For years, as a budding videographer and photographer, I grappled with the relentless challenge of shooting in bright, uncontrolled lighting conditions. Whether trying to achieve a cinematic shallow depth of field in broad daylight or capturing silky smooth long exposures of flowing water, the struggle was real. Blown-out highlights, choppy video footage due to excessively fast shutter speeds, and the inability to use my favourite wide apertures were constant frustrations. I knew a solution was imperative; without it, my creative vision remained stifled, and countless perfect shots or video clips would simply be rendered unusable. If only I had discovered the SmallRig 67mm Magnetic Variable ND Filter ND2-ND32 sooner, it would have saved me immense headaches and elevated my work exponentially.
- 【Magnetic Variable ND2-ND32 Lens Filter】SmallRig magnetic 67mm VND filter features 5 stops of exposure brightness, from ND2, ND4, ND8, ND16 to ND32. Balance exposure times by rotating the outer...
- 【Magnetic Design】The 67mm VND filter via magnet attraction to install and remove the filter. Enhanced magnetic attraction is safe and reliable, and photographers can quickly and efficiently switch...
- 【Compatibility】Compatible with SmallRig mobile phone cages 4391 / 4396 / 4392 / 4397 / 4407 for iPhone 15, 14, 13 series and for Samsung S24 Ultra 4601 by matching with 67mm M mount filter ring...
Key Considerations Before Investing in a Camera Filter
Before diving into any specific product, it’s crucial to understand what a filter, particularly a neutral density (ND) filter, is designed to do and whether it aligns with your photographic needs. ND filters serve a fundamental purpose: they reduce the amount of light entering your lens without affecting the colour balance. This is indispensable for creators who face overly bright environments, enabling them to achieve longer exposure times for artistic motion blur in landscapes (think waterfalls or bustling cityscapes) or to shoot with wide-open apertures (for beautiful bokeh) even in harsh daylight, ensuring their video footage maintains cinematic shutter speeds.
The ideal candidate for an ND filter like the SmallRig 67mm Magnetic Variable ND Filter ND2-ND32 is a videographer, a landscape photographer, or any content creator who frequently shoots outdoors in varied lighting conditions. If you’re constantly battling blown highlights, craving smoother motion in your videos, or wishing to separate your subject from the background with shallow depth of field even under the sun, then an ND filter is an absolute necessity. Conversely, if your photography primarily involves indoor studio work, low-light scenarios, or you rarely venture beyond basic point-and-shoot stills, then a sophisticated variable ND might be overkill. For such users, a simple UV filter for lens protection might suffice, or perhaps no filter at all. When considering a purchase, always think about the filter strength (how many stops of light reduction you need), whether you prefer fixed or variable density, the optical quality (to avoid colour casts or sharpness degradation), the build quality, and importantly, the ease of use and compatibility with your existing lenses.
- 【Includes】 K&F CONCEPT 67MM Adjustable Neutral Density Professional Photography Filter ND2~400 + Professional Microfiber Lens Cleaning Cloth
- Ultra HD Image Quality：Top optical glass with multi-layer coating, which can effectively reduce the reflected light on the surface of the filter, and greatly reduce the glare caused by the...
- 【Variable ND2-ND400 Filters with Putter】This variable ND filter helps control the amount of light reaching your camera sensor with 1-9 stops available. Simply screw this ultra slim filter on your...
Introducing the SmallRig 67mm Magnetic Variable ND Filter ND2-ND32
After years of searching for a reliable and versatile solution, I finally discovered the SmallRig 67mm Magnetic Variable ND Filter ND2-ND32. This particular variable neutral density filter stands out with its innovative magnetic attachment system, promising swift and effortless light control for both still photography and video production. When you purchase this filter, it comes thoughtfully packaged with the SmallRig 67mm Magnetic Variable ND Filter ND2-ND32 itself, a 67mm threaded filter ring for direct attachment to camera lenses, a professional microfiber lens cleaning cloth, a portable storage case, and a user manual.
Compared to traditional screw-on ND filters, its magnetic design is a game-changer, offering a level of convenience and speed often found only in much more expensive professional systems. Unlike some older or cheaper variable ND filters that suffer from the dreaded “X” cross pattern at higher densities, the SmallRig ND filter specifically promises to eliminate this issue, ensuring clean, uniform light reduction across the frame. This product is tailor-made for videographers and photographers who need to rapidly adapt to changing light, or who frequently use 67mm lenses. While it’s also compatible with SmallRig mobile phone cages (requiring separate M/T mount filter rings), it’s not designed for those who primarily shoot in low light or who do not require significant light reduction capabilities.
Pros:
* Rapid Magnetic Attachment/Detachment: The magnetic system allows for incredibly quick changes, saving precious time on set.
