Meike vs Sigma

Overview of the Meike 85mm F1.8 SE Mark II and Sigma 16mm f/1.4 DC DN

The Meike 85mm F1.8 SE Mark II is priced at $229.99, while the Sigma 16mm f/1.4 DC DN is substantially higher at $539.00, making the Meike lens about 57% cheaper. This significant price difference makes the Meike an attractive option for photographers seeking quality without breaking the bank. Both lenses cater to different photography needs, with the Meike designed primarily for portraiture and the Sigma lens aimed at landscape and event photography.

Compatibility

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, 6D, and Rebel series. In contrast, the Sigma 16mm f/1.4 DC DN is specifically designed for Sony E mount cameras. This distinction in compatibility means that your choice may largely depend on the camera system you already own, as each lens is tailored to a specific brand's ecosystem.

Focal Length and Aperture

The Meike lens features an 85mm focal length, which is ideal for portrait photography, allowing for beautiful bokeh effects due to its wide f/1.8 aperture. The Sigma lens, on the other hand, has a 16mm focal length, making it more suited for wide-angle shots, perfect for event and nature photography. The Sigma also boasts a larger f/1.4 aperture, which enhances its low-light performance, providing sharper images in dim conditions. This difference in focal length and aperture demonstrates how each lens serves distinct photographic styles.

Build Quality and Design

While both lenses feature advanced optical designs, their build qualities cater to different shooting environments. The Meike 85mm lens is constructed with 11 elements in 7 groups, emphasizing high resolution and sharpness, which is essential for portraiture. The Sigma 16mm lens includes 16 elements in 13 groups and offers a dust- and splash-proof design, making it more durable for outdoor photography. This robustness is particularly beneficial for photographers who often shoot in unpredictable weather conditions.

Autofocus Performance

The Meike 85mm F1.8 SE Mark II is equipped with an STM stepping motor, ensuring silent and smooth autofocus, which is crucial for capturing portraits without distracting subjects. The Sigma 16mm f/1.4 also features a stepping motor, fully accommodating Fast Hybrid AF for seamless focusing during video shooting. Both lenses excel in autofocus performance, but the Meike lens may have a slight edge in portrait settings due to its silent operation.

Minimum Focusing Distance

The Meike lens has a minimum focusing distance of 0.65 meters, which allows photographers to capture close-up portraits with great detail. In contrast, the Sigma 16mm lens has a minimum focusing distance of 9.8 inches, facilitating a more versatile shooting range, especially for wide-angle photography. This difference highlights the specialized nature of each lens, with the Meike being tailored for detailed portraits while the Sigma excels in broader scenes.

Intended Use Cases

For photographers focused on portraiture, the Meike 85mm F1.8 SE Mark II stands out with its ideal focal length and exceptional bokeh capabilities. Its specifications make it a strong contender for anyone looking to capture stunning portraits. On the other hand, the Sigma 16mm f/1.4 DC DN is perfect for those who frequently engage in nature or event photography, offering a wider field of view and excellent low-light performance. Each lens is designed with specific photography scenarios in mind, making them suited for different types of creative expression.

Which should you buy?

Choosing between the Meike 85mm F1.8 SE Mark II and the Sigma 16mm f/1.4 DC DN ultimately boils down to your photographic needs and the camera system you use. If you are looking for an affordable lens for portrait photography with high-resolution capabilities, the Meike lens at $229.99 offers remarkable value. However, if you require a versatile lens for wide-angle shots and improved low-light performance, the Sigma lens at $539.00 might be worth the investment. Each option has its strengths, making them both excellent choices for different applications in photography.