Meike vs Rokinon

Price Comparison

The Meike 85mm F1.8 SE Mark II STM AF is priced at $229.99, while the Rokinon 14mm f/2.8 IF ED Super Lens is slightly more expensive at $231.25. The Meike lens is about $1.26 cheaper than the Rokinon, making it a more budget-friendly option for photographers looking at these two lenses. With a price difference of roughly 0.5%, customers might find the Meike lens to be the better choice if they are looking to save a few dollars while still receiving quality performance.

Focal Length and Perspective

The Meike 85mm offers a standard focal length ideal for portrait photography, while the Rokinon 14mm provides an ultra-wide perspective. The difference in focal lengths creates distinct use cases; the Meike lens is designed for capturing detailed portraits with a beautiful bokeh effect, thanks to its wide f/1.8 aperture. In contrast, the Rokinon lens captures expansive scenes, making it perfect for landscape photography with its 115.7° angle of view. This makes the choice between the two lenses dependent on the type of photography you plan to pursue.

Aperture and Low-Light Performance

The Meike lens features a maximum aperture of f/1.8, which is excellent for low-light conditions and delivering beautiful depth of field. The Rokinon lens, although slightly slower with a maximum aperture of f/2.8, is still optimized for low-light performance, allowing photographers to capture bright images in challenging environments. While both lenses perform well in low light, the Meike lens has the upper hand with its wider aperture, enabling greater creative control and flexibility in various lighting situations.

Build Quality and Design

The Rokinon lens is constructed with 14 elements in 10 groups, ensuring superior image quality and durability for professional use. It weighs 31.7oz and has a robust design suitable for various conditions. The Meike lens, on the other hand, includes 11 elements in 7 groups and features a micro Type-C firmware upgrade interface, which allows for online upgrades. While both lenses boast solid construction, the Rokinon's heavier build may be seen as a disadvantage for photographers prioritizing portability.

Autofocus and Control

The Meike 85mm lens supports autofocus (AF) and features an STM stepping motor for silent and smooth focusing. This is particularly beneficial for videographers who require minimal noise during filming. In contrast, the Rokinon lens offers manual focus control, which some photographers may prefer for achieving precise focus. While the Meike lens provides convenience with autofocus, the Rokinon's manual focus feature allows for greater creative flexibility, especially in challenging shooting conditions.

Image Quality and Sharpness

When it comes to image quality, both lenses deliver impressive results. The Meike lens is designed for high-resolution 8K photography with a maximum magnification of 0.17X, making it suitable for capturing fine details in portraits. Conversely, the Rokinon lens excels in providing exceptional sharpness and clarity across the entire frame, making it ideal for landscapes and astrophotography. The Rokinon's advanced optical design minimizes distortion and aberrations, ensuring high-quality images with accurate color rendition. Depending on your photography style, one may outperform the other in specific scenarios.

Compatibility and Camera Mounts

Both lenses are compatible with Canon EF mount cameras, including popular models like the Canon EOS 5D and 6D series. The Meike lens can work seamlessly with a wide range of Canon DSLRs, making it a versatile addition to many photographers' kits. Meanwhile, the Rokinon lens also supports various mounts, including Nikon, Sony, and Micro Four Thirds. If you plan to use the lens across multiple camera systems, the Rokinon may offer more flexibility in this regard.

Which should you buy?

Ultimately, the choice between the Meike 85mm F1.8 SE Mark II STM AF and the Rokinon 14mm f/2.8 IF ED Super Lens hinges on your specific photographic needs. If you are focused on portrait photography with an emphasis on low-light performance and bokeh effects, the Meike lens is the better option due to its wider aperture and excellent compatibility with Canon DSLRs. However, if you are a landscape or astrophotography enthusiast seeking an ultra-wide perspective, the Rokinon lens stands out with its expansive angle of view and superior image quality. Consider your primary photography style and select the lens that best aligns with your creative vision.