BENOISON Telephoto Lens for Nikon - F Lens 420- vs Meike
Updated July 2026 — full head-to-head comparison.
Overview of BENOISON Telephoto Lens
The BENOISON Telephoto Lens for Nikon is a manual focus lens that offers a significant focal length range of 420-800mm. Priced at $67.99, this lens caters primarily to photographers looking to capture distant subjects such as wildlife or celestial objects. With a fixed aperture of F/8.3-16, it provides a robust option for those who do not mind the manual focus operation inherent to this model. Its compatibility with various Nikon DSLR cameras makes it a versatile choice for Nikon users.
Overview of Meike 85mm F1.8 SE Mark II
In contrast, the Meike 85mm F1.8 SE Mark II is positioned at a higher price point of $229.99 and is designed for Sony E mount mirrorless cameras. This lens features a large maximum aperture of F1.8, which allows for excellent low-light performance and beautiful bokeh effects. With its autofocus capability and advanced optical design, it appeals to portrait and landscape photographers looking for high-resolution imaging.
Price Comparison
The BENOISON Telephoto Lens is significantly more economical at $67.99 compared to the Meike 85mm, which costs $229.99. This marks a price difference of $162.00, making the BENOISON about 71% cheaper. For photographers on a budget or those just starting, the BENOISON offers an entry point into telephoto photography without a hefty investment. However, the Meike lens may justify its higher price with superior features such as autofocus and a wider aperture.
Build Quality and Design
The BENOISON lens is constructed with high-quality materials designed for durability, ensuring it can withstand the rigors of outdoor photography. Its manual focus design means that users will need to be comfortable adjusting the focus ring manually, which may require practice.
On the other hand, the Meike lens is noted for its compact and lightweight build. It incorporates a multi-coated optical design that reduces flare and ghosting, contributing to better image quality. The lens elements are treated with coatings that resist fingerprints and oil, making maintenance easier. Therefore, while both lenses are built robustly, the Meike offers more advanced optical features that enhance user experience.
Focusing Mechanism
Focusing is a critical aspect of photography, and here the two lenses diverge significantly. The BENOISON lens operates solely in manual focus mode, requiring users to set their camera to manual (M mode) to function correctly. This can be challenging for those unaccustomed to manual focusing, particularly in fast-moving scenarios.
In contrast, the Meike 85mm features an autofocus mechanism with a stepping motor (STM), facilitating quiet and smooth focusing. This capability makes it ideal for capturing portraits where spontaneity is essential. Thus, the choice between these lenses may hinge on the photographer's preference for manual versus autofocus systems.
Compatibility with Camera Systems
The BENOISON Telephoto Lens is specifically designed for a wide range of Nikon DSLR cameras, including models like D3500, D850, and D7500. This compatibility ensures that Nikon users can easily integrate the lens into their existing camera setups.
Conversely, the Meike 85mm lens is tailored for Sony E mount mirrorless cameras, including the popular A7 series. This specificity means that photographers must consider their camera system carefully when choosing between the two lenses. In essence, the BENOISON is ideal for Nikon users, while the Meike caters to those within the Sony ecosystem.
Image Quality and Performance
When it comes to image quality, the Meike 85mm stands out with its ability to produce high-resolution images suitable for 8K photography. Its large aperture allows for excellent depth of field control, making it a great choice for portraits where bokeh is desired. The multi-coated elements also contribute to superior color reproduction and contrast.
In contrast, while the BENOISON provides a vast focal range, its fixed aperture limits its versatility in low light scenarios. The images may lack the sharpness and detail that one would expect from a modern lens, particularly when compared to the Meike's advanced optical design. Therefore, if image quality is a priority, the Meike lens would likely be the superior choice.
Which should you buy?
Choosing between the BENOISON Telephoto Lens and the Meike 85mm F1.8 SE Mark II ultimately depends on your specific needs as a photographer. If you are a Nikon user looking for an economical telephoto option primarily for wildlife or astronomical photography, the BENOISON lens is a solid choice at $67.99. However, if you prioritize autofocus, superior optical performance, and are willing to invest in a lens that enhances portrait photography, the Meike lens at $229.99 is worth considering. Each lens has its strengths, making it important to align your choice with your photography style and requirements.