Nikon 1 Nikkor 18.5mm f/1.8 Link Collection: Reviews, Sample Images, Videos

It seems to me that the Nikon 18.5mm f/1.8 is one of the most discussed lenses for the Nikon 1 system. Oddly though, reviews and video material regarding the lens is really hard to find. That’s why I have gathered all the info and made this humble link collection. 🙂

1-NIKKOR-18.5mm-f1.8Reviews

“The Nikon 18.5mm f/1.8 is one very light, small and capable lens. The build quality is great, the image quality excellent keeping the price point in mind, the AF among the speediest and the usability factor unsurpassed by any lens and camera combination on the market. To top it all off, with a price of around €170, this lens is a bargain and a must-have for any Nikon 1 user.”

“The 1 Nikkor 18.5mm f/1.8 is a nice prime lens that delivers very high sharpness, at least in the aperture range that is not penalized by diffraction (f/1.8 to f/5.6). Optically, it is not without flaws, though. CAs and bokeh fringing are visible, but on a typical level for fast lens. Vignetting at the largest aperture is quite pronounced, though, as is distortion, which is a bit on the high side for a normal prime.The build quality of the lens is very good and AF action is very fast. It’s a little disappointing though that Nikon charges extra for the optional hood, which should be included.In summary, the lens is a nice addition to the Nikon 1 system. For anyone who wants more speed than the kit zooms offer, the Nikkor is definitely worth a look. And so much more portable (and affordable) than adapted F-mount lenses.”

“With a DxOMark score of 13 points, the 18.5mm doesn’t score so well against the Sigma 30mm f/2.8 EX DN, which scores a high 21 points. Like the previously tested 6.7-13mm f/3.5-5.6 model, part of this can be attributed to the lower-pixel count of the Nikon 1 V1 sensor but, in reality, the lens is no sharper than the firm’s zoom. On the plus side, the 18.5mm has low levels of chromatic aberration and good transmission, but it has quite strong distortion for a ‘standard’ or ‘normal’ lens and control of vignetting is really only average.”

“If you’re a Nikon 1 owner (whether the J1, J2, or V1, V2) this lens is a no-brainer, just buy it. For $186.95 it’s well worth it. It finally gives Nikon 1 owners a fast option for low light. Although I think files out of the V1 are very pleasing up to and including ISO 800, and sometimes even ISO 1600 if exposed correctly, this will give users an option to shoot at much lower ISOs in a given lighting situation, and as you can easily see from the sample photos, some fairly nice bokeh. If you are not currently a Nikon 1 owner, maybe this lens and the currently ridiculously low price of the wonderful V1 will push you over to the dark side. Since I am a photojournalist by profession, I shoot almost exclusively with zoom lenses or I wouldn’t be able to compete. There simply is not enough time to change lenses in this fast-paced profession. So I found it a real pleasure to shoot with a 50mm equivalent prime lens. It is a great focal length and always seemed to be ‘just right.’”

“The Nikon 18.5mm Æ’/1.8 1 Nikkor produces tack-sharp images, right out of the gate at Æ’/1.8 This alone should make it exceptional; its performance for CA, corner shading and distortion are acceptable as well, especially given its low price point. It’s well worth a very small space in your bag.”

But if you’re looking for a fast prime lens for portraits and low-light conditions, this lens fits the bill admirably. As such it merits inclusion in the kit of any serious Nikon 1 user.”

“Your camera is only as good as the lenses you use with it. The original lineup of 1-Nikkor lenses was targeted towards the casual user. The 18.5mm f/1.8 1-Nikkor is something many photographers have asked for: a fast prime lens for portraits and low-light conditions. The 18.5mm f/1.8 1-Nikkor lens is a welcome addition to my Nikon 1 kit. It’s small, light, and very sharp. Nikon has done a great job delivering a lens that can be used in low-light conditions with the 1-series cameras. I eagerly await the release of the still under development 32mm f/1.2 1-Nikkor lens (roughly equivalent to an 86mm lens), which should be wonderful for natural-light portraits with superior depth of field control.”

“With a DxOMark score of 13 points, the 18.5mm doesn’t score so well against the Sigma 30mm f/2.8 EX DN, which scores a high 21 points. Like the previously tested 6.7-13mm f/3.5-5.6 model, part of this can be attributed to the lower-pixel count of the Nikon 1 V1 sensor but, in reality, the lens is no sharper than the firm’s zoom. On the plus side, the 18.5mm has low levels of chromatic aberration and good transmission, but it has quite strong distortion for a ‘standard’ or ‘normal’ lens and control of vignetting is really only average.”

 Sample Images

Videos

How you can support me in bringing you more Nikon 1 love?

If you’re intent on buying the Nikkor 18.5mm f/1.8, consider making your purchase through amazon, by using the following links: AmazonUS, AmazonUK and AmazonDE.

You won’t pay a dime more than when making a direct purchase on amazon, but I will receive a small commission. Thanks for the support! 🙂

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