Meike SE Series 85mm F1.8 AF Mark II (Canon EF)

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Canon EF Prime full-frame 2026

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Compare with

85mm

Focal length

f/1.8

Max aperture

369 g

Weight

14mm35mm85mm200mm600mm

▲ 85mm

Max aperture

f/1.4

f/1.8

f/2.8

Constant Aperture

Zoom Ratio: 1x
Zoom Method: internal

Aperturef/1.8

f/1.8f/16

Near focus14' 8"

Far focus15' 7"

Total DOF1' 0"

Hyperfocal456' 10"

Subject distance15' 1"

Focal length85 mm

Aperturef/1.8

SensorFull Frame

Illustrative scene preview based on this lens's focal length, aperture, and sensor coverage.

This preview uses 85mm, f/1.8, and Full Frame. Subject distance is estimated to keep lens previews comparable.

Min aperture: f/16
Diaphragm blades: 11

Optics

Optical construction: 11 elements in 7 groups

Focusing

Minimum focus: 65 cm
AF motor: STM

Physical

Weight: 369 g
Dimensions: ⌀79.5mm × 75mm
Filter thread: 67 mm
Hood included: Yes
Color: Black

Recommended Use

Ideal for: Portraits, Weddings

Release year: 2026
Announced: Jan 9, 2026
Approx price: $229 USD

The best

11-blade superior bokeh

Also

0.65m focusing versatility

Summary

The Meike 85mm f/1.8 AF SE Mark II for Canon EF is presented as a significant technical evolution designed to maximize quality in the adapted SLR and mirrorless system. Its most notable feature is the new optical scheme of 11 elements in 7 groups, which together with a diaphragm with 11 rounded blades, produces exceptionally smooth and circular bokeh. This "Mark II" version not only improves corner sharpness over its predecessor, but also introduces a faster and quieter STM stepping motor, ideal for those who need reliable autofocus in critical situations. From a practical point of view, this lens is a specialized tool for portrait and event photography. Thanks to its f/1.8 aperture, it allows you to isolate the subject from the background very effectively, even in low light conditions, making it perfect for weddings, fashion shoots or night street photography. In addition, its reduced minimum focusing distance of only 0.65 meters (compared to the standard 0.85m) expands its uses towards detail photography and intense close-ups, offering creative versatility that few 85mm lenses possess in this price range. For the modern photographer, the lightweight 369 gram build and inclusion of a USB-C port for firmware updates ensure the lens is a long-term investment. Its native compatibility with Canon EF mounts makes it ideal for classic DSLR cameras, but it is also an extremely attractive option for adapter-using Canon EOS R users, offering professional performance at a fraction of the cost of L-series lenses. It is, in short, the balanced option for those looking for high-end aesthetic results without compromising their budget.

Meike SE Series 85mm F1.8 AF Mark II (Canon EF) Comparisons

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Pros & Cons

Pros

Value for money: It is one of the cheapest 85mm autofocus lenses on the market ($229 USD).
Soft Bokeh: Its 11 rounded diaphragm blades create a very aesthetic and circular background blur.
STM Focus: The stepper motor is fast and noticeably quieter than the previous version.
Focus Distance: Allows you to get closer to the subject (0.65m) than most lenses in its class (0.85m).
Upgradeable: Includes a USB-C port for installing firmware upgrades and future compatibility.
Lightweight: At only 369g, it is very comfortable for long sessions or trips.

Cons

Plastic Construction: Although the frame is metal, the outer body is primarily plastic to reduce weight and costs.
Without Stabilization: It does not have an optical image stabilizer (you will depend on the pulse or the camera sensor).
Vignetting and Aberrations: At maximum aperture (f/1.8), there may be some darkening in the corners and slight color fringing in high contrast areas.
Limited Sealing: It does not have professional sealing against dust and splashes of water.
Sunshade: Although often included, the design and fit of Meike's plastic accessories sometimes feels less premium than brands like Canon or Sigma.