Meike vs Sony E

Overview of the Meike 85mm F1.8 SE Mark II and Sony E 11mm F1.8

When comparing the Meike 85mm F1.8 SE Mark II and the Sony E 11mm F1.8, it’s clear that both lenses cater to distinct photographic needs. The Meike lens is designed for portrait and medium telephoto photography, while the Sony lens is an ultra-wide-angle option aimed at capturing expansive scenes. Pricing also plays a significant role, with the Meike priced at $229.99 and the Sony at $698.00, making the Meike about 67% more affordable.

Optical Performance

The optical performance of the Meike 85mm F1.8 SE Mark II is bolstered by its advanced design, featuring 11 elements in 7 groups and a large f/1.8 aperture that allows for excellent low-light performance and beautiful bokeh effects. On the other hand, the Sony E 11mm F1.8 is also equipped with a large f/1.8 aperture, which facilitates impressive corner-to-corner sharpness and dynamic perspectives. Both lenses promise high-resolution output, but the Meike's design focuses on portraiture, while the Sony excels in wide-angle scenarios.

Build Quality and Design

In terms of build quality, the Meike 85mm lens is compact and lightweight, making it suitable for extended shooting sessions. Its multi-coated elements help reduce flare and ghosting, which is crucial for maintaining image quality. The Sony E 11mm F1.8 is similarly compact and lightweight, designed for ease of handling on both APS-C and Super35 E-mount cameras. Its refined internal focus mechanism ensures that the lens length remains constant while focusing, enhancing usability for videographers and photographers alike.

Autofocus Capabilities

The Meike 85mm F1.8 SE Mark II features a stepping motor (STM) for silent and smooth autofocus, making it a solid choice for both still photography and video work. Comparatively, the Sony E 11mm F1.8 boasts two linear motors that provide fast and precise autofocus, which is particularly beneficial for capturing moving subjects. The Sony lens’s autofocus system is designed to keep pace with the high-speed capabilities of modern cameras, ensuring that even erratically moving subjects can be tracked efficiently.

Versatility and Compatibility

The Meike 85mm F1.8 is compatible with a wide range of Sony E Mount cameras, including both full-frame models like the A7 series and APS-C models like the A6300 series. This versatility makes it a great addition to any photographer's kit, especially for those focused on portrait and landscape photography. The Sony E 11mm F1.8 is specifically designed for APS-C cameras, making it ideal for vloggers and content creators who require a wide field of view. This lens’s capability to shoot against sweeping backgrounds enhances its versatility for various shooting environments.

Price Comparison

The pricing difference between the two lenses is significant, with the Meike 85mm F1.8 SE Mark II retailing for $229.99 and the Sony E 11mm F1.8 priced at $698.00. This places the Sony lens at about 202% higher in price than the Meike lens. For photographers on a budget or those just starting out, the Meike offers a compelling option without sacrificing quality, while the Sony lens justifies its higher price tag with advanced autofocus technology and superior versatility for video content.

Ideal Use Cases

Choosing between the Meike 85mm F1.8 SE Mark II and the Sony E 11mm F1.8 largely depends on the intended use. The Meike lens is perfect for portrait photography, architectural shots, and landscape work, thanks to its standard focal length and bokeh capabilities. In contrast, the Sony lens is tailored for dynamic environments, ideal for vlogging, street photography, and capturing expansive landscapes. Each lens shines in its respective domain, making the decision more about the photographer's specific needs than an outright performance comparison.

Which should you buy?

Ultimately, the choice between the Meike 85mm F1.8 SE Mark II and the Sony E 11mm F1.8 hinges on your photographic requirements and budget. If you're looking for a cost-effective option that excels in portrait and telephoto photography, the Meike lens at $229.99 is an excellent choice. However, if you need an ultra-wide-angle lens that offers fast autofocus and superior handling for video while being willing to invest more, the Sony lens at $698.00 could be worth the splurge. Each lens offers distinct advantages, making them suitable for different types of photographers.