal coating to reduce flare and enhance color accuracy, ensuring lifelike images. In contrast, the Rokinon 14mm f/2.8 IF ED Super Lens is engineered for exceptional sharpness across the frame, boasting 14 elements in 10 groups. While both lenses provide outstanding image quality, the NIKKOR Z lens is specifically optimized for portraits, while the Rokinon lens shines in wide-angle scenarios.

Focal Length and Perspective

The focal lengths of these two lenses cater to different photographic needs. The Nikon NIKKOR Z 85mm f/1.8 S has a focal length of 85mm, making it ideal for tight shots and portraits, while the Rokinon 14mm f/2.8 offers a much wider 14mm perspective. This difference means that the NIKKOR Z lens captures intimate details and beautiful bokeh for portraits, whereas the Rokinon lens captures expansive vistas, making it perfect for landscape photography. Thus, your choice will depend largely on your intended use and whether you prefer a portrait or wide-angle approach.

Low-Light Performance

Low-light performance is a critical factor for many photographers. The Nikon NIKKOR Z 85mm f/1.8 S, with its f/1.8 aperture, performs admirably in low-light situations, allowing for creative control over depth of field and stunning background blur. However, the Rokinon 14mm f/2.8 IF ED Super Lens, with its f/2.8 aperture, also excels in low-light conditions, providing clear and bright images. Although the Nikon lens has a wider aperture, the difference in performance may not be dramatic for most users, especially in situations where wider angles and expansive scenes are prioritized.

Build Quality and Design

The Nikon NIKKOR Z 85mm f/1.8 S is built with durability in mind, featuring extensive sealing to protect against dust and moisture, making it a reliable companion for outdoor shoots. It also includes a customizable control ring for added convenience. In comparison, the Rokinon 14mm f/2.8 IF ED Super Lens boasts a robust construction, weighing 31.7 oz (900g), which provides a solid feel during use. While both lenses are well-constructed, the NIKKOR Z lens offers additional weather resistance, which can be a crucial factor for photographers who frequently shoot in unpredictable environments.

Price Comparison

The price difference between the two lenses is significant. The Nikon NIKKOR Z 85mm f/1.8 S retails for $796.95, while the Rokinon 14mm f/2.8 IF ED Super Lens is priced at $231.25. This means the Rokinon lens is approximately 71% cheaper than the Nikon lens. This notable price gap makes the Rokinon a more accessible option for budget-conscious photographers or those looking to expand their lens collection without a hefty investment. However, the price reflects the specific features and quality that the Nikon lens provides for portrait photographers.

Which should you buy?

Choosing between the Nikon NIKKOR Z 85mm f/1.8 S and the Rokinon 14mm f/2.8 IF ED Super Lens depends largely on your photographic needs and style. If you primarily shoot portraits and require a lens that excels in creating beautiful bokeh with lifelike accuracy, the NIKKOR Z is the clear choice despite its higher price. On the other hand, if you are focused on capturing landscapes or expansive scenes, the ultra-wide angle of the Rokinon lens offers a more suitable option at a significantly lower price point. Ultimately, both lenses have their strengths, making them excellent choices within their respective categories.