Filter sizes for Canon EF lenses

Canon filter sizes are difficult to find, at least in a list form. At one time, all manufacturers went to the trouble to do so with printed brochures but now, with the internet, not so much.

With the move to EOS R cameras and the highly capable and versatile EF-RF adaptors, the older EF lenses remain hugely popular. Indeed, with focusing accuracy as good if not better than the older DSLRs, especially when focused off-centre, EF lenses have seen a new lease of life.

Filters for lens protection seem to divide opinions, however, I’m strongly in favour of them. Not only do they prevent fumbling with lens caps (keep those for storage), but they’re also a lot easier to clean than the front element. Damage the filter, and it’s easy to replace. Damage the lens, and that’s a real problem. Get it fixed? Sell it? Buy another? I know what I prefer.

For Canon lenses, I recommend Canon regular ‘Protect’ or Protector filters as they’re extremely high quality. They’re also very reasonably priced, at least for the popular sizes.  Above 82mm, though, and they start to get pricey. The 95mm is pretty steep, for example, so you could look for more competitive offerings, such as the Firecrest models for that and larger. They make protector and UV types. In my experience, there’s not much between them; even protectors reduce UV, so it depends on how fussy you are. If you want consistent colour, there’s an argument for standardising and buying the same type, but that’s probably more of an issue for videomakers than stills photographers.

Other brands I recommend and use include Breakthrough Photography (UV only), B+W (offers both UV and clear) and Zeiss (UV only, no clear/protector offered).

Update: Formatt Hitech, makers of Firecrest filters, was recently acquired by Kenko-Tokina and has now, unfortunately, ceased trading. Stock can still be found at very low prices. 

Check prices [affiliate links follow]:

Canon UK Store

Canon US Store

Amazon UK (Canon Protect) | Amazon UK (Formatt Hitech – Firecrest) 

Amazon US (Canon Protect)  | Amazon US (Formatt Hitech – Firecrest)

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The following is a work in progress; the columns will be filled out in due course [Amazon affiliate links]

Affiliate links:

Canon UK Store

Canon US Store

Amazon UK

Amazon US

As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.