9 Best UV Filter for Lens in 2023 | Reviews + Guide

If you get a mini heart attack whenever your camera faces potential damage, you should consider investing in a UV filter. 

But why UV, and not just any filter? A UV filter – as the name suggests – not only ensures light transmission and shielding against scratches, dust, etc. but also protects it from the harmful UV rays of the sun. 

So, in this blog post, I will walk you through my top 9 recommendations to protect your camera lens. Let us begin! 

Top 9 UV Filter for Lens

1. K&F Concept MC UV Protection Filter – Best Value

If you are looking for a UV filter to enhance the quality of your images at a reasonable price, I recommend the K&F Concept UV Protection Filter Nano-X Series. The combination of UV light absorption and protection capabilities of this UV filter comes with numerous additional benefits! 

Drawing from experience, this UV filter provides true color representation and enhanced quality of images for every element, whether the subject of my pictures is sand, soil, or a tree. It effectively reduces the blue tone in pictures and is a reliable shield for the lens, thus protecting it from dust and scratches. 

One of the standout features of this UV filter is its solid construction. Being crafted using AGC glass from Japan, this UV filter helped me achieve razor-sharp pictures while its true colors remained unaffected. 

The K&F Concept UV light filter has 28 multilayer coatings, scratch-resistant properties, and hydrophobic nature. Hence, when I tried this UV protection lens filter on my camera, I found that it had reduced reflections from the ground and the filter. 

Another thing I liked about this ultraviolet light camera lens filter is its ultra-slim frame, measuring only 3.3 mm in thickness. Further, the double-side polishing technology helped me eliminate the issue of vignetting. 

Based on my observations, this lens works as well with a telephoto lens. While some cheap alternatives are available on the market today, this UV filter provides value for every penny. 

2. Hoya HMC UV Digital Slim Frame – Best UV Filter to Improve Image Quality

If you are looking for exceptional sharpness and clarity in the images you capture, I suggest you try the Hoya HMC UV filter. It is one of the best UV filters on the market today that effectively eliminates the full range of UV rays. Hence, you will never have to compromise on color balance while using the UV filters of this model!

As I tested this UV filter, flaring and ghosting rarely arose. I found this feature particularly useful while using my digital cameras with various continuous lighting kits. The average light transmission rate of this protective filter is more than 97%, and as the product claims, it did enhance the performance of my lenses. 

Since the UV filters from this model of Hoya HMC boast a decently slim design, I never faced a need to remove it from my camera lens. Hence, this protective filter ensured that my camera lens was shielded from dust, scratch, or any damage without hampering its quality in the long run. However, cleaning these UV filters can take time and effort for some people. 

3. Tiffen 52UVP UV Protection Filter – Best UV Filter for Hazy Days

It is an outdated notion that the best UV filters from reputed brands are only available at high prices. If you are looking for cheaper filters that don’t compromise the performance of your lens, I would suggest that you try out the Tiffen UV Protection Filter. 

The protective design of this UV protection photographic filter makes it a reliable option. Further, it comes with a warranty of ten years. 

After giving it a go, I found that this lens filter effectively reduces the bluish cast that accompanies daytime photography by providing me with color accuracy.

However, the best part is that, unlike other filters, this protective filter works just as well at high altitudes and near water bodies. Since these environments are infamous for boasting increased ultraviolet light, most UV filters have disappointed me as I photographed in these regions. But the Tiffen UV filter was an exception, as it also works well on hazy days. 

Additionally, I could pair this filter with other filters as well. Since it never adds any unnecessary coloration or contrast, I could combine this UV filter with several other filters to create a wide array of creative effects. However, this filter is thicker than other UV filters.  

4. Altura Photo 52mm UV Filter – Best UV Filter for Beginners

If you prioritize creative control over anything else, I suggest you try the Altura Photo MM UV Filter. The package mainly consists of three components – the UV Filter, CPL Filter, and the ND4 filter by Altura. Each part serves a different purpose, and this kit can help you level up as a photographer. 

The UV Filter by Altura helped me protect my camera lens from any moisture, dust, fingerprint marks, and bumps. Similarly, the CPL Filter of Altura helped me significantly reduce reflection from non-metal surfaces such as water or glass. 

