Canon RF50mm F1.8 STM Lens, Fixed Focal Length Prime Lens vs Meike

Overview of the Canon RF50mm F1.8 STM Lens and Meike 85mm F1.8 SE Mark II

The Canon RF50mm F1.8 STM Lens is priced at $219.00, while the Meike 85mm F1.8 SE Mark II is slightly more expensive at $229.99. Although both lenses cater to photography enthusiasts, they target different needs and camera systems. The Canon lens is versatile for EOS R series mirrorless cameras, whereas the Meike lens is designed for Canon EF mount digital SLR cameras.

Design and Build Quality

The Canon RF50mm F1.8 STM Lens is compact and lightweight, making it an excellent choice for photographers on the go. Its small size encourages easy portability and convenience, especially when paired with EOS R series cameras. In contrast, the Meike 85mm F1.8 SE Mark II offers a standard 85mm focal length, ideal for portrait photography, but tends to be bulkier due to its design tailored for various Canon DSLR models. The difference in size may influence your shooting style, especially if you prefer a more discreet lens.

Optical Performance

Both lenses boast impressive optical capabilities. The Canon RF50mm features a large f/1.8 aperture, which is beneficial for low-light conditions and creating a beautiful background blur. It utilizes optimized lens placement and coatings to minimize ghosting and flare, ensuring outstanding color balance. On the other hand, the Meike 85mm also has a wide f/1.8 aperture and is constructed with 11 elements in 7 groups, supporting high-resolution 8K photography. While both lenses excel in optical performance, the 85mm focal length of the Meike lens is specifically tailored for portraiture, which may offer an advantage for those focused primarily on that genre.

Autofocus and Usability

The Canon RF50mm lens is equipped with a Stepping Motor (STM) that provides smooth and quiet continuous autofocus during both video recording and photo shooting. This feature is particularly advantageous for videographers seeking to minimize audio disruptions. The Meike 85mm also includes an STM focusing mechanism, ensuring silent and smooth focusing, but it is designed to be compatible with a broader range of Canon DSLR models. If you prioritize silent autofocus for video, both lenses perform admirably, but the Canon lens may be more user-friendly for mirrorless users.

Compatibility

Compatibility is a crucial factor when choosing a lens. The Canon RF50mm F1.8 STM is exclusively compatible with Canon's EOS R series mirrorless cameras, such as the EOS R, R5, and R6, among others. Conversely, the Meike 85mm is versatile and works with various Canon EF mount DSLR cameras, including popular models like the 5D and 6D series. If you own a mirrorless camera, the Canon lens is the clear choice; however, if you use a DSLR, the Meike lens offers broader compatibility.

Price Comparison

The Canon RF50mm F1.8 STM Lens is priced at $219.00, while the Meike 85mm F1.8 SE Mark II is available for $229.99. This makes the Canon lens about 8.7% cheaper than the Meike lens. While both lenses are positioned in a similar price range, the Canon lens provides a cost-effective option for EOS R series users without compromising on performance.

Intended Use

The Canon RF50mm lens is ideal for various photography styles, from landscapes to portraits, thanks to its fixed 50mm focal length. It encourages creativity in composition and is perfect for casual and professional photographers alike. In contrast, the Meike 85mm lens is predominantly designed for portrait photography, offering a more specialized use case. If you are primarily a portrait photographer, the Meike lens may better suit your needs, whereas the Canon lens offers versatility across multiple photography genres.

Which should you buy?

The choice between the Canon RF50mm F1.8 STM Lens and the Meike 85mm F1.8 SE Mark II largely depends on your camera system and specific photography needs. If you own an EOS R series camera and seek a lightweight, versatile lens for various types of photography, the Canon lens at $219.00 is an excellent option. However, if you are focused on portrait photography and use a Canon DSLR, the Meike lens, while slightly more expensive at $229.99, offers a specialized focal length and impressive optical performance. Ultimately, assess your camera compatibility and preferred photography style to determine which lens aligns best with your creative vision.