What to look for…

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DIAPHRAGM BLADES

The Nikon AF-S 85mm f/1.8g has seven diaphragm blades, whereas most competing lenses on test have nine, enabling a more well-rounded aperture when stopping down.

AUTOFOCUS SYSTEM

Most have ring-type ultrasonic systems, but the Samyang AF and Nikon Z lenses have a stepping motor with an electronically coupled manual focus ring, enabling very precise adjustments.

ELECTROMAGNETIC ATTRACTION

Apart from the two Nikon 85mm F-mount lenses and the manual Samyang, all have electromagnetically controlled apertures, incompatible with some older DSLRS.

THE Z LIST

Budget alternatives for Z-mount lenses are very thin on the ground, but the Samyang MF 85mm f/1.4 Z lens on test is a fully manual option that can stretch your budget.

APERTURE RATING

A wider aperture equates to a tighter depth of field, so an f/1.4 lens can give you more creative freedom than an f/1.8, although it’s likely to be bigger and heavier.

STABILIZATION

None of the lenses on test feature optical VR (Vibration Reduction) but naturally, in-body stabilization is available with FX format Z-series mirrorless bodies.