Pergear 50mm F1.4

The Pergear 50mm F1.4 is a compact manual focus standard prime for full frame mirrorless cameras. It is offered for Sony E, Nikon Z, Leica L and Canon RF. Pergear describes it as an all-metal lens of only 255 g with a 52 mm filter thread. The classic 50 mm focal length gives an angle of view of 46 degrees, which Pergear says is close to human perspective and suited to street photography, storytelling and environmental portraits.

Optical design

According to Pergear, the optical design is symmetrical, with 6 elements in 6 groups. The company says this configuration delivers high transmission and natural rendering. The diaphragm has 12 blades, intended to keep the opening nearly circular and to give well-defined sunstars. The maximum aperture is f/1.4, and a multi-layer anti-reflective coating is meant to suppress flare and ghosting against strong backlight. The minimum aperture is not stated by the maker.

Focusing and handling

Focusing is manual, and the aperture ring is clicked. The closest focus distance is 0.6 m, which Pergear describes as enabling intimate close-ups for a lens of this type. There is no autofocus and no image stabilizer in the lens, so shooting at f/1.4 on a full frame body depends on careful manual focusing with the aids of the camera.

Build and size

The lens body is entirely metal, according to Pergear, and weighs 255 g. The filter thread is 52 mm, which is a small and inexpensive size for a full frame fast prime. The manufacturer does not publish length or diameter on the product page, so these are open in the data. The specification applies to all four mounts.

Where it fits

Among fast 50 mm lenses on the same systems, autofocus models such as the Sony FE 50mm F1.4 GM, the Nikon Nikkor Z 50mm F1.4 or the Sigma 50mm F1.4 DG DN Art are far more capable in function but also much larger. A manual alternative in a similar spirit is the TTArtisan 50mm f/0.95, which is faster but a different design class, and the AstrHori 50mm f/1.4 Tilt adds tilt movement. Within the Pergear range, the 50mm F1.2 is the APS-C portrait option.

Pros and cons

Pros

• f/1.4 maximum aperture on full frame
• Light at 255 g, all-metal body
• 12 aperture blades
• 52 mm filter thread
• Offered for Sony E, Nikon Z, Leica L and Canon RF

Cons

• Manual focus only
• No image stabilization
• Minimum aperture, length and diameter not specified
• Minimum focus distance of 0.6 m

Verdict

The Pergear 50mm F1.4 is an inexpensive and light fast standard lens for full frame mirrorless users who want a manual prime with a classic perspective. It suits photographers who accept manual focus in exchange for size and weight.