9 Best Variable ND Filters in 2024

Variable ND filters are one of the most important accessories you can invest in to improve the quality of your video footage and to get that “cinematic” look. There are many ways to create “cinematic” footage, but one of the primary techniques is to use a wider aperture, like f/2.8, to achieve a shallower depth of field.

That shallower depth of field is what gives you a blurry background.

In most situations, in order to shoot with a wider aperture while using the correct shutter speed, you’ll need some sort of ND filter to decrease the exposure. Although solid ND filters give you the best image quality, variable ND filters are more flexible because you can adjust them on the go.

When it comes to variable ND filters, you really do get what you pay for. If you plan to use the variable ND filter for a long time and it’s in your budget, I would recommend getting the best one you can afford. The premium variable ND filters are more expensive, but the quality is better and there is less of a color cast.

The good news is that there are variable ND filters in each price range. So, if you only need to use one occasionally, then a budget option would work perfectly fine too.

Note: If you’re looking for an ND filter for photography, make sure to check out this article. In this article, I test out 7 different ND filters on a PNW road trip through Washington State and Oregon.

Why Trust Me?

image of guy and dog in the snow

As with all the guides I create, I have poured countless hours of research into this article to make sure you have all the information you need to make the best decision.

I’ve been a professional filmmaker and photographer since 2018 and have been lucky enough to work on projects all over the world with brands such as Alaska Airlines, Kayak.com, Prague Tourism, Visa, Airbnb, and many more. If you’re curious to see the full list of companies we’ve worked with, just head over to our Work With Us page.

On most of my video-specific projects, I will use a variable ND filter and have tried many different filters before finding what works for me.

From these experiences, I think I’m in a good position to help you find the right variable ND filter for your workflow. 

Most importantly, I’m just a message away. So, if you have any questions, just leave a comment below, email me at [email protected], or send me a DM on Instagram @tom.shu.

P.S. I answer every question that is sent!

Affiliate Links

For each of the cameras, I included affiliate links to either Amazon, Adorama, or eBay. By using these affiliate links, you support the ongoing maintence of this website.

To help make it easier for you, I try to keep these links as updated as possible, but make sure to shop around as there are so many great camera deals now.

Another great option is buying pre-owned as you save money while extending the life of a camera. I understand buying used isn’t for everyone, but I’ve only had postive experiences buying used from small businesses and individuals on eBay. As long as their seller rating is high, you should be good and many sellers also accept returns if you’re not satisfied.

Best Variable ND Filters: My Top Picks

ND Filter
Budget
Price
PolarPro 67mm Peter McKinnon Variable ND Filter | Signature Edition II (2-5 Stop)
PolarPro Peter McKinnon Variable ND Filter
Tom's Top Pick
Premium
B+W 77mm XS-Pro Digital Vario ND with Multi-Resistant Nano Coating
B+W XS-Pro Variable ND Filter
Tom's Top Pick
Premium
Tiffen 72VND 72mm Variable ND Filter
Tiffen Variable ND Filter
Tom's Top Pick
Mid-Range
Hoya 77mm Variable Density Screw-in Filter
Hoya Variable ND Filter
Mid-Range
Moment Variable ND Filters (2-5 Stop & 6-9 Stop) - Schott B270 Pro Cinema Glass, Anti-Reflective Nano Multi-Coated, 2 Models for Precise Light Control (67mm, 2-5 Stops (ND 4-32))
Moment Variable ND Filter
Mid-Range
Freewell 77mm Threaded Hard Stop Variable ND Filter Standard Day 2 to 5 Stop
Freewell Variable ND Filter
Mid-Range
K&F Concept 67mm Variable ND Filter ND2-ND32 Camera Lens Filter (1-5 Stops) No X Cross HD Neutral Density Filter with 28 Multi-Layer Coatings Waterproof (Nano-X Series)
K+F Variable ND Filter
Budget
Gobe 77Mm Nd64 (6 Stop) Nd Lens Filter (2Peak)
Gobe Variable ND Filter
Budget
Zomei 77mm Ultra Slim ND2-ND400 Fader Variable Neutral Density Adjustable ND Lens Filter Optical Glass
Zomei Variable ND Filter
Budget

