Meike AF 85mm f1.8 SE II STM

The Meike AF 85mm f1.8 SE II STM is a full-frame autofocus portrait lens for Sony E, Nikon Z and Leica L mount as well as for Canon EF and Nikon F DSLRs. It is the second generation of Meike's SE series 85 mm and pairs a classic portrait focal length with f/1.8 and a light polymer body. On APS-C bodies the angle of view corresponds to roughly 130 mm.

Optical design

The optical construction has 11 elements in 7 groups. The diaphragm has 11 blades, which Meike links to smooth bokeh, and it closes down to f/16. The minimum focus distance is 0.65 m.

Autofocus and handling

An STM stepping motor drives autofocus, which Meike describes as quiet and responsive. Eye and face detection are supported where the camera offers them. A Type-C port, located at the mount, allows firmware updates that users download from Meike's website.

Build and size

The lens is made from high-strength polymer and uses a 62 mm filter thread. The diameter is 76 mm. On the mirrorless mounts it is 100.2 mm long, on Canon EF 74.55 mm and on Nikon F 71 mm. Weight depends on the mount: about 369 g on Sony E, 379 g on Nikon Z, 369 g on L mount, 369 g on Canon EF and 343 g on Nikon F.

Where it fits

Within Meike, the Meike AF 85mm f1.8 Pro STM is the higher-specification alternative. Other 85 mm f/1.8 lenses in the database include the Sony FE 85mm F1.8, the Nikon Nikkor Z 85mm F1.8 S, the Viltrox AF 85mm F1.8 II and the Panasonic Lumix S 85mm F1.8 on L mount. For DSLR users, the Canon EF 85mm F1.8 USM and the Nikon AF-S Nikkor 85mm F1.8G are the first-party counterparts.

Pros and cons

Pros

• Classic 85 mm portrait focal length at f/1.8
• 11 aperture blades
• Light at about 343 to 379 g depending on mount
• Covers both mirrorless and DSLR mounts
• Type-C port for firmware updates

Cons

• Minimum focus distance of 0.65 m
• No built-in image stabilisation
• Plastic construction instead of metal

Verdict

The Meike AF 85mm f1.8 SE II STM is a low-cost portrait prime that reaches an unusually wide range of cameras, from current mirrorless bodies to older Canon and Nikon DSLRs. It is a sensible choice for portrait shooters who want f/1.8, STM autofocus and a light lens without a large outlay.