I prefer the freewell , with the polarpro the looks of vegetation and trees are very dark because is too contrasty, with the freewell you get a very pleasant and illuminate green color, besides that if you want more detail in the shadows and better dynamic range to work in postproduction the freewell is the choice and if you want a dramatic shoot, choose the polarpro , but is easy to add contrast to the freewell image in post-production than to reduce contrast and try to recover detail from the shadows in the polarpro image.
Not going to lie, I really like the Freewell 6-9 the best. lol Granted I do mostly music videos and creative-style work. I have a Simmod Variable ND and a DIY mist filter if I need cleaner shots, but I'm really happy I decided to go with the Freewell 6-9!
You made my decision easy before you made my decision easy this time Freewell all the way. Just checked with Freewell below 77mm (which is what I use) it comes in their transparent magnetic case so that issue of seeing what's inside is solved & I like their look.
I’m a landscape waterfall guy... my solution is to not use a vnd. Just give me an nd8 and a cp and I’m a happy 850 user! But, I’ve only been doing this for 40 years so I’m sure I’m doing it wrongly! ;)
Yeah, for anything other than quick “run-n-gun” shooting I prefer solid nd’s too. VND’s are my go to for convenience and probably more so for video work than photo work. I think your way is 100% the right way!
Beware of the Freewell ND - I bought a set in the 82mm size, and they were wonderful. I bought them because of the neat stops (Haptic Feedback) when you get to the various ND settings as well as the hard stop at the end. The "haptic feedback" along with the excellent color and build quality were what made me decide to buy a second set in 67mm. BEWARE. You will NOT get the "haptic feedback" in the 67mm size which was one of the selling points of these ND filters. I reached out to Freewell's customer service as to why, and here is what they said - "Thanks for your message. They are exactly as it says on the box HARD STOP. Hard stop means that it should not go beyond 5 & 9 stops thats precisely what it does. What you are referring to is HAPTIC FEEDBACK which we have recently added in some of the products to see the feedback; it has not been applied to all the sizes & all the filters, nor are we claiming on the product." So a major selling point for these filters turns out to be a GAMBLE as to which ones have the "haptic feedback" or not. One star for misleading/omission of a critical feature of these ND filters.
In conclusion if you want the best image use a separate diffusion filter and separate vnd since it give you more control over your haze effect and Exposure levels
This was a great comparison. I'm typically not much of a mist filter fan, but for my eyes that Polar Pro clearly stood out, which makes my wallet very, very sad.
I think it's even fair to mention that the polar pros hold their value very well. When everyone was selling the v1's when the signature series II came out they were still selling for over $150 US
am I crazy or does it look like the PP literally has almost no diffusion happening when compared to the freewell. glad I didnt drop 800 bucks to get that effect.
You're right it is complicated. On one hand the functionality is better on PP. But on the other hand you're paying double for minimal mist effect. In the backlit shots it's hard to tell you even had a $250 filter on the camera. So in that situation the filter is not worth the money. FW looks a little over misted. The review would have been a ton better if you put in the time showing comparisons of these filters in more than just 3 setups especially for a comparison that is so "complicated" I'm thumbs upping just the same but just saying would have been nice to get more examples.
Surely you don't want the mist and nd combined because depending on the job you lose mist when you don't need nd or get stuck with mist if you just need exposure change. Surely staking filters is a must?
I'm one of those weird people who actually prefers to keep diffusion and ND on separate filters, mostly because I don't always want diffusion in my shot. Currently I have the Tiffen variable ND and the 1/4 Black Pro Mist. That being said, if I ever change my mind about that, I'll be going with the Polar Pro I think.
I don’t think that’s strange actually. I have both systems. There’s pros and cons of course, more stacked pieces of glass can also cause issues but allows for more control. The VND version has convenience but more classic VND issues lol.
Had a really bad time with Freewell. 2-5 operated in reverse, so 2 was the darkest and 5 was the brightest. Didn’t notice until past the return window, and Freewell support said they’ve “never heard of this before” and to mail it to their factory in China for further review. Fun times.
@@dunnadidit I really liked the price of the VND from freewell plus their performance was so close to polarpro. It was a nobrainer. But the case and putting on the filter on a lens makes up for the price. I’d rather have a clean filter that’s easier to put on and put away.
oh man, I watched this video hoping you were going to tell me that the Freewell filter would be the way to go only to realize that you and I both knew the whole time the PolarPro was the way to go!
Great review! Your insight played a pivotal part in deciding what my very first variable nd filter would be - Peter McKinnon Polar Pro it is. Great channel 👍
If people already own VND filters but would like to add a Mist diffusion, then i highly recommend the 'Kolari R Magnetic Clip-In Filters'. They offer 1/8 and 1/4 and you can use them alongside any lens filters saving you a bundle of cash.
