Fujifilm Fujinon XF35mmF2 R WR - Black vs Meike

Price Comparison

The Fujinon XF35mmF2 R WR is priced at $449.00, while the Meike 85mm F1.8 SE Mark II is significantly cheaper at $229.99. This places the Meike lens about 49% less expensive than its Fujifilm counterpart. For photographers on a budget or those looking to save, the Meike offers a more accessible entry point without sacrificing essential features.

Lens Type and Focal Length

The Fujinon XF35mmF2 R WR is a prime lens with a focal length of 35mm, equivalent to 53mm in 35mm format. This makes it ideal for street photography and general-purpose shooting. On the other hand, the Meike 85mm F1.8 SE Mark II is a medium telephoto lens, specifically suited for portrait photography due to its 85mm focal length. This difference in focal length caters to different photographic styles, with the Fujinon excelling in versatility and the Meike specializing in portraits.

Aperture and Bokeh Quality

The Fujinon lens features a maximum aperture of F2.0, allowing for great low-light performance and depth of field control. It boasts a 9-blade aperture that produces smooth and circular bokeh, enhancing the aesthetic quality of out-of-focus areas. In contrast, the Meike lens has a wider maximum aperture of F1.8 and uses 11 diaphragm blades, which also contributes to beautiful bokeh effects. While both lenses create pleasing background blur, the Meike might provide a slight edge in terms of bokeh quality due to its design.

Autofocus and Focusing Speed

The Fujinon XF35mmF2 R WR is equipped with an inner focus system that achieves autofocus in just 0.08 seconds. This rapid focusing speed, coupled with its nearly silent operation, makes it a great choice for stealthy photographers. Conversely, the Meike 85mm F1.8 SE Mark II utilizes a stepping motor (STM) for autofocus, which is designed to be silent and smooth but lacks specific speed metrics. While the Meike also supports electronic aperture adjustment and EXIF information transmission, the Fujinon clearly leads in autofocus speed.

Weather Resistance

Fujifilm’s XF35mmF2 R WR is built with a weather-resistant design that includes 8 sealing points, allowing operation in conditions as low as 14 degrees Fahrenheit. This makes it an excellent option for outdoor photographers who often work in various weather conditions. Meanwhile, the Meike lens does not specify any weather sealing features. For those who prioritize durability and reliability in challenging environments, the Fujinon lens stands out as the better choice.

Compatibility and Use Cases

The Fujinon XF35mmF2 R WR is versatile and can be used with various Fujifilm X-series cameras, making it a great all-around lens for photographers. The Meike 85mm F1.8 SE Mark II is designed specifically for Canon EF mount cameras, including popular models like the 5D and 6D series. This specialization means that while the Meike lens excels in portrait photography, it is limited to Canon users, which could restrict its appeal to photographers with different camera systems.

Image Quality and Resolution

Both lenses promise high-quality images, but their designs cater to slightly different needs. The Fujinon XF35mmF2 R WR is known for delivering sharp images with rich bokeh, ideal for a variety of shooting scenarios. The Meike 85mm F1.8 SE Mark II claims to provide high resolution, reportedly capable of 8K quality. However, the absence of detailed image quality metrics makes it challenging to compare directly. While both lenses aim for superior image quality, the Fujinon has a more established reputation in this area.

Which should you buy?

Choosing between the Fujinon XF35mmF2 R WR and the Meike 85mm F1.8 SE Mark II boils down to your specific needs and budget. The Fujinon lens is a versatile, weather-resistant option with rapid autofocus and excellent image quality, making it a solid choice for general photography. However, at nearly 49% less expensive, the Meike lens offers a fantastic value, particularly for portrait photographers using Canon cameras. If you prioritize price and shooting portraits, the Meike is your best bet. For those who need a reliable, all-around lens that performs well in various conditions, the Fujinon is worth the investment.