SUMMARY
For most working portrait photographers, the 85mm f/1.8 lens is a more practical and superior choice over the 85mm f/1.4. While the f/1.4 is marketed for its wide aperture and shallow depth of field, photographers often stop down to f/2.8 or higher for practical portrait work, negating the f/1.4's advantage. The f/1.8 version is significantly smaller, lighter, less expensive, and frequently offers faster autofocus. The substantial cost savings of the f/1.8 can be invested in other essential gear or education, making it the smarter financial and functional decision for the vast majority of users.
TAKEAWAYS
The 85mm f/1.8 lens is lighter, smaller, and less expensive than the f/1.4 version.
Most photographers stop down from f/1.4, making the wider aperture impractical for typical portrait work.
The f/1.8 often provides faster and quieter autofocus due to lighter lens elements.
The significant cost difference allows investment in other photography gear or education.