Been a Freewell fan for a while, especially their VNDs for the price/performance ratio, and just recently started using their (non-VND) Glow-mist filters, so this is an important comparison. I used their 1/8 mist filter recently on my first film project and was satisfied but admittedly have nothing to really compare it to other than "without". I can see this being a tougher decision if I end up using mist filters more. But the magnetic lens cap is a LOVE/HATE relationship for me - for the VNDs its less of an issue (more metal, beefier), but with the single NDs or CPL and now especially the super thin Glow-mists, you CANNOT get the lens cap off without pulling the filter off, too - and then the struggle of separating the two of them begins (I don't have long fingernails!). It's about my only complaint...but the words I utter each time...
This is so beneficial. Gonna buy the freewell thru your affiliate link. You’ve earned it bro. There is so much value in this video!!! Can you do more gear comparison videos?
Personally I prefer the Polar Pros. So those are the filters i'm saving up for. Thank you for the in depth comparison. I was almost leaning towards the Freewells until I saw an actual comparison. The shots by the window solidified my choice. I'm shooting with an iPhone 13 Pro Max until I get a Bmpcc 6k Pro.The effect of the Polar Pros is exactly what I want.
Great Video, I guess it comes down to personal taste, I've just ordered the Polarpro Edition II with 2-5 / 6-9 82mm, with 3 additional Step Plates for 62mm, 67mm, and 77mm, that combination cover most of my Nikon Z lenses, just need to find a good 112mm filter next. Wasn't really sure if I needed the Mist Filters, but figured, since I'll be doing my first wedding shoot next year, it's better to have it available if needed. Thanks again, this was a very informative video.
@@dunnadidit Thanks. A budget filters guide would be great as not everyone have that kinda money for filters or even lenses worth these pricey filters. 🙏🏻❤️
Magnets, coffee and hazy BOKEH!!! All epic things, Dunna! Smashed it again! Like you, I think I would save my coin for the PolarPro Peter McKinnon Edition ii Variable ND Mist Filter. Awesome, AWESOME review...watched it twice! 😁👍🏾
By and large, I’m not a fan of the diffusion effect to begin with so these aren’t aimed at me but to my eyes... I liked the more controlled look of the PP (giggity) in the studio test shots, but strangely enough I liked the FW better for the desk shots. Made it look like flaring from the sun just out of frame which I love when used right. If any of that made sense lol
Haha I totally get that you’re saying! It’s definitely not for all the time and sometimes you might want a lot of it, but other times you might just want a little.
Very good detailed review as always......wow I don't like that the mist doesn't match. Very odd. Not sure which one I would choose.....I am cheap, but rather spend more money to get what I would want. Thats a hard one. I would lean more Polar Pro on this one. Good video, makes someone think long and hard on this one.
Perfect test and review! Thanks for letting us know that the Freewell 2-5 and 6-9 don't have the same strength. That is a huge oversight on Freewell's part and really makes the set unusable.
Lol, I originally had a joke about this written into my script but I'm glad someone picked up on it haha. And yeah I kind of thought there would be too but they're already pretty aggressively priced I suppose. Where as the polarpro you get $50 off but you'd have to sell a limb otherwise ;)
@@dunnadidit I dont tear apart vids just thought it was funny. The old joke, You can buy X for 10 for $10 and save money or buy at a $1.00 each. Def gonna try the brand. Thanks for the review!
I'm so glad I stuck with the Freewell original vnd because I can just attach any strength of promist at the back of it. Making it more consistent, and without those stop notches.
yeah but don't you get vignetting when you stack 2 filters on top of each other? [the VND is as thick as 2 filters on it's own, so it's like 3 filters together]
An extra $230 for a set may seem like a lot more, but the key term for me here is functionality. As someone who makes videos on a regular basis I think the extra $230 will be worth it in terms of time saved over the years. I can't stress the importance of functionality enough.
Yeah thats where I'm at with it too. I like vnd's for the functionality and the convenience... so if they're less functional or convenient... then they don't serve their purpose.
PolarPro brings up the black really well, but its weak on halation. Just to put this issue to rest: Some hairspray to the sensor should alleviate all the hairy filter stacking issues.
Dunna, Great comparison. Completely agree with you. To many inconsistency and swing issues with the Freewell. In my world, less post work the better. Save up and get the better product, many times it comes down to (said at the risk of offending others) garbage in - garbage out. The one or two times you may be trying to capture the Freewell look as an artistic perspective, simply is not worth the trade off of the many positives the PolarPro filters offer. As you said, Freewell offers some very good uses to be considered. Ultimately we are all our own creators, what works for one may not be good for the other. Again, great review which gives the viewer a concrete and fair perspective. Thank you. PS I prefer solid ND filters.
Thanks for this awesome comparison Dunna! One suggestion I would make is taking a silver sharpie and labeling the freewell cases so you don't have to check every time you need one.
I've heard of an issue with windshields when it comes to the polarpro. From what I saw it turns certain types of glass yellow, supposedly the same issue with the polar pro basecamp
Windshields? Oooooooohhhh I see what you mean, like shooting through a windshield? There will be a certain amount of polarization happening with any polarized glass like that since VND’s use polarizers to work. Shooting screens of your electronic devices may also be an issue.
