Meike vs Nikon AF-S DX NIKKOR

Overview of the Meike 85mm F1.8 SE Mark II STM AF and Nikon AF-S DX NIKKOR 35mm f/1.8G

The Meike 85mm F1.8 SE Mark II STM AF is priced at $229.99, while the Nikon AF-S DX NIKKOR 35mm f/1.8G is about 7% cheaper at $213.31. Both lenses cater to different photography needs and are designed for distinct camera systems, making a direct comparison more about individual preferences than outright superiority.

The Meike lens is tailored for Sony E-mount cameras, providing a longer focal length ideal for portraits and other applications requiring a medium telephoto lens. In contrast, the Nikon lens is designed for Nikon DSLR cameras, particularly excelling in general and landscape photography with its normal angle of view equivalent to a 50mm lens on full-frame cameras.

Design and Build Quality

The design and build quality of a lens are crucial for photographers, affecting both usability and durability. The Meike 85mm features a compact and lightweight design, enhanced by a multi-coated optical system that minimizes flare and ghosting. This lens is built to be user-friendly, with fingerprint- and oil-resistant coatings that facilitate easy cleaning.

Conversely, the Nikon 35mm lens also boasts a lightweight design, measuring approximately 70 x 52.5 millimeters. It utilizes a Silent Wave Motor (SWM) for quiet autofocus and offers a rubber seal to minimize moisture ingress, further enhancing its outdoor usability. Both lenses exhibit quality in their construction, but the Meike’s advanced coatings may provide an edge in maintaining image clarity in challenging lighting conditions.

Optical Performance

Optical performance is paramount when choosing a lens, and both the Meike 85mm and Nikon 35mm deliver impressive results. The Meike lens is engineered with an F1.8 aperture and 11 diaphragm blades, resulting in beautiful bokeh effects that are particularly beneficial for portrait photography. Its design includes 11 elements in 7 groups, ensuring high resolution and sharpness, even at wider apertures.

On the other hand, the Nikon 35mm features a fast f/1.8 aperture, making it suitable for low-light conditions. Its optical design includes 8 elements in 6 groups, and it incorporates aspherical elements to minimize aberrations. While both lenses excel in their respective areas, the Meike may be preferred for specialized portrait work, while the Nikon lens is versatile for various shooting styles.

Autofocus System

The autofocus systems of both lenses are designed to enhance the shooting experience, yet they cater to different camera types. The Meike 85mm is equipped with an STM (Stepping Motor) system, which provides silent and smooth focusing—ideal for videography and discreet shooting situations. Additionally, it supports electronic aperture adjustment and EXIF information transmission.

In contrast, the Nikon 35mm utilizes a Silent Wave Motor, which also ensures quiet and efficient autofocus. It offers two focus modes: M/A for manual override during autofocus and M for complete manual focus control. Both systems are effective, but the choice may come down to whether a shooter prioritizes the features of the Meike’s STM or the dual focus modes of the Nikon.

Compatibility

Compatibility is a significant factor when selecting a lens, and both the Meike 85mm and Nikon 35mm are designed for specific systems. The Meike 85mm is exclusively compatible with Sony E-mount mirrorless cameras, including popular models like the A7R series and A9. This makes it an excellent choice for owners of Sony cameras seeking to expand their portrait photography capabilities.

In contrast, the Nikon 35mm is designed for Nikon DSLR cameras and is compatible with both DX and FX formats in DX crop mode. This lens is ideal for photographers who own Nikon DSLRs, especially those looking for a versatile lens for general photography and landscapes. The choice of lens will heavily depend on the camera system in use.

Price and Value

When considering price, the Meike 85mm is listed at $229.99, while the Nikon 35mm is priced at $213.31, making the Nikon about 7% cheaper. Despite the slight price difference, both lenses offer excellent value given their respective features and performance. The Meike lens's advanced optical coatings and bokeh capabilities may justify its price for portrait photographers, while the Nikon lens's versatility and compact design make it an excellent value for everyday shooting.

Ultimately, the decision may boil down to how much a photographer is willing to invest for specific features. While both lenses are competitively priced, the Meike offers unique advantages for portrait work, while the Nikon caters to a broader range of photography styles.

User Experience and Feedback

User experience can significantly impact the choice of a lens. The Meike 85mm has been positively reviewed for its sharpness and bokeh quality, making it a favorite among portrait photographers. Users appreciate its lightweight build and effective autofocus system, which aids in capturing sharp images even in challenging conditions.

On the other hand, the Nikon 35mm is well-regarded for its versatility and image quality. Photographers often highlight its suitability for low-light conditions and its compact size, which makes it an excellent travel companion. Both lenses have their loyal user bases, reflecting the strengths they bring to different photographic contexts.

Which should you buy?

Choosing between the Meike 85mm F1.8 SE Mark II STM AF and the Nikon AF-S DX NIKKOR 35mm f/1.8G ultimately depends on your camera system and photographic needs. If you’re a Sony E-mount user focused on portrait photography, the Meike lens, with its superior bokeh and optical coatings, may be the better option. Conversely, if you use a Nikon DSLR and seek a versatile lens for general photography, the Nikon 35mm might be the ideal choice. Both lenses offer excellent performance in their respective domains, making them worthwhile investments based on your specific requirements.