Reviews of the 9 Best Variable ND Filters

1.) PolarPro Variable ND Filter – Peter McKinnon Edition

PolarPro 67mm Peter McKinnon Variable ND Filter | Signature Edition II (2-5 Stop)
Show customer reviews
PolarPro 67mm Peter McKinnon Variable ND Filter | Signature Edition II (2-5 Stop)
by Polar Pro
  • Brass frame - smooth threads and increased durability
  • Zeroing of vignetting up to 16 mm focal length lenses.
  • Preset stop range eliminates any chance of cross-polarization.
  • Including the new Defender360.
  • new haptic feedback mechanism

If you’re a follower of Peter Mckinnon then you might have heard of this PolarPro Variable ND filter already. What I like about this filter is that it feels like they have paid attention to every detail to make sure every part of the filter is what a filmmaker might need. There are two versions of this filter to choose from, a 2-5 stop filter and a 6-9 stop filter.

PolarPro recommends the 2-5 stop filter for a general run and gun use and the 6-9 stop filter if you shoot in bright conditions with a wide aperture such as f/1.4-2.8. The 6-9 stop filter is a little bit more expensive, so if you’re thinking about getting this filter, take some time to think about what conditions you generally shoot in before buying it.

The image quality when using this filter is one of the best in this article and it’s visually similar to having no filter or using a solid ND filter on your lens.

One of the best parts of this filter is that it has hard stops so you don’t have to worry about going past its maximum range.

PROS:

  • About 4 usable stops in the 2-5 stop filter.
  • Premium quality variable ND filter that does not impact your image quality.
  • Hard stops prevent you from reaching its maximum range and help to minimize the impact on image quality.
  • Clear markings on the side of the filter lets you know how many stops of light you are blocking.
  • Includes an ingeniously designed rubber lens cap, a hard carrying case, and a soft carrying case.

CONS:

  • The price point is on the high-end. Other than the higher price point, there is not much else wrong with this variable ND filter.

Check Price/Buy: Amazon | Adorama | eBay

2.) B+W XS-Pro Variable ND Filter

B+W 77mm XS-Pro Digital Vario ND with Multi-Resistant Nano Coating
Show customer reviews
B+W 77mm XS-Pro Digital Vario ND with Multi-Resistant Nano Coating
by B + W
  • Neutral Density Variable Filter allows photographer to set the density between +1 and +5 stops. XS-Pro Vario ND mount is an extra-wide design and should avoid vignetting concerns with most 17mm lenses on a full body frame
  • Multi-Resistant Coating (MRC) with Nano Technology with XS-Pro mount and brass ring construction, Front Accessory Thread / Bayonet: 82 mm
  • May be combined with additional B+W ND Filters of fixed value for higher density choices (ND Vario should be used the as the outermost filter when combined)
  • B+W ND Vario filter can be adapted to your individual requirements

The B+W XS-Pro variable ND filter is another premium filter that is targeted to the professional videographers and filmmakers out there. Similar to the PolarPro Variable ND filter that we just went over, it controls its polarization effect very well and keeps the image looking natural.

The B+W also has hard stops and clear markings which prevents you from moving the variable ND filter to the extremes.

I’m getting a little nit-picky here, but the downside is that the B+W markings are small dots, which makes it harder to determine the stop you are on when compared to the PolarPro.

Overall, if you have the budget, you can’t go wrong with this variable ND filter either.

PROS:

  • About 4 ⅔ usable stops.
  • Premium quality variable ND filter that does not impact your image quality.
  • Hard stops prevent you from reaching its maximum range and help to minimize the impact on image quality.

CONS:

  • The price point is on the high-end.
  • The PolarPro comes with additional accessories that this filter doesn’t.
  • The markings on the PolarPro are easier to read.
  • Includes a plastic case to carry your filter which is not as premium as the PolarPro or Singh-Ray.

