Which is the best UV filter?

Question

Which is the best UV filter brand/model ? Cost is not a problem (not at least for a filter).

I am looking for something with minimum flare and good UV protection.

Secondly is it better to use a clear filter to protect the lens and risk the glass pieces scratching the coating in case of a break or is it better to leave the lens without a filter?

Answer 1

Best Answer - Chosen by Asker

Two things I look for in a filter are A/R coating and quality. Top quality filter companies (order of quality, and Heliopan and B+W about equal) are Heliopan = B+W, Hoya, Kenko,Tiffen. All make a multi-coated and uncoated filter but only buy multi-coated if you want the best.

Finally, Hoya HMC filter is what I usually buy because it's a good balance of cost and quality but I own B+W, Hoya, and Tiffen

Asker's Rating:

Asker's Comment:

Thanks.

Answer 2

In theory, having no glass in front of the lens would reduce the chance of added ghosting or lans flare caused by an added filter to zero, however in the real world accidents happen and any degradation of an image caused by even the cheapest lens filter would only be measurable under laboratory conditions or with the lens aimed directly at the light source will be offset by the protection of your fine lens.

To protect your lenses front element, buy a filter with the best optical coatings you can afford and just sped your time creating images, rather than worry about what miniscule image degradation might occur if you "only" spent $30 for a UV filter instead of breaking the bank.

Source(s):

proFotog