[tranq78]

Hi all, I've got a question for you experts on the 50mm f1.4 lenses.

Which is worth more, the K50/1.4 or the M50/1.4? I have both and I am thinking on unloading one of them.

The optical performance of both is about the same in normal day-to-day use. The optical formula is pretty much the same for both. Both have Pentax's SMC coatings. They both focus down to 0.45 feet. Both are solid metal and glass and are equally built to a level of quality you don't see anymore.

The K50/1.4 is a bit bigger and is less common than the M50/1.4. The K takes 52mm threads, the M is 49mm. These are really minor differences between these 2 gems.

So what say you? Thanks in advance.

[dgaies]

Hi all, I've got a question for you experts on the 50mm f1.4 lenses.

Which is worth more, the K50/1.4 or the M50/1.4? I have both and I am thinking on unloading one of them.

The optical performance of both is about the same in normal day-to-day use. The optical formula is pretty much the same for both. Both have Pentax's SMC coatings. They both focus down to 0.45 feet. Both are solid metal and glass and are equally built to a level of quality you don't see anymore.

The K50/1.4 is a bit bigger and is less common than the M50/1.4. The K takes 52mm threads, the M is 49mm. These are really minor differences between these 2 gems.

So what say you? Thanks in advance.

Generally speaking, they're worth about the same ($75-100). If they're both in excellent condition, I would say the K50/1.4 might sell for a couple bucks more than the M50/1.4 just because they seem to come up for sale a little less often.

[abacus07]

Are filter sizes a consideration for you?

49mm is much more common for Pentax but if you also have several 52mm then it doesn't matter.

[paperbag846]

I'd keep the one that looks cooler.

[dgaies]

I'd keep the one that looks cooler.

IMO, the K series lenses all look "cooler" than the M series lenses

[macTak]

In my opinion and experience, the K version sells for more than the M version. Not only is there a little more cachet for the K series in general (and they are harder to come by), but the optical design of the K version is the same as the S-M-C Takumar, which everyone loves so dearly; whereas, the optical design is slightly modified for the M. Hence the K is valued a little higher (although, as you say, there probably isn't that much difference between the two).

[paperbag846]

Hence the K is valued a little higher (although, as you say, there probably isn't that much difference between the two).

One would think that this discrepancy will grow with time as these lenses become more rare. I would keep the K if it sells for a little more.

[tranq78]

Thanks for your replies. Another advantage of the M50 is it probably has newer and improved coatings over the K50, but this is only an educated guess on my part. I'll probably end up selling the M50 as it has the most reviews on the 'net so a buyer can get the best info on it.

Thanks again!

[macTak]

One would think that this discrepancy will grow with time as these lenses become more rare. I would keep the K if it sells for a little more.

Agreed. I also think that people simply aren't quite as aware of the K because of the paucity of them compared to the M's. All we need is someone to start some hype, and watch them take off like the 8-element Super-Takumar 50mm currently is. I too would advise keeping the K, given no other factors (such as filter size) that the OP may care about. Or you can just be crazy like me and have the Super-Takumar, S-M-C, K, M, and A 50mm f1.4 optics and be planning to sell all but one (really; I'm just too busy at the moment )

[tranq78]

Agreed. I also think that people simply aren't quite as aware of the K because of the paucity of them compared to the M's. All we need is someone to start some hype, and watch them take off like the 8-element Super-Takumar 50mm currently is. I too would advise keeping the K, given no other factors (such as filter size) that the OP may care about. Or you can just be crazy like me and have the Super-Takumar, S-M-C, K, M, and A 50mm f1.4 optics and be planning to sell all but one (really; I'm just too busy at the moment )

28mm and 50mm lenses can pop up like mushrooms in my house if I'm not careful!

Every person who owns a Pentax SLR should have a 50mm lens, doesn't matter if it's manual or autofocus. Those extra 2-4 stops of speed you get over the kit lens can make all the difference in nailing that shot.

[Lowell Goudge]

I can't compare directly as I only have the K50F1.4 and SUper tak 8 element F1.4.,

My 2 M series 50's are the F1.7 and F2.

What I can say is that any time I look at an M series lens (100mm macro excluded) they all feel inconsistent in focus action compared to any K series lens.

the quality of the build just seems to be a little off in comparison.,

It is not a big thing, but noticeable side by side.

just my $0.02