Recomended Filters for Lens Protection
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. I also don’t like cleaning lenses and would rather accidentally scratch a filter than my lens. And if you think it’s unlikely, take a look at the number of secondhand lenses for sale on eBay with scratched front elements. Those few that aren’t sell for appreciably more.
My filter of choice for my Canon lenses is the Canon ‘Protect’ or Protector filter. I also use Canon Polarisers, which can also be used to protect lenses with some restrictions, obviously.
Both types are high-quality, though, spec-wise, there’s very little information on them. Made in Japan using high-grade optical glass and aluminium frames, they are multicoated with Canon’s Super Spectra Coating (SSC), like the EF and RF lenses. After having used them for over a decade, I’ve never encountered any adverse effect on colour balance or image quality. That said, I mean when used with care, all filters increase the likelihood of flare and ghosting when bright light sources are located within the frame.
The polarisers are on the pricey side, however, the ‘Protect’ filters are reasonably priced, at least for the popular sizes: 58mm, 72mm and 77mm. While I recommend a protector for each lens, if you use polarisers only occasionally, it can be a good idea to buy the largest, say the 77mm and then use high-quality step rings (Heliopan or Breakthrough) for the other smaller sizes.
While I use the Protect filters on most of my Canon lenses, other brands that I own and use less frequently but still highly recommend include:
B+W (XS-Pro/Master) – Clear or UV. German Schott glass, brass frames, and nano-coated (for easier cleaning), thinner, and lighter weight than the F-Pro/Basic. The only downside is the price, and the thin frame can be difficult to mount a lens cap on, but it’s not impossible.
Breakthrough Photography (X4/X2) UV only – X4 uses Schott glass, brass frames and nano-coating. The X2 is also nano-coated but has aluminium frames for lighter weight and glass by AGC (Asahi Glass Company). While the X4 can be pricey, the X2 is a great budget option if you don’t mind aluminium.
Formatt Hitech (Firecrest) UV Protector or MCUV 370/400nm – Schott glass with super-lightweight aluminium frames (both with and without front threads, so be vigilant when ordering). Hydrophobic coating is similar to Nano types in being easier to clean than standard multi-coatings. Lightweight and competitively priced, they are especially recommended when typically expensive large-size filters, such as 95mm and 105mm, are needed. High-quality and British-made.
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