Choosing the right neutral density (ND) filter changes how you capture motion, manage exposure, and shape cinematic images. This guide presents top ND filters across budgets and uses — from pocket gimbals and drones to full-frame lenses — based on extensive research, hands-on testing, and expert feedback.
How we tested and chose
We combined hands-on testing, lab-style checks, and consumer feedback to build these recommendations. Tests focused on: optical clarity, color neutrality, build and coatings, ease of use, and value for different camera systems. We also reviewed expert writeups and verified real-world performance in daylight and mixed-light scenarios.
Key considerations that influenced rankings:
- Real-world usage: How each filter performs on a camera or drone in bright daylight, low sun, and mixed lighting.
- Optical performance: Color shift, sharpness, and the presence of artifacts (like the variable-ND ‘X’ cross at extreme stops).
- Mechanical design: Locking mechanisms, magnetic mounts, slim frames to avoid vignetting, and durability of coatings.
- Compatibility & ergonomics: Thread sizes, included adapters/base rings, and how easy a filter is to swap in the field.
- Price vs. function: Whether the package and performance justify the cost for specific users (hobbyist, pro, drone operator).
We prioritized broadly useful, well-built options and included specialized kits where their performance and value stood out for niche use cases.
52mm Variable ND
A compact, affordable variable ND for photographers using 52mm thread lenses. Offers 1–9 stops, slim profile to reduce vignetting, and 18 multi-layer coatings for reduced reflections. Great budget tool for travel and run-and-gun shooting.
Why it made the cut
This 52mm variable ND is a straightforward budget winner for photographers who need a lightweight, affordable variable density solution that fits many kit lenses. The 1–9 stops range handles everything from mild diffusion to strong daylight reduction. Its 18-layer coatings and thin frame help limit ghosting and vignetting on most APS-C and smaller full-frame set-ups.
Strengths:
- Very affordable and widely compatible for lenses with 52mm threads.
- Slim profile reduces vignetting on wide lenses.
- Comes with a filter cap and cleaning cloth.
Limitations:
- Like most variable NDs, extreme stops can produce the ‘X’ cross artifact on some lenses and focal lengths. Testing shows it performs well up to mid-range stops before artifacts appear.
Best for: Beginners and hobbyists who want a low-cost variable ND for everyday landscape and street photography.
Freewell All-Day Kit
A premium 82mm hybrid kit combining a locking Variable ND (3–10 stops) with CPL and an ND32. True-color optics, innovative locking, NFC-enabled cap, and white balance tools make it a pro-focused, futureproof choice.
Why it made the cut
This Freewell All-Day Kit targets professionals who need robust, color-accurate ND control with reliable mechanical design. The 3–10 stop variable ND paired with an ND32 expands control for the brightest days while the integrated CPL capability helps manage reflections and saturation. The locking mechanism prevents accidental changes while shooting, and the NFC-enabled cap plus the gray-card white balance cap are thoughtful extras for on-set workflows.
Strengths:
- Wide stop range with strong color fidelity due to True Color optics.
- Secure locking system and included ND32 for expanded range.
- Extras (NFC cap, white balance cap) help professional workflows.
Limitations:
- Premium price point; best value when you’ll use the advanced features regularly.
Best for: Professional photographers and filmmakers who need reliable, color-neutral ND control and pro-level build quality.
Split ND Drone Pack
A 4‑pack split ND/polarizer set designed for the Mavic 4 Pro to balance bright skies with darker foregrounds. Precision optics and gimbal-safe fit produce cinematic aerial exposure control for drone cinematographers.
Why it made the cut
This split ND pack is a smart buy for aerial shooters using the Mavic 4 Pro who need to tame bright skies without underexposing landscapes. The kit pairs split ND and polarizing treatments (ND8/4 PL up to ND64/32 PL) to balance high-contrast scenes and reduce glare. Filters are specifically shaped and built to be gimbal-safe so they won’t stress the drone gimbal during flight.
Strengths:
- Designed specifically for the drone’s dual focal lengths and gimbal clearance.
- Combines ND and polarization to improve sky contrast and color saturation.
- Good price for a specialized, four‑filter kit.
Limitations:
- Not useful outside the compatible drone model; this is a specialist purchase.
Best for: Drone pilots shooting landscapes or cinematic aerials who need balanced sky-to-ground exposure without buying multiple full-frame lens filters.
67mm ND2–ND400
A versatile 67mm variable ND offering 1–9 stops of control, premium AGC optical glass, and multi-layer coatings. Excellent balance of price, optical quality, and broad compatibility for enthusiasts and pros alike.
Why it made the cut
This 67mm ND2–ND400 is our Editors’ Choice because it hits the sweet spot between cost, optical quality, and day-to-day versatility. Constructed from AGC optical glass with multi-layer coatings, it delivers reliable sharpness and controlled reflections. The 1–9 stop range covers most creative needs — slow shutter water effects, motion blur for video, or taming bright daylight for wider apertures.
Strengths:
- Excellent price-to-performance ratio.
- Strong coatings and build quality relative to the price class.
- Good for both stills and video workflows.
Limitations:
- As with many variable NDs, expect X-pattern artifacts at the extreme end of the range on some lenses; keep shots in the mid-range stops for the cleanest results.
Best for: Photographers and videographers seeking a reliable, everyday variable ND with broad lens compatibility.
Comparison at a glance
- Best Overall for Versatility (Editors’ Choice): 67mm ND2–ND400 — A well-balanced variable ND with strong coatings and broad compatibility; excellent for most photographers.
- Premium Choice: Freewell All-Day Kit (82mm) — Pro-grade locking VND + ND32 and CPL. Best for professionals who need color accuracy and workflow features.
- Best Value for Money: Split ND Drone Pack — Specialized, gimbal-safe split ND + PL kit for Mavic 4 Pro pilots wanting cinematic skies/landscapes at a reasonable price.
- Best Budget Pick: 52mm Variable ND — The lowest-cost route to variable ND control for hobbyists and travel shooters.
Key differences in one list:
- Optical scope: Premium kit > Editors’ Choice ≈ Split ND (specialized optics) > Budget.
- Compatibility: 52mm and 67mm filters fit a broad range of lenses; the drone split kit is model-specific; the All-Day Kit centers on 82mm systems.
- Features: Freewell kit adds locking hardware, NFC cap, and white balance cap; others focus on coatings and slim frames.
Which is best overall? For most shooters the 67mm ND2–ND400 (Editors’ Choice) is the best blend of price, optical quality, and everyday utility. If you work professionally or need advanced locking and workflow features, the Freewell All-Day Kit is the premium step-up. Drone cinematographers will get the most direct benefit from the Split ND Drone Pack, while budget-minded photographers should opt for the 52mm Variable ND for everyday use.
Final recommendation
These four options cover the main needs photographers and filmmakers face when choosing an ND filter: affordability, specialized drone use, professional-grade features, and overall versatility. Our top recommendation for most users is the 67mm ND2–ND400 (Editors’ Choice) for its consistent optical performance and broad applicability. If you shoot professionally and need extras like a locking mechanism and true-color results, invest in the Freewell All-Day Kit. Drone pilots should choose the split ND drone set for balanced aerial exposures, and beginners on a tight budget will find great value in the 52mm variable ND.
This guidance is drawn from hands-on tests, optical checks, and user feedback. Pick based on the lenses and systems you actually use — thread size and drone compatibility will directly determine how useful a filter is in practice. If you want, tell me your camera/lens or drone model and I’ll recommend the exact filter size and any adapters you’ll need.