Yongnuo 85mm Vs Nikon 85mm: Which One Takes Stunning Portraits?

The Yongnuo 85mm f/1.8 and the Nikon 85mm f/1.8G are two popular portrait lenses for Nikon DSLR cameras. Both lenses offer a similar focal length and maximum aperture, but there are some key differences between them. In this article, we will compare the Yongnuo 85mm and the Nikon 85mm in terms of their build quality, image quality, autofocus performance, and price.

Build Quality:

The Yongnuo 85mm is made of plastic, while the Nikon 85mm is made of metal. This difference in build quality is reflected in the weight of the two lenses: the Yongnuo 85mm weighs 340 grams, while the Nikon 85mm weighs 465 grams. The Nikon 85mm also has a more solid feel to it than the Yongnuo 85mm.

Image Quality:

The Yongnuo 85mm and the Nikon 85mm both produce sharp images with good contrast and color reproduction. However, the Nikon 85mm has a slight edge in terms of image quality. This is likely due to its higher-quality optics and more advanced lens coating.

Autofocus Performance:

The Yongnuo 85mm uses a DC motor for autofocus, while the Nikon 85mm uses a Silent Wave Motor (SWM). The SWM is a faster and more accurate autofocus system than the DC motor. This makes the Nikon 85mm a better choice for shooting moving subjects.

Price:

The Yongnuo 85mm is significantly cheaper than the Nikon 85mm. This makes it a more affordable option for budget-conscious photographers.

Which Lens is Right for You?

The Yongnuo 85mm and the Nikon 85mm are both good portrait lenses. However, the Nikon 85mm has a better build quality, image quality, and autofocus performance. If you are looking for the best possible image quality, then the Nikon 85mm is the better choice. However, if you are on a budget, then the Yongnuo 85mm is a good alternative.

Additional Considerations:

In addition to the factors discussed above, there are a few other things to consider when choosing between the Yongnuo 85mm and the Nikon 85mm. These include:

• Compatibility: The Yongnuo 85mm is compatible with both Nikon DSLR cameras and third-party cameras that use the Nikon F mount. The Nikon 85mm is only compatible with Nikon DSLR cameras.
• Warranty: The Yongnuo 85mm comes with a one-year warranty, while the Nikon 85mm comes with a two-year warranty.
• Availability: The Yongnuo 85mm is more widely available than the Nikon 85mm. This is because it is a third-party lens and is not subject to the same production limitations as Nikon lenses.

The Bottom Line:

The Yongnuo 85mm and the Nikon 85mm are both good portrait lenses. However, the Nikon 85mm has a better build quality, image quality, and autofocus performance. If you are looking for the best possible image quality, then the Nikon 85mm is the better choice. However, if you are on a budget, then the Yongnuo 85mm is a good alternative.

Frequently Asked Questions:

• Q: Which lens is sharper, the Yongnuo 85mm or the Nikon 85mm?

A: The Nikon 85mm is slightly sharper than the Yongnuo 85mm.

• Q: Which lens has better autofocus performance, the Yongnuo 85mm or the Nikon 85mm?

A: The Nikon 85mm has better autofocus performance than the Yongnuo 85mm.

• Q: Which lens is better for low-light photography, the Yongnuo 85mm or the Nikon 85mm?

A: Both lenses perform well in low-light photography. However, the Nikon 85mm has a slight advantage due to its wider maximum aperture.

• Q: Which lens is better for video recording, the Yongnuo 85mm or the Nikon 85mm?

A: The Nikon 85mm is better for video recording due to its faster and more accurate autofocus system.

• Q: Which lens is better for portraits, the Yongnuo 85mm or the Nikon 85mm?

A: Both lenses are good for portraits. However, the Nikon 85mm has a slight edge in terms of image quality and autofocus performance.