So, you’ve got your drone, you’re flying high, and you’re ready to capture some epic shots. But wait – are your videos looking a bit washed out? Is the sky too bright, or do you have annoying glare reflecting off water? If so, it’s time to talk about ND filters! Finding the best cheap ND filter for drone can seriously up your aerial photography game without emptying your wallet.
ND (Neutral Density) filters are like sunglasses for your drone’s camera. They reduce the amount of light hitting the sensor, allowing you to use slower shutter speeds and wider apertures even in bright conditions. This is crucial for achieving that smooth, cinematic motion blur in your videos and perfectly exposed, vibrant photos. You don’t need to spend a fortune to get great results. We’ve scoured the market to bring you seven fantastic, budget-friendly options that will transform your drone footage.
Let’s dive in and find the best cheap ND filter for drone that fits your needs!
1. NEEWER 6 Pack ND Filter Set Compatible with DJI Mini…
This NEEWER 6-pack is an absolute gem for DJI Mini, Mini 2, Mavic Mini, Mini SE, and Mini 2SE users looking for comprehensive light control. What makes it stand out is its versatility, offering not just a range of ND filters (ND4, ND8, ND16, ND32) but also a CPL (circular polarizer) and a UV filter. It’s like a Swiss Army knife for your drone’s camera, ensuring you’re prepared for almost any lighting scenario, from bright sunny days to cloudy ones, while also protecting your lens. The snap-on design means quick changes, keeping your flight time focused on capturing those perfect aerial shots.
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Key Features:
- Includes ND4, ND8, ND16, ND32, CPL, and UV filters.
- Compatible with DJI Mini 4K Drone for Adults/ Mini 2 / Mavic Mini / Mini SE / Mini 2SE.
- Multi-coated HD optical glass for durability and clarity.
- Waterproof, scratch-resistant, oil & dust proof coatings.
- Ultra-slim, lightweight frame ensures gimbal safety.
- Snap-on design for easy attachment and removal.
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Pros:
- Excellent value for a comprehensive 6-pack.
- Includes CPL for glare reduction and UV for lens protection.
- Maintains gimbal balance due to lightweight design.
- Durable multi-coated glass ensures long-lasting quality.
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Cons:
- ND range might not be sufficient for extremely bright conditions (e.g., snow or desert).
- Specific compatibility, so ensure it matches your drone model.
User Impressions: Many users praise this set for its incredible value and how much it improves their drone photography. They frequently highlight the ease of use with the snap-on design and the noticeable improvement in video quality, especially the cinematic motion blur. The inclusion of a CPL and UV filter is a big bonus for budget-conscious creators.
2. NEEWER ND & CPL Filter Set Compatible with DJI Mini 4 Pro
Tailored specifically for the DJI Mini 4 Pro, this NEEWER set is a must-have for owners of the latest miniature marvel. This kit focuses on providing superior exposure control and color enhancement with ND16, ND64, and ND256 filters, alongside a CPL. The impressive 30 layers of multi-functional coatings on both sides of the HD optical glass mean these filters are not just durable but also incredibly effective at repelling water, oil, and scratches. For Mini 4 Pro users, this set is a strong contender for the best cheap ND filter for drone that’s perfectly optimized for their advanced drone.
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Key Features:
- Dedicated compatibility for DJI Mini 4 Pro.
- Includes ND16, ND64, ND256, and CPL filters.
- 30 layers of multi-coated HD optical glass.
- Water repellent, scratch resistant, and oil proof.
- Ultra-slim, lightweight 0.03oz/1.3g aluminum frame.
- Comes with a compact carrying case and cleaning cloth.
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Pros:
- Precisely engineered for the DJI Mini 4 Pro, ensuring perfect fit.
- High ND values (ND256) for very bright conditions.
- Exceptional durability and optical clarity from 30-layer coating.
- Helps achieve vibrant colors and reduce glare effectively.
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Cons:
- Limited to the DJI Mini 4 Pro model.
- Doesn’t include a UV filter for basic lens protection.
