Meike vs SIRUI

Overview of the Meike 85mm F1.8 SE Mark II and SIRUI 20mm T1.8

The Meike 85mm F1.8 SE Mark II is priced at $229.99, making it significantly more affordable than the SIRUI 20mm T1.8, which retails for $599.00. While both lenses cater to different types of photographers and videographers, they each offer unique features tailored to specific creative needs.

The Meike lens is designed for still photography, particularly portraiture, leveraging its 85mm focal length and wide aperture. In contrast, the SIRUI lens is an anamorphic option aimed at filmmakers, providing a cinematic aspect ratio and enhanced low-light performance. Choosing between these two lenses will largely depend on whether your focus is on photography or videography.

Design and Build Quality

When comparing design and build quality, both lenses exhibit a compact and lightweight construction, but they serve different purposes. The Meike 85mm F1.8 SE Mark II emphasizes a lightweight build for ease of handling in portrait photography. Its multi-coated lens elements help reduce flare and ghosting, ensuring high-quality images.

The SIRUI 20mm T1.8 is also compact at just 480g (1.06lb), designed for portability during video shoots. Its 1.33x squeeze factor allows filmmakers to achieve a wider cinematic view without cropping. While both lenses are built for durability, their design philosophies cater to distinct user needs—one for stills and the other for motion.

Optical Performance

In terms of optical performance, the Meike 85mm F1.8 SE Mark II boasts an impressive F1.8 aperture, ideal for achieving beautiful bokeh effects and sharp portraits. With 11 elements arranged in 7 groups, it promises high resolution, making it suitable for 8K photography.

On the other hand, the SIRUI 20mm T1.8 excels in video performance with its ultra-fast T1.8 aperture, which is crucial for low-light shooting and creating a soft bokeh. Its design covers Super 35 sensors, ensuring excellent image clarity. Both lenses are optimized for their respective applications, but the choice ultimately comes down to whether you prioritize still imagery or cinematic quality.

Focusing Mechanism

The focusing mechanisms in both lenses reflect their intended uses. The Meike 85mm F1.8 SE Mark II features a stepping motor (STM) for silent and smooth autofocus, making it suitable for portrait photographers who may need to operate discreetly. Additionally, it supports electronic aperture adjustments and EXIF information transmission, enhancing the user experience.

Conversely, the SIRUI 20mm T1.8 also utilizes an STM motor, but it includes advanced features like eye-tracking capabilities and an AF/MF switch, providing filmmakers with complete control over focus. This lens is designed to cater to the demands of video creators, ensuring that they can achieve precise focus during dynamic shooting situations.

Compatibility

Compatibility is a critical factor when selecting a lens. The Meike 85mm F1.8 SE Mark II is compatible with a range of Sony E-mount mirrorless cameras, including the A7 series and APS-C models. This flexibility allows photographers to use it across various body types, making it a versatile choice for many users.

The SIRUI 20mm T1.8 is also tailored for E-mount cameras, including recent models like the A6500 and A6700. Its design is specifically optimized for Super 35 sensors, ensuring that filmmakers can fully utilize its capabilities. While both lenses are compatible with E-mount systems, the Meike lens offers broader compatibility across both full-frame and APS-C formats.

Target Audience

Identifying the target audience for each lens reveals their distinct markets. The Meike 85mm F1.8 SE Mark II is aimed primarily at portrait photographers, offering features that enhance still image quality and bokeh effects. Its price point of $229.99 makes it an attractive option for enthusiasts and professionals alike.

In contrast, the SIRUI 20mm T1.8 is designed for filmmakers who require high-quality optics for video production. Priced at $599.00, it appeals to a more niche market focused on cinematic visuals and creative control in filmmaking. The price difference reflects the specialized nature of the SIRUI lens compared to the more general photography focus of the Meike lens.

Price Comparison

The price difference between the two lenses is quite significant. The Meike 85mm F1.8 SE Mark II is available for $229.99, while the SIRUI 20mm T1.8 retails for $599.00. This makes the Meike lens about 61% cheaper than its counterpart. For photographers on a budget or those who primarily focus on still images, the Meike lens presents a compelling option without sacrificing quality.

For filmmakers, while the SIRUI lens commands a higher price, it offers specialized features that justify the investment for those serious about video production. The choice largely hinges on whether the user is willing to invest more for cinematic capabilities or prefers a more economical option for photography.

Which should you buy?

Deciding between the Meike 85mm F1.8 SE Mark II and the SIRUI 20mm T1.8 largely depends on your specific needs as a photographer or videographer. If your primary focus is on portrait photography and you seek a cost-effective lens that delivers excellent image quality, the Meike lens is the clear winner at $229.99. However, if you are a filmmaker looking for a lens that offers a cinematic aspect ratio and advanced focusing features, the SIRUI lens, despite its higher price of $599.00, provides exceptional value for serious video creators. Assess your priorities and choose the lens that best aligns with your creative goals.