VariND is not the best option. depending on the angle of rotation of the filter, the temperature changes. at wide angles (as with polarizing filters), the sky is colored unevenly. permanent ID is better. + no problem with the cross. not at all. Thank you for the video. once again convinced that I was right when I chose constant ND
Yeah, there are definitely inherent issues with variable ND filters for sure. The advantage is convenience and speed for the most part. And carrying size I guess too. But quality will be better for the most part with solid nd’s.
I have the 82mm Polar pro regular 2-5 VND. I use that on my sigma 24-70 lens (however I’m contemplating on getting the mist as well now). But I’m really looking for a decent ND filter for my iPhone 13 pro max and future 67mm lenses I get but I’m sorry I’m not about to pay $249 for 1 filter for my phone 📱. Looks like Freewell it is!
This is not about the filter but as I saw your progress with your channel, I see that you have some music and other things on your earlier videos. What made you decide to go into the camera (Photography and Videography) content-wise? (I currently have this problem) not sure if I should just do all the topics I want in my channel like music, film, tech, or just stick to one genre?
Thank you so much! Honestly, I was looking for something other than my full time job to get into (I’m a music producer/recording engineer full time). I picked up a camera and the rest is history haha.
I own the Freewell 2-5 mist and now this video has me rethinking my decision and possibly switching to the polar pro. I did notice that the freewell has a strong mist effect but it's also kind of nice and I may just get 1 of each depending on the vision for the shot.
Thanks, your links to the Peter filter on amazon don't work. And the Freewell is only slightly cheaper which makes the Peter one a more secure buy I would imagine.. I prefer adding pro mist filter when it is necessary and not permanently on my VND filter.. But what ever suits your needs..
Hey! I just checked the link and it’s working okay on my end... though amazon Canada doesn’t seem to have any of the mist ones and b&h might be in the same spot right now. What are you seeing on your end! I agree with you for sure about wanting to have that control. I think that’s why I prefer the PP version... it’s a lot more subtle so I don’t mind using it a bit more freely.
Hi Dunna Great review, and you really put the breaks on my decision to purchase the Freewell Mist VNd filters. Regarding the differences in diffusion with the Freewell products, could that be to do with those being pre release versions? Also, did you reach out to Freewell to make this issue known to them? Thank you.
Hey! I don’t believe these are pre release versions as far as I’m aware. And when I released the video, I got an email from freewell saying thanks for the suggestions and that they would take the comments into consideration for the future. I’m not sure whether that means future iterations of this filter or for other filters.
@@ManleyReviews using two filters can cause odd reflections and lens flare between the two pieces of glass. It can also cause more vignetting since you are stacking filters.
@twalker294 nailed it. Stacking filters can cause some unwanted effects. That said... so do VND's in general so its all about tradeoffs and convenience.
great review , I got a polarpro 95mm Cpl for my rf 28-70mm f/2 it won't thread on correctly it literally pops off ever had thus issue with the 95mm thread
yeah but don't you get vignetting when you stack 2 filters on top of each other? [the VND is as thick as 2 filters on it's own, so it's like 3 filters togther]
I'm an amateur shooter on a budget. Personally though it might effect my shot (hence why I rarely use ND filters at all), I can't see justifying any ND or VND filter that cost more than like $70-80, much less $250. Heck I bought a lens for less than that!!
Yeah I totally hear you. When I was earlier in this game it seemed ridiculous. But now it seems like a no brainer to invest in that. But everyone has different needs and you just have to weigh the pros and cons. I was also buying cheaper lenses then... now I’m buying $2500 lenses at times.
So I mostly do automotive photography and my main lens is now the new 35mm f/1.4 GM. Which stop would suit me better with the polar pro PM? 2-5 or the 6-9?
Freewell, all the way! Price/value its all there. I feel like both filter are way too close to call for the physical performance, like wayyyy too close. The only difference is when buying the Pete Mc, you're spending the extra money for top google add, his flights, his gear, and his coffee with that added extra $100. That to me is not worth doubling the price when there is no double performance. Hell, its not even 1/128 better.
Absolutely love the video, but I have a question about the lighting setup. How did you manage to not get any lens flares with the lights directly shining into the lens? (like during the opening shot at 0:00)
This might be a dumb question but here goes. So the new polar pro Peter M filters make the images softer rather than keeping the sharpness? I have his first one which is the 2-5 stop one and I mainly got it for long expos during the day, such as waterfalls, etc. I recently dropped it and may or may not need to replace it. I don’t want my images to be soft, so that being said should I avoid the new polar pro Peter M filters? I honestly don’t get why anyone Would want soft images over sharpness. Style I guess?