Based on my trials, I found this UV filter to help capture rich and scenic shots from a distance. The light transmission and color saturation capabilities of this lens filter are impressive. I also liked that I could adjust the front ring by rotating it to adjust my desired effects. 

The ND4 filter adjusts the amount of light passing through my camera lens. It has a two-stop exposure reduction and gives me immense control over field depth. While it is great for beginners, some photographers might find this UV filter extremely reflective. 

5. Tiffen 49UVP UV Protection Camera Lens Filter – Most Durable UV Filter

UV protection lens filters that wear out quickly are not an ideal purchase for any photographer. Hence, if you are looking for UV filters for your digital cameras that are decently durable, I would suggest that you check out the 49 UVP variant by Tiffen. This company is a well-established name in the field of photography equipment, which is why I went for the product in the first place. 

Even though my digital camera had a built-in color cast corrector feature, I purchased the ultraviolet light filter to enhance the quality of my pictures further. As I spent time with the product, I found that this lens filter protected my camera lens effectively and lengthened its longevity. 

This ultraviolet light filter features a low-profile black ring, giving it a sleek and stylish appearance. It also comes with a ten-year warranty, which is amazing considering the low price I bought it for. However, you must purchase an adapter to install this UV lens filter to work with cameras like FUJI X100V. 

6. Amazon Basics UV Protection Camera Lens Filter – Best Affordable UV Filter

The stylish design and sleek build of UV filters are great, but sometimes, we just need protective filters that do their job well. If you are looking for good UV lens filters that are simple yet affordable, I recommend you check out the one by Amazon Basics.

Since I wanted protective filters for everyday use, the UV Protection Camera Lens Filter by AmazonBasics was a decent addition to my equipment. It does every basic task you would expect an average UV lens filter to do – reducing blue cast, preventing lens flare, getting rid of unwanted ultraviolet light, etc. Although I was skeptical of its performance based on its low price, I was satisfied with the performance after I gave it a go.  

The AmazonBasics UV Protection Filter can help you level up your outdoor photography game, and the protective UV filter will safeguard your lens effectively. While it does not have any extra standout features, I liked the simplicity of this lens protection filter. However, its thread range is limited.  

7. Gobe 46mm UV Lens Filter – Best Mid-Price Range UV Filter

Protecting your camera lens is one of the main purposes of protection filters. Hence, if you are looking for the best mid-range UV filters, I suggest you check out the one by Gobe. I had a positive experience with the protective filters made by this company, and it boasts several aspects that make it stand out from its competitors. 

The ability of this UV protection filter to sharpen my pictures even during the haziest days impressed me. Since it has been made from Japanese Optical Glass and comes with twelve layers of nano-coating, this protective UV filter has a decent anti-reflective coating and anti-lens flare properties. 

However, one of the best things about purchasing UV filters from Gobe is the positive impact on our environment. Gobe plants five trees every time someone purchases products such as protective filters. Hence, you can contribute to the employment of local communities and help our environment recover from deforestation by buying UV filters from this company!

The only drawback of this product is that it is constructed specifically for entry-level camera lenses. Hence, you should not use it with telephoto lenses that go beyond 100 mm.  

8. Urth 52mm UV Lens Filter (Plus+) – Most Sustainable UV Filter

If you liked contributing to building a sustainable environment by purchasing products like UV filters but are looking for better quality – I’ve got your back. In this case, you should consider checking out the (Plus+) Lens Filter by Urth. 

This lens protection filter was useful as it shielded my front element from UV rays, scratches, dust, etc. It also helped me capture great pictures, even when I attempted to cut through the haze. 

One of the most notable features of this UV protection filter is its build. This lens protection is made up of SCHOTT Glass (Germany), famous worldwide for its high quality. It also boasts nano-coating of 30 layers which enhances the image quality and makes it easier to clean the product. 

The only drawback of this product is that it can be an expensive lens filter for some photographers. It is made up of exceptional magnalium, so the company offers a lifetime warranty for its UV filters. Further, Urth has taken the initiative of planting trees every time someone purchases its products. 

