The Hoya Variable Density filter uses two polarizing layers to control the amount of light that passes through the filter and into the camera lens. At it's minimum effect the filter passes 1/3 of the light in a scene. That is equal to 1.5 stops on the aperture or shutter speed. At it maximum effect the filter passes just 1/400 of the light in a scene. That is equal to 9 stops on the aperture or shutter speed. After the filter is mounted on the lens, turning the filter ring between “Min” and “Max” can greatly control the amount of light entering the lens. With the Hoya Variable Density filter it is possible to shoot with fast lenses like a 50mm f/1.4 lens wide open at f/1.4 in full sun for a very shallow depth of field. Or, to slow down the shutter speed to where the shutter can be open for several seconds in full sunlight. This is enough to create artistic blurring shots of motion on water, cars, people or almost anything that moves. The creative possibilities are endless.
The Hoya Variable Density filter uses two polarizing layers to control the amount of light that passes through the filter and into the camera lens. At it's minimum effect the filter passes 1/3 of the light in a scene. That is equal to 1.5 stops on the aperture or shutter speed. At it maximum effect the filter passes just 1/400 of the light in a scene. That is equal to 9 stops on the aperture or shutter speed. After the filter is mounted on the lens, turning the filter ring between “Min” and “Max” can greatly control the amount of light entering the lens. With the Hoya Variable Density filter it is possible to shoot with fast lenses like a 50mm f/1.4 lens wide open at f/1.4 in full sun for a very shallow depth of field. Or, to slow down the shutter speed to where the shutter can be open for several seconds in full sunlight. This is enough to create artistic blurring shots of motion on water, cars, people or almost anything that moves. The creative possibilities are endless.
The Hoya Variable Density filter uses two polarizing layers to control the amount of light that passes through the filter and into the camera lens. At it's minimum effect the filter passes 1/3 of the light in a scene. That is equal to 1.5 stops on the aperture or shutter speed. At it maximum effect the filter passes just 1/400 of the light in a scene. That is equal to 9 stops on the aperture or shutter speed. After the filter is mounted on the lens, turning the filter ring between “Min” and “Max” can greatly control the amount of light entering the lens. With the Hoya Variable Density filter it is possible to shoot with fast lenses like a 50mm f/1.4 lens wide open at f/1.4 in full sun for a very shallow depth of field. Or, to slow down the shutter speed to where the shutter can be open for several seconds in full sunlight. This is enough to create artistic blurring shots of motion on water, cars, people or almost anything that moves. The creative possibilities are endless.
The Hoya Variable Density filter uses two polarizing layers to control the amount of light that passes through the filter and into the camera lens. At it's minimum effect the filter passes 1/3 of the light in a scene. That is equal to 1.5 stops on the aperture or shutter speed. At it maximum effect the filter passes just 1/400 of the light in a scene. That is equal to 9 stops on the aperture or shutter speed. After the filter is mounted on the lens, turning the filter ring between “Min” and “Max” can greatly control the amount of light entering the lens. With the Hoya Variable Density filter it is possible to shoot with fast lenses like a 50mm f/1.4 lens wide open at f/1.4 in full sun for a very shallow depth of field. Or, to slow down the shutter speed to where the shutter can be open for several seconds in full sunlight. This is enough to create artistic blurring shots of motion on water, cars, people or almost anything that moves. The creative possibilities are endless.
Last updated at 04/27/2026 20:53:35
Hoya Filter Variable Density 3-400 58mm
Delivery $91.08
Affiliate Disclosure: We may receive a small commission for purchases made through this link at no extra cost to you. This helps support our site. Thank you!
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originally posted on adorama.com
I waited a long time before ordering a variable ND filter. I've been meaning to do so for a while now, but all the reviews I read had some negative comments to make, either regarding image softness or funny color casts. It seemed like the only alternatives were either dirt-cheap copycats or super-expensive originals. But when Hoya finally released their own variable density filters at a reasonable price, I had to give it a try.Optically, this thing is amazing. It works nearly flawlessly. There's no added color cast or softness, everything just looks beautiful. I can slow my shutter speed with the lens wide open even in bright sunlight, and the results are fantastic. There's some minor visible crosshatch when the filter is at its absolute darkest, but that's a very ... MoreI waited a long time before ordering a variable ND filter. I've been meaning to do so for a while now, but all the reviews I read had some negative comments to make, either regarding image softness or funny color casts. It seemed like the only alternatives were either dirt-cheap copycats or super-expensive originals. But when Hoya finally released their own variable density filters at a reasonable price, I had to give it a try.Optically, this thing is amazing. It works nearly flawlessly. There's no added color cast or softness, everything just looks beautiful. I can slow my shutter speed with the lens wide open even in bright sunlight, and the results are fantastic. There's some minor visible crosshatch when the filter is at its absolute darkest, but that's a very minor issue which can be resolved by turning it ever so slightly lighter. We're talking a difference of less than half a stop here, so it's no great loss.My main reasons for docking a star come from handling. The filter is super easy to use and well marked, but it has NO front threads. That means I can't attach a hood to the front of it. The main reason I got this filter is to use it in sunlight, which is precisely when I want to attach a hood, but this filter won't let me. If you have a hood that clips on around the lens' filter threads, then this isn't an issue for you. But if you use hoods that attach to filter threads, then you're out of luck.Also, this filter isn't available in a 49mm size. The smallest available is 52mm. This annoys me greatly, since most of my favorite lenses have a 49mm filter thread. 52mm seems like such an arbitrary number to stop at... I'm almost tempted tp knock another star off just because of this limitation. But the optical performance impresses me enough to give it 4 stars despite the bizarre limitations.