Check Price/Buy: Amazon | Adorama | eBay

3.) Tiffen Variable ND Filter

Tiffen 72VND 72mm Variable ND Filter
Show customer reviews
Tiffen 72VND 72mm Variable ND Filter
by Tiffen
  • Provides 2 to 8 stops of light control
  • Thin profile ring: 9 millimeter
  • Wider outer optic to help reduce vignetting at wide angles
  • Made with high quality optical glass using Tiffen's color core technology
  • Made in the USA

I have had a lot of experience with the Tiffen Variable ND filter and I think it’s one of the best values given its price and functionality. This was actually the first variable ND filter that I bought and I used it for every shot in my short film Spirit of Matsu.

Although some people don’t like it, one of my favorite features of the Tiffen filter is how much wider than your lens it is.

For me, this made it much easier to adjust the filter while out shooting when compared to a filter that sits flush to your lens like the other ones we have gone over. Of course, this does not apply if you end up getting the biggest ND filter and use step-up rings for each lens.

You do start to see more of a polarizing effect on your image in this price range. Additionally, the Tiffen filter does not have hard stops so it is easy to accidentally go past its maximum range when shooting.

PROS:

  • Easy to adjust the filter on the go because of its design.
  • Good value for its price range and its quality.
  • Includes a nice soft carrying case for your filter.

CONS:

  • About 3 ⅔ usable stops which is slightly below average when compared to the other variable ND filters in the mid-range level.
  • It does not have hard stops like the PolarPro and B+W XS Pro in the premium category or the Freewell and K+F in the mid-range and budget category.
  • Since it is wider than your lens, you will not be able to use your lens cap on it and might make it harder to carry around.

Check Price/Buy: Amazon | Adorama | eBay

4.) Hoya Variable ND Filter

Hoya 77mm Variable Density Screw-in Filter
Show customer reviews
Hoya 77mm Variable Density Screw-in Filter
by Hoya
  • Rotating filter ring with scale indicating max. through min. settings
  • Provides 1.5 - 9 stop exposure reduction, equal to filter factor NDX3 - NDX400
  • Enables slow shutter speeds to be used; Ring Material: Aluminum
  • Allows greater control over depth of field
  • Does not affect colour balance or detail. The precision built in double ring design allows the outer ring rotates to control amount of neutral density effect

The Hoya Variable ND Filter is another mid-range filter that shares many similarities with the Tiffen Variable ND Filter. If you don’t use step-up rings, the biggest difference between the two is that the Hoya Variable ND sits flush on your lens versus the Tiffen filter which is a little wider than your lens.

They are both around the same price, don’t have hard stops, and don’t have the clearest markings on the side of the ND filter.

I’m not sure if it was only with my copy of the Hoya filter, but I felt like the Hoya filter adjusted way too easily. Since it doesn’t have hard stops, it makes it way too easy to accidentally go past its maximum causing the dreaded X pattern issue.

PROS:

  • About 4 usable stops which is slightly more than the Tiffen Variable ND filter
  • Good value for its price range and its quality.

CONS:

  • It does not have hard stops like the PolarPro and B+W XS-Pro in the premium category or the Freewell and K+F in the mid-range and budget category.
  • It adjusts too easily which makes it difficult to prevent it from going past its max range when you’re in the field shooting.
  • Includes a plastic carrying case that is not as premium as the soft carrying pouch of the Tiffen.

