Best UV Filter for Samyang Lenses
Samyang lenses, often branded as Rokinon, have become the go-to choice for photographers seeking elite sharpness without the “first-party” tax. However, their high-quality front elements are just as susceptible to scratches and sea spray as any other glass. I’ve found that many Samyang owners hesitate to spend a fortune on protection, yet a cheap filter can ruin that signature Samyang contrast. After testing several options on the AF 35mm and 85mm series, the Hoya NXT Plus stands out as the perfect companion.
Our Top Picks at a Glance
Best UV Filter for Samyang Lenses: Detailed Reviews
Hoya NXT Plus UV View on Amazon View on B&H
The Hoya NXT Plus UV is arguably the most balanced filter on the market today, especially for Samyang’s AF prime lineup. What I love about this filter is the waterproof top coat; if you’ve ever tried to wipe a smudge off a cheap filter only to see it smear, you’ll appreciate how easily this one cleans. It features a low-profile aluminum frame that prevents vignetting on wider Samyang glass like the 24mm f/1.8. With a 98% light transmission rate, it preserves the micro-contrast Samyang is famous for. The 10 layers of HMC coating do a fantastic job of suppressing ghosting when shooting into the sun. While it’s not the cheapest option, it offers professional-grade Schott glass at a mid-range price. The only minor drawback is the aluminum frame can occasionally bind if over-tightened, so a light touch is recommended during installation.
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B+W T-Pro 010 UV View on Amazon View on B&H
If you own a premium Samyang lens like the 85mm f/1.4 MK2, you need a filter that matches its build quality. The B+W T-Pro 010 replaces the legendary XS-Pro line and brings a thinner, more robust titanium-colored brass frame. Brass is superior to aluminum because it’s less likely to jam on your lens threads—a lifesaver in changing temperatures. In my testing, the Multi-Resistant Coating (MRC Nano) is incredibly effective at repelling dust and lint. It’s a “set it and forget it” piece of gear. The value proposition here is incredible: you’re getting elite German engineering for a price that has dropped significantly since its launch. It’s exceptionally thin, making it ideal for Samyang’s ultra-wide zooms where thick filters cause dark corners. It’s slightly more expensive than the Hoya, but the brass construction makes it a more durable long-term investment for your kit.
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Kenko Realpro UV View on Amazon View on B&H
Kenko is the sister brand to Hoya, and the Realpro UV is their “secret weapon” for budget-conscious photographers. For those who just bought a Samyang “Tiny” series lens and don’t want to spend 25% of the lens’s value on a filter, this is the one. It features a unique “Black Almite” frame—a matte finish that prevents internal reflections which can be a problem with Samyang’s older manual focus glass. The glass quality is surprisingly good, showing no noticeable loss in sharpness even on high-resolution sensors like the Sony A7R IV. The Anti-Stain Coating is a nice touch, though I find it requires a bit more elbow grease to clean than the Hoya NXT. It lacks the ultra-slim profile of the B+W, so I wouldn’t recommend it for Samyang’s 14mm AF, but for anything 35mm and up, it’s a fantastic, reliable barrier against the elements.
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Breakthrough Photography X4 UV View on Amazon View on B&H
The Breakthrough Photography X4 is widely considered the world’s sharpest UV filter, and for good reason. If you are using Samyang’s XP (Expert Premium) series, you need glass that can resolve 50+ megapixels. The X4 uses ultra-clear Schott B270 glass and is so neutral it’s essentially invisible to your sensor. The most striking feature is the rugged, traction-heavy frame; you can easily unscrew it even while wearing thick gloves in the field. It’s also incredibly color-neutral, avoiding the slight warm cast that some Hoya filters occasionally exhibit. While the price is high—often double that of the Hoya—the 25-year warranty makes it a lifetime purchase. I’ve dropped one of these on granite and the filter took the hit, leaving the lens unscathed. If you demand the absolute best and shoot in harsh environments, the X4 is the gold standard.
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Sigma WR UV Filter View on Amazon View on B&H
The Sigma WR (Water-Repellent) UV filter is a fantastic alternative, especially for Samyang’s newer weather-sealed AF lenses. It features an antistatic coating that literally repels dust, which I’ve found incredibly useful when shooting in dry, windy environments. The “WR” coating also means water beads off instantly—essential for waterfall photography or misty mornings. It’s a very slim filter, though the glass is slightly thicker than the B+W, providing a bit more physical impact protection. The optical quality is flawless, with no discernible impact on autofocus speed or accuracy. I’ve found that it pairs beautifully with the Samyang AF 24-70mm f/2.8 zoom, providing a complete weather-sealed solution. It’s a bit of a dark horse in the filter world, but Sigma’s glass quality is second to none. It’s a robust, “workhorse” filter for photographers who don’t baby their gear.
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Buying Guide: How to Choose a UV Filter for Samyang Lenses
Comparison Table
| Product | Best For | Rating | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Hoya NXT Plus | All-Rounder | ★★★★★ | Check |
| B+W T-Pro 010 | Durability | ★★★★☆ | Check |
| Kenko Realpro | Value | ★★★★☆ | Check |
| Breakthrough X4 | Optical Perfection | ★★★★★ | Check |
| Sigma WR UV | Harsh Weather | ★★★★☆ | Check |
Frequently Asked Questions
Do Samyang lenses really need a UV filter?
Technically, modern digital sensors have UV filtration built-in, so you don’t need a filter for “UV light.” However, Samyang lenses are often used for travel and street photography where dust, fingerprints, and accidental bumps are common. A $50 filter is a much better sacrificial layer than a $500 lens repair. It’s insurance for your glass that doesn’t impact image quality if you buy a reputable brand.
Will a UV filter cause vignetting on my Samyang 14mm?
The Samyang 14mm f/2.8 AF has a built-in petal hood and does not take standard screw-in filters. However, for lenses like the 18mm AF or 24mm AF, you must use a “Slim” or “Thin” frame filter. Standard-thickness filters will likely create dark corners on these ultra-wide lenses. All the picks in this guide are slim-profile to ensure compatibility with wide-angle Samyang glass.
Are Rokinon and Samyang lenses the same?
Yes, they are identical. Rokinon is simply a brand name used for Samyang lenses in the North American market. If you see a filter recommendation for a Samyang 35mm f/1.4, it will fit the Rokinon 35mm f/1.4 perfectly, provided the thread size (e.g., 67mm) matches. Both brands share the same optical designs and front element dimensions, so you can shop with confidence.
Can I leave the UV filter on at all times?
In 99% of scenarios, yes. Modern high-quality filters from brands like Hoya or B+W are designed to be “invisible.” The only time I recommend removing them is when you are shooting directly into a strong light source (like a sunset or studio lights) to minimize the risk of internal reflections, which can occasionally occur even with the best multi-coatings.
How do I find the correct thread size for my Samyang lens?
Look for the “ø” symbol followed by a number on the front of your lens or the inside of the lens cap. For example, “ø67” means you need a 67mm filter. Many Samyang “Tiny” series lenses use 49mm or 58mm, while their larger f/1.4 primes typically use 67mm, 77mm, or even 82mm. Double-checking this is vital before making your purchase.
Final Verdict
For most Samyang shooters, the Hoya NXT Plus is the clear winner, providing elite optical performance without overcharging. If you frequently shoot in harsh coastal environments or want a filter that will last a decade, the B+W T-Pro’s brass frame is worth the slight premium. For those just starting out with the Samyang AF 35mm f/1.8 or similar compact primes, the Kenko Realpro offers excellent peace of mind without breaking the bank.