Meike vs YONGNUO YN50mm F1.8 Lens Large Aperture Auto Focus

Overview of the Meike 85mm F1.8 SE Mark II and YONGNUO YN50mm F1.8

The Meike 85mm F1.8 SE Mark II is a medium telephoto lens designed for portrait photography, while the YONGNUO YN50mm F1.8 is a versatile 50mm lens suitable for a variety of shooting scenarios. The price difference between these two lenses is significant, with the Meike priced at $229.99 and the YONGNUO at $82.00, making the YONGNUO about 64% cheaper.

Both lenses are compatible with Canon EF mount cameras, but they serve different purposes and offer unique features that cater to different types of photographers. Understanding these differences is key to making an informed decision.

Build Quality and Design

The Meike 85mm F1.8 SE Mark II boasts a robust design, suitable for serious photographers seeking high-quality results. Constructed with 11 elements in 7 groups, this lens promises sharp images with high resolution, even at 8K quality. In comparison, the YONGNUO YN50mm F1.8 features a simpler design, consisting of 5 groups and 6 slices, which may not offer the same level of optical quality.

Both lenses support auto focus, but the Meike includes advanced features like a firmware upgrade interface, enhancing its longevity and adaptability. The YONGNUO, while more basic, offers a focus distance indicator, which can be quite helpful for beginners.

Focal Length and Versatility

The focal length of a lens greatly influences its usage. The Meike has an 85mm focal length, which is ideal for portrait, architectural, and landscape photography, providing a lovely compression and background blur. On the other hand, the YONGNUO has a standard 50mm focal length, which is often referred to as the "nifty fifty." This makes it a versatile option for various shooting scenarios, from portraits to street photography.

In essence, if your primary focus is on portrait work, the Meike might be the better choice. However, for general photography needs, the YONGNUO offers more flexibility at a lower price.

Aperture and Low-Light Performance

Aperture plays a crucial role in determining a lens's performance in low-light conditions. Both the Meike and YONGNUO feature a large maximum aperture of F1.8, allowing for excellent low-light capabilities and beautiful bokeh effects. However, the Meike has 11 diaphragm blades compared to the YONGNUO's standard design, which could translate to more aesthetically pleasing out-of-focus areas in your images.

In practical terms, both lenses will perform admirably in dim environments, but the Meike may edge out the YONGNUO when it comes to achieving that creamy background blur that portrait photographers often seek.

Autofocus System

The autofocus system is another significant differentiator. The Meike 85mm is equipped with an STM stepping motor, which provides silent and smooth focusing—ideal for video work or quiet environments. The YONGNUO also supports auto focus but does not specify the type of motor used, which may imply a more traditional and possibly noisier focusing mechanism.

For photographers who value discreet operation, especially in wedding or event photography, the Meike's autofocus system offers a clear advantage.

Price Comparison

When considering price, the YONGNUO YN50mm F1.8 is significantly more affordable, retailing at $82.00 compared to the Meike's $229.99. This price difference of $147.99 makes the YONGNUO an attractive option for budget-conscious photographers or those just starting who may not want to invest heavily in gear initially.

However, the Meike's higher price reflects its advanced features, build quality, and specialized design for portraiture, making it worth the investment for those who are serious about their photography.

Compatibility and Camera Support

Both lenses are compatible with a wide range of Canon EF mount cameras, including popular models like the 5D series and various Rebel models. The Meike specifically mentions compatibility with cameras such as the T8i, T7, and 5D Mark IV, among others, making it a viable option for professional setups.

The YONGNUO also supports full-frame and APS-C format cameras, making it a flexible choice for various Canon users. This compatibility is essential for photographers who might upgrade their camera bodies in the future.

Which should you buy?

The choice between the Meike 85mm F1.8 SE Mark II and the YONGNUO YN50mm F1.8 ultimately depends on your photography needs and budget. If you are focused on portrait photography and require high-quality optics with advanced features, the Meike is the superior choice, despite its higher price. Conversely, if you are looking for an affordable, versatile lens for everyday photography, the YONGNUO offers excellent value at a significantly lower cost.