Meike 85mm F1.8 AF STM Sony E Mount Lens

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85%
92%
Value for Money
88%
Autofocus Speed and Accuracy
90%
Image Quality
85%
Bokeh and Background Blur
78%
Low-Light Performance
89%
Portability and Weight
81%
Build Quality
94%
Compatibility with Sony Cameras
87%
Ease of Use
84%
Price Stability and Longevity
82%
Firmware Update Capability
75%
Customer Support Experience
More

Overview

The Meike 85mm F1.8 AF STM Sony E Mount Lens is a prime lens designed for Sony's E-mount mirrorless cameras. Offering impressive image quality and fast autofocus, this lens is perfect for capturing sharp portraits with beautiful background blur. Weighing just 13.6 oz and measuring only 3.75 inches, this lens is compact and highly portable, making it an excellent choice for photographers on the go. Compatible with both full-frame and APS-C Sony mirrorless systems, it delivers excellent performance in a wide range of shooting scenarios.

Features & Benefits

The f/1.8 aperture of this 85mm lens enables superb low-light performance and produces a shallow depth of field for stunning background blur. Its autofocus system, powered by the AF STM (stepping motor), operates quickly and quietly, making it ideal for capturing both stills and video. The inclusion of a Micro-USB port allows for easy firmware updates, ensuring long-term usability and compatibility with future camera models. With its 9 elements in 6 groups design, this lens provides excellent sharpness and image clarity even at wide apertures.

Best For

This Meike lens is ideal for portrait photographers who need a reliable and lightweight lens that delivers excellent background blur. Its compatibility with both full-frame and APS-C Sony cameras makes it versatile for various users, from enthusiasts to professionals. Travel and street photographers will appreciate its compact design and portability, while budget-conscious buyers seeking a cost-effective 85mm option will find great value in its performance. It’s also perfect for anyone who needs a lens that balances quality and price.

User Feedback

Users generally praise this 85mm lens for its fast autofocus and sharp image quality, especially considering its affordable price. Many reviewers note that it delivers fantastic results for portrait photography, with smooth bokeh and vibrant colors. However, some have mentioned minor challenges with focusing in very low-light conditions or on fast-moving subjects. Despite this, most appreciate the lens’s lightweight construction, making it a great alternative to bulkier lenses without sacrificing performance.

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Pros

  • This 85mm lens offers sharp, high-quality images with impressive background blur, making it ideal for portrait photography.
  • The compact and lightweight design (13.6 oz) makes it easy to carry for travel and outdoor photography.
  • Users appreciate the fast, quiet autofocus, especially for portraiture and street photography.
  • The f/1.8 aperture delivers excellent low-light performance, enhancing results in dimly lit environments.
  • Affordable compared to other premium 85mm lenses, providing great value for money.
  • Its smooth bokeh and shallow depth of field help create professional-looking portraits with beautiful background separation.

Cons

  • Some users report occasional autofocus challenges in low-light conditions or with fast-moving subjects.
  • The plastic body construction may feel less durable compared to other higher-end lenses.
  • The lack of manual focus control can be limiting for those who prefer more hands-on adjustments.
  • The autofocus motor may be slower than higher-end models, particularly in demanding scenarios.
  • While great for most conditions, it may not be ideal for extreme environments due to its build quality.
  • A few users mention that the lens can struggle to focus accurately in very dark or contrast-poor environments.

Ratings

The Meike 85mm F1.8 AF STM Sony E Mount Lens has received a broad range of user feedback from various regions and languages, ensuring a well-rounded evaluation. After filtering out spam, bot-generated, and incentivized reviews, we analyzed authentic user experiences across multiple platforms. Both the strengths and minor pain points have been reflected in the overall scores, providing a comprehensive view of this lens's performance and value.