originally posted on adorama.com
Only reason not 5 stars is lack of outer threads for cap. But I knew this before I bought. Now 2 weeks old. Looked at similar B&W filter with less max stops and more than 82mm outer threads, but price was double. Going to camera store today to see if I can get protective cap that will work. Adorama purchasing online and shipping was flawless - no rash of advertising emails and on time. Used outdoors and indoors with flash using Canon D6 w 24-70 lens.
originally posted on adorama.com
Didn't want to buy a whole set of neutral density filters for the 82mm Tammy 24-70 (already have a full set of 77mm). I like the overall quality of Hoya filters, so I spent the extra to get this one.First, it gives me right at 10 stops of reduction without running into the dreaded "X" issue. Image quality is excellent, color seems a touch richer, VERY pleasant. ONLY down side I can find on this filter is that it lacks threads to attach a lens cap to. For street shooters like me, that is a major issue that Hoya needs to correct.How I use the variable filter:Rather than attach a density filter and adjust settings for exposure, I work a bit backwards- I set the camera to the desired settings, then turn the filter until the exposure meter shows a proper exposure. ... MoreDidn't want to buy a whole set of neutral density filters for the 82mm Tammy 24-70 (already have a full set of 77mm). I like the overall quality of Hoya filters, so I spent the extra to get this one.First, it gives me right at 10 stops of reduction without running into the dreaded "X" issue. Image quality is excellent, color seems a touch richer, VERY pleasant. ONLY down side I can find on this filter is that it lacks threads to attach a lens cap to. For street shooters like me, that is a major issue that Hoya needs to correct.How I use the variable filter:Rather than attach a density filter and adjust settings for exposure, I work a bit backwards- I set the camera to the desired settings, then turn the filter until the exposure meter shows a proper exposure. Not so easy to work with for long night exposures, but great for working in the sun. Just remember that the scale on the filter does NOT give particular measured settings, but rather simply indicates max and minimum filtration. The filter works on the cross-polarization principle, so progression of light reduction is not even -that's why the scale can't give particular settings like .3 or .9.
| Filter Size | 58mm |
| Filter Factor | 0.45 (1.5 Stops) to 2.7 (9 Stops) |
| Effect | Darken |
| Construction | Optical Glass |
| Front Filter Thread Size | Unthreaded |
Hoya Filter Variable Density 3-400 58mm
Delivery $91.08
Affiliate Disclosure: We may receive a small commission for purchases made through this link at no extra cost to you. This helps support our site. Thank you!
Hoya 58mm Variable Neutral Density Filter by Onestop Digital
Free delivery between 2–7 May
Hoya 58mm UV & IR Cut Filter
Delivery $14.95
Hoya Variable Density II 58mm Filter (ND3 to ND400)
Free delivery between 30 Apr – 7 May
Hoya 58mm ND Variable
Free delivery
I waited a long time before ordering a variable ND filter. I've been meaning to do so for a while now, but all the reviews I read had some negative comments to make, either regarding image softness or funny color casts. It seemed like the only alternatives were either dirt-cheap copycats or super-expensive originals. But when Hoya finally released their own variable density filters at a reasonable price, I had to give it a try.Optically, this thing is amazing. It works nearly flawlessly. There's no added color cast or softness, everything just looks beautiful. I can slow my shutter speed with the lens wide open even in bright sunlight, and the results are fantastic. There's some minor visible crosshatch when the filter is at its absolute darkest, but that's a very ... MoreI waited a long time before ordering a variable ND filter. I've been meaning to do so for a while now, but all the reviews I read had some negative comments to make, either regarding image softness or funny color casts. It seemed like the only alternatives were either dirt-cheap copycats or super-expensive originals. But when Hoya finally released their own variable density filters at a reasonable price, I had to give it a try.Optically, this thing is amazing. It works nearly flawlessly. There's no added color cast or softness, everything just looks beautiful. I can slow my shutter speed with the lens wide open even in bright sunlight, and the results are fantastic. There's some minor visible crosshatch when the filter is at its absolute darkest, but that's a very minor issue which can be resolved by turning it ever so slightly lighter. We're talking a difference of less than half a stop here, so it's no great loss.My main reasons for docking a star come from handling. The filter is super easy to use and well marked, but it has NO front threads. That means I can't attach a hood to the front of it. The main reason I got this filter is to use it in sunlight, which is precisely when I want to attach a hood, but this filter won't let me. If you have a hood that clips on around the lens' filter threads, then this isn't an issue for you. But if you use hoods that attach to filter threads, then you're out of luck.Also, this filter isn't available in a 49mm size. The smallest available is 52mm. This annoys me greatly, since most of my favorite lenses have a 49mm filter thread. 52mm seems like such an arbitrary number to stop at... I'm almost tempted tp knock another star off just because of this limitation. But the optical performance impresses me enough to give it 4 stars despite the bizarre limitations.
