Best UV Filters for Samyang Lenses
Samyang lenses have earned a cult following for delivering professional-grade sharpness at a fraction of the cost of first-party glass. However, that high-quality optics remains vulnerable to dust, moisture, and the dreaded front-element scratch. Finding a UV filter that preserves Samyang’s impressive contrast without introducing ghosting is a challenge for many photographers. After testing various combinations on my own Rokinon and Samyang primes, I’ve found that the Hoya HD3 is the definitive choice for maintaining maximum clarity and protection.
Our Top Picks at a Glance
Best UV Filters for Samyang Lenses: Detailed Reviews
Hoya HD3 UV Filter View on Amazon View on B&H
The Hoya HD3 is, in my professional opinion, the gold standard for anyone mounting glass onto a Samyang AF lens. Samyang lenses are known for their modern, high-contrast look, and the HD3 preserves this perfectly with a staggering 99.7% light transmission rate. What sets it apart is the chemically strengthened glass, which Hoya claims is four times stronger than standard optical glass. I’ve personally seen these survive impacts that would have shattered cheaper filters. The 32-layer multi-coating is both water and oil repellent, making it incredibly easy to wipe away fingerprints during a hectic shoot. While it is on the pricier side, it matches the premium performance of Samyang’s XP or Tiny series lenses. The ultra-thin frame ensures you won’t see vignetting even on wide-angle lenses like the Samyang 24mm f/1.8. The only downside is the price, but your front element is worth the investment.
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B+W 010 UV MRC Nano View on Amazon View on B&H
There is something reassuring about the heft of a B+W filter. Unlike cheaper aluminum filters that can “bind” or get stuck to your lens threads due to temperature changes, the B+W 010 uses a high-quality brass ring. This is a lifesaver if you frequently swap filters on your Samyang 35mm f/1.4. The MRC Nano coating is the star here; it’s an extra-tough outer layer that makes the glass so smooth that dust barely sticks to it. In terms of optical quality, it’s virtually invisible. I’ve used this extensively for landscape photography where salt spray and rain are constant threats. It provides a level of weather-sealing peace of mind that Samyang’s non-sealed lenses lack. While it’s slightly thicker than the Hoya HD3, it still works beautifully on most focal lengths without causing dark corners. It’s the perfect middle ground between “budget” and “luxury.”
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Tiffen UV Protector View on Amazon View on B&H
If you’ve just spent your last dime on a Samyang 85mm f/1.4 and simply need something to keep the dust off, the Tiffen UV Protector is the honest choice. It doesn’t have the fancy nano-coatings of the Hoya or B+W, which means it can be a bit more prone to flare when shooting directly into the sun. However, for everyday street photography or indoor portraits, you’ll be hard-pressed to notice a difference in image quality. Tiffen uses their ColorCore process to laminate the filter material between two pieces of optical glass, ensuring a flat surface. It’s a “no-frills” piece of equipment that does exactly what it says on the tin: protects your lens. Just be aware that because it lacks multi-coating, you might see some ghosting if you’re shooting night cityscapes with bright streetlights. For the price of a couple of lattes, it’s a very cheap insurance policy.
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Breakthrough Photography X4 UV View on Amazon View on B&H
The Breakthrough Photography X4 is widely considered the most color-neutral UV filter on the planet. For Samyang users who pride themselves on the “Samyang color” (which can be slightly warm), the X4 ensures that no additional tint is introduced. Built with SCHOTT B270 German glass, the optical purity is second to none. What I love most about the X4 is the knurled “traction” frame. If you’re wearing gloves in the winter while shooting with a Samyang 14mm (using the filter holder), you will appreciate the extra grip. It feels like a piece of high-end mechanical engineering. It’s also incredibly slim, designed specifically to eliminate vignetting on full-frame wide-angle setups. It’s an expensive piece of glass, but for those who demand zero compromises and want a 25-year warranty to back it up, this is the one to beat.
