Meike 35mm F1.7 Lens Review

I've found the Meike 35mm F1.7 to be an impressive budget-friendly lens under $100 that delivers sharp images and beautiful bokeh, especially on Sony APS-C cameras. While it's manual focus only, the all-metal construction feels solid, and image quality remains strong throughout the aperture range, peaking at f2.8. Despite some minor quirks like a loose lens cap and sluggish focus ring, you'll get remarkable value for street photography and portraits. Let's explore what makes this lens a hidden gem for budget-conscious photographers.

Budget-Friendly 35MM Prime Lens

While many photographers shy away from manual focus lenses, the Meike 35mm F1.7 proves you don't need to spend a fortune to get excellent image quality.

At under $100, I've found this lens delivers impressive results, especially when shooting at its maximum f1.7 aperture.

The metal construction feels solid in my hands, and the lens's compact size makes it perfect for travel photography.

I particularly appreciate how it performs on Sony's APS-C mirrorless cameras, offering a versatile 52.5mm equivalent focal length.

Despite its budget-friendly price point, this prime lens delivers sharp images with minimal distortion and chromatic aberration.

All-Metal Optical Construction

The Meike 35mm F1.7's optical construction impresses me with its 6-element, 5-group design housed entirely in metal.

I've found the lens's metal construction offers excellent durability while maintaining a compact form factor that's ideal for everyday shooting.

Despite its budget-friendly price point, the quality of glass elements produces sharp images with minimal distortion, especially when stopped down to f2.8.

Lens Design & Glass Elements

Built with precision engineering, Meike's 35mm F1.7 lens features a robust all-metal construction that houses six glass elements arranged in five groups. I've found this design delivers excellent image quality while minimizing distortion and chromatic aberration. Let's break down the key optical specifications:

The lens structure maintains sharpness throughout the aperture range, though I've noticed it performs best when stopped down to f2.8. You'll appreciate the solid feel and precise manual focus control this design provides.

Lens Performance Vs Cost

I'm impressed by how much value the Meike 35mm F1.7 delivers for under $100, offering sharp images and solid build quality that rival more expensive alternatives.

While the all-metal construction feels premium in hand, I've noticed the aperture ring's smoothness varies between copies, with some feeling too loose and others appropriately tight.

Despite this minor inconsistency, the lens's optical performance at both wide and stopped-down apertures makes it an excellent bargain for photographers on a budget.

What We Like

Primary among this lens's strengths is its impressive value proposition – delivering sharp images and good build quality at a sub-$100 price point.

I've found the all-metal construction rivals more expensive options, while the f1.7 aperture lets you take control of depth of field and low-light shooting.

• Metal construction feels solid and professional in hand
• Large f1.7 aperture enables beautiful bokeh effects
• Manual focus ring provides precise creative control
• Compact size makes it perfect for travel photography
• Minimal distortion and chromatic aberration at typical shooting distances

The hands-on experience reminds me of shooting with classic film lenses, offering that authentic photography feel many of us crave.

Inconsistent Aperture Ring Smoothness

While the Meike 35mm F1.7 delivers impressive value overall, its aperture ring reveals one of the key compromises made to achieve its budget price point.

I've found the smoothness varies greatly between units, which can affect your shooting experience.

• No click stops means the ring can shift during shoots
• Movement feels inconsistent through the f1.7-f22 range
• Some units are too loose, others too stiff
• Ring's metal construction can bind in cold weather
• Accidental adjustments happen frequently without tactile feedback

For precise aperture control, I recommend marking your preferred f-stops with small dots or practicing muscle memory to compensate for these quirks.

Ideal use cases

Whether you're practicing street photography or shooting artistic portraits, the Meike 35mm F1.7 excels in situations where you can take your time to compose and focus manually.

I've found it particularly effective for static subjects like architecture, landscapes, and still life where precise focus control matters.

The lens's f1.7 aperture makes it ideal for low-light environments and creating beautiful bokeh effects in controlled settings.

You'll get the most from this lens when shooting scenes that don't demand split-second focus adjustments, making it perfect for deliberate, thoughtful photography where you can craft each shot with intention.

Budget Street Photography Choice

Street photographers on a budget will find the Meike 35mm F1.7 an attractive option at under $100.