9. UV Filter for Canon – Best UV Filter with Multi-Coating

Finally, you should also consider the UV Filter by Big Mike’s Electronics to protect your expensive lens from UV rays without compromising your image quality. This protective lens filter also protects the front element from dust, dirt, moisture, scratches, etc., to eliminate any risk of damage. 

While using this lens hood, I discovered that the light transmittance feature offered by this UV filter is as good as several popular brands. It also did a decent job of eliminating the blue cast in each photograph that I clicked outdoors, thus improving the overall image quality. My pictures were becoming vibrant and crisp due to the reduced concentration of UV rays.

This package includes a multi-coated filter and a cleaning cloth made up of microfibre for an easy cleaning process. However, it is a little tougher to install in the front element of your camera (Canon Inc.) compared to other UV filters. 

Top UV Filter for Lens Comparison Table

Buyer’s Guide: Factors to Consider While Purchasing UV Filters for Lens

1. Compatibility

No matter how good the light emission is or how great UV filter properties your choice of product has, everything will go to waste if it does not fit your lens. Hence, before purchasing UV filters for your camera lens, you must ensure the compatibility of the two.

The best way to ensure that your protection filters fit the front element of your camera well is to check their filter thread sizes. It is usually measured in millimeters, such as 67 mm or 49 mm. Once you know the filter thread size of your lens, such as a Sony Camera or a Nikon Camera lens, you can look for protection filters that specifically fit it.

2. Type

Several types of protection filters are available on the market today, and based on your preferences, you can choose the best one for your needs. For instance, you can opt for single-coated, multi-coated, or nanotechnology protection filters for your lens. 

Usually, professional photographers prefer going for protection filters that come with either multi-coating or nano-coating. This is because they filter to protect your lens from potential damage and help you capture more vibrant pictures than UV protection filters with single-coating. 

3. Thickness

Based on your specific requirements for photography, you can choose from different thicknesses and density ranges in UV protective filters. Generally, photographers prefer going for high-quality UV filters that are thinner because they prevent the issue of vignetting. 

It is important to note that even if you opt for high-quality optical filter coating while purchasing expensive UV filters, it is only worth it if their thickness is right. Thicker UV filter options can degrade the capability of your wide-angle lens to capture scenic shots. Hence, you should always choose a clear or UV filter with the right thickness for your lens. 

4. Maintenance

As you choose your ideal filter to protect the lens of your camera, it is important to consider how much effort you wish to put in to maintain it. If you can devote little time, using an ultraviolet filter that does not require excessive maintenance would be best. 

You should always try to go for high-quality lens filters with features such as waterproofing, oil and scratch resistance, etc. This way, even if you buy very expensive lens filters, they will be a long-term investment. Some of the best protection filters also come with a microfiber cloth for cleaning, so you can invest in them too.

5. Price

While ensuring necessary features such as light transmission, optical coating, brass filter ring, and so on in your choice of lens hoods, it is also important to consider their price. While some of the best protection filters fall into the higher range of the cost spectrum, you can find cheap filters that work decently too. 

It would be best to carefully assess your film camera and lens quality first and then consider which lens type you wish to go for. Afterward, you should decide on a budget that suits your wallet and look for the best protection filters in that range. 

How do UV filters improve image quality?

UV lights can cause haziness, lack of contrast, and a bluish cast in photographers. Hence, photographers invest in the best UV filters that absorb ultraviolet light to prevent these issues in their final results. 

Can I always leave a UV filter on my lens?

You can leave a UV filter on your lens for long durations. This is an effective way of protecting your camera lens from scratches, moisture, etc., to make it last longer. Leaving the best UV filters on your lens for long periods can also help you minimize the frequency you need to clean it since the dust accumulation would be significantly less.

Conclusion

Now that we have reached the end of my blog post, I will announce the obvious winner – the K&F Concept MC UV Filter! It is a true value-for-money product and delivers excellent performance, which is why it is a great long-term investment. 

The Hoya HMC UV filter is a close second because of its ability to capture the true essence of different colors. But if you like clicking pictures in challenging or continuous lighting, I suggest you check out the Tiffen UV Protection Filter. 

You can also experiment with different kinds of filters by pairing them together to click better pictures. That is all for today, goodbye!