Rokinon 50mm f/1.4 AS IF UMC Lens for Nikon F Mount Review

The Rokinon 50mm f/1.4 AS IF UMC is a manual-focus prime lens designed for Nikon F-mount cameras, including full-frame bodies. At $379, it occupies the budget end of the fast-fifty category, trading autofocus and electronic aperture control for a wide f/1.4 aperture at a fraction of the cost of brand-name alternatives. The optical formula includes one aspherical and one hybrid element, along with ultra multi-coating to reduce flare and improve contrast.

This lens is strictly manual, meaning you'll turn the focus ring by hand and set aperture via an on-lens ring. Internal focusing keeps the length constant during use, and the 17.7-inch minimum focus distance is typical for a 50mm prime. The lens ships with a removable petal hood and features a 77mm filter thread. It's a straightforward option for Nikon shooters who want shallow depth of field on a budget and are comfortable working without autofocus.