Meike AF 33mm F1.4 STM

The Meike AF 33mm F1.4 STM is an autofocus prime for APS-C mirrorless cameras with Fujifilm X, Nikon Z and Sony E mount. On an APS-C sensor, 33 mm corresponds to roughly 49.5 mm in full-frame terms, so it works as a normal lens for everyday photography, street scenes and video. Meike also sells it under the Neo name.

Optical design

The lens is built from 12 elements in 9 groups. Meike lists one ED element, one high-refractive-index element and one ultra-high-refractive-index element, together with double-sided multi-layer coating. The aperture ranges from f/1.4 to f/16, with 9 blades. According to Meike, the design shows minimal focus breathing, which is relevant for video. The minimum focus distance is 0.4 m.

Autofocus and handling

Autofocus is driven by a closed-loop stepping motor system, which Meike describes as fast, accurate and nearly silent, and which supports eye and face detection where the camera offers it. EXIF data are transmitted, and a USB-C port allows firmware updates. A petal-type hood is included.

Build and size

The barrel is made from high-polymer material. Meike gives a weight of about 314 g, a diameter of 66.5 mm and a length of 82 mm. The filter thread is 55 mm. Meike states that dust and moisture resistant seals are fitted.

Where it fits

For APS-C users, comparable bright normal lenses in the database are the Viltrox AF 33mm F1.4, the Tokina atx-m 33mm F1.4 and, on Fujifilm X, the Fujifilm XF 33mm F1.4 R LM WR. Within the Meike range, the Meike AF 23mm F1.4 STM is the wider companion and the Meike AF 55mm F1.4 STM the portrait counterpart.

Pros and cons

Pros

• Bright f/1.4 aperture on a normal APS-C focal length
• Minimum focus distance of 0.4 m
• STM autofocus with eye and face detection support
• Seals against dust and moisture according to Meike
• Available for Fujifilm X, Nikon Z and Sony E

Cons

• No built-in image stabilisation
• Designed for APS-C only, without a full-frame image circle

Verdict

The Meike AF 33mm F1.4 STM is a practical, affordable normal lens for APS-C cameras. It combines f/1.4, STM autofocus, sealing and a modest weight of about 314 g, and it suits photographers who want a single bright lens for walking around across three popular mounts.