Best lens that any photographer should have!
I had just gotten into photography, my Nikon D90 is the first DSLR I have ever owned, and this is my first lens I purchased; although I have used a variety of other lenses including the 85mm, 105mm, and the 135mm. Maybe I am new to photography, but I find the 50mm easiest to use. I say this because I was used to my point and shoot, where I see an object, I can just bring the camera up to my eyes and take a picture. With the longer focal length lenses, I had to move much farther away. I know the "pros" reading this must be cringing, thinking that I should know which lens to use depending on how far away the object I'm trying to shoot is. Since I am just getting started, I am still trying to learn. I believe the 50mm is the same focal length as our eyes, so it is far more intuitive for a beginner like me. Since this lens is f/1.8, I can take some great sharp images even in a dark room, which I am very pleased with. For the price, this is the best lens anyone can get, and is a must for all beginners like myself to learn what type of photos you are most interested in, then buy more expensive lenses that will suit your needs.
In the beginning, I was deciding between this lens and the 1.4G, but I eventually decided on this one because of the price, since I eventually plan to buy the Nikon 105mm micro lens. I have never tried the f1.4 lens, so I cannot make a comparison, but I am 100% happy with my choice because I have gotten some great pictures in the worst light conditions that I would ever take photos in. Since this is a small and light lens, there is really no need for VR. I have naturally shaky hands, but due to the aperture and the D90's wonderful low noise level even at iso 3200, I have still been able to keep the exposure fast enough to create sharp images. I think this lens is perfectly fine for taking no-flash images under museum lighting. So go out and get yourself this lens!! Plus, I heard all Nikon products will have a price increase of 2% or something by early next year, so I encourage you act fast :)

Sweet lens. Doesn't work well with d40 but rocks on d90
Doesn't autofocus on d40 or d40x but all other cameras for nikon it works with. A must have in ur bag if you are a serious photographer. I don't go anywhere without it. Ideal for portraits and low light settings.

Cheap and best
This lens has no match for its price. This is a great lens for indoor and portraits.

I don't think this needs another 5 star review..
It's everything it's put out to be. The only thing I can complain about is that, replacing my 50mm 1.8 E series, it's made in china, plastic, and not as withdrawn as the E series. But most consumer lenses are.

great fast clear lense
Just got mine today and i love it. Took some self potraits and they are so clear. It came so fast in the mail also which is nice. Great lense. Get one. : )