Laowa vs Meike

Overview of the Laowa 12mm f/2.8 Lite and Meike 85mm F1.8 SE Mark II

The Laowa 12mm f/2.8 Lite and Meike 85mm F1.8 SE Mark II are two impressive camera lenses designed for different photography needs. The Laowa lens, priced at $699.00, is tailored for ultra-wide-angle photography, while the Meike lens, considerably cheaper at $229.99, specializes in medium telephoto applications. The choice between these two will largely depend on the type of photography you pursue—landscapes and architecture or portraits and close-ups.

Design and Build Quality

The Laowa 12mm f/2.8 Lite boasts a compact design weighing only 377g, making it portable for extended shooting sessions. In contrast, the Meike 85mm F1.8 SE Mark II is also lightweight due to its re-optimized optical design, though specific weight details are not provided. Both lenses are constructed with high-quality glass elements to enhance optical performance. The Laowa lens features a 5-blade or 14-blade aperture design, allowing for distinct sunstars or smooth bokeh, respectively. The Meike lens, meanwhile, utilizes 11 diaphragm blades, creating beautiful bokeh effects ideal for portraiture.

Focal Length and Versatility

The Laowa 12mm f/2.8 Lite offers an expansive 122° field of view, making it particularly versatile for wide-angle photography. This lens excels in capturing expansive landscapes and architectural details with virtually zero distortion. Conversely, the Meike 85mm F1.8 SE Mark II has a standard 85mm focal length that is often favored for portrait, architectural, and landscape photography. This lens provides a more intimate perspective, ideal for capturing subjects with beautiful background blur. Each lens serves a specific purpose; your choice should align with your primary photography focus.

Aperture and Low-Light Performance

The Laowa 12mm f/2.8 Lite features a bright f/2.8 maximum aperture, which is beneficial for low-light conditions and creative depth control. This aperture allows photographers to achieve a shallow depth of field despite its ultra-wide nature. On the other hand, the Meike 85mm F1.8 SE Mark II shines with its even larger f/1.8 aperture, allowing for exceptional low-light performance and stunning bokeh. For those who often shoot in dimly lit environments, the Meike could provide a significant advantage, making it about 36% faster in terms of maximum aperture compared to the Laowa.

Image Quality and Optical Performance

The Laowa 12mm f/2.8 Lite is engineered with 16 elements in 9 groups, ensuring exceptional image quality with minimal distortion, a critical factor for landscape and architectural photography. The Meike 85mm F1.8 SE Mark II, constructed with 11 elements in 7 groups, achieves high resolution up to 8K, making it suitable for both portraiture and architectural work. Each lens incorporates multi-coated elements to suppress flare and ghosting. For photographers seeking sharpness and clarity, both lenses provide high optical performance, but the application will dictate which lens excels in image quality.

Autofocus and Usability

The Laowa 12mm f/2.8 Lite features autofocus capabilities that enhance usability in dynamic shooting situations. Its close focusing distance of 14mm makes it particularly effective for both wide-angle and close-up shots. The Meike 85mm F1.8 SE Mark II also boasts autofocus, utilizing an STM stepping motor for silent and smooth focusing. Additionally, it features a micro Type-C firmware upgrade interface, allowing users to update the lens online. This modern usability can be particularly useful for those who prioritize seamless integration with their camera systems.

Price Comparison

At $699.00, the Laowa 12mm f/2.8 Lite is significantly more expensive than the Meike 85mm F1.8 SE Mark II, which retails for $229.99. This price difference of about 69% makes the Meike a more accessible option for photographers on a budget. However, the Laowa lens's advanced features and capabilities might justify its higher price for those who require ultra-wide-angle functionality. Ultimately, the decision will hinge on your budget and the specific features you need for your photography.

Which should you buy?

In conclusion, the choice between the Laowa 12mm f/2.8 Lite and the Meike 85mm F1.8 SE Mark II should be driven by your photographic style. If you focus on landscapes and architecture, the Laowa offers unparalleled wide-angle performance and low distortion. However, if you lean towards portrait and medium telephoto photography, the Meike provides excellent optical quality at a significantly lower price. Each lens has its strengths, and your final decision should align with your specific photography needs and budget constraints.