Canon RF vs Meike

Overview of the Canon RF 85mm F2 Macro IS STM

The Canon RF 85mm F2 Macro IS STM is a versatile medium telephoto lens designed for Canon's full-frame mirrorless cameras. Priced at $589.00, it offers a bright f/2 aperture, making it suitable for various photography styles, including portraits and macro shots. The lens features optical image stabilization, allowing for up to 5 stops of shake correction, which is particularly beneficial when shooting in low-light conditions.

This lens is not only lightweight but also compact, making it an excellent travel companion. Its maximum magnification capability of 0.5x and a minimum focusing distance of 1.15 feet enhance its usability for close-up photography. With a customizable control ring, photographers can adjust settings directly on the lens, further enhancing its user-friendly design.

Overview of the Meike 85mm F1.8 SE Mark II

The Meike 85mm F1.8 SE Mark II stands out as a more budget-friendly option, priced at $229.99, making it approximately 61% cheaper than the Canon RF 85mm F2 Macro IS STM. This lens offers a large f/1.8 aperture, which allows for beautiful bokeh effects and excellent low-light performance. It features a compact and lightweight design, making it suitable for various photography scenarios, including portraits and architectural shots.

With its STM stepping motor, the Meike lens promises silent and smooth autofocus, enhancing the overall shooting experience. Additionally, the lens incorporates a micro Type-C firmware upgrade interface, allowing users to keep the lens updated with the latest features. Although it has a lower maximum magnification of 0.17x, its compatibility with Sony E mount cameras expands its accessibility to a broader range of photographers.

Build Quality and Design

The Canon RF 85mm F2 Macro IS STM is engineered for durability and ease of use. Its compact design is complemented by a lightweight build, making it highly portable. The lens also features a control ring that allows for direct adjustments, which adds to its practical design. The RF lens is specifically designed for Canon's full-frame mirrorless system, ensuring optimal performance and compatibility.

In comparison, the Meike 85mm F1.8 SE Mark II also boasts a robust design, incorporating multi-coated lens elements to reduce flare and ghosting. The lens elements are treated with fingerprint- and oil-resistant coatings, making maintenance easier for photographers. Both lenses are crafted with high-quality materials, ensuring longevity and reliability; however, the Meike lens's firmware upgrade capability offers a modern twist that may appeal to tech-savvy users.

Image Quality and Performance

In terms of image quality, the Canon RF 85mm F2 Macro IS STM excels with its bright f/2 aperture, which produces stunning bokeh and sharp images. Its optical image stabilization system, which provides up to 5 stops of shake correction, significantly enhances its performance in low-light situations. The lens's macro capabilities further allow for impressive close-up shots, with a minimum focusing distance of 1.15 feet.

Conversely, the Meike 85mm F1.8 SE Mark II offers a slightly larger aperture of f/1.8, which may give it an edge in low-light scenarios. Its optical design aims to achieve high resolution, even at 8K, making it suitable for professional portrait photography. However, the lower maximum magnification of 0.17x means that while it is capable of delivering excellent image quality, it may not match the macro versatility of the Canon lens.

Autofocus and Usability

The autofocus capabilities of the Canon RF 85mm F2 Macro IS STM benefit from Canon's advanced technology, providing fast and accurate focusing, especially in dynamic shooting environments. The built-in control ring enhances usability, allowing photographers to make quick adjustments without taking their eyes off the subject.

On the other hand, the Meike 85mm F1.8 SE Mark II employs an STM stepping motor that ensures silent and smooth autofocus, ideal for video and portrait work. The lens's compatibility with Sony E mount cameras broadens its usability for photographers who shoot with Sony systems. Additionally, the Meike lens's firmware upgrade feature allows users to maintain optimal performance over time, a significant advantage for those who want to keep their equipment current.

Price Comparison

The Canon RF 85mm F2 Macro IS STM is priced at $589.00, while the Meike 85mm F1.8 SE Mark II is available for $229.99. This price difference of about $359.01 makes the Meike lens approximately 61% cheaper than the Canon option. For budget-conscious photographers, the Meike lens presents a compelling alternative without sacrificing too much on performance, especially for portrait photography.

However, the Canon lens's advanced features, such as superior image stabilization and macro capabilities, may justify the higher price for professional or serious enthusiasts who need versatility and reliability in various shooting conditions.

Which should you buy?

Choosing between the Canon RF 85mm F2 Macro IS STM and the Meike 85mm F1.8 SE Mark II ultimately depends on your specific needs and budget. If you're a Canon user looking for a high-quality lens with excellent macro capabilities and image stabilization, the Canon RF 85mm F2 is well worth the investment. However, if you're looking for a more affordable option that still delivers solid performance, the Meike 85mm F1.8 SE Mark II is an attractive choice, especially for those who prioritize portability and budget.