Hi there hi there! Not a dumb question at all. Though it’s a bit complicated. They do a good job not to lose any image quality necessarily but it does give a bit of softening in certain situations by adding halation around bright light sources. It’s more of a “haze” than anything. And yes you nailed it... style. It looks a bit more “filmic” if your image isn’t ridiculously sharp because digital formats and modern lenses are getting sharper and sharper all the time. All that being said. The petermckinnon version 2 filters come in a mist version as well as a non mist version. So if you wanted the great quality of the PMVND, the new features like the case and such, but not the soft mist effect... they’ve got those! I think I may have even left a link in the description.
If you’re referring to the VND’s... I have! Check out my other video comparing them to the freewell and PolarPro. ruclips.net/video/6x8UFTlxbOc/видео.html
Hi, thanks to share the interesting video. Out of curiosity: do you not think a variable ND filer is more convenient if it has a lever on the ring to be able to move the lens more easily to shoot videos? Thank you
I prefer the freewell , with the polarpro the looks of vegetation and trees are very dark because is too contrasty, with the freewell you get a very pleasant and illuminate green color, besides that if you want more detail in the shadows and better dynamic range to work in postproduction the freewell is the choice and if you want a dramatic shoot, choose the polarpro , but is easy to add contrast to the freewell image in post-production than to reduce contrast and try to recover detail from the shadows in the polarpro image.
Freewell has a more filmic quality
This is how I like to see a comparison video, very well done, clear and concise.
Liked and subscribed
Thank you so much!!
Just throw a couple lighting gels in front of the lens cover, give it a rough white balance, smear some vaseline on it and bam. free mist/ND filter
Lol 😂
wouldnt that make the whole shot blurry though?
Yes it can for sure. It’s not really the same as a must filter but stuff like that is done to create some cool blurry effects
Not going to lie, I really like the Freewell 6-9 the best. lol Granted I do mostly music videos and creative-style work. I have a Simmod Variable ND and a DIY mist filter if I need cleaner shots, but I'm really happy I decided to go with the Freewell 6-9!
What a solid comparison. As a PP user myself, it’s great to see how they stack up against Freewell. Well done man!!!
Thanks dude!!
I too am a PP user
I too am a PP user. Some times i use it 3-4 times a day
I am not a pp user
You made my decision easy before you made my decision easy this time Freewell all the way.
Just checked with Freewell below 77mm (which is what I use) it comes in their transparent magnetic case so that issue of seeing what's inside is solved & I like their look.
Well there you go!
I loved how the Freewell 6-9 mist look.
I’m a landscape waterfall guy... my solution is to not use a vnd. Just give me an nd8 and a cp and I’m a happy 850 user! But, I’ve only been doing this for 40 years so I’m sure I’m doing it wrongly! ;)
Yeah, for anything other than quick “run-n-gun” shooting I prefer solid nd’s too. VND’s are my go to for convenience and probably more so for video work than photo work. I think your way is 100% the right way!
What do you think of combined ND/CPL Are they bad because it's 2v1? I didn't hear about any color issues with those
The colours on the video is amazing. The lighting, clarity, skin tones, saturation, shadows.. All very pleasing to the eye!
Beware of the Freewell ND - I bought a set in the 82mm size, and they were wonderful. I bought them because of the neat stops (Haptic Feedback) when you get to the various ND settings as well as the hard stop at the end. The "haptic feedback" along with the excellent color and build quality were what made me decide to buy a second set in 67mm.
BEWARE.
You will NOT get the "haptic feedback" in the 67mm size which was one of the selling points of these ND filters. I reached out to Freewell's customer service as to why, and here is what they said - "Thanks for your message. They are exactly as it says on the box HARD STOP. Hard stop means that it should not go beyond 5 & 9 stops thats precisely what it does. What you are referring to is HAPTIC FEEDBACK which we have recently added in some of the products to see the feedback; it has not been applied to all the sizes & all the filters, nor are we claiming on the product."
So a major selling point for these filters turns out to be a GAMBLE as to which ones have the "haptic feedback" or not. One star for misleading/omission of a critical feature of these ND filters.
Really appreciate the production quality of this vid...it takes a lot of work to animate/edit a polished vid like this...great job man!
Very interesting cross polarization results. Didn't expect it to be that bad with either of these brands at 16mm!
Dunna excellent review. I think I’ll go with PP for user experience and consistency
To my eye, I feel like the Polar Pro is the clear choice (no pun intended). I just wish it wasn't so dang expensive.
I hear you.
Bravo... The thumbnail is really good. Let me enjoy the content...😊🤗🤗
Thank you! I hope you enjoy!
Dunna, well done man! I already have been experimenting with the Polar Pro 2-5 VND+Mist and after seeing this test, I think I'll pickup the 6-9.
Nice! Yeah I think the 6-9 is even better quality
In conclusion if you want the best image use a separate diffusion filter and separate vnd since it give you more control over your haze effect and Exposure levels
Would u help me on that? I wanna use the moment cinebloom diffusion with a farewell vnd. How does that work? 🥲 (or who should i watch for this)
This was a great comparison. I'm typically not much of a mist filter fan, but for my eyes that Polar Pro clearly stood out, which makes my wallet very, very sad.
