Meike AF 55mm F1.4 STM

The Meike AF 55mm F1.4 STM is an autofocus portrait prime for APS-C mirrorless cameras with Fujifilm X, Sony E and Nikon Z mount. On APS-C bodies, 55 mm corresponds to about 82 mm in full-frame terms, which makes it a short telephoto for head-and-shoulders portraits. Meike positions it as a fast, lightweight portrait lens within its APS-C range.

Optical design

The design uses 11 elements in 8 groups, including one ED element and two high-refractive-index elements. Meike states that these, together with dual-sided multi-layer coatings, are intended to suppress chromatic aberration, ghosting and flare. The aperture runs from f/1.4 to f/16 with 9 blades. Minimum focus distance is 0.61 m, which Meike highlights for close-up and wedding work.

Autofocus and handling

Focusing is handled by a closed-loop stepping motor system that Meike describes as fast, accurate and quiet. An AF/MF switch is on the barrel, and manual focus is described as linear-response, so the focus ring responds in a repeatable way. Meike's APS-C series uses a click-type manual aperture ring, which is useful for photographers who prefer to set the aperture on the lens.

Build and size

The lens is made from high-polymer materials and weighs about 289 g. Its diameter is 66.5 mm and its length 76 mm. Meike states that dust- and weather-resistant seals are fitted. The filter thread is 52 mm.

Where it fits

Within the Meike line, the lens sits above the Meike AF 33mm F1.4 STM and next to the full-frame Meike AF 85mm f1.4 STM, whose rendering it is meant to echo on a smaller sensor. Among other APS-C portrait primes in the database, the Viltrox AF 56mm F1.4, the Viltrox AF 56mm F1.7 and the Sigma 56mm F1.4 DC DN Contemporary cover a similar angle of view, and on Fujifilm X the Fujifilm XF 56mm F1.2 R WR is the system option.

Pros and cons

Pros

• Bright f/1.4 aperture on an APS-C portrait focal length
• Light at about 289 g and compact
• Aperture ring with click stops and AF/MF switch
• Minimum focus distance of 0.61 m
• Available for three APS-C mounts

Cons

• No built-in image stabilisation
• Not designed for full-frame coverage, so it is an APS-C lens only

Verdict

The Meike AF 55mm F1.4 STM is an inexpensive way to get a bright portrait lens on Fujifilm X, Sony E or Nikon Z APS-C cameras. It combines f/1.4, STM autofocus, an aperture ring and a low weight, and it is best suited to photographers who value size and price over the most elaborate optics.