Canon RF vs Meike

Overview of the Canon RF 85mm F2 Macro is STM

The Canon RF 85mm F2 Macro is STM is an excellent choice for photographers looking for versatility and quality in a medium telephoto lens. Priced at $589.00, it offers features that cater to both portrait and macro photography. With a bright f/2 aperture, this lens allows for beautiful bokeh and strong performance in low-light conditions. Its optical image stabilization ensures that images remain sharp even in challenging shooting scenarios.

The RF 85mm F2 Macro is STM also boasts a minimum focusing distance of 1.15 feet, which makes it ideal for capturing detailed close-ups. This lens is designed for Canon full-frame mirrorless cameras, including the EOS RP and EOS R5, and features a customizable control ring for direct setting changes, enhancing the user experience significantly.

Overview of the Meike 50mm F1.8 Auto Focus STM

In contrast, the Meike 50mm F1.8 Auto Focus STM is priced at $159.99, making it about 73% cheaper than the Canon RF 85mm F2 Macro. This lens is designed for Nikon Z mount cameras, such as the Z50 and Z6. With its fast f/1.8 aperture, the Meike lens excels in low-light situations and creates a shallow depth of field, ideal for portrait photography.

This lens also features a dedicated AF/MF focus mode switch, allowing photographers to quickly switch between autofocus and manual focus, putting full control at their fingertips. While it lacks some of the advanced features of the Canon lens, such as optical stabilization, it remains a solid option for those on a tighter budget.

Build Quality and Design

The Canon RF 85mm F2 Macro is STM is designed with high-quality materials that reflect Canon's commitment to durable and reliable lenses. With a compact design, it is lightweight and easy to carry, making it a great travel companion. The built-in customizable control ring enhances usability, allowing for quick adjustments.

On the other hand, the Meike 50mm F1.8 Auto Focus STM also offers a decent build quality, but it may not match the premium feel of the Canon lens. It features a straightforward design without the advanced controls found in the RF 85mm. However, it is still compact and user-friendly, targeting photographers looking for an affordable yet effective lens.

Optical Performance

When comparing optical performance, the Canon RF 85mm F2 Macro is STM stands out with its high image quality and impressive optical image stabilization. The lens is designed to minimize camera shake, which is particularly beneficial in low-light environments or when shooting macro images. Its maximum magnification of 0.5x allows for detailed close-up shots.

The Meike 50mm F1.8 Auto Focus STM, while not featuring image stabilization, still delivers excellent optical performance with its 7 groups and 11 elements design. This configuration includes low-dispersion glass, which helps suppress chromatic aberrations and ghosting, ensuring high-resolution images. However, it may not achieve the same level of clarity and detail as the Canon lens, particularly in challenging lighting conditions.

Versatility in Photography

The Canon RF 85mm F2 Macro is STM is a versatile lens suitable for a variety of photography styles, including portraits, street photography, and macro shots. Its ability to create beautiful bokeh and its close focusing capabilities make it an excellent choice for photographers who want to explore different genres.

Conversely, the Meike 50mm F1.8 Auto Focus STM is primarily designed for portrait photography, but its sharp optics make it a good option for street and landscape photography as well. While it may not offer the same macro capabilities as the Canon lens, its f/1.8 aperture allows for stunning background blur, making it effective for isolating subjects.

Price and Value

At $589.00, the Canon RF 85mm F2 Macro is STM comes with a higher price tag that reflects its premium features and optical performance. Over the past 90 days, its average price has been around $602.41, indicating that it holds its value well and is considered a worthwhile investment for serious photographers.

In contrast, the Meike 50mm F1.8 Auto Focus STM is significantly more accessible at $159.99. Its average price over the last 90 days has been $158.00, showing that it maintains consistent affordability. While it may lack some features of the Canon lens, its lower price makes it an attractive option for beginners or those seeking a budget-friendly lens.

Compatibility and Use Cases

The Canon RF 85mm F2 Macro is STM is specifically designed for Canon full-frame mirrorless cameras, making it a perfect match for users of the EOS R system. This lens excels in various use cases, from portrait and macro photography to low-light situations, providing a well-rounded tool for many photographers.

The Meike 50mm F1.8 Auto Focus STM is compatible with several Nikon Z mount cameras, including the Z5, Z6, and Z7 series. It is an excellent lens for those who primarily shoot portraits and street photography. However, its versatility may not reach the same level as the Canon lens, particularly for macro work.

Which should you buy?

The decision between the Canon RF 85mm F2 Macro is STM and the Meike 50mm F1.8 Auto Focus STM ultimately hinges on your specific needs as a photographer. If you're investing in a high-quality lens that excels in multiple photography styles, particularly portrait and macro, the Canon RF 85mm F2 is well worth its $589.00 price tag.

However, if you are looking for a more affordable option that still delivers excellent performance for portraits and general photography, the Meike 50mm F1.8 at $159.99 offers remarkable value. Ultimately, consider your camera system, budget, and photography style to make the best choice for your needs.