Thanks so much! I totally hear you haha.
I think it's even fair to mention that the polar pros hold their value very well. When everyone was selling the v1's when the signature series II came out they were still selling for over $150 US
Great point! Thanks for sharing!
am I crazy or does it look like the PP literally has almost no diffusion happening when compared to the freewell. glad I didnt drop 800 bucks to get that effect.
Yeah because paying $800 for something that's $450 when you buy both filters together would be crazy.
You're right it is complicated. On one hand the functionality is better on PP. But on the other hand you're paying double for minimal mist effect. In the backlit shots it's hard to tell you even had a $250 filter on the camera. So in that situation the filter is not worth the money. FW looks a little over misted. The review would have been a ton better if you put in the time showing comparisons of these filters in more than just 3 setups especially for a comparison that is so "complicated" I'm thumbs upping just the same but just saying would have been nice to get more examples.
Early for another great video. I was debating on if I wanted to get the PMVND for a while now.
They’re pretty great! Not without their fallbacks but super handy!
Best review/comparison by a mile. Thanks man. I got the Freewell 2-5 only since it's what I need and I definitely can't justify $250 for the PM
Thanks a ton!
Surely you don't want the mist and nd combined because depending on the job you lose mist when you don't need nd or get stuck with mist if you just need exposure change. Surely staking filters is a must?
I personally like the PP 2-5 and FW 6-9 combo
Interesting! If I was mixing and matching I would probably go the opposite way, FW2-5 and PP 6-9
So what was so complicated to choose earlier in the video?
I'm one of those weird people who actually prefers to keep diffusion and ND on separate filters, mostly because I don't always want diffusion in my shot. Currently I have the Tiffen variable ND and the 1/4 Black Pro Mist. That being said, if I ever change my mind about that, I'll be going with the Polar Pro I think.
I don’t think that’s strange actually. I have both systems. There’s pros and cons of course, more stacked pieces of glass can also cause issues but allows for more control. The VND version has convenience but more classic VND issues lol.
Had a really bad time with Freewell. 2-5 operated in reverse, so 2 was the darkest and 5 was the brightest. Didn’t notice until past the return window, and Freewell support said they’ve “never heard of this before” and to mail it to their factory in China for further review. Fun times.
Sounds like you had the filter on backwards..
😂
Doh! Shoulda thought of that! 🙄
Your previous video had me sold on free well. This video has me completely sold on polar pro.
Haha that’s pretty much the conclusions I came to as well for the two different types of filter.
@@dunnadidit I really liked the price of the VND from freewell plus their performance was so close to polarpro. It was a nobrainer. But the case and putting on the filter on a lens makes up for the price. I’d rather have a clean filter that’s easier to put on and put away.
oh man, I watched this video hoping you were going to tell me that the Freewell filter would be the way to go only to realize that you and I both knew the whole time the PolarPro was the way to go!
Haha have you seen my previous VND comparison... you might get more of what you want lol.
@@dunnadidit I'll have to check it out! Thanks!
Great review! Your insight played a pivotal part in deciding what my very first variable nd filter would be - Peter McKinnon Polar Pro it is. Great channel 👍
So the PP's use more of a glimmer glass than pro mist look. Very good review, broski!
It definitely is a bit of a different look from the pro mist stuff.
Great comparison, love how the PP/PM stuff works/looks, just can't afford them.
I would take a guess that you're not alone there.
@@dunnadidit - indeed!
If people already own VND filters but would like to add a Mist diffusion, then i highly recommend the 'Kolari R Magnetic Clip-In Filters'. They offer 1/8 and 1/4 and you can use them alongside any lens filters saving you a bundle of cash.
Been a Freewell fan for a while, especially their VNDs for the price/performance ratio, and just recently started using their (non-VND) Glow-mist filters, so this is an important comparison. I used their 1/8 mist filter recently on my first film project and was satisfied but admittedly have nothing to really compare it to other than "without". I can see this being a tougher decision if I end up using mist filters more. But the magnetic lens cap is a LOVE/HATE relationship for me - for the VNDs its less of an issue (more metal, beefier), but with the single NDs or CPL and now especially the super thin Glow-mists, you CANNOT get the lens cap off without pulling the filter off, too - and then the struggle of separating the two of them begins (I don't have long fingernails!). It's about my only complaint...but the words I utter each time...
I’ve been using their mist filters for most of my talking head bits too. Love the way the 1/8 looks. I agree it’s tough to get the cap off as well!
This is so beneficial. Gonna buy the freewell thru your affiliate link. You’ve earned it bro. There is so much value in this video!!! Can you do more gear comparison videos?
Awesome! Thank you! I will try to do more for sure!
