lightdow EF/EF-S 420- vs Meike

Overview of the EF/EF-S 420-800mm F8.3 Telephoto Zoom Lens and Meike 85mm F1.8 SE Mark II

The EF/EF-S 420-800mm F8.3 Telephoto Zoom Lens is priced at $65.69, making it significantly cheaper than the Meike 85mm F1.8 SE Mark II, which retails for $229.99. The price difference of $164.30 highlights a stark contrast in budget considerations between these two lenses. While the Lightdow lens is a manual focus option ideal for long-range photography, the Meike lens offers automatic focus capabilities with a large aperture for portrait work.

Design and Build Quality

The Lightdow lens features a fully manual focus design, which can be beneficial for photographers who prefer to have complete control over their settings. This lens is designed for Canon EOS cameras and has a robust build that emphasizes durability. In contrast, the Meike lens has a compact and lightweight construction, designed for Sony E mount cameras. Its updated optical design includes multi-coated elements to minimize flare and ghosting, ensuring high-quality image output.

Focal Length and Aperture

With a focal length range of 420-800mm, the Lightdow lens excels in capturing distant subjects, making it suitable for wildlife and landscape photography. Its maximum aperture of F8.3 at 420mm narrows down to F16 at 800mm, which limits its performance in low-light conditions. The Meike lens, on the other hand, has a fixed focal length of 85mm and a much larger aperture of F1.8, which is ideal for portrait photography and allows for beautiful bokeh effects. The significant difference in aperture and focal length dictates the type of photography each lens is best suited for.

Focus Mechanism

The Lightdow lens operates entirely on manual focus, requiring photographers to adjust settings manually to achieve the desired shot. This can be both a challenge and a creative opportunity, allowing for precise focus control. Conversely, the Meike lens is equipped with a STM stepping motor for silent and smooth autofocus, significantly enhancing usability for quick shooting scenarios. This automatic focus feature makes the Meike lens particularly appealing to those who prioritize convenience and efficiency in their photography.

Compatibility with Cameras

The Lightdow lens is designed for a wide range of Canon cameras, including models such as the Rebel T8i, 90D, and even professional-grade options like the 5D Mark IV and 1D X III. This broad compatibility makes it a versatile choice for Canon users. On the other hand, the Meike lens is tailored for Sony E mount mirrorless cameras, including the A7 series, which are popular among portrait photographers. The choice between these lenses largely depends on your camera system, as each lens is specifically optimized for different brands.

Image Quality

The Lightdow lens is equipped to capture detailed images of distant subjects, making it particularly effective for nature and architectural photography. However, its manual focus design may be a limiting factor for those not accustomed to such settings. The Meike lens, with its optimized optical design and multi-coated elements, promises high-resolution 8K image quality and excellent color reproduction, making it a strong contender for portrait and architectural photography. Its capability to handle challenging lighting conditions due to the F1.8 aperture is a significant advantage.

Price Considerations

At $65.69, the Lightdow lens is about 71% cheaper than the Meike lens, which costs $229.99. This price difference can be a decisive factor for beginner photographers or those on a tight budget. While the Lightdow lens offers an affordable entry point into telephoto photography, the Meike lens justifies its higher price with advanced features such as autofocus and superior optical quality, catering to a more professional market.

Which should you buy?

Choosing between the EF/EF-S 420-800mm F8.3 Telephoto Zoom Lens and the Meike 85mm F1.8 SE Mark II ultimately depends on your specific photography needs and budget. If you are a Canon user looking for an economical telephoto option for wildlife or landscape photography, the Lightdow lens is a solid choice. However, if you prefer shooting portraits or require an auto-focusing lens with high image quality for your Sony camera, the Meike lens is worth the investment. Each lens serves distinct purposes, making your selection crucial to achieving your photographic goals.