Check Price/Buy: Amazon | Adorama | eBay

5.) Freewell Variable ND Filter

Freewell 77mm Threaded Hard Stop Variable ND Filter Standard Day 2 to 5 Stop
Show customer reviews
Freewell 77mm Threaded Hard Stop Variable ND Filter Standard Day 2 to 5 Stop
by Freewell
  • Optics: Pure High Definition Optical glass 18Layers Multicoated ensure filmmaking experience
  • Built: Hard stop Variable ND eliminates any chance of cross-polarization & zero vignetting (16mm above) during the shoot
  • Coating: Each side of the glass element is coated with Dustproof, Scratch-resistant, Oilproof making sure you are ready for all the adventures
  • Function: 2-5 Stop equivalent to ND4-ND32 is best suitable for the standard day from cloudy days to normal sunny day
  • What is included: Variable ND Filter, Storage Case, One Lens Cover, Cleaning Cloth

Freewell is the only China headquartered company in this article. The reason why I bring this up is that since their headquarters and manufacturing are in China they can keep costs extremely low especially given the quality.

Most of the other variable ND filter companies either manufacture in a country with higher manufacturing costs like B+W in Germany and Hoya in Japan or they design in the US and manufacture in a different country like PolarPro or Tiffen.

Surprisingly, the Freewell Variable ND Filter held up pretty well in a head to head comparison to the much more expensive PolarPro Variable ND Filter and shares a lot of similarities with it.

The Freewell Variable ND Filter also comes in 2 versions like the PolarPro; a 2-5 stop variable filter and a 6-9 stop variable filter. Like the PolarPro filters, this should give you better image quality because there isn’t such a wide range of stops the filter has to accommodate.

It has a nice slim profile and includes a magnetic cap that is extremely well designed and convenient to use.

PROS:

  • Good value for its price range and its quality.
  • Hard stops prevent you from reaching its maximum range and help to minimize the impact on image quality.
  • Includes a well designed magnetic cap which is very fun to use and a plastic case with a magnetic clasp.

CONS:

  • It does not come with a soft carrying case like the Tiffen.
  • For its price point and quality, it’s hard to find any other negatives with this variable ND filter.

Check Price/Buy: Amazon | Adorama

6.) Moment Variable ND Filter

Moment Variable ND Filters (2-5 Stop & 6-9 Stop) - Schott B270 Pro Cinema Glass, Anti-Reflective Nano Multi-Coated, 2 Models for Precise Light Control (67mm, 2-5 Stops (ND 4-32))
Show customer reviews
Moment Variable ND Filters (2-5 Stop & 6-9 Stop) - Schott B270 Pro Cinema Glass, Anti-Reflective Nano Multi-Coated, 2 Models for Precise Light Control (67mm, 2-5 Stops (ND 4-32))
by Moment
  • Premium variable ND filters made from Schott B270 Pro Cinema Glass.
  • Available in two models for precise light exposure control: 2-5 stop (ND 4-32 equivalent) and 6-9 stop (ND 64-512 equivalent).
  • 16 layers of anti-reflective coating and 'Liquid Glass' surface treatments ensure durability and image clarity.
  • Offers anti-static, hydrophobic, and scratch-resistant properties.
  • Easy to attach and adjust, perfect for various lighting conditions.

This is the same Moment that makes premium cinematic lenses for mobile devices and in early 2020 they got into the cinematic filter game too. Although the Moment Variable ND filter is great, it sits in a strange place when looking at its price point compared to the competition.

The Moment Variable ND filter is almost double the price of the Freewell, Tiffen, and Hoya filters and about ⅔ the price of the PolarPro Variable ND filter.

For the additional cost, you would think it would outperform the other filters in the mid-range category, however that is not the case especially with the Freewell Variable ND filter.

The Moment Variable ND filter also comes in 2 versions like the Freewell and PolarPro; a 2-5 stop variable ND filter and a 6-9 stop variable ND filter.

Similar to the Tiffen filter, the Moment filter is wider than its filter thread. I like this feature, but this also means you won’t be able to use your lens cap or lens hood with it.

PROS:

  • Hard stops prevent you from reaching its maximum range and help to minimize the impact on image quality.
  • Much more clear markings than the Tiffen or Hoya and shows how many stops of light you are blocking.

CONS:

  • Higher price point than the other filters in the mid-range category.
  • It doesn’t come with a usable carrying case.
  • Wider than your lens so you will not be able to use your lens cap on it and might make it harder to carry around.