User Impressions: Mini 4 Pro pilots rave about the optical quality and perfect fit of these filters. They often mention the noticeable reduction in glare and the enhanced color vibrancy provided by the CPL, making their aerial videography look far more professional. The lightweight design ensuring no impact on flight is a frequently praised aspect.
3. Freewell Standard Day ND Filter Kit for DJI Flip Drone…
Freewell is a respected name in drone accessories, and their Standard Day ND Filter Kit for the DJI Flip Drone lives up to the reputation. This kit provides versatile light control with ND8, ND16, ND32, ND64, and ND128 filters, plus a PL (polarizer) filter. If you’re into capturing dramatic long-exposure shots, the ND128 filter is a game-changer for silky-smooth water or dynamic cloud trails. The focus here is on premium optical quality ensuring accurate color reproduction and sharp visuals, making it a professional-grade option even at a budget-friendly price point for your DJI Flip Drone.
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Key Features:
- Includes ND8, ND16, ND32, ND64, ND128, and PL filters.
- Designed specifically for the DJI Flip Drone.
- Enables long-exposure photography with ND128.
- High-quality optical glass for accurate color reproduction.
- Lightweight and durable construction.
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Pros:
- Comprehensive ND range for various daytime conditions.
- PL filter enhances contrast and reduces reflections.
- Excellent for creative long-exposure effects.
- Trusted brand known for quality optical components.
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Cons:
- Specific to the DJI Flip Drone, limiting compatibility.
- May be slightly pricier than other “cheap” options, but still great value.
User Impressions: Pilots using this Freewell kit for their DJI Flip Drone consistently highlight the superior optical clarity and the impactful difference the PL filter makes in cutting glare. They appreciate the ability to fine-tune their exposure in a wider range of lighting conditions and the professional results they achieve.
4. Neewer ND Filter Set Compatible with DJI Mini 3/Mini 3 Pro…
For DJI Mini 3 and Mini 3 Pro owners, this Neewer set offers an unbeatable combination of performance and affordability. This 6-pack includes CPL, ND8, ND16, ND32, ND64, and ND128 filters, ensuring you have the right tool for any bright conditions. The secret sauce here is the use of imported high-definition optical glass with 30 layers of Nano coatings, which means minimal glare, accurate colors, and resistance against water, oil, and scratches. Plus, the incredibly lightweight plastic frame (just 0.024oz/0.7g) means absolutely no interference with your drone’s gimbal calibration or flight stability.
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Key Features:
- Compatible with DJI Mini 3/Mini 3 Pro.
- Includes CPL, ND8, ND16, ND32, ND64, ND128 filters.
- Lightweight plastic frame (0.024oz/0.7g).
- 30 layers of Nano coatings (water repellent, oil proof, scratch resistant).
- CNC non-slip design for easy installation/removal.
- Comes with a filter case and cleaning cloth.
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Pros:
- Extremely lightweight, ensuring gimbal safety.
- Broad range of ND filters plus a CPL for versatility.
- High-quality multi-coated glass for optical clarity.
- Excellent value for Mini 3/3 Pro owners.
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Cons:
- Plastic frame might feel less premium than aluminum, though it saves weight.
- No UV filter included in this specific pack.
User Impressions: Users are consistently impressed by the light weight and robust optical performance of this set for their Mini 3 drones. Many mention the significant improvement in their cinematic footage, praising the vivid colors and the effective glare reduction from the CPL. The ease of installation is also a frequently highlighted positive.
5. MINGVEN Avata 2 ND Filters, UV + CPL + ND…
FPV drone pilots using the DJI Avata 2, rejoice! The MINGVEN Avata 2 ND Filters set is designed specifically for your high-speed, immersive flights. This 6-pack provides essential filters: UV, CPL, ND8, ND16, ND32, and ND64, giving you precise exposure adjustments for various lighting conditions. What really sets MINGVEN apart is their use of US-origin environmentally friendly optical AGC glass, promising excellent optical performance and true color reproduction. The snap-fit design ensures they stay firmly attached, even during aggressive FPV maneuvers, making it a superb choice for the best cheap ND filter for drone in the Avata 2 ecosystem.
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Key Features:
- 6-pack: UV, CPL, ND8, ND16, ND32, ND64.
