Sony's budget full-frame 50mm prime, a slow starter that improved with firmware updates.
The Sony FE 50mm f/1.8 was launched in 2016 as Sony's most affordable full-frame E-mount prime. It provides a standard 50mm perspective on full-frame A7-series bodies. Priced to compete with the Canon and Nikon nifty fifties, it aims to be the accessible fast prime for the Sony system.
Optical quality is good from f/2.8 onwards with sharp centre performance. Wide open at f/1.8 there is noticeable softness and chromatic aberration. Bokeh from the seven-blade aperture is acceptable. Early firmware had slow and noisy autofocus which was improved in later production runs. Build is plastic and lightweight.
Sony FE mount only, 49mm filter thread. The Sigma 50mm f/1.4 DG DN Art and Sony FE 50mm f/1.4 GM are dramatically better but at much higher prices. The Samyang AF 50mm f/1.4 FE II offers a middle ground. For a budget option the Sony is adequate.
Cheap used. Check the serial number and production date as later copies have improved AF firmware. Test autofocus speed and listen for excessive noise. Early copies are noticeably slower to focus. For the price it is serviceable but the Sigma 50mm f/1.4 Art at around three times the price is incomparably better.