Check Price/Buy: Amazon | Adorama | eBay

7.) K+F Variable ND Filter

K&F Concept 67mm Variable ND Filter ND2-ND32 Camera Lens Filter (1-5 Stops) No X Cross HD Neutral Density Filter with 28 Multi-Layer Coatings Waterproof (Nano-X Series)
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K&F Concept 67mm Variable ND Filter ND2-ND32 Camera Lens Filter (1-5 Stops) No X Cross HD Neutral Density Filter with 28 Multi-Layer Coatings Waterproof (Nano-X Series)
by Shenzhen Zhuoer Photograph
  • 【1-5 Stops Light Reduction】Take complete control over exposure settings with the variable neutral density filter, offering 1-5 stops of light reduction. Effortlessly reduce shutter speeds and widen apertures for stunning effects.
  • 【Premium Optical Glass】Made by importing AGC glass, the filter reduces light intake without affecting the overall color balance and reduces reflections and glare, ensuring superior image quality.
  • 【No "X" Cross 】Our frame self-lock design and hard stops at each end of the exposure range-control filter ring have flawlessly solved the black "X" problem commonly seen in variable ND filters.
  • 【28 Multi-Layer Coatings】K&F Concept optical engineers developed a new Nano coating layer technology, offering multi-layer waterproof, oil-repellent, and scratch-resistant features and protecting the valued lens.
  • 【NOTE】This ND filter suits all 67mm lenses. Be sure to check your camera's lens thread size (usually beside a "ø" diameter symbol) before ordering. Additionally, a 72mm lens cap is required for this 67mm variable ND filter.

The K+F Variable ND Filter is one of the best cheap variable ND filters out there and competes very well with the more expensive filters that we have gone through already. Depending on which model ND filter you pick from K+F, you could find one that is about half the price of the Tiffen, Hoya, and Freewell filters in the mid-range category.

Many people call the K+F filter the cheaper cousin to the B+W filter and it’s for a good reason. It has 4 usable stops, is built with hard stops, and gives you surprisingly good image quality for a budget option.

PROS:

  • One of the highest-rated budget variable ND filters.
  • Hard stops prevent you from reaching its maximum range and help to minimize the impact on image quality.
  • Great quality especially for the price point it’s at.

CONS:

  • Depending on the model you choose, you might just have to pay slightly more for a mid-range option.
  • There is a heavier color cast, but that can be expected with a budget filter.

Check Price/Buy: Amazon | Adorama | eBay

8.) Gobe Variable ND Filter

Gobe 77Mm Nd64 (6 Stop) Nd Lens Filter (2Peak)
Show customer reviews
Gobe 77Mm Nd64 (6 Stop) Nd Lens Filter (2Peak)
by Gobe
  • 6 F-STOP REDUCTION | Gobe Neutral Density ND64 provides a fixed 6 f-stop light reduction, which allows long exposure and motion blur techniques in bright light. Recommended for landscape photography.
  • COLOUR NEUTRAL | Consciously designed to maintain colour neutrality with no colour cast for better image quality and truer colours.
  • NO VIGNETTING | Consciously designed durable magnalium rims are double-threaded for stacking and slim profile to avoid vignetting. This is a Fixed Neutral Density lens filter not a Variable ND. To find your correct filter size, check final image in gallery.
  • PLANTS 5 TREES | Buying with Gobe helps fund local communities to plant 5 trees in areas affected by deforestation ? help us reforest the world, one product at a time.
  • International products have separate terms, are sold from abroad and may differ from local products, including fit, age ratings, and language of product, labeling or instructions.

If you’re really on a tight budget, the Gobe Variable ND filter and the Zomei Variable ND filter which we will go over next are the cheapest options.

The design of the Gobe is similar to the Tiffen and the Hoya filters. It does not have hard stops built-in and the markings on the side of the filter are not very clear.

Similar to the Moment filter in the mid-range category, the Gobe sits at a weird price point which is slightly cheaper than the K+F and about double the price of the Zomei.

