Meike vs Sony FE

Overview of the Meike 85mm F1.8 SE Mark II and Sony FE 35mm f/1.8

The Meike 85mm F1.8 SE Mark II is priced at $229.99, making it about 71% cheaper than the Sony FE 35mm f/1.8, which retails for $798.00. This significant price difference suggests that budget-conscious photographers may lean towards the Meike lens, while those prioritizing brand reputation and advanced features might favor the Sony.

Optical Performance

The Meike 85mm offers a large aperture of f/1.8, ideal for achieving beautiful bokeh effects, especially in portrait photography. It features a re-optimized optical design that delivers high resolution, including support for up to 8K quality. The lens is constructed with 11 elements in 7 groups, ensuring clarity and effective color reproduction. In contrast, the Sony FE 35mm also boasts an f/1.8 aperture with a 9-blade circular design that contributes to its bokeh quality. Its aspherical element helps suppress aberrations, enhancing image quality. Both lenses provide excellent optical performance, but the Meike lens is specifically tailored for portraiture.

Focal Length and Versatility

The focal length of the Meike 85mm is particularly suited for portrait, architectural, and landscape photography, with an equivalent focal length of 127.5mm on APS-C cameras. This makes it an excellent choice for photographers looking to create striking portraits with a pleasing background blur. Conversely, the Sony FE 35mm offers a versatile wide-angle perspective, making it ideal for street photography, landscapes, and everyday shooting. The ability to focus as close as 8.66 inches adds to its versatility. Therefore, while the Meike excels in portraiture, the Sony caters to a broader range of photographic needs.

Auto Focus and Usability

The Meike 85mm features an STM stepping motor for silent and smooth focusing, which is beneficial for video work and quiet environments. Additionally, it supports electronic aperture adjustment and EXIF information transmission, enhancing its usability. On the other hand, the Sony FE 35mm utilizes a fast, precise, and quiet linear motor autofocus system, ensuring quick focusing in various shooting conditions. Both lenses prioritize user experience, but the Sony's autofocus may provide an edge in speed and accuracy, making it more suitable for dynamic subjects.

Build Quality and Design

The Meike 85mm is designed to be compact and lightweight, which is a great advantage for photographers who carry their gear for extended periods. Its front and rear elements have been treated with fingerprint- and oil-resistant coatings, ensuring that maintenance is straightforward. The Sony FE 35mm is also compact and lightweight, setting a new standard for portability in its category. Both lenses feature high-quality construction, but the added features of the Meike for easier maintenance could appeal to those who prefer a low-maintenance lens.

Price and Value

The Meike 85mm is priced at $229.99, while the Sony FE 35mm comes in at $798.00, a stark contrast of about $568.01. This makes the Meike approximately 71% cheaper than the Sony lens. For photographers on a budget, the Meike lens offers excellent value without sacrificing essential features. However, the higher price tag of the Sony may reflect its advanced autofocus system and brand reputation, which could justify the investment for professional users.

Brand Reputation and Support

Meike is known for producing affordable options in the photography market, appealing to enthusiasts and those just starting out. While not as widely recognized as Sony, which has a long-standing reputation in the professional camera industry, Meike's products are well-regarded for their quality relative to their price point. The Sony brand is synonymous with reliability and performance, especially in the lens category, making it a preferred choice among professionals. For users who prioritize brand prestige and after-sales support, Sony may be the better choice.

Which should you buy?

Ultimately, the choice between the Meike 85mm F1.8 SE Mark II and the Sony FE 35mm f/1.8 depends on your specific needs and budget. If you are primarily focused on portrait photography and looking for a budget-friendly option, the Meike lens is a fantastic choice at $229.99. However, if you require a versatile lens with advanced autofocus capabilities and are willing to invest more, the Sony FE 35mm at $798.00 presents a compelling option. Consider your photographic style and budget before making a decision.