The BEST Variable ND Filters Compared (+3 Lens Filters Everyone should own)

📷 Variable Lens Filters Mentioned
PolarPro Recon: geni.us/gbFtX7
K&F Variable ND filter: geni.us/BBZb
NISI True Color ND-VARIO: geni.us/CUDNB
Haida 2 in 1 CPL + VND: geni.us/FxB8o4
Freewell 82mm VND: geni.us/A2AehId
Freewell K2: [Link coming later]
Kolari 6-9 VND: geni.us/Dx3OOaZ
LENS FILTERS! Let's compare some of the most popular variable ND Filters. K&F vs NISI vs Haida and 5 more Variable ND filters that you should consider before buying your next set of filters. I'll share which lens filters live on each of my camera lenses, and what ones I currently carry in my camera bag!
📷Other Filters Mentioned:
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Lens Protection Filter: geni.us/68l6
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10-Stop ND Filter: geni.us/fK561Z
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[Timecodes]
0:00 Lens Filters!
0:38 UV Protection Filters
1:32 Variable ND Filters
2:11 K&F Variable ND Filter + Test Results
3:04 Freewell 82mm Magnetic Variable ND Filter
3:28 NISI 1-5 Stops Variable ND Filter
4:44 Haida 2 in 1 CPL + VND Filter
6:08 How to use an ND Filter in Photography
7:15 Fixed ND Filters (non-variable)
8:20 Other Filters in my Camera Bag
9:28 Filters I no longer use
10:55 Filter Compatibility
11:24 Step Up Rings
12:30 Filters I should Test?

[@AnthonyGugliotta]

What lens filters do you use? 😋

[@benjidoerr]

Irix 5 stop

[@definitelynotethancross]

Ones that haven't been half eaten by you

[@AnthonyGugliotta]

@@definitelynotethancross I'll admit. It was a bit chewy.

[@ekphotography]

Tried many but looking at the NISI True Color at the moment, seems the best as far as I have researched, Just not sure whether to get the Matte Box C5 version or the screw on ones..

[@SkyPathProductions]

Do you suggust the Peter McKinnon VND's Signature? Any thoughts on them? I've heard lots of good as well as lots of bad such as a green color cast.

[@Losochill]

This dude is probably the most useful content creator for photography on KZbin in 2023. Everyone else has become freaking salesmen.

[@spdr4717]

I am surprised to see fewer views on his channel..

[@peirisfamily]

Amen for that... Just started viewing. Hope he will not turn like others one day.

[@bungusmagoo1328]

Highly suggest Ken Rockwell. Different content, but still very good and not a salesman

[@lifesbeautiful3024]

Give a try to Simon D’Entremont…exceptional

[@tyz0n]

I mean he tends to overhype canon sometimes, but other then that he’s very humble

[@tomcruz5495]

I use a 95mm filter on the Pictor Cine Zooms. The front thread of these lenses are 86mm, so adding a step up ring is the way to go, if you want to avoid vignetting on the 14-30...

[@rebelwwg1wga431]

what filter do you use?

[@michaelmiller7928]

Just started watching and then took my Nisi which is the same in your video threw it on my 16-35 on the FX3 took a shot at 16 ya you're right. It's vignetting exactly as much as you showed. It's a great ND I love it. Didn't expect it to surpass the polarpro in colour though wow.

[@AnthonyGugliotta]

It's just a weee little bit. Not so much to make it unusable, but something to be aware of.

[@buddyvanpeer]

What about at 17mm?

[@colemcmahon8737]

HEY! Quick question and please see this: are you using a different size filter as your lens diameter with a ring filter adapter, or are you shooting straight same size filter and lens diameter? I’m buying this same lens filter and didn’t know if you were vignetting with an adapter or just same size

[@michaelmiller7928]

@colemcmahon8737 mine is the native 82mm filter with no step up ring.

[@Samuel0043]

One of my particular needs for a photo is a pristine image, so to speak, in the realm of content creation. Often outdoors in a real world environment. Anything related shading or layering is created in software often changing in real time. So polarization effects are unwelcome. Of course anything sometimes needed for a work setting is a highly different beast. Therefore a video such as this on items I am not well knowledgeable about, the positives and the negatives, is highly informative. If the need requires it, though less convenient, static filters would be best. Thank you for making it.

[@Mecherle]

Super helpful, the color cast info in particular - thanks!

[@lassi4433]

This is just what I needed! Thank you!