The biggest downside at this price point is that it makes much more sense to either spend a little more and get the K+F or go with the cheapest filter in the Zomei. For double the price of the Zomei, you don’t get double the performance.

PROS:

  • At one of the cheapest price points in this article.
  • Design is similar to the Tiffen and Hoya filters in the mid-range category.

CONS:

  • At the current price point, it makes more sense to increase your budget and go with the K+F or save money and go with the Zomei.
  • It doesn’t have hard stops like the K+F filter.
  • It’s about double the price of the Zomei but the performance is similar.

Check Price/Buy: Amazon | eBay

9.) Zomei Variable ND Filter

Zomei 77mm Ultra Slim ND2-ND400 Fader Variable Neutral Density Adjustable ND Lens Filter Optical Glass
Show customer reviews
Zomei 77mm Ultra Slim ND2-ND400 Fader Variable Neutral Density Adjustable ND Lens Filter Optical Glass
by ZOMEI
  • Only 7mm thickness, Wide-angle lens compatible ultra thin frame
  • With Zomei Variable Density Neutral Gray filters, users can select the intensity from ND2 (1 f-stop) to ND400 (8+ f-stops) by rotating the front ring
  • Glass mounted with high pressure press technology
  • Original AGC Optical Glass from Japan
  • All Materials Used in this filter Meet the Requirements of European Union's standards of Environment Protection-ROHS(Restrictions on Hazardous Substances)

The Zomei Variable ND filter is by far the cheapest in this article. If you’re looking to save the most money, this filter might be a good choice for you. Yes, like most budget filters you will have to deal with a heavier color cast, a softer image, and worse flaring, but if you keep your expectations in check, you can save a lot of money.

The Zomei performs just as well as the Gobe and honestly is just a little bit worse than the Tiffen and Hoya in the mid-range category. If you don’t have the most expensive lens and just need a filter to shoot casually with, the Zomei isn’t a bad choice.

PROS:

  • The cheapest option filter in this article. A 77mm Zomei variable ND filter is under $30
  • Still has about 3 ⅓ usable stops.

CONS:

  • It will affect your image quality, but that can be expected at the price point.
  • It doesn’t have hard stops like the K+F filter.

Check Price/Buy: Amazon

Why Only Use a Variable ND Filter for Video?

silhouette of guy with camera

I know some of you who are reading this article might be looking for a variable ND filter for photography. If this is you, I think you’re better off with a solid ND filter and should stop reading this article.

The reason why I say that is because, in the long run, a variable ND filter will cause more problems with your photos than a solid ND filter.

Here is why.

In photography, there are two main situations where you will need some sort of ND filter:

  • When you are shooting with a wide aperture like f/1.8 in bright lighting conditions.
  • When you are shooting long exposure in a scene with a medium amount of light.

In the first situation, you can get away with using a variable ND filter. If that’s all you’ll be using an ND filter for, then a variable ND can work for you.

However, in the second situation, a variable ND is not great for long exposure photography. In some conditions, such as if it is cloudy or if you are shooting in the shade, a variable ND will work fine.

The downside is once you start shooting long exposures in bright light conditions such as sunrise, your photos tend to start falling apart, especially compared to a solid ND filter.

These are some of the downsides of using a variable ND filter for long exposure photography:

  • Many variable ND filters do not have the clearest markings to show you how many stops of light you are blocking. Since you don’t know how many stops of light you are decreasing, it’s hard to get your settings 100% right. The variable ND filters with clearest markings that we will go over are the PolarPro Variable ND – Peter Mckinnon Edition, Freewell Variable ND Filter, and Moment Variable ND Filter
  • When shooting in brighter conditions, there is a good chance extra light will leak through the variable ND filter causing a softer image. This is because a variable ND filter is made with two layers of circular polarizing pieces of glass.

High-quality variable ND filters are usually more expensive than high-quality solid ND filters, so wouldn’t you want to save some money and have the confidence that it will work in every situation you would need an ND filter in?

photo of variable nd filter on log

How a Variable ND Filter Affects Image Quality?

