Canon RF100- vs Meike

Overview of the Canon RF100-400mm and Meike 85mm

The Canon RF100-400mm F5.6-8 is USM is priced at $699.00, while the Meike 85mm F1.8 SE Mark II is about 67% cheaper at $229.99. This significant price difference reflects their different designs and intended uses. The Canon lens is a versatile telephoto zoom lens ideal for capturing wildlife and sports, whereas the Meike lens is a prime lens designed for portrait photography and offers a wide aperture for beautiful bokeh effects.

Design and Build Quality

The Canon RF100-400mm is compact and lightweight, making it a practical choice for photographers on the go. Its design includes a control ring for quick adjustments, enhancing user convenience. In contrast, the Meike 85mm features an optimized optical design that is also compact, but it emphasizes a lightweight build without sacrificing quality. Both lenses feature advanced coatings to reduce glare and improve image quality, but the Meike lens goes further with fingerprint- and oil-resistant coatings for easier maintenance.

Optical Performance

The Canon RF100-400mm excels in versatility with its zoom range of 100-400mm, allowing you to get close to distant subjects. This lens includes a single Ultra Low Dispersion element that corrects chromatic aberration, resulting in sharp and colorful images. On the other hand, the Meike 85mm offers a maximum aperture of F1.8, which is ideal for low-light conditions and creates stunning bokeh with its 11 diaphragm blades. While both lenses provide high image quality, they cater to different photographic styles: zoom versatility versus specialized portrait capabilities.

Autofocus Capabilities

Autofocus performance is a highlight for both lenses, though they adopt different technologies. The Canon RF100-400mm features Canon’s Nano USM, known for fast, smooth, and quiet focusing—ideal for action shots in wildlife or sports photography. The Meike 85mm, equipped with an STM stepping motor, also promises silent and smooth focusing, making it suitable for video and portrait work where noise might be a concern. Both lenses effectively support autofocus features, but the choice may depend on your specific shooting needs.

Versatility and Use Cases

The Canon RF100-400mm is designed for various shooting scenarios, including wildlife, sports, and travel photography, thanks to its impressive zoom range. It is also compatible with RF tele extenders, allowing for even greater reach. In contrast, the Meike 85mm is tailored for portrait, architectural, and landscape photography. While it excels in producing high-resolution images at a standard focal length, it lacks the zoom flexibility of the Canon lens, making it less versatile for different photography styles.

Price and Value for Money

With a current price of $699.00, the Canon RF100-400mm holds a premium position in the market, reflecting its advanced features and capabilities. In comparison, the Meike 85mm is priced at $229.99, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious photographers who still want quality. The price difference of about $469.01 indicates that while the Canon lens offers extensive features, the Meike lens provides excellent value for those focused on portrait photography and looking for a more economical choice.

Compatibility and Mount Options

The Canon RF100-400mm is designed specifically for EOS R Series cameras, ensuring optimal performance and compatibility with Canon’s advanced systems. The Meike 85mm, however, is compatible with a range of Sony E mount mirrorless cameras, including popular models like the A7R IV and A7III. This broader compatibility allows the Meike lens to appeal to a wider audience, particularly those who already own Sony equipment.

Which should you buy?

Choosing between the Canon RF100-400mm and Meike 85mm ultimately depends on your specific photography needs. If you require a versatile telephoto lens with an extensive zoom range for wildlife or sports photography, the Canon RF100-400mm is the superior choice. However, if you are focused on portrait photography and prefer a lens that offers beautiful bokeh at a more budget-friendly price, the Meike 85mm is an excellent option. Consider your shooting style and budget to determine which lens better fits your photographic journey.