7artisans 7. vs Meike

Overview of the Lenses

The 7artisans 7.5mm F2.8 II Fisheye Lens and the Meike 50mm F1.8 Full Frame AF STM Lens are two notable options for photographers using Sony E-mount cameras. The 7artisans lens is priced at $139.00, while the Meike lens costs $159.99, making the 7artisans lens about 17% cheaper. Each lens serves different photographic purposes, catering to a variety of creative needs.

Design and Build Quality

The 7artisans 7.5mm F2.8 II boasts a full metal body, ensuring durability and a premium feel. This fisheye lens features a compact design, which is ideal for travel and outdoor photography. In contrast, the Meike 50mm F1.8 also presents a solid build but is primarily focused on portrait photography. Its design includes a stepping motor for autofocus, which helps reduce camera shake. Both lenses are built to last, but the 7artisans lens may appeal more to those who prioritize ruggedness and a professional look.

Aperture and Low Light Performance

The 7artisans lens offers a maximum aperture of F2.8, allowing for decent light gathering capabilities. However, the Meike lens excels in this category with its larger F1.8 aperture, which is particularly beneficial for shooting in low-light conditions. This allows photographers using the Meike lens to capture images with a beautiful background blur effect, even in darker environments. If low light photography is a priority, the Meike lens has a clear advantage.

Autofocus Capabilities

In terms of autofocus, the Meike 50mm F1.8 features an advanced autofocus system powered by a stepping motor, which minimizes noise and camera shake during operation. This is a significant benefit for photographers who value quick and quiet autofocus, especially in dynamic shooting situations. Conversely, the 7artisans lens is a manual focus lens, requiring the user to have a more hands-on approach to focusing. This can be a drawback for those who prefer the convenience of autofocus.

Versatility in Shooting Styles

The 7artisans 7.5mm F2.8 II is designed for wide-angle shots, making it ideal for landscapes, travel photography, and even underwater shots due to its 190-degree viewing angle. This versatility allows it to be used in various creative contexts, including 360° VR panorama production. On the other hand, the Meike 50mm F1.8 is a classic portrait lens, which excels in capturing sharp images with beautiful bokeh. Each lens has its unique strengths, catering to different styles of photography.

Compatibility with Camera Models

Both lenses are compatible with a range of Sony E-mount cameras, including popular models such as the A7 series and A6000 series. The 7artisans lens is specifically compatible with models like the A7, A7II, A6500, and A6000, while the Meike lens covers similar ground but also extends its compatibility to full-frame options, including the A9. This flexibility in compatibility makes both lenses appealing choices for photographers with varying camera setups.

Price Comparison

With the 7artisans lens priced at $139.00 and the Meike lens at $159.99, the price difference is significant, with the 7artisans lens being about $21 cheaper. This cost-effectiveness may be appealing to budget-conscious photographers who still want quality optics. However, the Meike lens offers advanced autofocus technology, which may justify its higher price for some users. Ultimately, the price difference could influence a buyer's decision based on their specific needs and budget.

Which should you buy?

Choosing between the 7artisans 7.5mm F2.8 II Fisheye Lens and the Meike 50mm F1.8 Full Frame AF STM Lens boils down to your photographic needs. If you're looking for a budget-friendly option with a robust build and versatility for wide-angle shots, the 7artisans lens is an excellent choice. However, if you prioritize low-light performance and advanced autofocus capabilities for portrait photography, the Meike lens may be worth the additional investment. Ultimately, both lenses offer unique advantages, making them valuable additions to any photographer's toolkit.