Meike 85mm f/1.8 Auto Focus Lens for Canon EOS

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83%
87%
Image Quality
75%
Auto-Focus Performance
88%
Build Quality
83%
Low-Light Performance
90%
Weight and Portability
82%
Versatility
85%
Ease of Use
92%
Value for Money
80%
Compatibility
76%
Firmware Updates
89%
Bokeh Effect
70%
Autofocus Speed in Low Light
More

Overview

The Meike 85mm f/1.8 Auto Focus Lens for Canon EOS is a high-performance prime lens designed to enhance your photography experience. With its wide f/1.8 aperture, it excels in low-light conditions and delivers stunning portraits. The lens is compatible with Canon EOS cameras, including both DSLR and full-frame models, and features fast auto-focus for quick, accurate shots. Despite its solid performance, the lens remains lightweight and compact, making it an excellent choice for photographers on the go. Overall, this Meike lens provides great value for Canon users looking for an affordable but capable telephoto option.

Features & Benefits

One of the standout features of this lens is its large f/1.8 aperture, which produces beautiful background blur, perfect for portrait photography. The auto-focus system is both fast and accurate, allowing for sharp results in dynamic shooting conditions. Its full-frame compatibility ensures high-quality images across a range of Canon DSLR models, while the built-in USB port provides a convenient way to keep the lens firmware up to date. Whether shooting in well-lit studios or natural environments, this lens performs consistently and reliably.

Best For

The Meike 85mm f/1.8 lens is ideal for portrait photographers who need a fast, sharp lens that can handle various lighting conditions. It is especially suited for Canon DSLR users looking for an affordable telephoto lens that doesn’t compromise on quality. The lens is also great for anyone interested in creating artistic, shallow depth-of-field shots, as its wide aperture allows for significant subject isolation. Whether you're shooting indoors in low light or outdoors, this lens offers versatility and ease of use in a variety of settings.

User Feedback

Users generally praise this Meike 85mm lens for its sharpness and clarity, particularly in portrait photography, where it excels at delivering natural, flattering images. However, some users note that the autofocus speed can be slower in low-light conditions compared to more premium lenses. The build quality is appreciated for being solid yet lightweight, making it easy to handle during extended shoots. A few users mentioned occasional autofocus hesitation in darker environments, but for most, this didn’t significantly affect their overall satisfaction with the lens.

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Pros

  • This 85mm f/1.8 lens delivers impressive sharpness, especially for portrait shots.
  • The wide f/1.8 aperture allows for excellent low-light performance and smooth background blur (bokeh).
  • Users appreciate the compact and lightweight design, making it easy to carry for travel and event photography.
  • Autofocus is generally fast and accurate in most lighting conditions, ideal for dynamic subjects.
  • The lens is fully compatible with a variety of Canon DSLR and full-frame models, offering versatile performance.
  • The built-in USB port allows for convenient firmware updates, ensuring optimal performance over time.

Cons

  • Some users report occasional autofocus hesitation, particularly in low-light environments.
  • The autofocus speed is adequate but not the fastest, making it less ideal for fast-moving subjects.
  • While the build is lightweight, it may feel less robust compared to more premium options.
  • A few users mentioned that the lens might not be as durable under heavy or professional use.
  • The fixed 85mm focal length can be limiting for certain types of photography, such as wide landscapes.
  • In very dim conditions, the autofocus can struggle to lock focus accurately, requiring manual adjustments.

Ratings

After analyzing authentic user feedback from verified reviews across multiple platforms and languages, we’ve gathered a balanced overview of the Meike 85mm f/1.8 Auto Focus Lens for Canon EOS. The ratings reflect both the strengths and pain points reported by real photographers, ensuring a comprehensive understanding of this lens's performance. We’ve filtered out spam, incentivized, and duplicated reviews, focusing only on genuine, high-quality insights from actual users worldwide.

