Mark Ellington
Meike 85mm f1.8 Auto Focus Lens for Canon
Ultimate Review of Meike 85mm f/1.8 Autofocus Lens for Canon EOS: Perfect for Full Frame & APS-C Cameras
Introduction:
Photography enthusiasts and professionals alike are always on the lookout for lenses that combine quality with affordability. The Meike 85mm f/1.8 Autofocus Lens, designed specifically for Canon EOS cameras, fits this criteria. Meike, a manufacturer known for producing high-quality photographic equipment, has designed this lens to cater to both full-frame and APS-C camera users. Whether you’re shooting portraits, landscapes, or sports, this lens holds the promise of delivering stunning results.
Product Overview
The Meike 85mm f/1.8 lens is a telephoto lens compatible with Canon’s EF mount digital SLR cameras. It features a large aperture range of f/1.8 to f/22, allowing for beautiful bokeh effects and excellent low-light performance. The lens is designed with a minimum focus distance of 0.85 meters, making it versatile for various photography styles. Its filter size is 67mm, and it includes electronic contacts and a USB connection for firmware upgrades, further enhancing its usability.
Appearance and Design
The Meike 85mm f/1.8 lens has a sleek and professional aesthetic that is both lightweight and durable. Crafted using high-quality materials, the lens feels robust in hand. Its matte black finish not only looks appealing but also minimizes reflections during shooting. Unique design features include a smooth focus ring and a sturdy lens mount, both of which contribute to a premium user experience. The lens is compact enough for easy portability, making it an excellent choice for photographers on the go.
Key Features and Specifications
- Model: MK-8518 EF-Mount
- Part Number: 972433
- Lens Construction: 6 groups of 9 elements
- Aperture Range: f/1.8 – f/22
- Minimum Focus Distance: 0.85m
- Filter Size: 67mm
- Field of View: 16° (horizontal), 24° (vertical), 28.5° (diagonal)
- USB port for firmware upgrades
Experience Using the Product
During testing, the Meike 85mm f/1.8 lens performed exceptionally well in diverse photography scenarios. In portrait photography, the lens excelled at creating a shallow depth of field, beautifully blurring the background while keeping subjects in sharp focus. The autofocus was reliable and quick, which is particularly beneficial in dynamic environments.
The lens also proved versatile for landscape photography, capturing rich details and vibrant colors. In low-light conditions, the f/1.8 aperture allowed for adequate light intake, producing clear images without excessive noise. The capability to upgrade the firmware via USB adds a modern touch, ensuring the lens remains relevant even as technology evolves.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Excellent image quality with sharp focus and beautiful bokeh.
- Lightweight and compact design, easy to carry around.
- Fast and reliable autofocus performance.
- Versatile for various photography styles, including portraits and landscapes.
- USB connection for firmware updates increases longevity and compatibility.
Cons:
- The build, while sturdy, lacks weather sealing.
- Some users may find the autofocus slightly slower compared to premium lenses.
- Limited to Canon EF mount cameras, excluding other systems.
Conclusion
Overall, the Meike 85mm f/1.8 Autofocus Lens for Canon EOS is a fantastic option for photographers seeking an affordable yet high-performing lens. Its impressive image quality, fast autofocus, and aesthetic design make it a worthy addition to any camera bag. While it may have some minor drawbacks, the benefits significantly outweigh them, making it a reliable choice for both amateur and professional photographers. At a price point of $169.99, this lens offers great value, ensuring you get the most out of your photography adventures.
