Nikkor 50mm f1.8
 

The Nikkor 50mm f1.8 is a small 50mm auto-focus normal lens.

Constructed from what seems to be polycarbonate it has a cheap plastic feel. Manual operation of focus seems sloppy and loose.

Considering the auto-focus drive is screw type performance is fast, as fast of any AF-S lens I own. Speed is only half the story, focus is also sure, accurate and very quiet for a screw type.

The lens is sharp from f2.8 through to f8 beyond I have no experience, but I am sure of good results. The popular consensus of opinion about sharpness is poor wider than f2.8 but in my own tests, this is not the case. At f1.8 to f2.8 the lens is a little soft but usable.

There is no sign of chromatic aberration at any aperture.

Its small and feels cheap but if you want great, clear, sharp, contrasty photos with nice colour - its a must.

Cost new £80-120 but I purchased mine used for £50!

A sample photo as part of a focus test at f2.8 can be seen Here

Highly recommended.

Has a solid metal mount though.
I bought one as everyone says you ought to have one - as you say it's an excellent little thing & good value for money - never got used though as I don't take portraits.
I have a collection of lenses of which only three see regular use.
Sigma 10-20 - marvelous fun lens, gets more use than I thought it would.
Sigma 18-200 - on the camera all summer when I can't carry a big bag.
Sigma 170-500 - affordable lens for winter birding

It's a great lens to have when you just want to have a small camera to take out, or when it's gloomy or rainy. Interesting to see what you can get by using your legs to get closer or further away rather than relying on a zoom.