- Specific compatibility for DJI Avata 2.
- US-origin environmentally friendly optical AGC glass.
- Advanced coating technology avoids color deviation.
- Waterproof, oil-proof, dust-proof, and scratch-proof.
- Lightweight snap-fit design ensures gimbal balance.
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Pros:
- Designed for DJI Avata 2, ensuring perfect fit and flight stability.
- High-quality optical glass with true color reproduction.
- Comprehensive set for daily light reduction needs.
- CPL reduces reflections; UV protects the lens.
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Cons:
- Specific to the Avata 2, not compatible with other drones.
- ND64 might not be enough for extreme brightness in certain FPV scenarios.
User Impressions: Avata 2 pilots love how these filters enhance their FPV footage, often commenting on the improved clarity and reduced glare. The durable coatings and firm snap-fit are highly appreciated, especially for the high-impact nature of FPV flying. Users also note the natural color rendition.
6. NEEWER Variable ND Filter Compatible with DJI Mini 3 Pro,…
If you’re a DJI Mini 3 Pro owner who prefers a single, versatile filter solution, the NEEWER Variable ND Filter is an excellent choice. Instead of swapping out individual filters, you simply rotate the frame to adjust the light reduction from ND2 to ND32 (1 to 5 stops). This flexibility is fantastic for dynamic lighting conditions, allowing you to seamlessly transition between bright skies and shadier areas while maintaining consistent exposure and achieving that coveted cinematic motion blur. Crafted with multicoated HD optical glass and a slim aluminum alloy frame, it’s both robust and lightweight, making it a prime candidate for the best cheap ND filter for drone that offers ultimate convenience.
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Key Features:
- Variable ND2-32 filter (1 to 5 stops).
- Compatible with DJI Mini 3 Pro Drone and Fly More Combo.
- Simply rotate frame for precise adjustment.
- Multicoated HD optical glass (water, oil, dust, scratch resistant).
- Slim aluminum alloy frame (0.04oz/1.2g).
- Secure snap-on installation with hook.
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Pros:
- Incredibly versatile with adjustable light reduction.
- Eliminates the need to carry and swap multiple filters.
- Excellent for dynamic lighting and cinematic motion blur.
- High optical quality in a durable, lightweight build.
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Cons:
- Variable NDs can sometimes introduce a slight “X” pattern at extreme ends (though less common in quality ones like this).
- Doesn’t offer the higher ND values needed for extremely bright scenarios like snow.
User Impressions: Mini 3 Pro users frequently laud the convenience and flexibility of this variable ND filter. They love not having to land their drone to change filters and appreciate how easily they can achieve smooth, cinematic video. The optical clarity and sturdy build are also commonly praised.
7. SpeedyBee ND32 Filter Drone Lens Accessory Compatible with…
Sometimes, simplicity is key. The SpeedyBee ND32 Filter is a straightforward, no-nonsense solution for drone pilots who need reliable light reduction for moderately bright conditions. An ND32 filter reduces light by 5 stops, making it perfect for sunny-but-not-blinding days, allowing for ideal shutter speeds to capture smooth video and well-exposed photos. While the details provided are concise, SpeedyBee is known in the drone community for producing durable and functional accessories. This single filter option is likely built with quality optical glass to ensure clarity and will be lightweight enough to avoid gimbal issues, making it a focused, effective choice for specific light control needs.
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Key Features:
- Single ND32 filter for 5 stops of light reduction.
- Designed as a drone lens accessory for compatible models (check compatibility).
- Ideal for moderately bright outdoor conditions.
- (Assumed) Lightweight design for gimbal safety.
- (Assumed) Quality optical glass for clear images.
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Pros:
- Simple and effective for specific light reduction needs.
- Likely very lightweight, preventing gimbal overload.
- Good for achieving cinematic motion blur in average sunny conditions.
- Potentially a very affordable single-filter solution.
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Cons:
- Only one filter, so less versatile than a kit.
- Doesn’t offer solutions for very dim or extremely bright conditions.
- Requires knowing your drone’s specific compatibility (if not clearly stated).