Personally I prefer the Polar Pros. So those are the filters i'm saving up for. Thank you for the in depth comparison. I was almost leaning towards the Freewells until I saw an actual comparison. The shots by the window solidified my choice. I'm shooting with an iPhone 13 Pro Max until I get a Bmpcc 6k Pro.The effect of the Polar Pros is exactly what I want.
What's ur Instagram bro
Strongly suggest going with the Schneider True-Match Vari-ND MKII Variable Neutral Density Filter (82mm)
Nice.
Your videos are so well made 😍
Thank you so much!
been using polar pro for 3 years! scratched up like crazy, going to be trying freewell next :)
Great Video, I guess it comes down to personal taste, I've just ordered the Polarpro Edition II with 2-5 / 6-9 82mm, with 3 additional Step Plates for 62mm, 67mm, and 77mm, that combination cover most of my Nikon Z lenses, just need to find a good 112mm filter next. Wasn't really sure if I needed the Mist Filters, but figured, since I'll be doing my first wedding shoot next year, it's better to have it available if needed. Thanks again, this was a very informative video.
Hey man , loved comparison. Please test K&F CPL and ND too. 🙏🏻
I’ll keep it in mind!
@@dunnadidit Thanks. A budget filters guide would be great as not everyone have that kinda money for filters or even lenses worth these pricey filters. 🙏🏻❤️
Magnets, coffee and hazy BOKEH!!! All epic things, Dunna! Smashed it again! Like you, I think I would save my coin for the PolarPro Peter McKinnon Edition ii Variable ND Mist Filter. Awesome, AWESOME review...watched it twice! 😁👍🏾
Haha this is a very DUNNA review isn't it lol.
@@dunnadidit IKR!! 😂
By and large, I’m not a fan of the diffusion effect to begin with so these aren’t aimed at me but to my eyes... I liked the more controlled look of the PP (giggity) in the studio test shots, but strangely enough I liked the FW better for the desk shots. Made it look like flaring from the sun just out of frame which I love when used right.
If any of that made sense lol
Haha I totally get that you’re saying! It’s definitely not for all the time and sometimes you might want a lot of it, but other times you might just want a little.
Very good detailed review as always......wow I don't like that the mist doesn't match. Very odd. Not sure which one I would choose.....I am cheap, but rather spend more money to get what I would want. Thats a hard one. I would lean more Polar Pro on this one. Good video, makes someone think long and hard on this one.
Pretty tough call hey!
Excellent review man! I'm following you now 🤟🏽
Perfect test and review! Thanks for letting us know that the Freewell 2-5 and 6-9 don't have the same strength. That is a huge oversight on Freewell's part and really makes the set unusable.
"unusable" he says
time 2:18 - Why would you buy pair for $219 when you can buy $109 each (x 2 = $218) You would think there would be a slight discount. Love the video!
Lol, I originally had a joke about this written into my script but I'm glad someone picked up on it haha. And yeah I kind of thought there would be too but they're already pretty aggressively priced I suppose. Where as the polarpro you get $50 off but you'd have to sell a limb otherwise ;)
@@dunnadidit I dont tear apart vids just thought it was funny. The old joke, You can buy X for 10 for $10 and save money or buy at a $1.00 each. Def gonna try the brand. Thanks for the review!
Yeah I thought it was funny too!
I absolutely LOVE my Freewell system.
The magnetic system or the VND’s?
@@dunnadidit magnetic system. Just the normal pnd’s.
I'm so glad I stuck with the Freewell original vnd because I can just attach any strength of promist at the back of it. Making it more consistent, and without those stop notches.
yeah but don't you get vignetting when you stack 2 filters on top of each other? [the VND is as thick as 2 filters on it's own, so it's like 3 filters together]
An extra $230 for a set may seem like a lot more, but the key term for me here is functionality. As someone who makes videos on a regular basis I think the extra $230 will be worth it in terms of time saved over the years. I can't stress the importance of functionality enough.
Yeah thats where I'm at with it too. I like vnd's for the functionality and the convenience... so if they're less functional or convenient... then they don't serve their purpose.
Which regular nd filter is better? Freewell or Polarpro
PolarPro brings up the black really well, but its weak on halation.
Just to put this issue to rest: Some hairspray to the sensor should alleviate all the hairy filter stacking issues.
I feel like that introduces a entirely different problem but sure.
Great video! As usual 😁 👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻
Thanks dude!
I kept trying to read the sign but my old eyes wouldn't do the last 2 lines. Love having options, plus something to save for.
Haha the irony of that statement is so awesome lol. Thanks for watching Jody!
If you can
read this
I need more
Bokeh
Excellent review, thanks a lot ! 🙂
Lots of useful content again, nice work!
Thanks!
Dunna, Great comparison. Completely agree with you. To many inconsistency and swing issues with the Freewell. In my world, less post work the better. Save up and get the better product, many times it comes down to (said at the risk of offending others) garbage in - garbage out. The one or two times you may be trying to capture the Freewell look as an artistic perspective, simply is not worth the trade off of the many positives the PolarPro filters offer. As you said, Freewell offers some very good uses to be considered. Ultimately we are all our own creators, what works for one may not be good for the other. Again, great review which gives the viewer a concrete and fair perspective. Thank you. PS I prefer solid ND filters.
