Meike Prime Lens

Meike 85mm f1.8 lens Canon EF

★★★★☆ 4.2/5 based on aggregated buyer feedback
Editorial Score 4.2/5.0
$314.49 $386.99 Save ~$72 · 23% off Estimated retail price · varies by seller
Expert Verdict

The Meike 85mm f/1.8 is a compelling budget portrait lens offering solid optics and a pleasing bokeh effect. While it lacks autofocus and weather sealing, its build quality and image performance make it a great option for photographers comfortable with manual focus and looking to save money without sacrificing image quality.

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Key Features

  • 85mm focal length ideal for portraits
  • Bright f/1.8 maximum aperture for shallow depth of field
  • 9-blade rounded aperture for smooth bokeh
  • All-metal lens barrel for durability
  • Manual focus with smooth, precise adjustment
  • Compatible with Canon EF mount full-frame and APS-C cameras
What we liked
  • Affordable price point compared to other 85mm primes
  • Sharp image quality especially when stopped down
  • Attractive bokeh with 9-blade aperture design
  • Solid metal construction enhances durability
  • Lightweight and compact for easy handling
  • Works well in low-light situations due to wide aperture
Worth noting
  • No autofocus capability
  • No weather sealing or lens coatings to reduce flare
  • Manual focusing can be challenging for fast-moving subjects
Score breakdown
How Meike 85mm f1.8 lens Canon EF performed across our key evaluation criteria.
Build quality
4.0
Performance
4.3
Value
4.3
Ease of use
4.2
Portability
4.7
Owner-sentiment mix
Distribution of star ratings from buyers across major retailers.
4.2 avg / 5
  • 5★ ratings71%
  • 4★ ratings16%
  • 3★ ratings10%
  • ≤2★ ratings3%

Full Review

The Meike 85mm f/1.8 lens for Canon EF mount is a budget-friendly prime lens tailored for portrait and low-light photography. Offering a moderately fast aperture of f/1.8, it allows photographers to achieve attractive background blur and excellent subject isolation. This lens is designed to deliver sharp images with pleasing bokeh, making it ideal for enthusiasts and hobbyists seeking an affordable alternative to more expensive 85mm options.

Constructed with a solid metal barrel, the Meike 85mm f/1.8 provides a durable feel, though it lacks weather sealing. Its manual focus mechanism is smooth and precise, catering to users comfortable with manual focusing to ensure critical sharpness. The lens includes a 9-blade aperture diaphragm which contributes to a rounded bokeh effect, enhancing the aesthetic quality of out-of-focus highlights.

While autofocus is not available, this lens excels in creative control and optical performance for its price range. It is compatible with full-frame Canon EF cameras but also works well on APS-C bodies, where it offers an effective focal length close to 136mm. Overall, the Meike 85mm f/1.8 is a solid choice for photographers looking to explore portraiture without breaking the bank.

Owner Reviews

Liam R. March 2025
★★★★★
Excellent value portrait lens
I was pleasantly surprised by the sharpness and bokeh of this lens. Manual focus is smooth and precise, and on my Canon full-frame body it performs beautifully. A great entry into prime lenses.
Sophia M. January 2025
★★★★☆
Good quality but manual focus only
The image quality is impressive for the price, but I miss autofocus for quick shots. Still, the build feels solid and the bokeh is creamy and attractive.