I've found its compact size and metal construction perfect for long walks through urban environments, while its bright f1.7 aperture lets me shoot confidently in low light situations.

The manual focus actually becomes an advantage in street photography – I can pre-focus at specific distances and snap shots instantly without waiting for autofocus.

When I stop it down to f2.8, I get impressive sharpness that rivals more expensive lenses.

The 35mm focal length on APS-C cameras provides an ideal perspective for capturing city life and architecture.

FAQ's

I'll tackle the most common questions about the Meike 35mm F1.7 lens, covering everything from Sony camera compatibility to manual focusing techniques.

You'll find answers about the lens's real-world performance, including sharpness at different apertures and tips for achieving crisp focus using your camera's focus peaking feature.

I'll also address practical concerns about proper mounting, maintenance routines, and solutions for technical issues like sticky aperture rings and loose lens caps.

Camera Compatibility Guide

Since the Meike 35mm F1.7 is designed specifically for APS-C Sony E-mount cameras, you'll need to verify your camera's compatibility before making a purchase.

I've confirmed this lens works with popular models like the A6000, A6100, A6300, A6400, A6500, and A6600 series. It's also compatible with older NEX models including the 3, 3N, 5R, 6, and 7.

While you can mount this lens on full-frame Sony cameras, I recommend using it in APS-C mode to prevent vignetting.

Remember to enable the "Release without lens" setting in your camera's menu for proper functionality.

Lens Performance Questions

Many photographers ask about this lens's real-world performance, so let's address the most common questions.

Is it sharp enough? At f1.7, I find the center sharpness excellent, with corners improving when stopped down to f2.8.

How's bokeh? The lens delivers smooth, pleasing background blur, especially at wider apertures.

What about build quality? It's surprisingly solid with its metal construction, though I'll warn you the lens cap fits loosely.

Can I shoot in low light? Absolutely – the f1.7 aperture handles dim conditions well.

Will I miss autofocus? You'll adapt quickly using focus peaking, and I've found manual focusing becomes second nature.

Manual Focus Tips

How can you master manual focusing with the Meike 35mm? I recommend enabling your camera's focus peaking feature, which highlights in-focus areas with a bright color.

For precise control, I've found that positioning your subject in the center of the frame while focusing, then recomposing your shot works best.

When shooting at f1.7, I suggest practicing with stationary subjects first. The shallow depth of field requires careful attention.

Turn your focus ring slowly and deliberately until the peaking highlights appear strongest around your subject.

In low light, I'll often stop down to f2.8 for a slightly wider focusing margin.

Mounting and Maintenance

The most common mounting questions I receive center on the lens's tight fit. While this snug connection protects your camera, I recommend gentle mounting pressure and a slight clockwise twist until you hear a click. Don't force it.

For maintenance, I'll keep it simple: store the lens with both caps on, use a microfiber cloth for the glass, and avoid changing lenses in dusty conditions.

If the aperture ring feels loose, a small piece of electrical tape can prevent unwanted shifts.

Remember to enable "Release without lens" in your camera's menu before mounting, or you'll get an error message.

Common Technical Issues

From mounting concerns, let's tackle recurring technical issues I've encountered while testing this lens.

I'll warn you about the aperture ring's tendency to shift during shoots – you'll need to check it frequently. The lens cap's loose fit means you'll want a backup solution.

I've also noticed the focus ring can feel sluggish, requiring deliberate movements for precise adjustments.

While the tight mount fit provides stability, it may cause wear over time.

If you're shooting wide open at f1.7, expect some softness until you stop down to f2.8 for best sharpness.

Helpful Resources

When learning to use the Meike 35mm F1.7 lens effectively, I recommend starting with YouTube tutorials from photographers like Mark Holtze and Willem Verbeeck, who offer practical demonstrations of manual focusing techniques.

I've found that joining Sony E-mount photography groups on Facebook can connect you with experienced Meike users who share settings and composition tips.

The manufacturer's website provides downloadable user manuals and firmware updates, while photography forums like DPReview and Fred Miranda feature detailed user reviews and sample images.

For technical support, I suggest contacting Meike's customer service through their official channels or authorized dealers.