Dude you're slaying these reviews! 11pts for Canadian content!
Hit the nail on the head .. it really does come down to artistic preference. But .. I'd also opt for the Polar Pro.
Noice!
Thanks for this awesome comparison Dunna! One suggestion I would make is taking a silver sharpie and labeling the freewell cases so you don't have to check every time you need one.
Or label maker
Oh you best believe I got that label maker on LOCK!
this^^ I use the same method on a set of vintage lenses with step up rings and matching lens caps, saves so much time
What about the World’s 1st Versatile Magnetic VND Camera Filter?
It didn’t exist when I made this video but it’s great.
Oh boy.... Jumping on that Chris Hau train of ending ASMR lol.... Also, Polar Pro all the way!
Lol 😂 it wasn’t intentionally asmr. I just really like coffee haha
I am confident that a coffee brewing/drinking stream would go over reasonably well
Haha you want me to livestream making coffee? That kinda sounds awesome... for me
Polar pro slayed here. I might actually have to buy a polarpro product finally.
I got a samyang 18mm 2.8, in the market for a first time filter but unsure of what I’m looking for.
Check out the new freewell system. ruclips.net/video/EKIDYrcwADg/видео.html
Great review! Definitely looking forward to getting the PM
I've heard of an issue with windshields when it comes to the polarpro. From what I saw it turns certain types of glass yellow, supposedly the same issue with the polar pro basecamp
Windshields?
Oooooooohhhh I see what you mean, like shooting through a windshield? There will be a certain amount of polarization happening with any polarized glass like that since VND’s use polarizers to work. Shooting screens of your electronic devices may also be an issue.
If you can read this, you need more bokeh - notification squad here !!!
Yaaaaaaasssssss!
great video man :) thx for doing it..i just found ur chanell and i love it :D keep up the great work
VariND is not the best option. depending on the angle of rotation of the filter, the temperature changes. at wide angles (as with polarizing filters), the sky is colored unevenly.
permanent ID is better. + no problem with the cross. not at all.
Thank you for the video. once again convinced that I was right when I chose constant ND
Yeah, there are definitely inherent issues with variable ND filters for sure. The advantage is convenience and speed for the most part. And carrying size I guess too. But quality will be better for the most part with solid nd’s.
I have the 82mm Polar pro regular 2-5 VND. I use that on my sigma 24-70 lens (however I’m contemplating on getting the mist as well now). But I’m really looking for a decent ND filter for my iPhone 13 pro max and future 67mm lenses I get but I’m sorry I’m not about to pay $249 for 1 filter for my phone 📱. Looks like
Freewell it is!
This is not about the filter but as I saw your progress with your channel, I see that you have some music and other things on your earlier videos. What made you decide to go into the camera (Photography and Videography) content-wise? (I currently have this problem) not sure if I should just do all the topics I want in my channel like music, film, tech, or just stick to one genre?
Thank you so much! Honestly, I was looking for something other than my full time job to get into (I’m a music producer/recording engineer full time). I picked up a camera and the rest is history haha.
I own the Freewell 2-5 mist and now this video has me rethinking my decision and possibly switching to the polar pro. I did notice that the freewell has a strong mist effect but it's also kind of nice and I may just get 1 of each depending on the vision for the shot.
Yeah, a lot of people will get a 1/8 diffusion filter and a 1/4 so they can choose how much they want for the shot they need!
Thanks, your links to the Peter filter on amazon don't work. And the Freewell is only slightly cheaper which makes the Peter one a more secure buy I would imagine.. I prefer adding pro mist filter when it is necessary and not permanently on my VND filter.. But what ever suits your needs..
Hey! I just checked the link and it’s working okay on my end... though amazon Canada doesn’t seem to have any of the mist ones and b&h might be in the same spot right now. What are you seeing on your end!
I agree with you for sure about wanting to have that control. I think that’s why I prefer the PP version... it’s a lot more subtle so I don’t mind using it a bit more freely.
Hi Dunna
Great review, and you really put the breaks on my decision to purchase the Freewell Mist VNd filters. Regarding the differences in diffusion with the Freewell products, could that be to do with those being pre release versions? Also, did you reach out to Freewell to make this issue known to them? Thank you.
Hey! I don’t believe these are pre release versions as far as I’m aware. And when I released the video, I got an email from freewell saying thanks for the suggestions and that they would take the comments into consideration for the future. I’m not sure whether that means future iterations of this filter or for other filters.
@@dunnadidit Ok thank you for explaining that. It’s a shame you are the only person to mention this issue.
Also, do you have an email contact that you wouldn't mind sharing so I could contact them directly myself? Thanks.
