No photo available for this lens
Production
1958 – 1973
Country
Japan
Optical
5 elements in 4 groups
Updated
Jul 20, 2026
Minolta MC Rokkor 85mm f/1.7
Minolta MC · 85mm · f/1.7
Compiled from 3 real reviews · AI-assisted · accuracy-checked · Updated 20 Jul 2026
Overview
The Minolta MC Rokkor 85mm f/1.7 is Minolta's portrait gem — a relatively unknown lens outside dedicated circles that punches way above its weight. While Canon and Nikon got the glory for their 85mm offerings, the Minolta quietly delivered beautiful portrait rendering at a fraction of the price.
Verdict: The portrait secret. The MC Rokkor 85mm f/1.7 delivers gorgeous portraits at a price that makes Canon/Nikon owners jealous. If you shoot Minolta or adapt to mirrorless, this deserves attention.
Optical Character
Color
Warm Minolta tones
Sharpness wide open
Good center wide open, excellent stopped down
Flare resistance
Well-controlled
Contrast
Medium contrast
Vignetting
Present wide open
Community Insights
What people love
- Beautiful portrait rendering
- Excellent bokeh
- Affordable
- f/1.7 is plenty fast
- Lighter than f/1.4 alternatives
- Underrated gem
What people dislike
- Not as famous as Canon/Nikon 85s
- MC mount less popular
- Harder to find than some alternatives
Pro Tips
- Seriously underrated portrait lens
- Compare to Canon/Nikon — you might prefer this
- Great value
Sources (3)
Phillip Reeve
Myfavouritelens
Curated heritage archive
The portrait secret. The MC Rokkor 85mm f/1.7 delivers gorgeous portraits at a price that makes Canon/Nikon owners jealous. If you shoot Minolta or adapt to mirrorless, this deserves attention.