Meike vs Nikon NIKKOR Z DX 12-

Overview of the Meike 85mm F1.8 SE Mark II and Nikon NIKKOR Z DX 12-28mm PZ VR

The Meike 85mm F1.8 SE Mark II is priced at $229.99, while the Nikon NIKKOR Z DX 12-28mm PZ VR is available for $366.95, making it about 17% more expensive than the Meike lens. Both lenses cater to unique photography needs, with the Meike offering a prime telephoto option suited for portraits, while the Nikon provides versatility as a wide-angle zoom lens. Understanding their strengths and intended uses is essential for photographers seeking to expand their gear.

Design and Build Quality

The Meike 85mm F1.8 SE Mark II features a compact and lightweight design, optimized for comfortable handling during shooting sessions. Its multi-coated lens elements reduce flare and ghosting, ensuring high-quality images. On the other hand, the Nikon NIKKOR Z DX 12-28mm PZ VR is also lightweight but focuses on a gimbal-friendly construction, enhancing portability for creators on the move. While both lenses prioritize ease of use, the Meike's design leans towards traditional photography, whereas Nikon's design embraces modern, versatile shooting styles.

Optical Performance

In terms of optical performance, the Meike 85mm boasts an impressive F1.8 aperture that supports beautiful bokeh effects, ideal for portraiture. Its construction includes 11 elements in 7 groups, ensuring high-resolution images suitable for 8K formats. The Nikon NIKKOR Z DX 12-28mm, while having a variable aperture of f/3.5-5.6, excels in providing a wide-angle perspective that captures immersive landscapes and architecture. Each lens serves distinct photographic purposes, with the Meike prioritizing depth of field and the Nikon focusing on expansive views.

Focusing Mechanism

The Meike 85mm F1.8 SE Mark II features an STM stepping motor, allowing for silent and smooth autofocus, which is particularly beneficial for portrait and event photography. The lens also supports electronic aperture adjustment and EXIF information transmission, enhancing its usability. Conversely, the Nikon NIKKOR Z DX 12-28mm PZ VR offers a power zoom feature with 11 selectable speeds, allowing for precise zooming that can be controlled via various methods, including Bluetooth. This flexibility makes the Nikon lens particularly appealing for videographers and vloggers who require smooth zoom transitions.

Image Stabilization

Image stabilization is a critical feature for both lenses, but they approach it differently. The Nikon NIKKOR Z DX 12-28mm includes built-in VR (Vibration Reduction), providing 4.5 stops of stabilization to counteract camera shake, which is essential for handheld shooting. The Meike 85mm, however, does not mention any form of image stabilization, which may be a consideration for users who frequently shoot in challenging conditions or without a tripod. This difference could influence the choice for those prioritizing stability in dynamic shooting environments.

Compatibility and Versatility

The Meike 85mm F1.8 SE Mark II is specifically designed for Sony E mount mirrorless cameras, making it a great choice for Sony users looking for a high-quality portrait lens. With its equivalent focal length of 127.5mm on APS-C cameras, it provides a classic portrait perspective. In contrast, the Nikon NIKKOR Z DX 12-28mm PZ VR is tailored for APS-C size/DX format Z series mirrorless cameras, offering a broader range of focal lengths from 12mm to 28mm. This versatility makes it suitable for a variety of photography styles, including landscape, architecture, and even close-up shots.

Price Considerations

At $229.99, the Meike 85mm F1.8 SE Mark II presents a more budget-friendly option compared to the Nikon NIKKOR Z DX 12-28mm PZ VR, priced at $366.95. This represents a price difference of approximately $136, which could be significant for photographers just starting or those looking to expand their lens collection without breaking the bank. The Meike lens offers outstanding value for its optical quality and performance, while the Nikon lens justifies its higher price with additional features like power zoom and image stabilization.

Which should you buy?

Choosing between the Meike 85mm F1.8 SE Mark II and the Nikon NIKKOR Z DX 12-28mm PZ VR largely depends on your shooting style and needs. If you are a portrait photographer seeking exceptional bokeh and image quality at a lower price, the Meike lens is an excellent option. However, if versatility and features like power zoom and image stabilization are more critical to your work, especially for video or landscape photography, the Nikon lens may be worth the investment. Ultimately, both lenses excel in their respective areas, making your specific photography goals the deciding factor.