The latest addition to Nikon's stable of fast primes, the Nikon 35mm f/1.4G AF-S offers Nikon users a classic focal length with all the cutting-edge features we've come to expect. With a big price tag, the question with the 35mm f/1.4G is whether it has the performance to match.

Last month we tested the industry's least expensive 35mm f/1.4 lens (the $500 Rokinon 35mm AS UMC). This month, we shift to the opposite end of the pricing spectrum to one of the most expensive: Nikon's $1,800 full-frame 35mm f/1.4G lens.

It took Nikon a while to get into gear regarding their fast primes, but at least in case of the AF-S 35/1.4 G the result is impressive and was worth the wait. The image center is very sharp right from the largest aperture, the borders and corners follow only slightly behind and offer very good...

Handling and features This wide angle lens from Nikon costs around ￡1300 and sports a bright f/1.4 maximum aperture, silent internal focusing and nano-crystal coatings to help control ghosting and flare.

For this lens, it comes down to essentially one qualification. If you're a Nikon shooter who needs the absolute fastest 35mm lens, either for light-gathering ability or for the ability to put the background way out of focus, then for $1,800 it's either the Carl Zeiss or the Nikon 35mm ƒ/1.4G.

Announced on September 15, 2010, Nikon's new lens offers enthusiast photographers a fast prime lens ideal for low light photography, featuring impressive optics and image quality, all packaged in a professional grade, weather resistant, magnesium alloy body.

The Nikkor AF-S 35mm f/1.4G was announced September 2010 as the last prime to complete the updated series of 24mm, 50mm, and 85mm f/1.4 models in Nikon's line-up.

Optically, the Nikon AF-S Nikkor 35mm f/1.4G is a stunningly good lens. Sharpness is remarkably high at f/1.4, and simply excellent from f/2 onwards. Lateral chromatic aberrations are kept to a minimum, and the fast lens' ability to separate the subject from the background is outstanding for a...

I think lens tip has either got a lemon for their test or the test wasn't done in a proper way (look at the samples wide open - that will tell you a lot...). I don't understand why they didn' t proof their results with a second sample. Very odd in my eyes and not very professional.

Tack sharp and contrasty from 1.4 on; The lens renders the pictures in a very natural way

A little bit expensive

Tact sharp and has excellent micro contrast. Definitely has better focus compared to 50mm f1.4G and 85mm f1.4G. Ive noticed CA in the highlights and minimal barrel distortion but not a big deal since it be corrected easy post.

Durable; Fast / accurate auto-focus; Lightweight; Nice Bokeh