Meike 55mm F1.4 APS-C, a $200 autofocus lens that promises bang for the buck: Digital Photography Review
Image: Meike
Meike Global has released its first autofocus APS-C lens for Fujifilm, Sony and Nikon cameras. The new 55mm F1.4 targets photographers looking for a fast prime lens. At $200, the lens could be a sound budget alternative to similar lenses available on the market.
The 55mm F1.4 uses 11 elements in 8 groups and has nine aperture blades. It has a minimum focusing distance of 0.6m (23.6”) and weighs 286g (10.1oz). Along the barrel, there is an AF/MF switch, a manual focus ring and an aperture ring. Meike has included a USB-C port at the rear of the lens, which it says will be used to install future firmware updates.
The $200 asking price is notably cheaper than other fast, APS-C prime lenses around the 55mm focal length.
Image: Meike
Meike’s 55mm lens has a de-clicked aperture ring, which may present an issue for users seeking a tactile response or greater precision. Meike also confirmed to DPReview that the lens isn’t weather-resistant, which may not be a surprise at this price point, but it’s good to know exactly what you’re buying.
Another consideration: although the company has a large catalog of manual focus lenses, this is only the Hong Kong-based manufacturer’s fifth autofocus lens. This isn’t necessarily a bad thing, but it’s good to keep in mind that the company is relatively new to implementing the technology.
The Meike 55mm F1.4 APS-C is now available.
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