Image Quality
87%
Users consistently praise the sharpness and clarity this lens delivers, particularly in portrait shots. The wide f/1.8 aperture helps to produce a beautiful bokeh effect, adding depth and separation to the subject, which is ideal for capturing stunning details. Many find it a solid choice for professional-quality results without a hefty price tag.
A few users note that while the image quality is generally great, it can sometimes be softer at the edges, especially in wide-open shots. Some also mention that it takes a little fine-tuning in post-processing to achieve the sharpest results, particularly in lower light conditions.
Auto-Focus Performance
75%
25%
The autofocus system works quickly and accurately in most situations, making it suitable for dynamic photography. Many users highlight its performance for portraiture, where fast focus transitions help capture fleeting moments. It's especially appreciated by those who enjoy quick and responsive lenses for moving subjects.
While the autofocus is generally effective, it's not the fastest, particularly in low-light conditions. Some photographers report occasional hesitation when shooting in dimly lit environments, which can be frustrating during fast-paced shoots. A few also mention that it can be noisy in comparison to higher-end lenses.
Build Quality
88%
Many users are impressed by the build quality of this lens, which strikes a good balance between solid construction and lightweight design. The lens feels sturdy in hand, and its compact size makes it easy to carry around during long shooting sessions. It's particularly appreciated by photographers looking for a lens that's both reliable and portable.
Some buyers feel that the plastic construction, while lightweight, can feel a bit cheap compared to more premium options. A few users have mentioned concerns about long-term durability, particularly regarding the lens mount, which may wear over time with frequent use.
Low-Light Performance
83%
The f/1.8 aperture provides good low-light performance, allowing users to capture brighter images even in dim conditions. It's well-suited for indoor photography and events where flash isn't desirable. Many users report decent results without needing a tripod, especially when shooting portraits or still subjects.
Although the aperture helps, some users note that the autofocus can struggle in very low light, leading to slower focus times. It's not quite as effective as more expensive lenses designed for extreme low-light conditions, and it can require some adjustments to achieve the best results in challenging lighting.
Weight and Portability
90%
The compact design and lightweight construction make this lens ideal for photographers on the go. Whether you're traveling, hiking, or shooting in a busy environment, it's easy to carry without feeling weighed down. Many users appreciate how it fits comfortably in a camera bag without adding unnecessary bulk.
While lightweight, some users feel the lens lacks the robust, heavy-duty feel of more premium models. A few mention that, despite its portability, the overall plastic build makes it feel less durable when compared to heavier, more expensive alternatives.
Versatility
82%
18%
The Meike 85mm f/1.8 lens is versatile enough for various types of photography, from portraits to creative shots with a shallow depth of field. Its ability to handle both indoor and outdoor conditions with ease makes it a go-to lens for many Canon DSLR users. It's also favored for event photography and casual shoots due to its reliable performance.
Some users feel that while the lens performs well in many scenarios, it's not as versatile as lenses with a broader focal length range. The fixed 85mm focal length can feel limiting for those who prefer a more adaptable zoom lens, particularly for landscape or street photography.
Ease of Use
85%
Photographers note the ease of use with this lens, especially when it comes to quickly achieving focus during a shoot. Its user-friendly design, combined with auto-focus and a relatively straightforward setup, makes it accessible for both amateur and more experienced photographers. The lens feels intuitive to operate in various shooting conditions.
A few users mention that the autofocus system can occasionally struggle in specific lighting conditions, leading to some frustration when shooting fast-moving subjects. Additionally, while it’s user-friendly, some beginners might find the lack of additional stabilizers or features limiting compared to more expensive lenses.
Value for Money
92%
Users consistently find this lens to be an excellent value for money. The combination of high-quality image output, fast autofocus, and solid build at a relatively affordable price point makes it an attractive option for photographers on a budget. Many report it performing just as well as lenses at double the price, making it a smart investment.
A few users feel that while the lens is a good deal overall, it doesn't offer all the premium features found in more expensive lenses. Some mention missing extras like image stabilization or superior weather sealing, which are available in higher-end models, but still feel the price-to-performance ratio is outstanding.
Compatibility
80%
20%
This lens is compatible with a wide range of Canon DSLR and full-frame cameras, making it a versatile addition to any photographer’s kit. Users appreciate the seamless integration with Canon EF mounts, ensuring that it works smoothly across many Canon models. The ease of compatibility adds to its convenience for existing Canon users.
A few users have reported compatibility issues with certain Canon cameras, particularly older models or non-EF mount cameras. While it works well with most newer models, it may require an adapter for some Canon cameras, which can affect performance and ease of use in certain situations.
Firmware Updates
76%
24%
The ability to update the firmware via USB is a nice touch, offering users the opportunity to keep the lens performing at its best. Many users appreciate the potential for future improvements and bug fixes, which adds to the lens's longevity and value over time.
Some users feel that the need for firmware updates is a bit cumbersome, especially for those who aren't familiar with the process. Additionally, a few report that the firmware updates don't always solve some of the autofocus issues that are mentioned in reviews, leaving them with mixed feelings about this feature.
Bokeh Effect
89%
Many photographers love the bokeh effect produced by this lens, which adds a soft and aesthetically pleasing blur to backgrounds. The wide aperture helps create excellent subject isolation, making it perfect for portrait photography and close-up shots. The bokeh is often described as smooth and round, giving images a professional touch.
While the bokeh is generally praised, some users note that it can sometimes appear a bit harsh or distracting in certain situations. This can happen when shooting wide open at f/1.8, especially in high-contrast scenes or with backgrounds that have a lot of detail.
Autofocus Speed in Low Light
70%
30%
While autofocus performance is generally good, users who shoot in low-light conditions appreciate that it still manages to focus reasonably well without requiring additional light sources. For some photographers, it performs admirably in dim settings, especially for still photography and controlled lighting situations.
Several users report that the autofocus struggles significantly in low-light environments. It’s not as fast or reliable in dark conditions, which can lead to frustration when trying to capture fast-moving subjects or achieve quick focus adjustments in dimly lit scenes.

