Meike vs Sony FE

Overview of the Meike 85mm F1.8 SE Mark II and Sony FE 35mm f/1.8 Lens

When comparing the Meike 85mm F1.8 SE Mark II and the Sony FE 35mm f/1.8 lens, the most striking difference is their focal lengths and intended applications. The Meike lens is designed for portrait photography with its longer focal length, while the Sony lens offers versatility for a range of photography styles, including landscapes and street photography. The Meike is priced at $229.99, making it about 71% cheaper than the Sony lens, which retails at $798.00.

Focal Length and Versatility

The focal length significantly influences the types of photography each lens excels in. The Meike 85mm F1.8 is particularly well-suited for portrait photography, offering a standard 85mm focal length that creates flattering images with beautiful background blur. In contrast, the Sony FE 35mm f/1.8 provides a wider field of view, making it more versatile for various photography scenarios, including landscapes and environmental portraits. This means that while the Meike lens shines in specific settings, the Sony lens can adapt to a broader range of situations.

Aperture and Bokeh

Both lenses feature a wide maximum aperture that allows for excellent low-light performance and creative depth of field. The Meike lens boasts an aperture range from F1.8 to F16, featuring 11 diaphragm blades that contribute to stunning bokeh effects. This is particularly beneficial for portrait photographers seeking to isolate subjects against softly blurred backgrounds. Meanwhile, the Sony lens also has a maximum aperture of F1.8 but employs a 9-blade circular aperture, which enhances its bokeh quality as well. Both lenses excel in producing aesthetically pleasing images, yet the Meike’s additional blades could provide a slight edge in bokeh quality.

Build Quality and Portability

When it comes to build quality and portability, the Sony FE 35mm f/1.8 lens is designed to be compact and lightweight, setting a new standard for portability. This aspect makes it ideal for photographers who are frequently on the go. The Meike 85mm, while not excessively heavy, is bulkier due to its longer focal length. Therefore, those prioritizing a light kit might find the Sony lens more appealing, particularly for travel or urban photography.

Autofocus Performance

Autofocus capability is essential for modern photographers, and both lenses have unique systems. The Meike 85mm is equipped with a stepping motor (STM) for silent and smooth focusing, which is advantageous in situations where noise could be a concern, such as weddings or events. The Sony FE 35mm also features fast, precise, and quiet linear-motor autofocus, ensuring quick and accurate focusing. This makes both lenses suitable for dynamic environments, though the choice may depend on the specific needs of the user regarding focusing speed and noise.

Minimum Focus Distance

The minimum focus distance is a critical specification that affects how close you can get to your subject while maintaining focus. The Meike 85mm has a minimum focus distance of 0.65 meters, allowing for decent close-up shots, particularly in portraiture. On the other hand, the Sony FE 35mm lens allows you to get as close as 8.66 inches (approximately 0.22 meters), enabling more intimate close-ups and detail shots. This difference can be significant for photographers looking to capture fine details or textures in their images.

Price Comparison

Price is a decisive factor when choosing between the Meike 85mm F1.8 SE Mark II and the Sony FE 35mm f/1.8. The Meike lens is priced at $229.99, in stark contrast to the Sony lens, which costs $798.00. This price disparity of about $568.01 makes the Meike lens about 71% cheaper, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious photographers or those just starting in portrait photography. However, the higher cost of the Sony lens may reflect its brand reputation and versatility, which some users might find worth the investment.

Which should you buy?

Ultimately, the choice between the Meike 85mm F1.8 SE Mark II and the Sony FE 35mm f/1.8 lens depends on your specific photography needs. If you are primarily focused on portrait photography and seek a budget-friendly option, the Meike lens is an excellent choice with its exceptional bokeh capabilities and solid performance. Conversely, if you require versatility for various styles of photography and prefer a compact design, the Sony lens is worth the higher investment. Each lens has its strengths, and your decision should align with your photographic goals and budget.