[@TuomoTanskanen]

I like this data-backed Anthony, let’s have more of him in future! 🙏

[@rekthoughts6401]

I think the best option for getting rid of the tiny issue of the black corners on a wide lens is to get an oversized ND filter and a step up ring as to push those corners past the lens view.

[@nicholasbelliveau]

Super useful, thank you for this comprehensive breakdown !

[@DreamedCraft]

I’ve stayed away from filter because the confuse the crap out of me but this was so informative in a way the clicks definitely subscribing

[@gilcarag274]

When you start using magnetic filters (especially in an hybrid use), there’s no turning back. They are more expensive of course but so much more convenient. I use the Kase system and it’s very convenient.

[@tim_meyer]

FINALLY SOMEBODY DOES THIS TEST! Man i love you! haha spent so much time and money on filters, just bought the K&F, but still not really happy Something I wonder if anyone has ever tried is: I do quite a lot of auto photo/video. For videos, if I have a cpl filter for the anti-glare and then put a variable ND filter over it, the white balance changes as soon as I turn the cpl a bit. With many filters that you put on top of each other and then specifically rotate, the colors are wrong. Has anyone ever had experience with this or does anyone know a filter without this negative effect?

[@henleyautomotivemedia3723]

I stack my outdated K@F 1-9 stop slim ND on my CPL and ive noticed a lot of issues with sharpness, aberration, flare, and color casts and contrast reduction. Thats why im looking now at the haida filter which combines for my automotive work, though I'm concerned the 82mm variant wont fit in my matte box (Small rig mini clip on)

[@benjamin.kelley]

I use the Moment VND filters, and they're okay, but they have a yellow colorcast. Paired with the Canon R6, a warm image gets pushed warmer.

[@markexploringnewstuff]

Anthony, really good video. Thanks.

[@DookeyLukey]

I've been looking for these with primarily a video focus. Especially since using a matte box is so cumbersome.

[@AnthonyGugliotta]

Threaded filters are definitely a great option for keeping it light and simple! 😊

[@sidinator3000]

They're mainly used for shooting video. Because of the way cameras work, shooting in bright sunlight forces you to adjust settings you might not want to change. Using an nd filter essentially lets you turn down the sun.

[@steveritchie4926]

Thanks for the great video! Really helpful. Noticed a small error, the Haida you said is a 1-7 stop filter, but it's actually a 3-7 filter when I follow your product link. Is there any way of configuring the Haida for 1 stop of ND, or is it really fixed at a 3 stop minimum?

[@jamskof]

great video! i have the original polar pro mckinnon 6-9 stop, i wanna get a 2-5 but i cant afford the mckinnon one.. i was wondering which cheaper alternative would give the closest color cast to my 6-9?

[@AA-uu8ox]

Thanks for your helpful content. In terms of quality when shooting a video, how does the Haida CPL+ VND compare to the Freewell V2 VND + CPL?

[@EthanHilllightsym]

Super helpful thanks!

[@llennxp90]

I usually rig up my gear with the SmallRig mini matte box + K&F VND 2-400. The 2 in 1 filter systems I wanna consider for upgrade are either the K&F Nano-X CPL+VND or the Haida Pro II CPL+VND. (was wondering if having the lever would have issues inside the matte box) Please suggest if having a magnetic filter kit or the 2 in 1 filter would be a better choice for matte box users.

[@PaspaProductions]

will the Haida work with the small rig matte box? would be a great combo

[@freedfromdesire466]

Can you please test the Okko Pro Variable Neutral Density Filter? it looks like a great filter with 1-9 stops !

[@sebastianberes]

It's really hard to find up-to-date Clear/UV filters round up with new B+W ones. Since you use those types of filters maybe consider creating one? :)

[@MsNightmareOne]

Hey, I've just started photographing with filters and I'm at the point where I want to buy an ND filter. I primarily photograph people and dogs outside and often have the problem of rapid light changes due to sun and clouds. I'm thinking about buying the Variable ND filter from K&F Concept. Unfortunately, I have hardly been able to find any really good reports. Your video helped me a lot. Thank you very much!

[@PhotoTrekr]

My screw-in filters for my Sony lenses are Zeiss T*. I do still have some Singh-Ray filters which go in front of the lens.

[@krisgarcia4452]

Anthony I watched this video and the one from last week. I am curious about your thoughts on the Pro Master HGX Prime VND & CPL filters? they seem to kinda be inbetween on price points? thanks!!! you got some likes from me!