Value for Money
92%
Many buyers find this lens a great deal given its performance at a much lower price compared to other 85mm lenses. The sharpness, fast autofocus, and smooth bokeh make it a solid choice for budget-conscious photographers seeking professional results without breaking the bank.
A few users note that while the price is attractive, the overall build quality might not match the higher-end models. Some also mention that the plastic body, although lightweight, feels less premium compared to more expensive alternatives.
Autofocus Speed and Accuracy
88%
The fast and quiet autofocus is frequently praised, especially for portrait photography. The STM motor ensures that the focus is precise and nearly silent, making it ideal for both stills and video. Users appreciate its reliability in most lighting conditions, even during fast-paced shooting.
However, some users have experienced occasional hunting or slower autofocus in very low light or with fast-moving subjects. This may be a drawback for those who require absolute precision in challenging conditions like action shots or dim environments.
Image Quality
90%
Users consistently highlight the sharpness and clarity of images produced by this lens. The f/1.8 aperture creates beautiful background blur (bokeh), making portraits look professional with a soft, creamy backdrop. The lens performs well across the frame, even at wider apertures.
A small number of buyers report mild chromatic aberration or slight softness at the edges in certain situations. While the center sharpness is excellent, the lens may require some post-processing to correct minor optical imperfections in challenging lighting or at extreme apertures.
Bokeh and Background Blur
85%
The smooth, creamy bokeh is a standout feature, making this lens perfect for portrait work. Many users love the separation it provides between subject and background, creating a pleasing, professional look for photographs.
While the bokeh is generally praised, a few users report that it can sometimes appear slightly nervous or busy in certain light conditions or with complex backgrounds. It's not quite as buttery smooth as some of the higher-end lenses in this focal range.
Low-Light Performance
78%
22%
The f/1.8 aperture offers solid performance in lower-light settings, especially for portrait photographers looking to shoot without a flash. Users appreciate the ability to capture more light without significant image degradation, particularly in moderately lit environments.
In very dim or tricky low-light conditions, some buyers report slower autofocus or more noticeable image noise. While the aperture is large enough to work in most situations, it doesn't offer the same low-light capabilities as faster f/1.4 lenses, especially for fast-moving subjects.
Portability and Weight
89%
At just 13.6 oz, this lens is compact and lightweight, making it easy to carry for long periods without feeling weighed down. Users love the portability, especially for travel, street photography, or when hiking with a full kit.
Although many appreciate the lightweight design, some users feel that the plastic construction, while making the lens light, detracts from the overall robustness. It’s not as rugged as heavier, metal-bodied alternatives, which may concern users looking for a more durable option.
Build Quality
81%
19%
The lens has a solid build with a metal mount, which adds durability and a premium touch despite the overall plastic body. It strikes a good balance between affordability and sturdiness for everyday photographers.
Several users note that the plastic body, while contributing to its light weight, feels less premium than higher-end lenses. This may not satisfy photographers who prefer a more robust, weather-sealed build, especially for demanding conditions or professional use.
Compatibility with Sony Cameras
94%
The lens is highly compatible with a wide range of Sony E-mount cameras, both full-frame and APS-C. It integrates seamlessly with Sony’s autofocus system, delivering quick and reliable performance across various camera bodies.
A few users have reported minor compatibility issues with very specific Sony camera models, particularly older ones. However, these instances are rare and generally addressed with firmware updates.
Ease of Use
87%
The Meike 85mm lens is intuitive and easy to use, even for beginners. Its straightforward controls and autofocus system make it a great option for those new to portrait photography or mirrorless cameras.
Some advanced photographers may find the lack of more customizable settings limiting. There’s no aperture ring or other manual control options that some users might prefer for full creative flexibility.
Price Stability and Longevity
84%
At its price point, the lens offers significant value for its features, and many users feel confident in its long-term durability, especially with firmware updates available through the micro-USB port.
While the lens is budget-friendly, some buyers have concerns about its longevity, especially considering the plastic body. Those expecting premium build quality may question how well it will hold up over time under heavy use.
Firmware Update Capability
82%
18%
The micro-USB port for firmware updates is a notable feature, as it allows the lens to receive improvements and fixes without needing a new model. This ensures that the lens remains relevant and functional for a longer period.
While the firmware update feature is appreciated, some users find the process a bit cumbersome. Not all users may be familiar with updating lenses via micro-USB, which could be a minor inconvenience for less tech-savvy individuals.
Customer Support Experience
75%
25%
Some buyers have reported positive interactions with Meike’s customer support, especially in addressing any issues with the lens quickly and efficiently. They appreciate the quick responses and helpful guidance.
However, other users have experienced delays in response times or unclear instructions from customer support. While problems are typically resolved, some feel the customer service could be more responsive and better at handling complex inquiries.

Suitable for:

The Meike 85mm F1.8 AF STM Sony E Mount Lens is ideal for portrait photographers looking for a budget-friendly option without sacrificing essential features. This lens delivers excellent image quality with sharpness, smooth bokeh, and quick, quiet autofocus, making it perfect for both beginners and experienced photographers. It's a great choice for those using Sony full-frame or APS-C mirrorless cameras who want a portable and lightweight lens for everyday shooting, travel, or street photography. If you're looking for an affordable alternative to more expensive 85mm lenses, this portrait lens offers solid value, especially for photographers on a budget.