Only reason not 5 stars is lack of outer threads for cap. But I knew this before I bought. Now 2 weeks old. Looked at similar B&W filter with less max stops and more than 82mm outer threads, but price was double. Going to camera store today to see if I can get protective cap that will work. Adorama purchasing online and shipping was flawless - no rash of advertising emails and on time. Used outdoors and indoors with flash using Canon D6 w 24-70 lens.
Didn't want to buy a whole set of neutral density filters for the 82mm Tammy 24-70 (already have a full set of 77mm). I like the overall quality of Hoya filters, so I spent the extra to get this one.First, it gives me right at 10 stops of reduction without running into the dreaded "X" issue. Image quality is excellent, color seems a touch richer, VERY pleasant. ONLY down side I can find on this filter is that it lacks threads to attach a lens cap to. For street shooters like me, that is a major issue that Hoya needs to correct.How I use the variable filter:Rather than attach a density filter and adjust settings for exposure, I work a bit backwards- I set the camera to the desired settings, then turn the filter until the exposure meter shows a proper exposure. ... MoreDidn't want to buy a whole set of neutral density filters for the 82mm Tammy 24-70 (already have a full set of 77mm). I like the overall quality of Hoya filters, so I spent the extra to get this one.First, it gives me right at 10 stops of reduction without running into the dreaded "X" issue. Image quality is excellent, color seems a touch richer, VERY pleasant. ONLY down side I can find on this filter is that it lacks threads to attach a lens cap to. For street shooters like me, that is a major issue that Hoya needs to correct.How I use the variable filter:Rather than attach a density filter and adjust settings for exposure, I work a bit backwards- I set the camera to the desired settings, then turn the filter until the exposure meter shows a proper exposure. Not so easy to work with for long night exposures, but great for working in the sun. Just remember that the scale on the filter does NOT give particular measured settings, but rather simply indicates max and minimum filtration. The filter works on the cross-polarization principle, so progression of light reduction is not even -that's why the scale can't give particular settings like .3 or .9.
I love my new Hoya Variable density filter, I use it on all my cameras and the results are outstanding. On my Canon 70D in the middle of a very bright day, the footage of video and photo's that I got just from dialing it down to a darker setting caused the blue skies to "POP" right off the screen when editing. Couldn't recommend these filters any more highly and they're really worthwhile spending the extra $$$s on a quality filter, I have a lower priced "El Cheapo" variable density filter also, which is ok for some things, but the Hoya is "Consistent" in its results which is why I love it so much!
I live in the PNW, and we have amazing water falls here. I needed a good quality Variable ND filter. After a lot of searching I settled on the Hoya 82mm. I use it primarily on my Nikon 24-70mm lens. I like the overall quality of Hoya filters and feel its a good mid range purchase. 10 stops of reduction. Love the image quality.I see a lot of reviewers have an issue with no threads to attach a lens cap to. Since I use this filter for landscapes only, I usually take it off when done. It isn't much of a pain point, but I can see why it would bother some.
My partner used one of these filters on his dont A7r11 and encouragede to get one for my old Sony A700. It only arrived two days ago so havent had a chance to play with it yet . So hoping it will work as well for me as it does my partner . Arrived in a timely fashion and in one piece ! Cheers
Filter doesn't seem to affect the sharpness. There's some color casting but can be easily corrected. It works fine on 24mm, no vignetting. I would suggest spending a couple of hours to test its behavior, things will be a lot easier. I am happy with the purchase and will keep the filter. There's one draw back that someone has already mentioned, there's nothing to hold the lense cap, perhaps to reduce the thickness of the filter.
I used this filter on my zoom lens and captured lovely flowing water at a boneyard beach at sunrise. It is definitely a great tool for my photography
I have used the variable ND to slow the shutter speed on several exposures in the past two weeks. It appears to work well. However, at an angle to a bright sun of 60-90 degrees, I get an anomaly in the darkening effect if I put the filter at maximum ND. The anomaly appears as a sort of butterfly or maltese cross of non uniform darkening in the image, thus rendering the exposure useless. Other than that problem, the filter can be used to provide the effect of longer exposures to create motion or perhaps use a larger aperture for depth of field control.
I love Hoya filters. They are 100% worth the price. Don't scrimp on cheapo filters as your photos or video will def suffer. I've used cheaper ones and they are very inconsistent or break easily. You won't go wrong with Hoya.
| Filter Size | 58mm |
| Filter Factor | 0.45 (1.5 Stops) to 2.7 (9 Stops) |
| Effect | Darken |
| Construction | Optical Glass |
| Front Filter Thread Size | Unthreaded |
