lightdow EF vs Meike

Overview of the EF 85mm f1.8 Portrait Lens

The EF 85mm f1.8 Portrait Lens by Lightdow is a fully manual focus lens designed specifically for Canon DSLR cameras. Priced at $77.59, it offers an engaging experience for photographers who enjoy hands-on control over their settings. This lens emphasizes precision and artistic expression, appealing to those looking to hone their manual focusing skills.

One of its standout features is the superb image quality it provides, thanks to its six rounded aperture blades and special lens coatings that reduce aberrations. This lens is compatible with a wide range of Canon models, from the Rebel series to the 5D Mark IV, making it a versatile choice for Canon users.

Overview of the Meike 50mm F1.8 Full Frame AF STM Lens

The Meike 50mm F1.8 Full Frame AF STM Lens is an autofocus lens designed for Sony E mount mirrorless cameras. Retailing at $159.99, it is positioned as a more advanced option compared to the EF 85mm lens, featuring automatic focus capabilities that significantly ease the shooting process.

This lens excels at delivering sharp images with a beautiful background blur, ideal for portrait photography. It incorporates an 11-group, 7-element design, which contributes to its impressive optical performance. Additionally, the Meike lens supports firmware updates via a Type-C interface, ensuring users can enhance their lens performance over time.

Price Comparison

When comparing prices, the EF 85mm f1.8 Portrait Lens is significantly less expensive than the Meike 50mm F1.8 lens. The Lightdow lens costs $77.59, making it about 51% cheaper than the Meike lens, which is priced at $159.99. This substantial difference may play a crucial role in the decision-making process for budget-conscious photographers.

While the lower price of the EF 85mm lens makes it an attractive option, it’s essential to consider the added features and capabilities of the Meike lens that may justify its higher price for some users.

Focus Mechanism

The EF 85mm f1.8 Portrait Lens operates entirely in manual focus mode, allowing photographers to have complete control over their shots. This can be a benefit for those looking to improve their skills or achieve specific artistic effects. However, the lack of autofocus may deter some users who prefer the convenience of automatic focus, especially in fast-paced shooting environments.

In contrast, the Meike 50mm lens features an AF STM (stepping motor) autofocus system that reduces camera shake and noise during operation. This makes it particularly advantageous for capturing candid moments or fast-moving subjects. The ability to upgrade firmware for the Meike lens also means users can resolve autofocus issues more easily, providing a modern edge over the manual focus approach of the EF lens.

Image Quality and Bokeh

Both lenses are designed to produce high-quality images, but they achieve this through different mechanisms. The EF 85mm f1.8 lens boasts six rounded aperture blades which work in conjunction with its hybrid aspherical lens technology to minimize aberrations and enhance image clarity. Users can expect a charming bokeh effect, making it an excellent choice for portrait photography.

On the other hand, the Meike 50mm lens, with its 11 groups and 7 elements, is also aimed at delivering sharp images and smooth background blur. The wide f/1.8 aperture allows for effective low-light performance, making it suitable for various shooting conditions. Both lenses present unique strengths in terms of image quality, but the EF lens's manual focus may appeal more to those who prioritize artistic control.

Compatibility

The EF 85mm f1.8 Portrait Lens is designed exclusively for Canon DSLR cameras, making it compatible with a wide range of models, including the Rebel series and the 5D Mark IV. This extensive compatibility ensures that Canon users can easily integrate the lens into their existing gear.

Conversely, the Meike 50mm lens is tailored for Sony E mount full-frame mirrorless cameras, including popular models like the A9 and A7 series. It also supports APS-C frame cameras, adding versatility for Sony users. While both lenses cater to specific camera systems, the choice ultimately depends on the user's existing equipment and brand loyalty.

After-Sales Support

The EF 85mm f1.8 lens comes with comprehensive after-sales support, which includes lens maintenance and replacement during the warranty period. This commitment to customer service can be valuable for photographers who may require assistance or repairs over time.

In comparison, Meike provides firmware updates for its 50mm lens, allowing users to improve autofocus performance as needed. However, the support is limited to firmware issues and does not extend to physical repairs. This difference in after-sales support may influence buyers’ choices, particularly for those who prioritize long-term service.

Which should you buy?

When deciding between the EF 85mm f1.8 Portrait Lens and the Meike 50mm F1.8 lens, the choice largely depends on the type of photography you pursue and the camera system you use. If you are a Canon DSLR user looking for an affordable lens to enhance your manual focus skills and artistic expression, the EF 85mm is an excellent choice at $77.59.

However, if you are a Sony E mount user seeking a modern autofocus lens that simplifies the shooting process and offers sharp, high-quality images, the Meike 50mm lens at $159.99 may be worth the investment. Ultimately, both lenses offer unique benefits tailored to their respective users, making them solid options within their categories.