Meike vs Sony - FE

Overview

When comparing the Meike 85mm F1.8 SE Mark II STM AF and the Sony FE 50mm F1.8, the most striking difference is their focal lengths and intended uses. The Meike lens is priced at $229.99, while the Sony lens costs $248.00, making the Meike lens about 7% cheaper. This price difference, along with their unique features, makes this comparison particularly interesting for photographers looking for a lens that suits their style.

Focal Length and Versatility

The Meike 85mm F1.8 SE Mark II is designed primarily for portrait photography, offering a standard 85mm focal length that excels in capturing subjects with beautiful bokeh. In contrast, the Sony FE 50mm F1.8 provides a focal length that is versatile for various types of photography, including portraits and street photography. The ability of the Meike to create a more pronounced bokeh effect is enhanced by its wide aperture, making it ideal for isolating subjects against a blurred background.

Aperture and Low Light Performance

Both lenses feature a wide maximum aperture, with the Meike lens at F1.8 and the Sony lens also at F1.8. This allows both lenses to perform well in low light conditions. However, the Meike lens boasts 11 diaphragm blades, which contribute to a more aesthetically pleasing bokeh compared to the 7-blade circular aperture of the Sony lens. This characteristic may appeal to photographers who prioritize background quality in their portrait shots.

Compatibility and Camera Mounts

The Meike 85mm lens is specifically designed for Canon EF Mount cameras, making it compatible with a wide range of Canon DSLR models, including the Canon EOS 5D and 6D series. On the other hand, the Sony lens is compatible with full-frame E-mount cameras, which are popular among Sony users. The unique compatibility of each lens means that your camera choice will heavily influence which lens is the better option for you.

Build Quality and Design

In terms of design, the Meike lens is constructed with 11 elements in 7 groups, which is engineered for high resolution and sharpness, even at 8K quality. This ensures that images are crisp and clear, making it a solid choice for professional use. The Sony lens also features an aspherical element designed to control aberrations and distortions, ensuring impressive image quality in a compact and lightweight package. Both lenses offer solid build quality, but the Meike lens may appeal more to those seeking durability and performance in rigorous shooting conditions.

Autofocus and Usability

The Meike 85mm lens is equipped with an STM stepping motor, which provides silent and smooth focusing, enhancing the overall user experience, especially for videographers. Additionally, it supports electronic aperture adjustment and EXIF data transmission. The Sony lens, while also effective, does not emphasize silent focus in its features. This could be a significant factor for those who frequently shoot video or in quiet settings.

Price Comparison

The Meike lens is priced at $229.99, making it a budget-friendly option compared to the Sony lens, which retails for $248.00. This difference of about $18 is noteworthy, especially for budding photographers or those looking to expand their lens collection without breaking the bank. The slightly lower price of the Meike lens does not compromise on quality, making it an attractive alternative.

Customer Reception and Popularity

While specific sales ranks for these lenses are not provided, the Meike lens has been recognized for its performance and affordability in the portrait lens category. Customer feedback often highlights its excellent value for money. Meanwhile, the Sony lens is well-regarded among Sony users for its compact design and versatile usage. These factors can influence purchasing decisions, particularly for photographers loyal to a specific brand.

Which should you buy?

In conclusion, choosing between the Meike 85mm F1.8 SE Mark II and the Sony FE 50mm F1.8 largely depends on your specific photography needs and camera compatibility. If you are focused on portrait photography and value beautiful bokeh, the Meike lens is an excellent choice, especially given its lower price. Conversely, if you seek versatility and compatibility with Sony's E-mount system, the Sony lens may be the better option. Ultimately, both lenses offer unique strengths that cater to different styles and preferences, ensuring that photographers can find the right fit for their creative vision.