Meike vs VILTROX

Overview of the Meike 85mm F1.8 SE Mark II and VILTROX 28mm F4.5 XF Pancake

The Meike 85mm F1.8 SE Mark II is a medium telephoto lens designed for portrait photography, offering a large aperture. In contrast, the VILTROX 28mm F4.5 XF is a wide-angle pancake lens, ideal for landscapes and environmental portraits. The Meike lens is priced at $229.99, while the VILTROX lens is significantly cheaper at $99.00, making it about 57% less expensive.

Design and Build Quality

The Meike 85mm F1.8 SE Mark II features a compact and lightweight design, making it suitable for various photography styles. It is constructed with 11 elements in 7 groups, contributing to its high-resolution performance. The lens is also treated with fingerprint- and oil-resistant coatings, enhancing its durability and ease of maintenance. On the other hand, the VILTROX 28mm F4.5 XF is ultra-light, weighing only 60g and measuring just 15.3mm in thickness. This makes it the lightest and thinnest lens in the Viltrox lineup, perfect for photographers who prioritize portability.

Aperture and Focal Length

The Meike 85mm has a maximum aperture of F1.8, ideal for creating beautiful bokeh effects, making it particularly suited for portrait photography. Its standard 85mm focal length allows for versatility in various shooting scenarios, from portrait to landscape. In comparison, the VILTROX 28mm offers a smaller maximum aperture of F4.5, which is still effective for wide-angle shots but doesn’t provide the same depth of field control as the Meike. The 28mm focal length is perfect for capturing expansive scenes, making it ideal for landscapes and architecture.

Autofocus and Usability

The Meike 85mm F1.8 SE Mark II is equipped with an STM stepping motor, providing silent and smooth focusing. This feature is especially beneficial for videographers who require quiet autofocus during shooting. It also supports electronic aperture adjustment and EXIF information transmission. Conversely, the VILTROX 28mm F4.5 XF boasts an efficient autofocus system in a compact design, allowing for quick and effortless shooting. Both lenses offer user-friendly features, but the Meike's advanced autofocus capabilities may appeal more to professionals.

Image Quality

When it comes to image quality, the Meike 85mm F1.8 SE Mark II is optimized for high resolution, with the ability to deliver 8K-quality images. Its multi-coated lens elements help suppress flare and ghosting, ensuring vibrant colors and sharp details. The VILTROX 28mm F4.5 XF also prioritizes image quality, featuring 6 elements in 6 groups with 2 ED and 2 aspherical lenses designed to deliver sharp images and stunning starburst effects. While both lenses promise excellent image quality, the Meike has the edge in resolution capabilities.

Versatility in Photography

The Meike 85mm lens is tailored for portrait, architectural, and landscape photography, making it a versatile choice for various shooting styles. Its focal length is ideal for creating pleasing compositions and capturing intricate details. In contrast, the VILTROX 28mm lens offers a wide-angle perspective, perfect for landscapes, architecture, and environmental portraits. While both lenses are versatile, they cater to different types of photography, with the Meike focusing on detailed portraits and the VILTROX excelling in broader scenes.

Price Comparison

The Meike 85mm F1.8 SE Mark II is priced at $229.99, while the VILTROX 28mm F4.5 XF is available for $99.00. This significant price difference of $130.99 makes the VILTROX about 57% cheaper than the Meike. If budget is a primary concern, the VILTROX lens offers excellent value for photographers looking for a high-quality wide-angle option without breaking the bank.

Which should you buy?

Choosing between the Meike 85mm F1.8 SE Mark II and the VILTROX 28mm F4.5 XF largely depends on your photography needs. If you’re focused on portrait photography and require a lens that excels in low-light conditions with beautiful bokeh effects, the Meike is the better choice. However, for those who prioritize portability, versatility in landscapes, and a more budget-friendly option, the VILTROX is hard to beat. Ultimately, both lenses offer unique advantages, making your choice dependent on your specific photography style and budget.