Comparison
Asahi Pentax Super-Multi-Coated Takumar 50mm f/1.4 vs Pentax SMC Pentax-M 50mm f/1.4
The Asahi Pentax Super-Multi-Coated Takumar 50mm f/1.4 is a 50mm f/1.4 M42 lens made 1971-1975, valued at $70 to $240 used. The Pentax SMC Pentax-M 50mm f/1.4 is a 50mm f/1.4 Pentax K lens made 1977-1984, valued at $60 to $210 used.
Specifications side by side
| Specification | Asahi Pentax Super-Multi-Coated Takumar 50mm f/1.4 | Pentax SMC Pentax-M 50mm f/1.4 |
|---|---|---|
| Focal length | 50 mm | 50 mm |
| Maximum aperture | f/1.4 | f/1.4 |
| Native mount | M42 | Pentax K |
| Production years | 1971-1975 | 1977-1984 |
| Optical design | 7 elements / 6 groups, Double Gauss, thoriated rear glass | 7 elements / 6 groups, Double Gauss |
| Typical used value | $130 | $110 |
| Value range | $70 to $240 | $60 to $210 |
| Adapts to | Sony E, Fuji X, MFT, Canon RF, Nikon Z, L-mount | Sony E, Fuji X, MFT, Canon RF, Nikon Z, L-mount |
What actually differs
- Both open to f/1.4, so neither has a speed advantage.
- The Pentax SMC Pentax-M 50mm f/1.4 is cheaper. Typical used value is $110 against $130, a gap of $20. Ranges: $60 to $210 versus $70 to $240.
- Both are 50mm lenses, so framing is identical on the same sensor.
- The Asahi Pentax Super-Multi-Coated Takumar 50mm f/1.4 is the older design; production began around 1971 against 1977 for the Pentax SMC Pentax-M 50mm f/1.4 (1971-1975 versus 1977-1984).
- They use different mounts, M42 and Pentax K, so each needs its own adapter. Both reach infinity on mirrorless bodies with a plain mechanical adapter.
- Both use 7 elements in 6 groups.
Which one to buy
On the catalog data the Pentax SMC Pentax-M 50mm f/1.4 wins on the $20 lower typical price, and the Asahi Pentax Super-Multi-Coated Takumar 50mm f/1.4 gives up nothing measurable in return except its own rendering, described below. Condition and variant matter more than the spec sheet at these prices.
Minimum focus distance, weight, and measured sharpness are not in the catalog, so this comparison does not claim anything about them.