Altura Photo vs Meike

Price Comparison

The Altura Photo 58MM 0.43x HD Wide Angle Lens is priced at $36.98, making it significantly cheaper than the Meike 50mm F1.8 Full Frame AF STM Lens, which retails for $159.99. This represents a price difference of about $123.01, or roughly 76%. If you are looking for a budget-friendly option primarily for wide-angle photography, the Altura lens offers a compelling choice that won’t break the bank.

Lens Compatibility

The Altura lens is designed specifically for cameras with a 58MM filter thread, making it versatile for a range of Canon and Nikon models. In contrast, the Meike lens is optimized for Sony E mount full-frame and APS-C mirrorless cameras. This means that while the Altura lens can cater to various popular DSLR users, the Meike lens is more specialized. Thus, your choice may depend on the type of camera you own; if you have a Sony mirrorless system, the Meike lens is the clear winner in this category.

Special Features

The Altura lens boasts a detachable macro lens feature that allows for high-resolution close-up photography. This makes it ideal for capturing detailed images of small objects, adding an extra layer of functionality. On the other hand, the Meike lens features a wide aperture of f/1.8, which is excellent for portrait photography and creating a smooth background blur effect. Therefore, if macro photography is your focus, the Altura lens would serve you better, whereas if you want beautifully blurred backgrounds in your portraits, the Meike lens stands out.

Autofocus Performance

The Meike lens utilizes a stepping motor (AF STM) for its autofocus capabilities, which helps reduce camera shake and noise during image capture. This is particularly beneficial for users who often shoot in dynamic or low-light environments. The Altura lens does not mention autofocus capabilities, indicating that it may not be as effective for rapid or low-light shooting scenarios. If autofocus performance is a priority for your photography, the Meike lens is likely the better option.

Image Quality

Both lenses promise to deliver sharp images, but they achieve this through different constructions. The Meike lens is constructed from 11 groups and 7 elements, which contributes to its ability to produce clear and detailed images. The Altura lens focuses on expanding the field of view, but it does not specify the optical construction, leaving some uncertainty about its image quality relative to the Meike. If high-quality image production is at the top of your list, the Meike lens has a more detailed specification that suggests superior image quality.

Target Audience

The Altura lens is primarily geared towards photographers who favor wide-angle photography and those who might also require macro capabilities. This makes it a versatile addition for hobbyists and enthusiasts who may not want to invest heavily in equipment. Conversely, the Meike lens is more targeted at professionals and serious hobbyists who specialize in portrait photography and need a reliable lens for their Sony E mount cameras. Your choice should depend on your specific photographic needs and level of expertise.

Brand Reputation

Altura Photo is known for producing affordable photography accessories, targeting entry-level users and enthusiasts. Meanwhile, Meike has garnered a reputation for its high-quality lenses, particularly in the mirrorless camera market. While Altura offers a budget-friendly option, Meike’s build quality and features might appeal more to serious photographers. Depending on your brand preference and trust, this aspect could influence your decision.

Which should you buy?

In summary, the decision between the Altura Photo 58MM lens and the Meike 50mm F1.8 lens largely depends on your specific needs and camera compatibility. If you are looking for a budget-friendly, versatile lens and shoot with a camera that has a 58MM thread, the Altura lens is an excellent choice. However, if you own a Sony E mount camera and prioritize autofocus performance and image quality for portrait photography, the Meike lens is worth the investment despite its higher price.