Meike vs VILTROX

Overview of the Meike 85mm F1.8 SE Mark II STM AF and VILTROX 25mm F1.7 E

The Meike 85mm F1.8 SE Mark II STM AF is priced at $229.99, while the VILTROX 25mm F1.7 E is more budget-friendly at $176.00, making it about 23% cheaper. Both lenses cater to different photography styles and needs, focusing on achieving high-quality images with advanced features. The Meike lens is designed for portrait and medium telephoto photography, whereas the VILTROX lens offers versatility for landscapes and street photography, appealing to a broader audience.

Design and Build Quality

In terms of design, the Meike 85mm F1.8 SE Mark II boasts a compact and lightweight build, which is a significant advantage for photographers looking for portability. It features a multi-coated optical design aimed at suppressing flare and ghosting while ensuring excellent light transmission. The VILTROX 25mm F1.7 E also emphasizes a thoughtful design, incorporating an extended lens hood for better protection against stray light. Both lenses feature a USB-C upgrade port for firmware updates, enhancing their longevity and compatibility.

Optical Performance

The optical performance of the Meike 85mm F1.8 SE Mark II is impressive, with 11 lens elements in 7 groups that allow for sharper and high-resolution images, specifically optimized for 8K photography. This lens excels at producing beautiful bokeh effects thanks to its wide f/1.8 aperture with 11 diaphragm blades. On the other hand, the VILTROX 25mm F1.7 E incorporates 12 elements in 10 groups, including special elements designed to minimize chromatic aberrations and distortion. Although both lenses provide exceptional image quality, the Meike lens is particularly tailored for portrait photography, while the VILTROX lens is versatile enough for various styles.

Autofocus and Usability

The autofocus capabilities of both lenses are noteworthy. The Meike 85mm F1.8 SE Mark II features an STM stepping motor that enables silent and smooth focusing, essential for capturing candid moments without disturbing the subject. Additionally, it supports electronic aperture adjustment and EXIF information transmission. The VILTROX 25mm F1.7 E also benefits from a fast and precise STM motor, making it suitable for video recording as well, with minimized focus breathing. Both lenses offer user-friendly experiences, but the VILTROX lens shines in scenarios requiring quick adjustments during video shoots.

Minimum Focusing Distance

When examining the minimum focusing distance, the VILTROX 25mm F1.7 E has a notable advantage, allowing users to focus as close as 0.33 meters (33 cm). This feature makes it ideal for capturing detailed close-up shots, enhancing its versatility in various shooting conditions. In contrast, the Meike 85mm F1.8 SE Mark II has a minimum focusing distance of 0.65 meters, which is adequate for portrait work but limits its close-up capabilities. Photographers who enjoy macro-style shots may find the VILTROX lens more appealing due to this closer focusing distance.

Focal Length and Versatility

The focal length of the Meike 85mm F1.8 SE Mark II is standard for portrait photography, providing an equivalent focal length of 127.5mm on APS-C cameras. This makes it excellent for isolating subjects and creating stunning portraits. Conversely, the VILTROX 25mm F1.7 E offers a 38mm equivalent focal length, which is closer to the human eye perspective. This versatility makes it suitable for a wider range of photography styles, from landscapes to street photography. The choice between the two largely depends on the photographer's primary focus—portraits or a broader array of subjects.

Price Comparison

The price difference between the two lenses is significant, with the VILTROX 25mm F1.7 E retailing at $176.00 and the Meike 85mm F1.8 SE Mark II at $229.99. This means that the VILTROX lens is about 23% cheaper. While price is an important factor, it's essential to weigh it against the specific features each lens offers. The Meike lens justifies its higher price with advanced portrait capabilities, while the VILTROX lens offers flexibility and great performance at a lower cost.

Which should you buy?

In conclusion, the choice between the Meike 85mm F1.8 SE Mark II and the VILTROX 25mm F1.7 E largely depends on your specific photography needs. If you're focused on portrait photography and desire a lens that excels in that area, the Meike lens is a solid choice. However, if you are looking for a versatile lens that performs well across various photography styles and is more budget-friendly, the VILTROX lens is an excellent option. Ultimately, both lenses have their strengths, and your decision should align with your photographic preferences and style.