Love the sign! Very Spaceballsy... 😂👍
Haha ;)
I’m thinking it might be better to get a separate mist filter. I can’t really use the ND filter in low light / indoors.
Agreed. I ordered a 1/8 to put behind my VND. Don't know why you would want mist baked in to that
@@ManleyReviews using two filters can cause odd reflections and lens flare between the two pieces of glass. It can also cause more vignetting since you are stacking filters.
@twalker294 nailed it. Stacking filters can cause some unwanted effects. That said... so do VND's in general so its all about tradeoffs and convenience.
@@twalker294 Don't these actually stack?
You can use the variable Nd mist filter being set to no nd at all to get the mist only
Can you make a video of reviewing the new sigma 28-70mm 2.8? I do realy like your reviews more then others.
It’s coming!!
The Dunna Filter ... now that is worth waiting for :-)
Excellent comparison!!!
Thanks for this Great comparisson.... Think it will be the polar pro for me 😀
Thanks a ton!
What are the odds that I broke my nd filters this past weekend and you make this video now! Haha
Haha I promise I’m not doing any voodoo on you!
I was thinking the same thing
hey this is unrelated but do u see a new sony apsc camera coming out?
great review , I got a polarpro 95mm Cpl for my rf 28-70mm f/2 it won't thread on correctly it literally pops off ever had thus issue with the 95mm thread
Wondering if the mist effect get amplified if we stack either those two filters with something like black promist or cinebloom 🤔🤔🤔
It can!
I'm disappointed about the hard stops in between. I much prefer the smooth for seamless adjustments.
I have the freewell VND filters with the Tiffen Pro Mist 1/4. It helps with the constant hallacion. And better at controlling the x effect
yeah but don't you get vignetting when you stack 2 filters on top of each other? [the VND is as thick as 2 filters on it's own, so it's like 3 filters togther]
I'm an amateur shooter on a budget. Personally though it might effect my shot (hence why I rarely use ND filters at all), I can't see justifying any ND or VND filter that cost more than like $70-80, much less $250. Heck I bought a lens for less than that!!
Yeah I totally hear you. When I was earlier in this game it seemed ridiculous. But now it seems like a no brainer to invest in that. But everyone has different needs and you just have to weigh the pros and cons. I was also buying cheaper lenses then... now I’m buying $2500 lenses at times.
@@dunnadidit Yeah for sure, its all an investment and quality equipment makes for quality results, I understand that.
There's no way to de-click these, right?? Smooth instead of hard stop
What about JJC vs Peter McKinnon Filters?
So I mostly do automotive photography and my main lens is now the new 35mm f/1.4 GM. Which stop would suit me better with the polar pro PM? 2-5 or the 6-9?
Honestly, for photography... you might want to look into solid nd’s. But if you’re set on a vnd, go 6-9 stop.
2:42 "No marking on the outside" - Do you have a label maker?
I love this vid but I already bough pmvnd filters tho
Nice!
Freewell, all the way! Price/value its all there. I feel like both filter are way too close to call for the physical performance, like wayyyy too close. The only difference is when buying the Pete Mc, you're spending the extra money for top google add, his flights, his gear, and his coffee with that added extra $100. That to me is not worth doubling the price when there is no double performance. Hell, its not even 1/128 better.
Absolutely love the video, but I have a question about the lighting setup. How did you manage to not get any lens flares with the lights directly shining into the lens? (like during the opening shot at 0:00)
This might be a dumb question but here goes.
So the new polar pro Peter M filters make the images softer rather than keeping the sharpness?
I have his first one which is the 2-5 stop one and I mainly got it for long expos during the day, such as waterfalls, etc.
I recently dropped it and may or may not need to replace it. I don’t want my images to be soft, so that being said should I avoid the new polar pro Peter M filters?
I honestly don’t get why anyone Would want soft images over sharpness.
Style I guess?
Hi there hi there!
Not a dumb question at all. Though it’s a bit complicated. They do a good job not to lose any image quality necessarily but it does give a bit of softening in certain situations by adding halation around bright light sources. It’s more of a “haze” than anything.
And yes you nailed it... style. It looks a bit more “filmic” if your image isn’t ridiculously sharp because digital formats and modern lenses are getting sharper and sharper all the time.
All that being said. The petermckinnon version 2 filters come in a mist version as well as a non mist version. So if you wanted the great quality of the PMVND, the new features like the case and such, but not the soft mist effect... they’ve got those! I think I may have even left a link in the description.
I was hanging on the fence...sort of...until 8:52. Polar is worth the extra dough.
Have you tried the Moment filters on your camera lenses yet?
If you’re referring to the VND’s... I have! Check out my other video comparing them to the freewell and PolarPro. ruclips.net/video/6x8UFTlxbOc/видео.html
@@dunnadidit cool thanks! I will check out that video.
Hi, thanks to share the interesting video. Out of curiosity: do you not think a variable ND filer is more convenient if it has a lever on the ring to be able to move the lens more easily to shoot videos? Thank you