Meike vs AOM Sony SELP1650 16-

Overview of the Meike 85mm F1.8 SE Mark II STM AF and Sony SELP1650 16-50mm OSS Lens

The Meike 85mm F1.8 SE Mark II STM AF is priced at $229.99, while the Sony SELP1650 16-50mm OSS Lens costs $199.96, making the Sony lens about 13% cheaper. Both lenses cater to different photography needs, with the Meike lens designed for portrait photography due to its medium telephoto length and wide aperture, while the Sony lens serves as a versatile zoom option suitable for a variety of shooting conditions.

Build and Design

The Meike 85mm F1.8 SE Mark II STM AF boasts a robust design compatible with Canon EF mount cameras, allowing it to be used with popular models like the 5D and 6D series. Its construction includes 11 elements in 7 groups and features a sleek profile ideal for portraiture. Conversely, the Sony SELP1650 features a retractable design, making it compact and portable, particularly beneficial for travel photography. It also includes a power zoom mechanism, enhancing usability for dynamic shooting scenarios.

Image Quality

The Meike lens is engineered for high-resolution photography, with a maximum magnification of 0.17X and an aperture range of F1.8 to F16, which is particularly advantageous for achieving beautiful bokeh effects. Additionally, the lens supports silent and smooth focusing, thanks to its STM stepping motor. In contrast, the Sony lens features an aperture range of f/3.5-5.6, which is less capable in low-light conditions compared to the Meike. However, it includes Optical SteadyShot image stabilization, which aids in capturing clear images even at slower shutter speeds.

Focal Length Versatility

The Meike 85mm F1.8 SE Mark II is a prime lens, offering a standard 85mm focal length that is ideal for portrait, architectural, and landscape photography. This fixed focal length allows for a sharper image due to fewer optical compromises. On the other hand, the Sony SELP1650 offers a versatile zoom range of 16-50mm, which translates to a 24-75mm equivalent in 35mm terms. This adaptability makes the Sony lens suitable for a wider range of photography styles, from landscapes to portraits, but may sacrifice some sharpness compared to the dedicated prime lens.

Focus and Aperture Performance

The Meike lens features a wide maximum aperture of F1.8, enhancing its ability to perform in low-light environments and create a shallow depth of field. The lens also supports autofocus and electronic aperture adjustment, providing excellent performance in various shooting conditions. In contrast, the Sony lens has a maximum aperture of f/3.5 at its wide end, limiting its low-light capabilities. However, it includes a seven-blade circular diaphragm, which helps create aesthetically pleasing background blur, albeit not as effectively as the Meike lens.

Compatibility and Use Cases

The Meike 85mm F1.8 SE Mark II is designed specifically for Canon EF mount cameras, making it an excellent choice for Canon users looking to enhance their portrait photography. Its minimum focus distance of 0.65m allows for close-up shots, ideal for detailed portrait work. On the other hand, the Sony SELP1650 is compatible with a wide range of Sony E-mount cameras, offering flexibility for users with various models. Its minimum focus distance of 9.8 inches makes it suitable for casual shooting, but it may not deliver the same level of detail for close-up photography as the Meike lens.

Price Comparison

The Meike 85mm F1.8 SE Mark II is priced at $229.99, while the Sony SELP1650 is priced at $199.96, making the Sony lens about $30 cheaper. This price difference may be significant for budget-conscious photographers. However, the Meike lens justifies its higher price through superior optical performance, particularly for portraiture. The choice between the two lenses may ultimately depend on the specific needs and budget of the photographer.

Which should you buy?

Choosing between the Meike 85mm F1.8 SE Mark II STM AF and the Sony SELP1650 16-50mm OSS Lens largely depends on your photography style and needs. If you prioritize portrait photography and require a lens that excels in low-light conditions, the Meike lens is the superior choice, despite its higher price. However, if versatility and a lower price point are more important, the Sony lens offers a great range of functionality for various photography scenarios. Ultimately, both lenses bring their unique strengths to the table, making your specific requirements the deciding factor.