Meike has introduced the Prime 85mm T2.1 Cine Lens for full-frame cinema cameras. The lens joins the Meike FF Cine lens family (covers an image circle of 45mm) which now composed of 35mm, 50mm, and of course the 85mm. As usual, the price is considered affordable for a FF Cine Prime.

Cine Prime FF glass for the masses

Many lens manufacturers that have the technology and R&D capabilities, try to develop cine lenses that can cover large image-circle for full-frame cinema cameras, within an affordable price tag. We call it: Full-frame cine primes for the masses. Of course the definition of “affordable” is valid when compared to the other professional options in the market. Let’s define “affordable” below $2,000. That means, a cine-prime that covers full-frame sensors and costs below $2,000, can be segmented as an inexpensive piece of glass. If so, what’re your options till now?

Explore the slide below that shows affordable full-frame cine-primes within the announced focal length (75-85mm).

Meike Cine Prime FF 85mm T2.1

The newly announced 85mm T2.1 cine prime by Meike, joins the FF cine lens family. It covers an image circle of 45mm. The lens is available in either PL, Canon EF, Canon RF, Sony E, and Panasonic L mounts. The complete set includes 16mmT2.6,24mmT2.1, 35mmT2.1, 50mmT2.1, 85mmT2.1, 105mmT2.1 and135mmT2.1. Already launched: 35mmT2.1, 50mmT2.1, and 85mmT2.1 The lens design consists of fourteen elements in eight groups. The aperture mechanism consists of 11 aperture blades. The minimum focus distance is 85 cm.

Lens compatibility (cameras)

• Canon C700
• Sony VENICE
• Alexa LF
• Z Cam E2-F6
• Mavo LF
• All full-frame Sony, Panasonic. Canon, Sigma, Leica mirrorless
• All Super 35/ APS-C sensors

Specifications

• Lens Mount: PL/EF/RF/E/L
• Min Focal Dist: 85cm
• Filter Thread: ø82
• Image Circle: 45mm
• Structure: 14 Elements in 8 Groups    
• Focal Length: 85mm
• Aperture Range: T2.1-T22
• Iris Blades: 11    
• Gear Mod: M0.8    
• Focus Rotation: 330 Degree    
• Weight: 1107~1170g

Price and availability

For now, the Meike Cine Prime FF 85mm T2.1 I can only be pre-ordered. The estimated shipping date is May 10th. The Price is $970.

Test footage

Meike hasn’t released any test footage of the 85mm, however, have a look at the video below that demonstrates the Meike 35mm T2.1 FF Cine imagery, shot on the Canon R5.

What do you think about the trend of affordable FF cinema primes? Would you purchase a set of those lenses? Comment below.