BENOISON Telephoto Lens for Nikon - F Lens 420- vs Meike

Overview of the Products

The BENOISON Telephoto Lens for Nikon and the Meike 85mm F1.8 SE Mark II lens cater to different photography needs and preferences. The BENOISON lens is priced at $67.99, making it about 70% cheaper than the Meike lens, which retails for $229.99. This price difference reflects their distinct functionalities and target audiences, with the BENOISON lens focusing on super telephoto capabilities and the Meike lens emphasizing portrait photography and auto-focus features.

Lens Compatibility

The BENOISON Telephoto Lens is designed specifically for Nikon DSLR cameras, including models like D3500, D850, and D7500. In contrast, the Meike lens is compatible with Canon EF mount cameras such as the 5D, 6D, and T7i. This fundamental difference in compatibility means that your current camera brand will heavily influence your choice. If you own a Nikon camera, the BENOISON lens is your only option here, while Canon users will find the Meike lens more suitable.

Focal Length and Aperture

BENOISON offers a super telephoto range with a focal length of 420-800mm and a fixed aperture of F/8.3-16. This lens is ideal for wildlife or lunar photography thanks to its extensive zoom capabilities. Conversely, the Meike lens features a standard focal length of 85mm with a wide aperture of F1.8, which is excellent for portrait photography, allowing for beautiful bokeh effects. Thus, the choice between these lenses depends on whether you prioritize zoom range or aperture for depth of field and low-light performance.

Autofocus Features

A significant distinction lies in the autofocus capabilities of these lenses. The BENOISON Telephoto Lens is a manual focus lens, meaning it requires the photographer to adjust the focus manually. This can be a limiting factor for those who prefer quick adjustments while shooting. On the other hand, the Meike lens supports auto-focus through its STM stepping motor, allowing for silent and smooth focusing, which is particularly advantageous in portrait photography scenarios where quick focus adjustments are beneficial.

Build Quality and Design

Both lenses exhibit quality construction, but their designs cater to different shooting styles. The BENOISON lens is built with robust materials suitable for outdoor use, emphasizing durability for wildlife photographers. Meanwhile, the Meike lens incorporates an 11-element design that enhances sharpness and resolution, making it suitable for high-resolution photography (up to 8K). The choice here will depend on whether you need a lens that can withstand the rigors of outdoor use or one that excels in delivering sharp and detailed images.

Price and Value

At $67.99, the BENOISON lens is significantly more affordable than the Meike lens, which is priced at $229.99. This price difference of about 70% may appeal to budget-conscious photographers or those just starting. However, it is essential to consider the value associated with each lens's features. While the BENOISON lens offers a high zoom range at a low price, the Meike lens justifies its higher cost with advanced features like autofocus and a wider aperture, catering to portrait and event photographers who prioritize quality.

Intended Use

The intended use for each lens also varies dramatically. The BENOISON Telephoto Lens is best suited for landscape and wildlife photography where long-distance capabilities are a must. Its manual focus design adds a layer of control for experienced photographers. In contrast, the Meike lens is tailored for portrait, architectural, and landscape photography, where its autofocus and wide aperture shine. Therefore, your choice should align with your primary photography interests.

Which should you buy?

Your decision should primarily hinge on your camera brand and photography style. If you are a Nikon user looking for an inexpensive option for wildlife photography, the BENOISON Telephoto Lens is an excellent choice due to its extensive zoom range and low price. However, if you shoot with a Canon camera and prioritize portrait photography, the Meike 85mm F1.8 SE Mark II lens offers superior autofocus capabilities and a wider aperture, making it a worthwhile investment despite its higher price. Assess your needs carefully to select the lens that best fits your photography requirements.