Meike vs YONGNUO

Introduction

When it comes to selecting the right lens for your Sony E-mount mirrorless camera, two options stand out: the Meike 85mm F1.8 SE Mark II and the YONGNUO 35mm F1.8 Art. Both lenses are designed for different photographic needs, so understanding their distinct features is crucial for making an informed decision.

Design and Build Quality

The Meike 85mm F1.8 SE Mark II features a compact and lightweight build, which enhances its portability. It incorporates a re-optimized optical design with multi-coated elements that help suppress flare and ghosting, ensuring high-quality image capture. On the other hand, the YONGNUO 35mm F1.8 Art lens is constructed with a metal bayonet and outer shell, giving it a solid and durable feel. It also includes a dustproof and waterproof rubber ring, making it suitable for various environments. While both lenses boast quality construction, the Meike lens leans towards a lightweight design, whereas YONGNUO emphasizes durability and weather resistance.

Optical Performance

In terms of optical performance, the Meike 85mm F1.8 SE Mark II offers a maximum aperture of F1.8, allowing for excellent light transmission and creating beautiful bokeh effects thanks to its 11 diaphragm blades. It is constructed with 11 elements in 7 groups, designed to achieve sharper images with high resolution, suitable for 8K photography. Conversely, the YONGNUO 35mm F1.8 also has a maximum aperture of F1.8 but features 10 elements in 9 groups. It incorporates two aspherical lenses and two ultra-low dispersion glass lenses to minimize chromatic aberration, enhancing image quality. While both lenses provide good optical capabilities, the Meike lens may have a slight edge in terms of sharpness and bokeh.

Focal Length and Versatility

The focal length of the Meike 85mm is tailored for portrait photography, making it ideal for capturing stunning portraits with a compressed background. The equivalent focal length on APS-C cameras is approximately 127.5mm, which is great for detailed shots. In contrast, the YONGNUO 35mm lens is designed for standard photography and offers a perspective closer to human vision, making it versatile for various shooting scenarios, including street photography and landscapes. The choice of focal length will depend on your specific needs: the Meike for portraits and the YONGNUO for a broader range of photography.

Autofocus and Usability

The Meike 85mm F1.8 SE Mark II is equipped with an STM stepping motor for silent and smooth focusing, making it suitable for both photography and videography. It also supports electronic aperture adjustment and EXIF information transmission. The YONGNUO 35mm F1.8 features a very quiet autofocus system as well, which is beneficial for capturing spontaneous moments without disturbing the scene. Both lenses offer user-friendly features, but the Meike lens provides additional firmware upgrade capabilities, enhancing its versatility over time.

Price Comparison

The Meike 85mm F1.8 SE Mark II is currently priced at $229.99, while the YONGNUO 35mm F1.8 Art lens is more budget-friendly at $128.00. This makes the YONGNUO lens about 44% cheaper than the Meike lens. If you're working with a limited budget, the YONGNUO lens presents a compelling option without sacrificing too much in terms of quality and performance.

Compatibility

Both lenses are compatible with a wide range of Sony E-mount mirrorless cameras. The Meike 85mm F1.8 SE Mark II supports all full-frame Sony models, including A7R, A7IV, and A7SIII, as well as APS-C models like A6300 and A6400. The YONGNUO 35mm F1.8 is equally compatible with various Sony E-mount models, making either lens a suitable choice for users of Sony cameras. However, if you own a full-frame camera, the Meike lens’s design is specifically optimized for that format.

Which should you buy?

Choosing between the Meike 85mm F1.8 SE Mark II and the YONGNUO 35mm F1.8 Art lens ultimately depends on your specific photography needs. If you're looking for a specialized portrait lens that offers high resolution and beautiful bokeh effects, the Meike lens is a strong contender despite its higher price point. However, if you're seeking a versatile, budget-friendly lens that performs well across various photography styles, the YONGNUO lens is an excellent choice. Consider your photography style and budget to make the best decision for your camera setup.