Canon EF 75- vs Meike

Overview of the Products

In this comparison, we will look at the Canon EF 75-300mm f/4-5.6 III Telephoto Zoom Lens and the Meike 85mm F1.8 SE Mark II STM AF Full Frame Medium Telephoto Auto Focus High Resolution Portrait Prime Lens. The Canon lens is priced at $169.00, while the Meike lens comes in at $229.99, making the Canon lens about 26% cheaper. Each lens serves different photographic purposes and is designed for different camera systems, which will be explored in detail.

Build Quality and Design

The Canon EF 75-300mm lens features a construction of 13 elements in 9 groups, which is designed to provide good optical quality across its zoom range. The lens has a front group rotating extension system for focus adjustment, making it user-friendly for photographers who need to make quick adjustments. In contrast, the Meike 85mm lens has an 11-element design that aims to achieve high resolution and image clarity, particularly at its wide f/1.8 aperture. Additionally, the Meike lens incorporates multi-coated elements to minimize flare and ghosting, enhancing color fidelity. Both lenses are built for different types of photography, with the Canon lens focusing on zoom versatility and the Meike lens prioritizing portrait quality.

Focal Length and Aperture

The Canon lens offers a focal length range of 75-300mm with a maximum aperture of f/4-5.6. This makes it ideal for capturing distant subjects, such as wildlife or sports photography. On the other hand, the Meike lens has a fixed focal length of 85mm and a wider maximum aperture of f/1.8. This wider aperture allows for stunning bokeh effects and excels in low-light conditions, making it particularly suitable for portrait photography. The choice between these two focal lengths and apertures largely depends on your specific photographic needs.

Compatibility

The Canon EF 75-300mm lens is compatible with Canon’s EF mount cameras, making it versatile for users within the Canon ecosystem. Conversely, the Meike 85mm lens is designed specifically for Sony E mount cameras, including popular models like the A7R and A7III. Therefore, your camera system will significantly influence which lens is suitable for you. The Canon lens offers broader compatibility within its brand, while the Meike lens caters specifically to Sony users, which may limit its appeal to photographers with different camera systems.

Focus Mechanism

In terms of focus, the Canon EF 75-300mm utilizes a front group rotating extension system with a micromotor, which can be less precise compared to more modern focusing technologies. The Meike 85mm lens, however, is equipped with an STM stepping motor, providing silent and smooth autofocus. This feature is particularly beneficial for video recording as it minimizes focus noise. Additionally, the Meike lens supports electronic aperture adjustment and EXIF information transmission, making it a more technologically advanced option for users who require precise control over their settings.

Price Comparison

The Canon lens is priced at $169.00, while the Meike lens retails for $229.99, making the Meike about 36% more expensive than the Canon lens. For a photographer on a budget or someone just starting to explore their photography skills, the Canon lens offers excellent value. However, the premium price of the Meike lens reflects its advanced features, particularly its large aperture and enhanced optical design. This price difference can be a deciding factor depending on the user's budget and intended use.

Image Quality

Both lenses are designed to deliver quality images, yet they cater to different types of photography. The Canon EF 75-300mm lens provides a versatile range, suitable for various scenarios, but it may not achieve the same level of sharpness at wider apertures compared to the Meike lens. The Meike 85mm, with its f/1.8 aperture and advanced optical design, is engineered for high-resolution images, making it particularly effective for portrait and architectural photography. If image quality is your priority, especially for portraits, the Meike lens may be the better choice.

Which should you buy?

Choosing between the Canon EF 75-300mm f/4-5.6 III Telephoto Zoom Lens and the Meike 85mm F1.8 SE Mark II STM lens ultimately depends on your photographic needs and equipment. If you are looking for a budget-friendly option with versatility for various types of photography, the Canon lens at $169.00 is an excellent choice. However, if you require a lens specifically for portraiture, with superior optical quality and advanced features, the Meike lens at $229.99 may be worth the extra investment. Consider your camera compatibility, intended use, and budget to make the best decision for your photography journey.