Meike vs VILTROX

Introduction to the Lenses

When it comes to selecting the right lens for your photography needs, both the Meike 85mm F1.8 SE Mark II and the VILTROX 20mm F2.8 Z-Mount offer distinct advantages. The Meike lens is priced at $229.99, while the VILTROX comes in at a more budget-friendly $176.00, making it about 23% cheaper. Each lens caters to different styles of photography, and understanding their unique features will help you make an informed decision.

Focal Length and Aperture

The Meike 85mm F1.8 SE Mark II is tailored for portrait and medium telephoto photography, providing a standard focal length ideal for capturing stunning portraits and landscapes. Its wide aperture of F1.8 allows for beautiful bokeh effects, enhancing the aesthetic quality of images. In contrast, the VILTROX 20mm F2.8 Z-Mount is designed for wide-angle shots, perfect for expansive landscapes or architectural photography. With a minimum focus distance of 0.62 feet, it excels at capturing more of the scene in a single frame, but its narrower aperture of F2.8 may not achieve the same level of background blur as the Meike.

Autofocus Performance

Autofocus capability is a crucial feature for many photographers. The Meike lens is equipped with an STM stepping motor, which provides silent and smooth focusing, making it suitable for both photography and video work. The VILTROX lens also boasts fast autofocus performance, enabling it to capture fast-moving subjects effectively. Both lenses support EXIF information transmission and USB firmware upgrades, but the Meike's focus mechanism might give it a slight edge in versatility, especially for video applications.

Build Quality and Weight

In terms of build quality, the Meike lens incorporates a re-optimized optical design and is constructed with 11 elements in 7 groups, ensuring high resolution and color fidelity. It also features multi-coated elements to reduce flare and ghosting. Weighing in at 229g, it is relatively lightweight for a medium telephoto lens. The VILTROX lens, on the other hand, is a compact 173g, making it especially portable for on-the-go shoots. The choice between a sturdier build and lightweight design will depend on your shooting style and preferences.

Compatibility and Versatility

The Meike lens is compatible with a range of Sony E mount mirrorless cameras, such as the A7R and A7III series, making it a versatile option for Sony users. The VILTROX lens is specifically designed for Nikon Z mount cameras, including the Z8, Z9, and Z6 models. If you own a Nikon camera, the VILTROX is the clear choice; however, if you are a Sony user, the Meike lens offers greater compatibility across multiple models.

Imaging Performance

In terms of imaging performance, the Meike lens is designed to deliver high-resolution images, even at 8K, thanks to its advanced optical design. It is particularly well-suited for portrait photography due to its ability to produce soft backgrounds. The VILTROX lens is also optimized for sharpness, featuring an optical structure of 10 elements in 8 groups, which includes two ED lenses and two aspherical lenses for minimal distortion. While both lenses provide excellent image quality, the choice between them may boil down to your specific photographic needs.

Price and Value

Price-wise, the Meike 85mm lens is available for $229.99, while the VILTROX 20mm lens is priced at $176.00, making the latter about 23% cheaper. This price difference may influence budget-conscious photographers, particularly those who prioritize wide-angle photography. However, it’s crucial to consider what you’re getting for that price. The Meike lens offers a longer focal length and a wider aperture, which could justify the higher cost for those focusing on portrait work.

Which should you buy?

Ultimately, the choice between the Meike 85mm F1.8 SE Mark II and the VILTROX 20mm F2.8 Z-Mount comes down to your specific needs as a photographer. If you require a versatile, portrait-oriented lens with a large aperture for stunning bokeh, the Meike is the better option. However, if you prioritize portability and are focused on wide-angle photography, the VILTROX is a fantastic, budget-friendly choice. Carefully consider your camera system and shooting style before making your decision.