Meike vs Sony E 55-

Overview of the Meike 85mm F1.8 SE Mark II and Sony E 55-210mm

The Meike 85mm F1.8 SE Mark II is priced at $229.99, making it about 30% cheaper than the Sony E 55-210mm, which retails for $328.00. This significant price difference could influence a buyer's choice depending on their budget and needs. The Meike lens is a prime lens designed for portrait photography with a wide aperture of F1.8, while the Sony lens offers a versatile zoom range, making it suitable for a variety of shooting scenarios.

Image Quality and Performance

When it comes to image quality, the Meike 85mm F1.8 SE Mark II is designed to deliver high-resolution images, suitable for up to 8K quality. It features 11 diaphragm blades that contribute to beautiful bokeh effects, ideal for portraiture and architectural photography. In contrast, the Sony E 55-210mm offers a maximum magnification of 0.23x and an angle of view that ranges from 28.2° to 7.8° on APS-C cameras. While both lenses are capable of producing sharp images, the Meike may provide more artistic control due to its fixed focal length and wider aperture.

Compatibility and Mounting

The Meike lens is compatible with a variety of Canon EF mount cameras, including popular models like the 5D and 6D series. This broad compatibility ensures that many Canon users can take advantage of its features. On the other hand, the Sony E 55-210mm is specifically designed for Sony E-mount cameras. This means that you’ll need to consider your camera system when making a choice, as each lens caters to a different brand ecosystem.

Autofocus and Usability

The Meike 85mm F1.8 SE Mark II comes equipped with a STM stepping motor, allowing for silent and smooth autofocus operation. This feature is particularly beneficial for video recording, as it minimizes distracting noise. Conversely, the Sony E 55-210mm also boasts internal focusing technology, which supports quiet and smooth autofocus, making it a good choice for video as well. However, the Sony lens includes a direct manual focus option, providing versatility for users who prefer manual adjustments during autofocus.

Aperture and Depth of Field

The Meike lens has a maximum aperture of F1.8, allowing for excellent low-light performance and a shallow depth of field, which is ideal for isolating subjects in portrait photography. The Sony lens, with a variable aperture ranging from F4.5 to F6.3, may not perform as well in low-light conditions compared to the Meike. The difference in aperture size significantly affects the kind of creative shots each lens can produce, with the Meike offering more artistic flexibility.

Build Quality and Design

Both the Meike 85mm and the Sony E 55-210mm have sturdy designs, but the Sony model features an elegant aluminum alloy exterior that enhances its overall quality and durability. The Meike lens is designed with a focus on functionality and performance, including a micro Type-C firmware upgrade interface that allows users to upgrade the lens online. This feature may appeal to tech-savvy photographers who want to keep their gear up to date.

Price and Value

At $229.99, the Meike 85mm F1.8 SE Mark II is more budget-friendly compared to the Sony E 55-210mm, which is priced at $328.00. This makes the Meike lens about 30% cheaper, presenting a compelling value proposition for photographers who primarily shoot portraits or need a high-quality lens for low-light situations. The price difference could be a deciding factor, especially for those looking to maximize their investment in photography gear.

Which should you buy?

Ultimately, the choice between the Meike 85mm F1.8 SE Mark II and the Sony E 55-210mm depends on your specific photographic needs and budget. If you are a portrait photographer looking for a lens that excels in low light and provides beautiful bokeh, the Meike lens is a strong contender at a lower price point. However, if you require versatility for various shooting scenarios, particularly in sports or nature photography, the Sony lens offers a wider zoom range and additional features like image stabilization. Each lens has its unique strengths, making the best choice contingent on your individual preferences and shooting style.