Meike has launched the AF 58mm f/1.2 MIX, a fast autofocus portrait prime for APS-C cameras that’s available in Sony E, Fujifilm X and Nikon Z mounts for US$449.

On an APS-C body, the 58mm focal length gives a field of view equivalent to roughly 87mm on full-frame – right in the classic head-and-shoulders portrait zone. Combined with the bright f/1.2 maximum aperture, that should make it possible to throw backgrounds well out of focus and shoot in low light, which is exactly what APS-C portrait shooters have often struggled to find at an affordable price.

Optics and autofocus

The lens uses 14 elements in 10 groups, and Meike says it’s designed with APO-level colour correction and enough resolving power for sensors of up to 60MP. Autofocus is driven by an STM stepping motor and supports eye and face detection on compatible cameras. The aperture runs from f/1.2 to f/16 and, according to What Digital Camera, uses 11 blades for smooth, rounded bokeh.

The MIX name reflects the lens’s mix of photo and video-friendly controls. As well as a manual focus ring, there’s an aperture ring that can be switched between clicked and clickless operation, an aperture ring lock, an AF/MF switch and a customisable Fn button. A USB-C port allows firmware updates.

Minimum focus distance is 0.62m and the lens takes 62mm filters. It weighs around 450g in E and X mount, and around 455g in Z mount.

Meike has built a strong reputation for affordable manual and autofocus lenses, and an f/1.2 autofocus portrait prime at this price gives APS-C users a genuine alternative to far more expensive first-party glass. We’ll be looking closely at how well the autofocus copes wide open, where focus accuracy matters most.

Meike AF 58mm f/1.2 MIX specifications

Price and availability

The Meike AF 58mm f/1.2 MIX is available now for US$449 from the Meike online store in Sony E, Fujifilm X and Nikon Z mounts. UK pricing has not been confirmed.