Meike vs Tamron 70-

Overview of the Meike 85mm F1.8 SE Mark II and Tamron 70-180mm F/2.8 G2

The Meike 85mm F1.8 SE Mark II and the Tamron 70-180mm F/2.8 G2 are two standout lenses designed for different types of photography. The Meike 85mm lens, priced at $229.99, is ideal for portraits, offering a fixed focal length with a wide aperture for excellent bokeh. In contrast, the Tamron 70-180mm lens, priced at $999.00, provides a versatile zoom range and a constant f/2.8 aperture, suitable for a broader range of subjects, including wildlife and sports.

Design and Build Quality

The Meike 85mm lens is designed to be compatible with Canon EF mount cameras, making it accessible for Canon users. It features a construction of 11 elements in 7 groups, ensuring sharp and high-resolution images. On the other hand, the Tamron 70-180mm lens is designed for Sony E-mount full frame mirrorless cameras and boasts a moisture-resistant construction and a fluorine coating for added durability. The design of the Tamron lens, with a zoom lock switch, enhances its usability in various shooting conditions, making it well-suited for outdoor photography.

Autofocus Performance

In terms of autofocus, the Meike 85mm lens utilizes an STM stepping motor for silent and smooth focusing. This is particularly beneficial for portrait photography where noise can be disruptive. The Tamron 70-180mm lens, however, is equipped with a VXD (Voice-coil eXtreme-torque Drive) mechanism, offering high-speed and high-precision autofocus. This makes it more effective for capturing fast-moving subjects, which is a significant advantage for those interested in sports or wildlife photography.

Aperture and Low Light Performance

The Meike 85mm lens features a wide f/1.8 aperture, allowing for excellent low-light performance and beautiful bokeh effects, ideal for portrait photography. Its aperture range extends from f/1.8 to f/16, providing versatility for different lighting conditions. Conversely, the Tamron lens has a constant f/2.8 aperture throughout its zoom range, which is impressive for a zoom lens. While it may not be as wide as the Meike's aperture, the f/2.8 still offers solid performance in low-light situations, especially for those needing flexibility in focal lengths.

Minimum Focus Distance

The Meike 85mm lens has a minimum focus distance of 0.65m, allowing for close-up portrait shots that highlight details. This distance is sufficient for most portrait requirements. The Tamron 70-180mm lens improves upon this with a minimum focus distance of 0.3m at 70mm, enhancing its ability to capture close-up shots at various focal lengths. This feature makes the Tamron lens more versatile for creative compositions, allowing photographers to explore unique perspectives.

Price Comparison

At $229.99, the Meike 85mm lens is significantly more affordable than the Tamron 70-180mm lens, which retails for $999.00. This represents a price difference of about 77%, meaning the Meike lens is a much more budget-friendly option for photographers looking for portrait capabilities without the need for extensive zoom features. On the other hand, the Tamron lens, while more expensive, compensates for its price with advanced features like image stabilization and a broader focal range, catering to more diverse photographic needs.

Use Cases and Versatility

The Meike 85mm lens excels in portrait, architectural, and landscape photography due to its fixed focal length and wide aperture. It is particularly suited for photographers who prioritize image quality and bokeh. In contrast, the Tamron 70-180mm lens is versatile enough for various photography styles, including portraits, sports, and wildlife, thanks to its zoom capabilities and constant aperture. This flexibility makes the Tamron lens an excellent choice for photographers who require a single lens for multiple scenarios.

Which should you buy?

Choosing between the Meike 85mm F1.8 SE Mark II and the Tamron 70-180mm F/2.8 G2 ultimately depends on your photography needs. If you are primarily focused on portraiture and require a high-quality lens without breaking the bank, the Meike lens is a fantastic choice at $229.99. However, if you seek versatility and plan to shoot a variety of subjects, the Tamron lens, despite its higher price of $999.00, offers significant advantages in autofocus performance and focal range.