[@thefullsetup]

Great video can is ask when you where talking about the nisi with wide angle lens are you talking 15mm full frame or apsc? Also I already have the Haida just thinking about getting something nice although based on your video it holds up well

[@ags911]

Full most likely

[@AidanAnthonypv]

I use the Nisi swift system (having used Freewell, K&F and Polar Pro in the past). The VND is hands down the best on the market, and you can attach CPLs, mist filters etc to it without vingetting. Expensive for the whole kit, but amazing.

[@assarhopaneng7339]

How is the cross patterns on Nisi swift system?

[@philipbloom]

you cannot add a CPL to a VND. There's so much in this video that is technically incorrect, almost every video I've seen is the same.

[@AidanAnthonypv]

@@philipbloom before you get too excited Philip, NISI has engineered the CPL to work WITH their Swift System, not necessarily or exclusively with their VND. The mist filters stack great on top of their VND, and the CPL has always seemed to increase the polarisation effect for me but acknowledge that might not be the case (I haven't encountered many situations where I've needed an ND and CPL).

[@aevoss]

Can you still use your lens hood?

[@mustafakamal8608]

Can you use step up rings with those filter?

[@turbophat]

Can I put another filter on over the K&F such as a Tiffen Black Pro Mist? Or am I better off just getting an all in one system from the same Manuf?

[@theteju]

Hey Buddy Can we throw two filters stacked up on one lens. For example, a solid hida for 3 stop + vnd Haida on top of it. I hope my question makes sense

[@Nerdytimhieu]

Thank you that is much clear for me to choose the thing that I want to do in my set.

[@productivitylounge]

I've been using a K&F variable ND for a little while now (the 3-1000 variant to be exact) and have noticed some pretty bad chromatic aberration with it. I don't know if it's just me but especially at 85mm f1.4 I notice it really bad. I know it makes sense that it gets worse the higher your focal length is ... but still

[@collinyoung1009]

Very new to photography looking for my first nd for my lumix g7. How do I know what threads and what's to get?

[@gamewebland]

This is really great video.thanks. what brand Cpl filter and nd filter is best for Nikon 2.8 s lens 14 to 24 mm ( 112 mm ) especially for real estate video?

[@matthewbushey9455]

Hey! Great overview . . . If I’m not mistaken, didn’t you mention that you were going to include links to the filter cases you use?

[@AnthonyGugliotta]

Yes! Thanks for reminding geni.us/x4WAunB

[@gereral1_jackofalltrades]

Tested kf cpl nd 72mm with canon c100 mkii mixing nd and using cpl with 0 issues. Kf nd cpl suffers on full frame sensors. These filters are made for crop sensor. This is why I see no x pattern in my videos. C100 has nd but if you want to really use 1.8 fstop you need alittle added nd. Cpl is amazing on c100 mkii.

[@gereral1_jackofalltrades]

Lens testing was sigma 18-35 art 1.8. there is no x even at 18mm

[@brainstorm5918]

Hey , I'll be using Sony 16-55 mm 2.8 g with Sony FX30. Should I go for K&F 67mm ND-3 ND1000. It has 9.5 stops mentioned on their website. What would you suggest?

[@ab_yo474]

Bro I like it when I watch your videos

[@Chris_P.eterson]

Hey Anthony, thanks for the helpful video. Please, which variable ND do you recommend for the Sony 11mm FE1.8 to avoid the vignette?

[@rwsocal]

can you share your lighting set up?

[@joseagonzalez2973]

Nice video. I want to buy a filter but I’m undecided and thinking about two. The haida proii cpl vnd 2 in 1 filter 82mm or Tiffen variable ND. Have you tried any of these and which in your opinion is better? Thanks in advance.

[@Nickporter17]

Do uv filters add glare? Like reviews always talk about fancy lens coatings and I'm wondering if UV filters defeat these?

[@Nickporter17]

What did you think about those magnetic solid nd stacks?

[@jpcgandre]

Was the K&F filter you test the "K&F Concept Nano-X Filtro True Color VND-Vario 1-5 Stop"? They say this corrected the image color and vignetting... and half the price of Nisi

[@KennyCarter90]

Today I learned that a VND is also a Cirular Polarizer. Good to know 😅 Thanks!

[@servo.images]

What about the Neewer 5-in-1 Magnetic Lens Filter Kit?

[@naeembaltii]

Sir what about square nd filters?

[@UraFlight]

Could you please recommend a good ND filter for iPhone 15 Pro Max ?

[@AJCoReTV]

Have you tried the $115 K&M True Color version?

