This is a test of the inexpensive manual focus AIS Series E lenses vs their AF counterparts...the Nikon 50mm f/1.4D and 85mm f/1.8 lenses. The testing was done using my D1h camera, which is sharp out of camera. Shots had minor automatic auto-contrast adjustments made; otherwise no manipulation or sharpening.

Page One contains tests of the 50mm f/1.8 Series E vs the 50mm f/1.4 AFD (arguably the better of the two Nikon 50mm AF lenses for bokeh). Page Two contains tests of the 100mm f/2.8 Series E vs the 85mm f/1.8 AF lens, heretofore a favorite of mine.

Judge for yourself. But I see a clear winner between the two longer focal length lenses. The 50's are close enough to be a toss-up to me.