Are all UV filters the same?

[nitrox28]

I'm using a Canon UV filter now and it seems like it's doing a fine job. I see alot of people using other/better brands but I just can't justify paying upwards of $50 for a UV filter. What about the cheapo Sunpak, Promaster etc. Are they total junk?

[PhotosGuy]

I used them all the time for film, but you don't really need them for digital unless you're in an environment where you have to protect the lens. Cheap ones may not have the best anti-reflective coatings which means you'll get more flare.
I think it's more important to use a good hood all the time.

[rral22]

I am from the Don't Do It Unless You Have To Because Filters Can Only Degrade Your Lenses camp (the DDIUYHTBFCODYL, you may have heard of us).

Anyway, if you must, get a good filter. You payed for a good lens; at least throw on another GOOD piece of glass so it will have as little effect on your image quality as possible.

[SUPREMECREAM]

im pretty happy with my b+w uv multicoat 2c 77mm but it wasnt cheap

[tkbslc]

The only possible downside is increased flare in certain situations. You can usually see it in the viewfinder, so if you notice flare reflections, just take off the filter. <pre expensive ones have better flare resistant coatings.

It is kind of a religious/political discussion anytime the topic comes up.

[nitrox28]

I am from the Don't Do It Unless You Have To Because Filters Can Only Degrade Your Lenses camp (the DDIUYHTBFCODYL, you may have heard of us).

:lol: That was pretty damn funny! :lol:

[SkipD]

I am from the Don't Do It Unless You Have To Because Filters Can Only Degrade Your Lenses camp (the DDIUYHTBFCODYL, you may have heard of us).Heck, I'm a charter member. In fact, in over four decades of using my cameras I've never used a UV filter (or any other clear filter) for "protecting" any of my lenses.

I still have most of the lenses I bought in the 1960's and all still have pristine glass. One of them even crashed nose-first onto concrete in 1968 from about four feet. The lens hood crumpled on impact, reducing the peak forces and the lens never needed repair.

Get the proper lens hoods for each of your lenses and use them any time a lens is out of the bag.

[John_B]

nitrox28,
I found Canon UV filters degraded the sharpness with my lenses. I then upgraded to B+W MRC 10 UV filters and I no longer noticed any loss in sharpness. So to me they were well worth the cost! Luckily at hvStar.com has B+W for low prices... :)

Of course a hood is the best bet, but some of my lenses need a filter (even according to Canon) as a hood doesn't offer enough protection or in macro blocks light.

[hollis_f]

Heck, I'm a charter member.
Can I join please?

Actually it's a bit of a moot point as there are no 'protective' filters that will fit my most-used lens. Same as for all of Canon's big primes. Strange how the users of the most expensive gear don't feel the need to stick more glass in front of their lenses.