Laowa vs Meike

Overview of the Laowa 10mm f/2.8 Zero-D and Meike 85mm F1.8 SE Mark II

The Laowa 10mm f/2.8 Zero-D is priced at $799.00, while the Meike 85mm F1.8 SE Mark II costs $229.99, making the latter about 71% cheaper. Both lenses serve unique purposes in photography, appealing to different types of photographers. The Laowa lens excels in ultra-wide-angle photography, particularly for landscapes and architecture, while the Meike lens is designed for portraiture and offers a classic 85mm focal length.

Design and Build Quality

The Laowa 10mm f/2.8 Zero-D is designed for portability, measuring just 7cm in length and weighing only 0.93 lb. This makes it ideal for photographers who are always on the move. In contrast, the Meike 85mm F1.8 SE Mark II, while also portable, weighs more due to its longer focal length and additional components. The Laowa's compact design allows for easy handling, especially in tight spaces, whereas the Meike’s build offers a more traditional lens structure that many photographers find comfortable for extended use.

Optical Performance

The Laowa 10mm f/2.8 Zero-D boasts a remarkable 130.4-degree angle of view, which is perfect for capturing expansive landscapes without distortion. It features an advanced optical design with 15 elements in 9 groups, including 2 aspherical elements and 3 ED glasses. This ensures high image sharpness and minimal chromatic aberration. The Meike 85mm F1.8 SE Mark II, on the other hand, is constructed with 11 elements in 7 groups and provides an aperture range from f/1.8 to f/16, making it ideal for achieving beautiful bokeh effects. The optical designs of both lenses cater to their respective shooting styles, with the Laowa focusing on wide-angle clarity and the Meike emphasizing portrait detail.

Focusing Capabilities

The Laowa 10mm f/2.8 Zero-D features a close focusing distance of just 12cm, allowing photographers to create interesting macro-style shots while maintaining the ultra-wide perspective. This is particularly advantageous for capturing intricate details in wide-angle compositions. Meanwhile, the Meike 85mm F1.8 SE Mark II has a minimum focus distance of 0.65m, making it suitable for traditional portraits but less versatile in terms of close-up photography. The different focusing capabilities cater to distinct photographic needs, with the Laowa lens offering more creativity in wide-angle shots.

Compatibility and Usability

The Laowa 10mm f/2.8 Zero-D is specifically designed for Sony FE cameras, providing seamless integration and autofocus capabilities. This makes it user-friendly for those who already own compatible Sony equipment. In contrast, the Meike 85mm F1.8 SE Mark II is compatible with a wide range of Canon EF mount cameras, including popular models like the 5D and 6D series. This broad compatibility opens up options for Canon users but may limit functionality with non-Canon systems. Both lenses provide autofocus features, but the Laowa's integration with Sony cameras may offer a smoother user experience.

Price Comparison

With a price tag of $799.00, the Laowa 10mm f/2.8 Zero-D is a significant investment compared to the Meike 85mm F1.8 SE Mark II, which retails for $229.99. This price difference of about $569.01 reflects the specialized nature of the Laowa lens as a high-quality ultra-wide-angle option. For photographers on a budget or those just starting in portrait photography, the Meike offers a more accessible price point without sacrificing optical performance. The substantial price difference makes the Meike a compelling choice for those who prioritize economy.

Target Audience

The Laowa 10mm f/2.8 Zero-D is tailored for landscape and architectural photographers who require a wide-angle lens with minimal distortion. Its unique features and advanced optics cater to professionals or enthusiasts looking to expand their creative potential. On the other hand, the Meike 85mm F1.8 SE Mark II targets portrait photographers and those interested in medium telephoto capabilities. Its affordability and compatibility with various Canon cameras make it a solid choice for amateurs and professionals alike.

Which should you buy?

Choosing between the Laowa 10mm f/2.8 Zero-D and the Meike 85mm F1.8 SE Mark II ultimately depends on your photographic needs. If you're focused on wide-angle photography and landscapes, the Laowa offers exceptional performance with its ultra-wide angle and low distortion, albeit at a higher price of $799.00. Conversely, if you're looking for an affordable portrait lens with excellent bokeh and versatility, the Meike at $229.99 is an outstanding option. Your choice should reflect the type of photography you are most passionate about, whether it be expansive landscapes or intimate portraits.