Meike vs VILTROX

Overview of the Meike 85mm F1.8 SE Mark II and VILTROX 35mm f1.7 Fuji

In this comparison, we will explore the differences between the Meike 85mm F1.8 SE Mark II and the VILTROX 35mm f1.7 Fuji lenses. The Meike lens is priced at $229.99, while the VILTROX lens is more budget-friendly at $179.00, making it about 22% cheaper. Both lenses offer unique features catering to different photography styles and preferences.

Design and Build Quality

The Meike 85mm F1.8 SE Mark II boasts a compact and lightweight design, making it suitable for photographers who value portability. It incorporates advanced optical designs, with multi-coated elements to suppress flare and ghosting. On the other hand, the VILTROX 35mm f1.7 Fuji features an optimized optical design with 11 elements in 9 groups, including high refractive and aspherical elements, ensuring outstanding image quality. Both lenses offer thoughtful design elements, such as fingerprint- and oil-resistant coatings on the Meike and an extended lens hood on the VILTROX, enhancing durability and usability in various shooting conditions.

Optical Performance

The optical performance of both lenses is impressive, but they cater to different photographic needs. The Meike lens has a standard 85mm focal length, ideal for portrait, architectural, and landscape photography, with a maximum aperture of f/1.8 that creates beautiful bokeh effects. In contrast, the VILTROX lens features a slightly wider f/1.7 aperture, enhancing low-light performance and enabling stunning background blur. The choice between these lenses largely depends on the type of photography you intend to pursue, with the Meike excelling in portrait-focused scenarios and the VILTROX offering versatility for a broader range of styles.

Autofocus Capabilities

When it comes to autofocus, both lenses incorporate advanced technologies to deliver fast and reliable performance. The Meike 85mm features a STM stepping motor, ensuring silent and smooth focusing, which is particularly beneficial for video recording. The VILTROX 35mm also employs a new STM motor, providing quick and precise autofocus while minimizing focus breathing, which is crucial for maintaining consistent framing during focus transitions in videos. Thus, both lenses are designed to meet the needs of modern photographers and videographers, with the VILTROX lens having a slight edge in video applications.

Minimum Focusing Distance

The minimum focusing distance is a critical factor for photographers who enjoy capturing detailed close-ups. The Meike 85mm has a minimum focusing distance of 0.65m, allowing for decent close-up shots, but the VILTROX 35mm excels with a significantly closer focusing distance of just 0.33m. This enables the VILTROX lens to capture stunning detail in close-up shots, making it a more versatile option for macro and portrait photography alike. If close focusing is a priority for your photography style, the VILTROX may be the better choice.

Compatibility with Cameras

Lens compatibility is essential when considering a new purchase. The Meike 85mm is designed for Sony E mount cameras, including popular models like the A7 series and A6xxx series. This makes it an excellent option for photographers using Sony's mirrorless systems. Conversely, the VILTROX 35mm is tailored for Fujifilm X mount cameras, compatible with models such as the X-T1, X-T3, and X-PRO02. Your choice will largely depend on the camera system you own, necessitating careful consideration of compatibility before making a purchase.

Price Comparison

Price is often a deciding factor in lens selection. The Meike 85mm F1.8 SE Mark II is currently priced at $229.99, while the VILTROX 35mm f1.7 Fuji is more affordable at $179.00. This price difference of approximately $50 makes the VILTROX lens about 22% cheaper than the Meike. Given the features and performance of both lenses, the VILTROX presents a compelling value proposition, especially for photographers on a budget who still seek quality performance.

Which should you buy?

Choosing between the Meike 85mm F1.8 SE Mark II and the VILTROX 35mm f1.7 Fuji largely depends on your specific needs and preferences as a photographer. If you prioritize portrait photography and require a lens with a standard focal length, the Meike lens offers excellent optical performance and bokeh capabilities. However, if versatility, close focusing, and a lower price point are more critical to you, the VILTROX lens stands out as a fantastic option. Ultimately, both lenses have their strengths, and your decision should align with the type of photography you intend to pursue.