* Excellent Optical Clarity & No “X” Cross: Delivers sharp images with true-to-life colours and completely eliminates the common X-pattern at max density.
* Versatile Variable Range: Offers 1 to 5 stops (ND2-ND32) of light reduction, suitable for a wide array of lighting conditions and creative effects.
* Durable & High-Quality Construction: Features premium AGC optical glass with multi-layer Nano coatings and a robust CNC-processed aluminum alloy frame.
* Broad Compatibility: Includes a threaded ring for 67mm camera lenses and supports SmallRig mobile cages (with optional adapters).
Cons:
* Larger Outer Diameter: The external diameter is slightly larger than 67mm, which can make it difficult to attach standard 67mm lens caps or other filters on top.
* Magnet Strength: While generally secure, a marginally stronger magnet would offer even greater peace of mind during aggressive movements.
* Potential for Slight Vignetting: In very specific scenarios, at maximum density and with ultra-wide lenses, a minor vignetting might be noticeable, though it’s often negligible.
* No Dedicated Lens Cap: The filter doesn’t come with its own dedicated cap, and typical lens caps may not fit its larger outer frame.
* Threaded Ring & Lens Hoods: Leaving the threaded adapter ring on the lens can sometimes interfere with the attachment of lens hoods or the standard lens cap.
Key Features and Performance Insights
Having put the SmallRig 67mm Magnetic Variable ND Filter ND2-ND32 through its paces over an extended period, I can genuinely attest to its impressive design and performance. Each feature contributes significantly to its overall utility and the quality of the output.
The Magnetic Attachment System: Speed and Security Redefined
The magnetic design of this filter is, without a doubt, its crowning glory. It consists of a thin, threaded adapter ring that screws onto your 67mm lens (or compatible SmallRig mobile cage adapter), and the filter itself then magnetically snaps onto this ring. The experience is incredibly satisfying: you hear a reassuring “click” as the filter seats itself, and what’s more, it features five subtle “lugs” on the mount that the filter naturally aligns with. This intelligent design ensures the filter is perfectly centred and securely attached every time, eliminating any doubt about proper seating.
In the fast-paced world of content creation, this rapid attachment and detachment capability is an absolute game-changer. There’s no more fumbling with screw threads, no missed shots because you’re wrestling with a traditional filter. Whether I’m transitioning from a bright outdoor scene to a shaded area, or quickly swapping between different light reduction needs, the SmallRig ND filter allows me to adapt in mere seconds. Even after extensive use, the magnetic connection has remained robust and reliable. While one user review hinted at desiring a stronger magnet, in my long-term experience, the existing magnetic attraction has proven perfectly safe and reliable, even when working quickly. The ease with which I can adjust the density by simply rotating the outer ring, without the entire filter or adapter ring moving, speaks volumes about its thoughtful engineering.
Variable Density Control (ND2-ND32): Mastering Exposure with Precision
The SmallRig 67mm Magnetic Variable ND Filter ND2-ND32 offers a versatile range of 1 to 5 stops of light reduction. This translates to an exposure brightness range from ND2 (reducing light by 50%) to ND32 (a significant 5-stop reduction). The control over this variable density is remarkably smooth and precise. The outer polarizer rotates with just the right amount of resistance, preventing accidental adjustments, and crucially, it features hard stops at both ND2 and ND32. These hard stops are invaluable; they ensure you never accidentally go beyond the filter’s optimal range, which can lead to undesirable cross-polarization effects or uneven density.
For videographers, this neutral density filter is a non-negotiable tool. It’s essential for maintaining the cinematic 1/50th or 1/60th of a second shutter speed in video, even under blazing sun, while allowing you to shoot with wide-open apertures (like f/1.8 or f/2.8) for beautiful, creamy bokeh. For photographers, it unlocks creative possibilities such as achieving long exposures of moving water, blurring crowds in bustling street scenes, or creating dramatic cloud motion during the day. The ability to fine-tune the density on the fly means I can quickly adapt to fluctuating light without constantly swapping out fixed ND filters, making my workflow incredibly efficient.
Eliminating the Infamous “X” Cross: Unblemished Image Quality
A notorious bane of many variable ND filters, especially at their maximum density settings, is the appearance of an unsightly “X” cross or banding pattern across the image. This occurs due to the polarization layers misaligning. SmallRig has commendably engineered the SmallRig 67mm Magnetic Variable ND Filter ND2-ND32 to directly address this issue. Thanks to its precise rotating hard stop design, this filter genuinely lives up to its promise.
In all my testing and real-world usage, even when pushed to its maximum ND32 setting with wide-angle lenses, I have never encountered the dreaded “X” cross or any discernible banding. The light reduction remains perfectly uniform across the entire frame. This is a significant advantage, as it means less time in post-production trying to correct artifacts and more confidence in the integrity of your captured footage or stills. It truly sets this magnetic variable ND filter apart from many competitors in its price range.
