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I am looking to buy one of these in the next week or two probably used off craigslist or kijiji. The decision I'm trying to make is between the Mk1 and Mk2. I have gotten a chance to use the Mk1 for a very brief period of time and have held the Mk2 and the main differences are as follows:

- Mk.1 has a metal body and mount (better build?), Mk.2 has plastic
- Mk.2 is noticeably lighter than Mk.1 (though they are both still quite light and compact)
- Mk.1 has a distance meter (when would this be used, I'm fairly new to this)
- Mk.1 apparently has an easier to use manual focus ring

I could probably get the Mk.2 for about $120 or maybe a little less if I look around, while most people are selling the Mk.1 for around $190. So even though I think I would prefer the Mk.1 even though it's heavier, it's 1.5 times the price and though better built, will always be older and used more extensively.

Does anyone know any other details from actually using both? I'm looking for info regarding things such as how loud the shutter is, how smooth the manual focus ring is, etc... I just want to hear some opinions before I make a decision between the two.

Thanks!

the mk2 is very cheaply made, and noisey and has been known to break

that being said.. it's damn sharp for such a cheap lens

I'd go for a mk1 if you can find one

Thanks for the info

After a little more meticulous searching on craigslist I'm finding some in the $120-$140 price range (Mk.1) so I think it might be worth it...

anyone else have any suggestions?

If I had to choose, I'd go for the Mark 1 version as well. Much better build and and design. I used to own a Mark 1 before I sold it. It was a little soft wide open but got sharp at f2.8. AF is slow and noisy as to be expected from a micromotor drive. MF ring is easily accessible and actually usable but not silky smooth but it's not sloppy.

If you find a Mark I and the price tag is nearing the $300 point (sounds silly I know!), you're probably better off spending the extra and getting an f1.4 version. Mind you the f1.4 model has its own demons.

PS: A Mark 1 in the sub $150. range is a bargain!

i bought my MKII in May (used) and it was in almost new condition. I've used it often and love the end result.

Thanks again for all the info guys! I've actually been kind of talked into waiting, saving up a bit more and going for the f/1.4 which has the solid construction of the mk.1 and if I can find a good deal on a used one might be worth it since the (now fairly rare) f/1.8 mk.1 has climbed in price a fair bit.

alternatively you can go a cheaper road, get an old manual 50mm 1.4 with adapter. You'll lose all automatic functions, but might save over $400

I have used both. I "upgraded" to the Mk. 1 half a year ago. If you're willing to spend the extra cash, go for the Mk 1. Definitely. I have no issues with mine being soft wide open. Make sure you test yours before you buy it!

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Another option if you don't mind losing AF is Nikon's 50mm f/1.8D AF. According to Ken Rockwell, it is one of Nikon's top 12 lenses.