Meike vs Rokinon

Overview of the Meike 85mm F1.8 SE Mark II and Rokinon 14mm f/2.8 IF ED

The Meike 85mm F1.8 SE Mark II is priced at $229.99, while the Rokinon 14mm f/2.8 IF ED is slightly more expensive at $231.25. At a difference of $1.26, the Meike lens is about 0.5% cheaper than the Rokinon. However, this minimal price disparity does not reflect the distinct features and applications of each lens, which cater to different photography styles.

Design and Build Quality

The Meike 85mm features a compact and lightweight design, making it suitable for portrait and landscape photography. Its construction includes 11 elements arranged in 7 groups, ensuring high-resolution images, particularly in portraiture. The lens also incorporates multi-coated elements that reduce flare and ghosting, enhancing color fidelity.

On the other hand, the Rokinon 14mm is built with a more robust design, weighing 31.7 ounces and measuring 6.0 x 3.5 x 3.7 inches. This makes it a reliable choice for professional use, especially in demanding environments. Its optical design includes 14 elements in 10 groups, optimized for minimal distortion, which is essential for landscapes and astrophotography.

Focal Length and Aperture

The focal length and maximum aperture of these lenses significantly influence their use cases. The Meike 85mm boasts a standard 85mm focal length with a wide f/1.8 aperture, ideal for achieving beautiful bokeh effects in portraits and maintaining sharpness in architectural shots.

Conversely, the Rokinon 14mm offers an ultra-wide 14mm focal length with a maximum aperture of f/2.8, allowing for expansive scene capture. This lens excels in landscape and real estate photography, providing a 115.7° angle of view that is advantageous for immersive imagery.

Autofocus and Manual Control

The Meike 85mm is equipped with an STM stepping motor, delivering silent and smooth autofocus, which is particularly beneficial for video recording and candid photography. It also allows for electronic aperture adjustments and EXIF information transmission, enhancing usability for modern photographers.

In contrast, the Rokinon 14mm relies on precision manual focus control, which can be advantageous for photographers who prefer to fine-tune their focus. While this may appeal to some, it lacks the convenience of autofocus, making it less suitable for fast-paced shooting situations.

Image Quality and Performance

When it comes to image quality, the Meike 85mm lens is constructed to achieve sharp and high-resolution images, with a maximum magnification of 0.17X and a minimum focusing distance of 0.65m. The multi-coated elements improve light transmission, which is crucial for capturing vibrant colors in portrait photography.

The Rokinon 14mm, however, is designed for superior image quality across expansive scenes. Its 14 elements in 10 groups work together to produce exceptional sharpness and clarity, particularly beneficial for landscapes and astrophotography. The optimized low-light performance of its f/2.8 aperture allows photographers to capture bright images even in challenging lighting conditions.

Compatibility and Versatility

The Meike 85mm is specifically made for Sony E mount cameras, including models like the A7R and A7S series. This makes it an excellent choice for photographers invested in the Sony ecosystem. Its design supports various features such as autofocus and electronic aperture adjustment, enhancing its versatility.

In comparison, the Rokinon 14mm is compatible with multiple mounts, including Canon EF, Nikon F, and Sony E, making it a versatile option for photographers using different camera systems. Its wide-angle capabilities also allow for creative uses across various photography genres, including architecture and astrophotography.

Price and Value for Money

The Meike 85mm is priced at $229.99, while the Rokinon 14mm is available for $231.25, making the former slightly more economical. Considering the features and intended use of each lens, both offer good value in their respective categories. The Meike lens provides excellent performance for portraiture, while the Rokinon lens excels in capturing expansive landscapes.

Which should you buy?

Deciding between the Meike 85mm F1.8 SE Mark II and the Rokinon 14mm f/2.8 IF ED ultimately depends on your photography needs. If you focus on portrait or architectural photography and prefer a lens with smooth autofocus capabilities, the Meike 85mm is a compelling choice. However, if you're looking for an ultra-wide lens for landscapes or astrophotography, the Rokinon 14mm is the better option. Each lens has its strengths, catering to different styles of photography while maintaining competitive pricing.