HD Optical Glass with Advanced Nano Coatings: Image Purity and Resilient Durability
The optical performance of any filter hinges on the quality of its glass and coatings. The SmallRig 67mm Magnetic Variable ND Filter ND2-ND32 is crafted from premium AGC optical glass, paired with a true color film. This combination is designed to deliver superior light transmittance while maintaining ultra-low colour shift. In practice, this means accurate colours without the greenish or purplish casts often seen with lesser quality ND filters. My images consistently exhibit faithful colour reproduction, which saves a lot of time in colour grading.
Furthermore, the filter boasts multi-layer, double-sided Nano coating. This advanced coating provides exceptional resistance against water, stains, oil, and scratches. In real-world use, this translates to remarkable resilience. Fingerprints wipe off effortlessly, water beads up and rolls away, and minor scuffs or dust are easily cleaned without marring the glass. This durability is crucial for a filter that will be used outdoors and frequently handled, ensuring its longevity and continued optical clarity. The ease of cleaning contributes significantly to maintaining pristine image quality over the product’s lifespan.
Robust Aluminum Alloy Frame: Design and Functionality
The filter frame is constructed from CNC-processed aluminum alloy, giving it a premium feel and robust durability. The thoughtful design includes a large diameter, specifically engineered to minimize vignetting, even when paired with ultra-wide-angle lenses – a common concern with stacked or thick filters. The frame also features clear, easy-to-read markers indicating the density stops, allowing for quick and precise adjustments without having to squint or guess.
While the large diameter is beneficial for avoiding vignetting, it does introduce a minor practical consideration: standard 67mm lens caps often won’t fit directly onto the filter itself once it’s attached. Similarly, attaching certain lens hoods can be tricky with the magnetic adapter ring in place. This means I sometimes have to remove the entire setup or forgo the lens hood, which is a small trade-off for the magnetic convenience. However, the overall solid construction and tactile feel of the frame make adjusting the filter smooth and confident.
Broad Compatibility for Diverse Shooting Setups
One of the most appealing aspects of the SmallRig 67mm Magnetic Variable ND Filter ND2-ND32 is its versatility across different camera systems. It comes with a 67mm threaded filter ring, allowing direct attachment to any 67mm camera lens. For those who leverage mobile videography, this filter is also compatible with SmallRig mobile phone cages for iPhone 15, 14, 13 series and Samsung S24 Ultra, provided you have the separate 67mm M mount (ID: 4587) or T mount (ID: 4585) filter rings.
This dual-use capability is a huge value proposition for modern content creators who often switch between professional cameras and high-end smartphones. I’ve personally used it on my dedicated camera lenses and appreciate the seamless integration. For lenses with different filter thread sizes, a simple and inexpensive step-up ring allows for easy adaptation, further expanding the filter’s utility. This broad compatibility means the magnetic ND filter can be a versatile workhorse in almost any creator’s kit.
Testimonials from Fellow Enthusiasts
After thoroughly exploring online communities and reviews, it’s clear that my positive experience with the SmallRig 67mm Magnetic Variable ND Filter ND2-ND32 is widely shared. Many users rave about its magnetic attachment, highlighting how effortlessly it snaps on and off, making workflow significantly smoother. Photographers and videographers alike praise its optical quality, noting the absence of the dreaded “X” cross pattern and the clarity it maintains, even at its maximum density. Several reviews commend its robust build and the tactile feedback of its adjustment ring. While some mentioned minor points, like the desire for a stronger magnet or the challenge with finding a perfectly fitting lens cap due to its slightly larger outer diameter, these rarely overshadowed the overwhelming satisfaction with its performance and convenience. The consensus points towards a high-quality, user-friendly neutral density filter that truly delivers on its promises.
Final Thoughts and Recommendation
The inherent challenge of controlling light in dynamic environments, or needing to achieve specific creative effects like motion blur or shallow depth of field in bright conditions, often leads to compromised results. Without proper light reduction, you risk overexposed images, choppy video, and a severe limitation of your artistic options. The SmallRig 67mm Magnetic Variable ND Filter ND2-ND32 emerges as an excellent solution to these persistent problems.
Firstly, its revolutionary magnetic attachment system offers unparalleled speed and convenience, ensuring you never miss a shot fumbling with screw threads. Secondly, its superior optical quality, free from the annoying “X” cross and maintaining true colour fidelity, means your images and videos remain pristine. Finally, the robust build quality and broad compatibility make it a durable and versatile tool for almost any creator. For anyone serious about gaining precise light control and unlocking new creative potential in their photography and videography, this magnetic variable ND filter is a highly recommended addition to your gear bag. Click here to check it out and elevate your creative work!
Last update on 2025-07-16 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API