Hi there, I'm a long time lurker of DPReview forums and today I decided to join this new adventure :).
I've just bought an X-T5 with a 16-80/4 lens.
In the next few weeks I'm going to use it near the sea, so I want to protect it
I saw the Fujifilm Super EBC Fujinon Protector 72mm (PRF-72) but I'm wondering if something cheaper, but with the same quality, exists.
I'm new to the Fuji world and I'm worried about the impact of a wrong filter on the IQ.
Any suggestions?
I have always used the B+W Nano-coated UV/Haze filters:
schneiderkreuznach.com/en/photo-optics/b-w-filters/filtertypes/protection/uv-clear
But since you will be near water, consider also getting a polarizing filer.
I’m primarily in the B + W camp too. However my guy at the LCS suggested I try a Breakthrough when I picked up the 70-300. I was perfectly satisfied with it…however, my camera sling slid off a bed and fell to the floor. The Breakthrough filter shattered. I make no claim that another filter would not have done the same and this is an observation, not criticism.
Moving forward, I’ll probably continue to use B + W for primes. For zoom lenses I’ll base my decision on the price and availability of the two brands. I didn’t see any difference in my photos so this is based more on habit and feelz than logic.
I also use $2 Ali Express filters. They get misted with spray paint or smeared with Vaseline.
I'm a huge fan of Urth filters. Prices are very reasonable and the quility seems just as high as B+W. I do have a Breakthrough for my 150-600 and fined it excellent, just the prices for them are very steep.
Just avoid the very cheapest and go for a filter which is multi-coated and easy to wipe clean, there will be no impact on IQ with any half decent UV filter, there are plenty of decent options out there, there's no need to spend too much on one.
Only the best filters, or none. I started out with B+W protective filters, until I discovered that Fujifilm have their own.