When picking out a variable ND filter, you need to understand how it can impact the overall quality of your image. Like anything else, you won’t run into any problems if you use it right, but there are some things to watch out for which will negatively affect your image quality.

Color Cast

With most variable ND filters or even a solid ND filter, you will likely get some sort of color cast to your image. This isn’t a big problem because you can just correct it in post-processing. Premium ND filters usually don’t have as heavy of a color cast as cheaper ND filters.

Cross X Pattern Issue

When you push your variable ND filter too far past its darkest setting, you will likely see an X-like pattern in your image and it is even more pronounced in wider lenses.

To get around this issue, some variable ND filters like the PolarPro – Peter Mckinnon Edition, B+W XS Pro, Moment Variable ND Filter, Freewell Variable ND Filter, and the K&F Concept have hard stops to prevent you from pushing the filter too far.

This is what the X pattern looks like. In this image, I’m using the Hoya variable ND filter, which is a mid-tier filter on the Sony Zeiss 16-70mm f/4 lens.

example of cross polarization in the sky from nd filter

Cross Polarization Issue with Wide Angle Lenses

If you plan on using your variable ND filter with a wide-angle lens, this is something to watch out for.

Remember, variable ND filters are essentially 2 polarized filters stacked on top of each other. How strong an effect the polarizing filter has on the image depends on the angle it is from the sun and it usually works best with the sun at 90 degrees.

Since a wide-angle lens covers an area that is greater than 90 degrees, the areas closest to 90 degrees in the image will have the strongest polarization effect and will make these areas of the image darker than other areas.

Usually, the more expensive the variable ND filter is, the wider a lens you can use. Another way you can help with this issue is to use a larger mm variable ND filter than you need and use step-up rings for each lens you have.

This is also a great way to save money and I’ll talk more about this next.

How to Save Money with Filters?

Who doesn’t like to save money?

Variable ND filters are already expensive enough and the last thing you want to do is to have to buy a separate filter for each lens you have.

One of the best ways to save money on variable ND filters is to buy the biggest one possible and then to use step-up rings to fit it on the different lenses you have. It’s better to buy the biggest variable ND filter because then you’ll know you can always use a step-up ring no matter what additional lens you get.

nd filter on the side of yashica a camera

All you have to do to use a step-up ring is to screw it onto your lens and then screw in the variable ND filter into the step-up ring.

Make sure you get a high-quality step-up ring like this one from Breakthrough Photography. Cheaper step-up rings might have light leaks and they are usually made of lower quality material which could damage your variable ND filter and camera threads.

When looking at a step-up ring, in most instances the first number in the product description is the camera thread size and the second number is the filter size.

So for example, this product the Breakthrough Photography 55-82mm Step Up Ring would fit a 55mm lens size and an 82mm variable ND filter.

What to Look for in the Best Variable ND Filters for Video?

two nd filters side by side

There are so many different variable ND filters on the market at all different price points, so it’s important to understand what you’re investing in.

When it comes to variable ND filters and filters in general, the old saying “you get what you pay for” really is the truth.

Because there is such a wide price range, I think the most important thing is for you to be true to yourself. If you’re a casual filmmaker or just shoot video of family and friends, a low-tier variable ND filter will work perfectly fine for you.

However, if you shoot video professionally and need the best quality possible, your best bet is to buy the best variable ND filter in your budget.

Here are the characteristics and features you should consider when choosing a filter:

  • What Type of Video Work Do you Do?
  • What Quality Lens Do you Have?
  • Can you Get Away with a Solid ND Filter?
  • Build Quality
  • Hard Stops
  • Actual Usable Stops
  • Additional Accessories

What Type of Filmmaker are You

As I mentioned before, one of the most important things to consider is what type of filmmaker you are or aspire to be. If you only shoot video now and then and don’t plan on getting too deep into videography, then a lower tier variable ND filter will work perfectly fine for you.