User Impressions: Users who opt for a single, dedicated ND32 filter like this SpeedyBee often appreciate its straightforward function and reliability. They find it excellent for those common bright, sunny days when a moderate reduction in light is all that’s needed to achieve cinematic footage without fuss.
FAQs: Your Questions About Drone ND Filters Answered
Getting started with ND filters can spark a lot of questions. Here are some common ones to help you master your drone photography!
Q1: Why do I need ND filters for my drone?
A1: ND filters are crucial for drone photography and videography because they reduce the amount of light entering your camera sensor. This allows you to control your shutter speed, which is key for achieving a smooth, cinematic motion blur in videos (often aiming for a 180-degree rule, where your shutter speed is double your frame rate, e.g., 1/60th for 30fps). They also prevent overexposure in bright conditions, resulting in more vibrant colors and better dynamic range in your photos and videos.
Q2: What do the ND numbers (ND4, ND8, ND16, etc.) mean?
A2: The number after “ND” indicates how much light the filter reduces.
* ND4: Reduces light by 2 stops (cuts light by 75%). Good for overcast or lightly cloudy days.
* ND8: Reduces light by 3 stops (cuts light by 87.5%). Ideal for partly cloudy to moderately bright days.
* ND16: Reduces light by 4 stops (cuts light by 93.75%). Best for bright, sunny days.
* ND32: Reduces light by 5 stops (cuts light by 96.875%). Suitable for very bright conditions.
* ND64, ND128, ND256: Offer even greater light reduction for extremely bright environments like snow, beaches, or desert landscapes.
Q3: What’s the difference between an ND filter and a CPL (Circular Polarizer) filter?
A3: An ND filter reduces all light evenly, acting like sunglasses for your camera, allowing for slower shutter speeds. A CPL filter reduces glare and reflections from non-metallic surfaces like water, glass, or wet foliage. It also enhances color saturation and contrast, making skies bluer and greens greener. Some filters combine ND and CPL effects for convenience.
Q4: How do I choose the right ND filter for my drone?
A4:
1. Check Drone Compatibility: Ensure the filters are specifically designed for your drone model (e.g., DJI Mini 3 Pro, Avata 2).
2. Consider Light Conditions: If you mostly fly on sunny days, an ND16 or ND32 will be essential. For brighter conditions, consider ND64 or higher. For varied conditions, a multi-pack or a variable ND filter is best.
3. Video vs. Photo: For cinematic video, you’ll need NDs to achieve the 180-degree rule. For long-exposure photos, you’ll need higher ND values.
4. Additional Features: Do you need a CPL for glare reduction or a UV filter for lens protection?
Q5: Do cheap ND filters compromise image quality?
A5: While ultra-cheap, generic filters can sometimes cause color shifts, vignetting (darkening at the edges), or loss of sharpness, many budget-friendly options from reputable brands (like the ones reviewed here) use multi-coated HD optical glass that offers excellent image quality without breaking the bank. Always look for multi-coated glass to ensure clarity and durability.
Q6: Are variable ND filters a good choice for drones?
A6: Variable ND filters offer incredible convenience, allowing you to adjust light reduction on the fly without changing filters. This is great for dynamic lighting conditions. However, some can introduce a subtle “X” pattern at their darkest settings, though quality ones minimize this. They’re excellent for pilots who prioritize speed and convenience over having individual, perfectly calibrated filters for every specific stop.
Q7: How do ND filters impact flight performance and gimbal?
A7: Good quality drone ND filters are designed to be extremely lightweight to avoid impacting your drone’s flight stability or putting stress on its delicate gimbal. Always check the weight specifications and user reviews to ensure the filters won’t interfere with your drone’s balance or calibration.
Elevate Your Drone Footage on a Budget
Choosing the best cheap ND filter for drone is one of the smartest investments you can make to seriously upgrade your aerial videography and photography. With the options we’ve explored, you don’t have to sacrifice quality for affordability. Whether you need a comprehensive kit, a specialized filter for your specific drone model, or the convenience of a variable ND, there’s a budget-friendly solution waiting for you.
So go ahead, pick your perfect filter, get out there, and start capturing those breathtaking, cinematic drone shots you’ve always dreamed of!
