Meike vs TTArtisan Auto Focus

Overview of the Meike 85mm F1.8 SE Mark II and TTArtisan Auto Focus 35mm F1.8 Mark II

The Meike 85mm F1.8 SE Mark II is priced at $229.99, while the TTArtisan Auto Focus 35mm F1.8 Mark II comes in at $125.00, making it about 45% cheaper than the Meike lens. Both lenses cater to specific photography needs, offering different focal lengths and features suitable for portrait and general photography. This comparison will help potential buyers determine which lens aligns better with their photographic style and budget.

Focal Length and Compatibility

The Meike 85mm F1.8 SE Mark II's focal length of 85mm makes it ideal for portrait photography, providing a standard perspective that beautifully captures subjects with stunning detail and bokeh effects. It is compatible with a range of Sony E mount mirrorless cameras, including the A7 series, making it a versatile choice for Sony users. In contrast, the TTArtisan Auto Focus 35mm F1.8 Mark II offers a focal length of 35mm, which translates to an equivalent full-frame focal length of 53mm, suitable for both portraits and landscapes. This lens is designed to function with Fuji X-mount cameras, targeting a different user base. Thus, the choice of lens largely depends on the camera system and the type of photography one intends to pursue.

Aperture and Bokeh Performance

Both lenses feature a maximum aperture of F1.8, allowing for excellent low-light performance and the ability to create pleasing bokeh. The Meike 85mm incorporates 11 diaphragm blades, which contribute to its beautiful bokeh effect, enhancing portrait shots significantly. On the other hand, the TTArtisan lens also benefits from its large aperture, providing similar advantages in low-light conditions and depth of field control. This parity in maximum aperture means both lenses excel in creating artistic background blur, but the Meike's longer focal length may deliver a more pronounced bokeh effect, which is crucial for portrait photographers.

Build Quality and Design

The Meike 85mm F1.8 SE Mark II features a re-optimized optical design while maintaining a compact and lightweight build, which is a significant advantage for photographers on the move. The lens elements are multi-coated to suppress flare and ghosting, enhancing image quality. The TTArtisan 35mm F1.8 Mark II has also seen improvements in its design, reducing its weight from 199g to 176g, making it more portable. Both lenses are user-friendly, but the Meike's advanced multi-coating and fingerprint-resistant treatment may provide a slight edge in terms of maintenance and durability.

Autofocus Technology

Autofocus performance is critical for both lenses, particularly in dynamic shooting environments. The Meike 85mm features a stepping motor (STM) that offers silent and smooth focusing, which is invaluable for video and quiet shooting situations. Additionally, it supports electronic aperture adjustment and EXIF information transmission. Similarly, the TTArtisan 35mm lens boasts an upgraded STM and lead screw-type stepping motor, ensuring precise and fast autofocus, making it suitable for quick shots or travel photography. Both lenses are engineered for smooth operation, but the Meike may deliver a slight advantage in video applications due to its quieter autofocus system.

Minimum Focusing Distance

The minimum focusing distance of the Meike 85mm is 0.65m, allowing photographers to capture subjects at a reasonable distance while maintaining sharpness and detail. The TTArtisan lens, however, has an improved minimum focusing distance of 0.4m, making it easier to photograph fine details and close-up shots, which can be particularly useful for photography involving smaller subjects like food or crafts. This difference may appeal to photographers who frequently work in close quarters or favor macro-style shots.

Price Comparison

With the Meike 85mm priced at $229.99 and the TTArtisan 35mm at $125.00, the latter is significantly more affordable at about 45% less. This price difference is essential for budget-conscious photographers or those just starting, as they can obtain a quality lens without a hefty investment. However, the Meike's higher price point may be justified by its advanced features and optical performance, particularly for those focused on portrait photography.

User Experience and Community Feedback

While specific sales rank data was not provided, the popularity of both lenses suggests they meet the needs of their respective target markets. Users often appreciate the Meike lens for its optical quality and build, particularly for portraiture. In comparison, the TTArtisan lens is praised for its compactness and versatility, making it ideal for travel and everyday use. Each lens has garnered positive feedback, highlighting their unique strengths based on user preferences and photographic pursuits.

Which should you buy?

Choosing between the Meike 85mm F1.8 SE Mark II and the TTArtisan Auto Focus 35mm F1.8 Mark II depends on your specific needs and camera system. If you're a Sony user seeking a high-quality portrait lens and are willing to invest more for superior optical performance and features, the Meike lens is an excellent choice. However, if you're a Fuji user who prioritizes affordability and versatility for various shooting situations, the TTArtisan lens offers great value without compromising on essential features. Ultimately, each lens has its unique appeal, catering to different styles and budgets in the photography community.