Meike vs Sony FE

Price Comparison

The Meike 85mm F1.8 SE Mark II STM AF is priced at $229.99, making it significantly more affordable than the Sony FE 16mm f/1.8 G, which retails for $898.00. This price difference of $668.01 means that the Meike lens is about 74% cheaper than its Sony counterpart. For those on a budget or looking for a quality portrait lens without breaking the bank, the Meike offers a compelling option. However, the higher price of the Sony lens reflects its advanced features and brand reputation in the camera lens market.

Focal Length and Use Cases

The Meike 85mm lens is designed with a standard focal length ideal for portrait, architectural, and landscape photography. In contrast, the Sony 16mm lens provides an ultra-wide angle, making it perfect for capturing expansive landscapes, starry skies, and architectural marvels. The 85mm focal length is also suited for creating beautiful bokeh effects thanks to its wide f/1.8 aperture, while the 16mm lens excels in close-up capabilities. The choice between these two lenses largely depends on the intended use: portraiture versus wide-angle photography.

Autofocus and Performance

When it comes to autofocus systems, the Meike 85mm features a stepping motor that ensures smooth and silent focusing. This is advantageous for both photography and videography, where noise can be a concern. The Sony FE 16mm, on the other hand, is equipped with two XD linear motors that provide fast, precise, and quiet autofocus. This feature is particularly beneficial for capturing high-level imagery in dynamic settings. While both lenses support autofocus, the advanced motor technology in the Sony lens may offer improved performance in challenging shooting conditions.

Minimum Focus Distance

The Meike lens has a minimum focus distance of 0.65 meters, allowing photographers to get relatively close to their subjects. In contrast, the Sony lens boasts a much closer minimum focus distance of 0.15 meters for autofocus and 0.13 meters for manual focus. This capability enables the Sony lens to excel in macro photography, allowing for detailed close-ups that the Meike lens cannot achieve. For photographers who often shoot subjects up close, the Sony lens offers a significant advantage.

Build and Design

The Meike 85mm lens is constructed with 11 elements in 7 groups, ensuring high resolution and picture quality. It has a robust build that accommodates its intended uses well. The Sony 16mm lens, weighing just 304 grams (10.8 ounces), is designed to be lightweight and compact, making it easier to handle during long shoots or when mounted on gimbals. This design choice enhances portability and ease of use, especially for travel photography. The choice of build will depend on whether the photographer values portability or robust construction more.

Compatibility

Compatibility is another crucial factor when choosing between these two lenses. The Meike 85mm is specifically designed for Canon EF mount cameras, making it a great fit for users of Canon's extensive range of DSLRs. In contrast, the Sony FE 16mm is compatible with Sony's full-frame E-mount cameras, appealing to a different user base. If you already own a camera from one of these brands, your choice would largely depend on your existing equipment, as neither lens is compatible with the other's system.

Image Quality and Features

Both lenses promise high-resolution images but deliver differently due to their specific designs. The Meike lens is designed to produce sharp images with beautiful bokeh effects, thanks to its 11 diaphragm blades. The Sony lens, with its two AA (Advanced Aspherical) elements, minimizes field curvature and astigmatism, resulting in stunning resolution. Additionally, the Sony lens accepts standard 67 mm filters, making it adaptable for various photography styles. If image quality is paramount, the choice may lean toward the Sony lens for its advanced optical design.

Which should you buy?

Ultimately, the decision between the Meike 85mm F1.8 SE Mark II STM AF and the Sony FE 16mm f/1.8 G boils down to your specific photography needs and budget. The Meike lens offers incredible value at $229.99, making it a fantastic choice for portrait photographers using Canon cameras. Conversely, for those looking for a lightweight, versatile ultra-wide lens with superior autofocus capabilities and excellent close-up performance, the Sony lens, priced at $898.00, may justify its higher cost. Each lens has its strengths, and the best option will depend on your shooting preferences and the type of photography you enjoy most.