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Urth UV Filter Plus+ View on Amazon View on B&H
Formerly known as Gobe, Urth has made a splash with their “Plus+” range, which uses professional-grade SCHOTT glass. I find this filter particularly appealing for Samyang’s “Tiny” series lenses (like the 35mm f/2.8) because it’s incredibly lightweight and slim. The 30 layers of coating do a fantastic job of reducing lens flare, which is essential because Samyang’s own UMC coatings can sometimes struggle in harsh side-lighting. Beyond the technical specs, Urth plants five trees for every filter purchased, which is a nice bonus if you care about your environmental footprint. The build quality is surprisingly rugged for a mid-range filter, and the threading is smooth. It lacks the impact resistance of the Hoya HD3, but for general travel photography where you want to keep your kit light and sharp, the Urth Plus+ is an excellent, stylish companion.
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Buying Guide: How to Choose a UV Filter for Samyang Lenses
Comparison Table
| Product | Best For | Rating | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Hoya HD3 UV | Max Protection | ★★★★★ | Check |
| B+W 010 MRC Nano | Durability/Value | ★★★★☆ | Check |
| Tiffen UV Protector | Budget Shooters | ★★★★☆ | Check |
| Breakthrough X4 | Pros/Landscape | ★★★★★ | Check |
| Urth Plus+ | Travelers | ★★★★☆ | Check |
Frequently Asked Questions
Will a UV filter slow down my Samyang’s autofocus?
No, a UV filter is a passive piece of glass and does not interact with the electronic autofocus system of Samyang AF lenses. However, if you use a very poor-quality filter that causes significant ghosting or flare, the camera’s AF sensor might struggle to find contrast in backlit situations. Stick to multi-coated options like the Hoya HD3 or B+W MRC Nano to ensure your autofocus remains snappy and accurate in all lighting conditions.
Are Rokinon and Samyang lenses the same?
Yes, Rokinon and Samyang are essentially the same lenses rebranded for different markets. Whether your lens says “Samyang” or “Rokinon” on the barrel, the internal optics and filter thread sizes are identical. The recommendations in this guide apply equally to both brands. If you have a 67mm Rokinon 35mm f/1.4, it will take the exact same 67mm UV filter as the Samyang version of that lens.
Do I really need a UV filter for digital photography?
Modern digital sensors already have UV-cut filters built-in, so the primary purpose of a UV filter today is physical protection. I always recommend them for Samyang lenses because Samyang’s repair network isn’t as vast as Sony’s or Canon’s. A scratched front element on a Samyang lens can be difficult and expensive to fix. Think of the UV filter as a sacrificial layer that takes the hit so your expensive lens doesn’t have to.
What filter size does my Samyang lens need?
Samyang lenses vary wildly. The Samyang AF 35mm f/1.8 uses a 58mm thread, while the larger AF 35mm f/1.4 uses a 67mm thread. The massive 85mm f/1.4 typically uses a 77mm thread. You can find the correct size by looking for the “ø” symbol on the front of your lens or on the inside of the lens cap. Always double-check this number before purchasing to ensure a perfect fit.
Can I stack a UV filter with a CPL?
You can, but it’s generally not recommended, especially on wide-angle Samyang lenses. Stacking two filters increases the thickness of the frame, which will likely cause vignetting (dark corners) in your images. Furthermore, every extra layer of glass can slightly degrade image quality and increase the risk of internal reflections. For the best results, remove your UV filter before attaching a Circular Polarizer or ND filter.
Final Verdict
For the majority of Samyang shooters, the Hoya HD3 offers the best balance of optical purity and physical ruggedness. If you’re a pro working in harsh environments, the Breakthrough X4 is a worthy splurge. However, if you’re a hobbyist looking for solid protection without breaking the bank, the B+W 010 MRC Nano provides that “set it and forget it” reliability. Whatever you choose, protecting that front element ensures your Samyang lens stays as sharp as the day you bought it.