Suitable for:

The Meike 85mm f/1.8 Auto Focus Lens for Canon EOS is a great choice for portrait photographers and Canon DSLR users who are looking for a fast, sharp, and affordable lens. The wide f/1.8 aperture makes it ideal for low-light conditions and achieving beautiful background blur (bokeh). Its compact and lightweight design also makes it suitable for photographers on the go, such as travel enthusiasts or event photographers who need a portable solution without sacrificing image quality. The lens is particularly beneficial for those who want a versatile lens for both indoor and outdoor shooting, offering strong performance in various settings without breaking the bank.

Not suitable for:

This lens may not be the best option for photographers who require extremely fast autofocus, particularly in low-light environments. While it performs adequately in most conditions, some users have reported that autofocus can struggle in dimly lit settings, making it less ideal for fast-moving subjects or real-time action photography. Additionally, those seeking the highest build quality or additional premium features, such as weather-sealing or superior durability, may find this lens lacking. It’s also less suited for individuals who prefer a more versatile zoom lens, as its fixed 85mm focal length can feel restrictive for some types of photography, like landscape or street photography.

Specifications

  • Focal Length: The lens has a focal length of 85mm, making it ideal for portrait photography and medium telephoto shots.
  • Aperture: The lens features a wide f/1.8 aperture for excellent low-light performance and a shallow depth of field.
  • Mount Type: It is compatible with Canon EF mount cameras, ensuring compatibility with a wide range of Canon DSLR and full-frame models.
  • Auto-Focus: The lens includes auto-focus functionality, enabling quick and accurate focusing for both photography and video work.
  • Minimum Focus Distance: The lens has a minimum focusing distance of 0.85 meters, allowing for moderately close-up shots.
  • Lens Construction: The lens construction consists of 6 groups of lenses with a total of 9 elements, contributing to image quality and clarity.
  • Dimensions: The lens has dimensions of 6.06 x 5 x 5 inches, making it compact and easy to handle.
  • Weight: Weighing 14.8 oz, the lens is lightweight and portable, ideal for photographers on the go.
  • Compatibility: It is fully compatible with Canon DSLR and full-frame cameras, offering flexibility across different Canon models.
  • Firmware Updates: The lens includes a USB port for firmware updates, ensuring that it stays up-to-date with the latest features and improvements.
  • Bokeh Effect: The large f/1.8 aperture creates a pleasing background blur (bokeh), making it especially suitable for portrait and creative photography.
  • Build Quality: The build quality is solid yet lightweight, offering durability without compromising on portability.
  • Mounting Type: The lens uses a Canon EF mount, which ensures secure attachment to compatible Canon cameras.
  • Full-Frame Use: This lens is fully compatible with both crop-sensor and full-frame Canon cameras, providing versatility for different setups.
  • Focus Speed: The autofocus is quick and reliable for most situations, though some users report slower speeds in low-light conditions.
  • Lens Type: This is a prime lens, meaning it has a fixed focal length and does not zoom, which helps improve image quality.
  • Intended Use: It is best suited for portrait photography, low-light environments, and creative shots with a shallow depth of field.
  • Performance: The lens offers strong overall performance, with high clarity, sharpness, and reliable auto-focus capabilities.

FAQ

The Meike 85mm f/1.8 Auto Focus Lens is a prime telephoto lens for Canon EOS cameras, featuring a wide f/1.8 aperture for excellent low-light performance and beautiful background blur. It supports auto-focus, works with Canon EF mount cameras, and is compact and lightweight for easy handling.

This lens is compatible with Canon DSLR and full-frame cameras that use the Canon EF mount. However, it is not directly compatible with Canon's mirrorless cameras unless you use an EF to RF lens adapter.

Yes, this lens is ideal for portrait photography. Its fast f/1.8 aperture creates a shallow depth of field, producing sharp subject focus and soft, creamy background blur (bokeh), making it a popular choice for portrait photographers.

Yes, the wide f/1.8 aperture allows this lens to perform exceptionally well in low-light situations. It lets in more light, making it easier to capture clear, sharp images even in dimly lit environments.

The autofocus on this lens is generally fast and accurate in most lighting conditions. However, some users have noted occasional hesitation in low light, where the autofocus may take slightly longer to lock onto a subject.

No, this lens does not feature built-in image stabilization. If you require stabilization, you may need to rely on the in-body stabilization (IBIS) of your camera or use a tripod for certain shots, especially in low light or when shooting at slower shutter speeds.

While this lens is well-built and solid, it is lighter and more compact compared to higher-end, professional lenses. Some users have noted that it feels less robust, but it provides good value considering its price point.

The minimum focusing distance of this lens is 0.85 meters (2.8 feet), allowing for decent close-up shots, although it may not be suitable for macro photography.

Yes, this lens has a USB port for firmware updates. By connecting the lens to a computer, you can download and install updates from the manufacturer's website to ensure the lens performs optimally.

This lens can be used for video recording, particularly for portraits or creative shots with a shallow depth of field. However, its autofocus speed may not be as fast or smooth as more specialized video lenses, and it may experience slight hesitation in low light.