Meike vs YNLENS YONGNUO YN50mm

Introduction to the Lenses

When comparing the Meike 85mm F1.8 SE Mark II STM AF lens and the YONGNUO YN50mm 50mm f/1.8 lens, it's crucial to consider their intended uses and unique features. The Meike lens is built for portrait and architectural photography with its 85mm focal length, while the YONGNUO lens offers versatility in street photography and low-light situations with its 50mm focal length. Understanding these differences can help photographers choose the right tool for their creative vision.

Price Comparison

The Meike lens is priced at $229.99, whereas the YONGNUO lens is significantly cheaper at $102.00, making it about 56% less expensive. This notable price difference can be a deciding factor for budget-conscious photographers or those just starting. While the Meike lens boasts advanced features such as a wider aperture and STM focusing technology, the lower price of the YONGNUO lens may appeal to those who need a reliable standard lens without breaking the bank.

Focal Length and Versatility

The Meike 85mm offers a standard focal length ideal for portrait photography, whereas the YONGNUO 50mm lens serves as a versatile option for different photography styles, including street and documentary photography. The difference in focal length means that the Meike lens provides a more compressed perspective, which is excellent for isolating subjects, while the YONGNUO lens restores the human eye's perspective, making it suitable for capturing authentic moments. Photographers should consider their primary photography needs when selecting between these two options.

Aperture and Low-Light Performance

The Meike lens features a maximum aperture of f/1.8, allowing for beautiful bokeh effects and excellent low-light performance. On the other hand, the YONGNUO lens also has a maximum aperture of f/1.8, which enables impressive subject isolation and low-light capabilities. Both lenses utilize their wide apertures to create stunning background blur, but the YONGNUO lens offers a unique 7-blade circular aperture that produces 14-point starburst effects, making it a strong contender for artistic photography.

Build Quality and Design

In terms of build quality, the Meike lens is designed with 11 elements in 7 groups, ensuring high-resolution performance. It includes features like a micro Type-C firmware upgrade interface and a stepping motor for silent focusing, making it suitable for various shooting conditions. The YONGNUO lens, while having a simpler optical structure of 6 elements in 5 groups, is constructed with high-precision metal and gold-plated contacts, enhancing durability. Both lenses prioritize portability, but the YONGNUO lens is notably lightweight at approximately 203g, making it perfect for on-the-go photography.

Autofocus and Manual Control

The Meike lens supports autofocus with electronic aperture adjustment and EXIF information transmission, providing a smooth and efficient shooting experience. The inclusion of STM technology ensures silent focusing, which is advantageous for capturing candid moments. In contrast, the YONGNUO lens features a face and eye recognition function, allowing for automatic focus and exposure settings. It also offers manual switching for intuitive aperture control, giving photographers the flexibility to adjust depth of field as desired. Both lenses deliver effective autofocus systems, but the choice may depend on whether a photographer prefers automatic settings or manual adjustments.

Compatibility with Camera Systems

The compatibility of each lens is essential for photographers. The Meike 85mm is designed specifically for Canon EF mount cameras, including models like the 5D, 6D, and various Rebel models. This makes it a great choice for Canon users looking for a dedicated portrait lens. Conversely, the YONGNUO 50mm is compatible with a wide range of Nikon F-mount cameras, including models from the D3000 to the D800 series. Photographers should ensure their chosen lens matches their camera system to maximize functionality.

Which should you buy?

In conclusion, choosing between the Meike 85mm F1.8 SE Mark II STM AF lens and the YONGNUO YN50mm 50mm f/1.8 lens largely depends on your specific photography needs and budget. If you are focused on portrait photography and can invest in a higher-priced lens with advanced features, the Meike lens would be the ideal choice. However, if you are looking for an affordable, versatile lens for general photography with impressive low-light performance, the YONGNUO lens offers significant value at about 56% less the cost.