Not suitable for:

While this lens performs well for most scenarios, it may not be the best fit for professional photographers who require the highest durability and performance in extreme conditions. The plastic build, while lightweight, may feel less robust compared to premium lenses, which could be a concern for those working in harsh environments. Additionally, users who frequently shoot in low-light conditions or with fast-moving subjects might find the autofocus occasionally struggles, particularly in very dim settings. Those seeking a more versatile lens with manual control options may also be disappointed, as this model lacks certain advanced features.

Specifications

  • Focal Length: The lens has a focal length of 85mm, ideal for portrait photography.
  • Aperture: It features a wide f/1.8 aperture, providing excellent low-light performance and shallow depth of field.
  • Lens Type: This is a prime lens, meaning it has a fixed focal length without zoom capabilities.
  • Mount Type: The lens is designed for Sony E-mount mirrorless cameras, compatible with both full-frame and APS-C sensors.
  • Focus Type: The lens uses an autofocus system driven by a Stepping Motor (AF STM) for precise, quiet focusing.
  • Weight: It weighs approximately 13.6 oz (385g), making it lightweight and easy to carry.
  • Dimensions: The lens measures 3.75 x 3.17 x 3.17 inches, contributing to its compact form factor.
  • Optical Construction: The lens features 9 elements in 6 groups, contributing to sharp image quality.
  • Compatible Cameras: It is compatible with both Sony full-frame and APS-C mirrorless cameras.
  • Bokeh: The large aperture helps produce smooth and attractive bokeh, ideal for portrait shots.
  • Micro-USB Port: The lens includes a Micro-USB port for firmware updates, allowing for future performance improvements.
  • Construction: It features a metal mount with a plastic body, ensuring durability while maintaining lightness.
  • Autofocus Speed: The lens provides fast autofocus performance, suitable for most portrait and street photography scenarios.
  • Image Quality: With its optical design, the lens delivers sharp images with minimal distortion and chromatic aberration.
  • Best For: This lens is best suited for portrait photographers and users who value a portable, cost-effective 85mm option.
  • Low-Light Performance: The f/1.8 aperture allows for reliable shooting in low-light conditions, making it versatile for indoor photography.
  • Price Point: It offers a budget-friendly alternative to more expensive 85mm lenses, delivering excellent value for money.
  • Fast-Moving Subjects: Some users have noted occasional autofocus issues when capturing fast-moving subjects or in low-light environments.

FAQ

The 85mm focal length and f/1.8 aperture of this lens allow for sharp, detailed portraits with a beautiful, creamy bokeh. It's perfect for creating a soft background blur while keeping your subject crisp, making it ideal for portrait photography. Its fast autofocus and lightweight design make it both practical and effective for capturing portraits in various settings.

Yes, the Meike 85mm F1.8 AF STM lens is compatible with both full-frame and APS-C Sony E-mount mirrorless cameras. On full-frame cameras, you'll get the standard 85mm focal length, while on APS-C cameras, it will provide an effective focal length of approximately 127mm due to the crop factor.

The autofocus on this lens is fast and quiet, thanks to the AF STM (stepping motor) technology. It performs well in most shooting scenarios, making it ideal for portrait and street photography. However, some users have reported occasional challenges with low-light or fast-moving subjects, where the autofocus might struggle slightly.

Yes, the f/1.8 aperture allows for excellent low-light performance, enabling you to capture brighter images even in dim environments. This makes it an excellent choice for portrait photographers who often shoot indoors or in low-light settings without needing a flash.

The lens is quite compact and lightweight, weighing only 13.6 oz (385g). Its small size and light weight make it easy to carry around, making it a great choice for travel and outdoor photography, especially when compared to larger, bulkier lenses.

Yes, the Meike 85mm F1.8 AF STM lens comes with a micro-USB port that allows for firmware updates. This ensures that the lens can stay up-to-date with the latest improvements and performance enhancements, providing longevity and optimal functionality over time.

The lens features a metal mount and a plastic body, making it sturdy yet lightweight. While it feels solid for everyday use, some users note that it may not be as rugged as more premium lenses, so it may not hold up well in very harsh environments.

Absolutely. This lens is considered a great value for the money, especially when compared to other 85mm lenses from more well-known brands. It offers professional-level image quality, a fast autofocus system, and excellent portability at a fraction of the cost of high-end alternatives.

This lens is particularly great for portrait photography, as it offers sharp subject focus and a smooth bokeh effect. It also works well for travel and street photography due to its portability and versatility, making it a solid choice for photographers on the go.

While the autofocus is fast and generally reliable, some users have mentioned that the lens can occasionally struggle in low-light conditions or with fast-moving subjects. For critical moments, it may not be as fast or precise as more expensive options, but it still performs well in most scenarios.