On the other hand, if you are creating videos professionally or plan to do so in the future, then you should definitely consider buying the best variable ND filter your budget allows for. When it comes to all filters, you usually get what you pay for.

What Quality Lens do You Have

camera with nd filter on it

Similar to the previous question, it’s also good to consider what quality lens you have for video shooting. If you invested in a high-quality lens, it’s best to use a high-quality filter too. The last thing you want to do is to throw a cheap filter over your expensive lens and have it affect the image quality.

Can You Get Away with a Solid ND Filter

Another question to ask yourself is do you really need a variable ND filter or can you get away with using a solid ND filter?

The reason why I ask is that a solid ND filter is cheaper, will give you better results, and you won’t have to worry about the potential negative impacts of a variable ND filter (ex. cross x pattern, vignetting, etc.)

If this sounds like the type of video work you will be doing than a solid ND filter might be a better fit for you:

  • You will be shooting mostly at night.
  • If you shoot mostly indoors.
  • Will be shooting in a controlled setting like a studio most of the time.
  • Are still mainly focusing on photography.

Build Quality

Not every variable ND filter is built equal and you usually get what you pay for. Higher-end variable ND filters will have multiple layers of coating that help with internal ghosting and reflections.

They are also made with higher quality material such as aluminum or brass which allows them to be extremely durable and lightweight. If your budget only allows for a cheaper ND filter try to get the best quality you can buy and read the product reviews.

Since budget variable ND filters are made of cheaper material, they could damage the threading in your lens, which is very difficult to fix.

Actual Usable Stops

Here’s one tricky thing about variable ND filters. Even though a variable ND filter is listed with a stop range from 2-8 stops it’s usually not usable throughout this whole range.

Because of how variable ND filters are made, the image quality usually starts to deteriorate as you get to the maximum stops of the filter. The more expensive a variable ND filter is, the more usable stops there usually is.

Hard Stops

Other than build quality, I think this is the most important feature to look for in a variable ND filter.

Some variable ND filters such as the PolarPro Peter Mckinnon Edition, Freewell, Moment, B+ W XS-Pro, and the K+F Concept have hard stops that prevent the filter from turning past a certain point. This will prevent many of the image quality issues that we have gone over such as the cross x pattern.

Accessories

Accessories have nothing to do with the image quality, but when you’re a premium on a variable ND filter, it’s nice when the filter comes with additional items.

17 thoughts on “9 Best Variable ND Filters in 2024”

  1. Hi David! You’re welcome and thanks for reading the article. I haven’t yet, but I’ll look into adding the comparison to the article in a future update.
     
    Best,
    Tom

    Reply
  2. The polar pro peter mckinnon edition v2 Its an absolute trash!!!!! I jys cant believe how many idi@# out there recommending this expensive useless filter, the cross vignette its terrible, just terrible, I had the filter for 1 hours and I had to return it even though I go it with 30% off!! Its just trash,.

    Reply
    • Hi Tom,
       
      The Peter McKinnon ND filter in this article is V1 but thanks for your feedback on the V2 model. I’m pretty surprised to hear this as I have enjoyed the V1 model and have only heard positive things.
       
      I’ll try to get my hands on the V2 model to test it out for this article too.

      Reply
    • Hi Alex – thanks for letting me know. The Peter McKinnon ND in this article is v1. It’s good to hear feedback on v2 and I’ll try to take a look at it soon for this article.

      Reply
  3. Very helpful article. Thank you for that. If you plan to update the article, consider analyzing also solid ND filters and sharing your recommendations about which ones to choose for photography. Thank you

    Reply
      • Thank you, this is fabulous. Fantastic work, Tom.
        One final comment I’ve noticed the link for the step up ring is not active and you may be missing some referral commissions (and it’s all deserved for this great work – will also drop you a note on IG to let you know.
        Thank you once again.

        Reply
        • Hi Leandro! Thanks for reading the article and for letting me know about the broken link! It’s hard sometimes to keep up with all the articles so I appreciate you pointing it out. I just made the update to the link. Thanks again for your help!

          Reply

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