Canon RF-S18- vs Meike

Overview of the Canon RF-S18-150mm and Meike 85mm

The Canon RF-S18-150mm F3.5-6.3 Telephoto Lens is priced at $569.00, while the Meike 85mm F1.8 SE Mark II is available for $229.99, making the Meike about 60% cheaper. This significant price difference reflects the different target uses and design philosophies of each lens. While both lenses are designed for photography enthusiasts, their specifications cater to distinct styles and requirements.

Design and Build Quality

The Canon RF-S18-150mm features a high-magnification zoom design, making it versatile for a range of photography needs. Built for APS-C cameras, it automatically enables crop mode when used with full-frame EOS R cameras. In contrast, the Meike 85mm is a medium telephoto lens with a fixed focal length that incorporates a compact and lightweight design. This lens boasts a re-optimized optical design, achieving a large aperture of F1.8 while remaining easy to handle. Both lenses have multi-coated elements to improve optical performance; however, the Meike's coatings also resist fingerprints and dust, making it easier to maintain.

Focal Length and Versatility

The focal length of the Canon RF-S18-150mm ranges from 18mm to 150mm, offering a broad zoom range ideal for capturing everything from landscapes to portraits. This versatility allows photographers to adapt to various shooting scenarios without switching lenses. On the other hand, the Meike 85mm has a fixed focal length, which is excellent for portrait photography and provides beautiful bokeh effects due to its wide aperture. While the Canon lens is more versatile, the Meike lens excels in delivering high-quality portraits, making each lens suitable for different photographic needs.

Aperture and Low-Light Performance

The Canon RF-S18-150mm has a variable aperture ranging from F3.5 to F6.3, which can limit its effectiveness in low-light situations compared to the Meike 85mm, which has a constant aperture of F1.8. This larger aperture allows the Meike to gather more light, making it significantly better for low-light photography and achieving a shallower depth of field for stunning background blur. The Canon lens does offer optical image stabilization that compensates for camera shake, which can enhance low-light performance, but it doesn’t match the low-light capabilities of the Meike lens in terms of aperture.

Autofocus System

The Canon RF-S18-150mm features a lead screw-type STM for smooth and quiet autofocus, making it suitable for video recording and still photography. The lens provides 100% Dual Pixel CMOS AF coverage for APS-C sensors, enhancing its focus accuracy. Meanwhile, the Meike 85mm also utilizes an STM focusing system that promises silent and smooth focus transitions, critical for both video and portrait work. Both lenses are equipped to deliver effective autofocus performance, but the Canon’s additional coverage area might provide better results for a wider range of subjects.

Intended Use and Target Audience

The Canon RF-S18-150mm is aimed at photographers who want an all-in-one solution for various situations, from landscapes to portraits and everyday shooting. Its zoom capability offers flexibility, making it ideal for travelers and casual photographers. Conversely, the Meike 85mm targets portrait photographers, offering high-resolution performance, perfect for capturing intimate moments with a beautiful background blur. Each lens serves distinct user needs, emphasizing the importance of choosing based on intended use.

Price Comparison and Value

At $569.00, the Canon RF-S18-150mm is a larger investment compared to the Meike 85mm's price of $229.99. This price difference of about $339 gives the Meike a significant edge for those who are budget-conscious or just starting in photography. While the Canon lens justifies its higher price with versatility and advanced features, the Meike lens offers incredible value, especially for portrait enthusiasts seeking high-quality imagery without breaking the bank.

Which should you buy?

Ultimately, the choice between the Canon RF-S18-150mm and the Meike 85mm comes down to your specific photography needs. If you require a versatile zoom lens that adapts to various photography styles, the Canon RF-S18-150mm is the better option. However, if your focus is on portrait photography and you appreciate the artistry of a wide aperture, the Meike 85mm presents an excellent value. Each lens has its strengths, so consider your style and budget carefully before making a decision.