[@flipnap2112]

I stole tilta mirage idea and put a gear ring on my VND filter and use the nucleus nano to drive it. its super helpful when I need all hands holding the rig. can set up in my perfect ISO/shutter settings then just dial around the VND while looking at my false color read out.

[@coffeewithdamian]

Is there a way to get, no vignietting with VND filter? Should I get fixed one? What would be best for outdoor video 6 stops no polarization?

[@alexkameyama4057]

Do these ND filters from K&F prevent me from using a lens hood on a Canon RF lens?

[@sunnyprashar2722]

what is the solution for videos filter for Canon RF16mm F2 8 STM with R8? thanks

[@LanzaroteShowcase]

Is there a 95mm VND that you like for the sony FE28-135 PZ?

[@kaitan8838]

hey, very useful guide to ND filters! although I noticed video tearing around the 7:17 to 7:20 mark while you're waving the ND filter. not sure if its just my own monitor.

[@kaitan8838]

i think its my own monitor

[@latenightlifting]

@@kaitan8838its not

[@dukedevaiah]

Could you please suggest a budget VND for iPhone 15 pro max

[@Scott.Sherman.Photos]

Clear as mud, I have a couple from K&F, probably gonna buy something else now

[@AnthonyGugliotta]

I was honestly surprised how drastic the difference was.

[@Scott.Sherman.Photos]

@@AnthonyGugliotta I really don’t want to spend the money on a higher end filter, but might just bite the bullet.

[@Losochill]

@@Scott.Sherman.Photos I’m debating as well so don’t feel bad about the purchase 😂

[@synecncmachines]

Could you also test kase? I want to buy a set for my nikon.

[@KarunaFilms]

hi Antony thanks for the great video. can you or anyone tell me what's the name of or link for that ring converter 82mm to 77mm for ND filter ?

[@MrKuken911]

It’s in the video description

[@braydenjones4505]

Great video!

[@corykphotography]

Anthony, what is your opinion on Urth/Gobe filters? I have a CPL that works like a dream. I really want to try their VND Filter. Have you tried it? I'd be using it with my MFT Sigma 16mm f1.4 lens.

[@ivorwindybottom77]

I been using the gobe 10 stop got to say get amazing results from it.. They seem more expensive now they been taking over by urth but il pay the extra worth every penny for me.

[@3jackgolf]

I’m new to photography. I recently bought the Panasonic x1500 camcorder. It already has an Nd filter built in apparently. Does anyone know if I could put another nd filter on it? Would that even make sense?! Or would I just get a clear one to protect the lens?

[@LaurentPlancel]

Hi What about the Tiffen VND are they good? Thx

[@AlessandroCurzi.]

Hi Anthony, I have a sony fx3 + 24-70gm2, do you recommend a matt box with variable nd filter? I have both a freeweel mist and magnetic cpl filter. greetings from Italy.

[@thilinaalagiyawanna3680]

Can you tell me that, which is better, a nd filter with 1-11 stops or nd filter with 1-5 stops, do having more stops reduce the image quality ??

[@SemiEverything]

Wait I saw you use a cheaper one on a comparing video… is that one in this video?

[@assarhopaneng7339]

I have tested a few Variable ND and all of them have some cross patterns. Is there some VND that doesn't have it?

[@rubelukeable]

can you stack a VND on top of a UV filter?

[@romeolopezaldana2099]

Has anyone used the Tiffen VND? I can't find much info on it and Tiffen is usually what I use on a matte box when I'm on set. Is it any good?

[@constantinflux]

I appreciate the video. Quick question: if the NISI the best in terms of color, why did you use K&F for most of your stuff?

[@gerrittol]

I need to know

[@daaddyo1249]

Not sure if I missed it in the video, but if you were to use a gray card on set... wouldn't that eliminate any color cast?

[@AnthonyGugliotta]

Yes! I talked about this in the last video a bit. You can compensator color cast by setting your white balance after the filter is applied.

[@manikandanmani03]

Hi, your video is very informative. I have a doubt. I have a scenario where I have to shoot a glass wardrobe inside a room. I just wanted to cut the reflection so if I’m am using Haida 2in 1 filter . Is it possible to just use cpl. Haida ND is 3 to 7 stops . Will the picture become darker by 3 stops to the regular exposure?

[@noormuhamed17]

Would you reco haida over k&f?

[@chevonchadee568]

What about the Neewer ND filters?

[@rich-nixx]

Tiffen alll day errrryyyddaaaay 🏆

[@mateuszgwara.fotografia]

Is freewell vnd / mist Nd 6-9 worth recommending/purchasing? is it a waste of money?

[@jbfilms5550]

Kodak variable nd filter is also good then nisi one

[@xutsider]

Can you use variable nd filter on zoom lenses?

[@alexandrumihaibudes3852]

Did anyone try the 2 in 1's from K&F?

[@definitelynotethancross]

Thumbnail: 'was it worth it?' Anthony:'every second of it'

[@AnthonyGugliotta]

😉

[@jenohr]

Urth filters?

[@anasalbaz3621]

Thank you so much

[@MichaelEpprecht]

Filters have a different coating compared to a good quality lens (like the Canon "L" series). The lens is way less susceptible to scratching compared to filters. Better lenses have Fluorine coatings.

[@tomcruz5495]

The Sigma ceramich clear filters are top notch!

[@b0bcat210]

thing is this is all on a wide angle and focusing on the ND, if it was a 50mm or an 85mm focusing past it, the results would defiently look very different

[@user-xz5bv8ir7j]

Hi I own a 70-200 Nikon F/2.8 what size of step ring & VND filter to get plz thanks

[@BackpackeRom]

hi. The front of your lens must have the thread dimension in ‘mm’ so check it out. Otherwise K&F have 18 rings (9step down and 9 step up) and you can get them for less than $30. I think all together you get a range of 37mm to 82mm or so. Your ring range must be somewhere in btwn. I hope it helps

[@itsapinecone7280]

So this is kind of a dumb noob question, but what is the best way you've found to clean your filters without scratching it massively

[@IAF1900]

Microfiber cloth!

[@willvazquez3218]

I had the Nisi C5 Mattebox with variable ND and the Nisi variable ND rendered horrible lobster skin tones. At first I was confused why I was getting the weird skin tones that I could not color correct properly, then I realized it was the Nisi. I returned it. Make sure you test with skin tones and just pointing to a white wall does not give the whole picture. Thanks.

[@user-tt3mh1ck7j]

How about kase filters? the store of this brand is in my area.

[@MartinV.]

Great Video

[@Dave_E7]

I don't like cheap protection filters so I don't buy 20$ ones. I use hoya or Nisi. Haven't had one needing replacement yet but I'd rather replace a $80 filter than a 2k lens!

[@moazzammansoor7473]

Dude I use a circular polarizer on a 2013 niko tho it does not seem effective and I wonder why 😅😅

[@flipnap2112]

CPL filters wont affect everything in your image. try shooting a car window mid day and put the CPL on and adjust it. you should see a very obvious change in the reflections on the glass. if not then its probably not a CPL filter.

[@RamonM247]

Is 82mm to 52mm to big of a step down or should i get an nd filter for each lense?

[@alexanderkapsiotis8050]

if you are using only a 52mm thread lens, then buy a 52mm filter.

[@the_parker_g]

Do you still use a lens hood with an ND filler attached?

[@Losochill]

Same thing thing I want to know. I’m going to the beach soon and want to know what to use.

[@AnthonyGugliotta]

I'll be honest. For the sake of convenience I usually leave the lens hood at home. Some lens hoods obstruct you from easily adjusting your filters.

[@Abeer-Mishra]

what is your thoughts on the Nikon d3100

[@cydu]

What's Ur budget.case of use, etc

[@belenladd5923]

is there such thing as a variable nd filter with a polrizer? I shoot a lot of water and want the camera to see whats underneath. Has anyone used a nd and a polarizer? Does it mess the image up?

[@belenladd5923]

nvm lol it was answered in the video. Is Haida the only option for correcting polarization?

[@Jimmy_Cavallo]

💥 7:34 is that Stony Kill falls…??

[@adilverdi]

I love how Tiffen is not even a part of discussion.

[@briansolomon2969]

I don't know a thing about filters and have never heard of Tiffan. Are they a bad brand?

[@adilverdi]

@@briansolomon2969 Old brand from 1930's, average to good American made filters. They're cinema focused now.

[@Ksmithy1080]

@@briansolomon2969I have two Tiffen nd filters and they are great

[@shawnbrockman9729]

I hate to argue about your point about scratches on the lens. The reason why $20 lens protectors get scratches is just that they are $20. Your $3000 glass doesn't scratch that easy.

[@NicklasToft]

Just got the true color

[@flipnap2112]

how has it been working out?

[@45rpmdiscoveries]

Thank you, KZbin. EVERYBODY's a fvckin' expert. SMFH.