Hey Russ, Thanks for the comparison. Here are some of the advantages of our filters over magnetic. 1. All our straight filter such as ND, UV, Light pollution are waterproof usually you won’t use them underwater but just a bit of advantage when you are going for extreme sports. 2. No magnets meaning no magnetic interference so you can confidently use our filters on FPV/Drones. Thanks again Freewell
That's great! I'm strongly considering purchasing your product! However, are the filters waterproof for 11meters, same as the camera? And we are all (divers) are waiting for a proper underwater housing with external filters for DJI Osmo Action!! :) Cheers
@@re7dev Hey Deny, You will never use any ND filter in general underwater they won't help in making your footage better underwater instead they may spoil your footage by reducing the shutter speed. ND filters are to be used on the ground. Presently we do not offer any underwater RED filter for osmo action. Thanks
@@FreewellGear Understood, thank you! I wouldn't use the ND filters underwater, it's just that I'd like to be sure that if I have a filter attached to my camera when I swim from the shore to an island or through a cave and I have to dive under rock, swim for a minute or two then surface in a wadi to (get inside the cave) and all of my equipment is exposed to elements, would I then be able to safely continue shooting, after such elements exposure? The reason I am asking is that I cannot sometimes water seal my equipment, max I can do is put a camera into housing while free dividing deeper than 10 meters. That being said, using dry bags adds way too much buoyancy and I cannot dive safely in caves. I hope that makes sense :) Basically, if DJI osmo action was exposed to a few meters of underwater, ideally as deep as the cam itself can safely go, would it be okay to take for such a ride? And I often find myself driving through extreme rains in India by bike, could I still keep the filter on, etc? Cheers!
Just an observation of your comparison between the two filters at 7:55 in the video. The exposure between the two different videos is NOT identical; the camera settings may be the same, but the exposure is not the same. The image on the left side is shot a little closer to the flags in the foreground than the image on the right side, but the greatest variable affecting the exposure of the image is the angle of view, more than the focal length. The image on the right side is shot at a more upward angle than the left image, so you're getting much more light reflecting from the sky with the Freewell filter than the Polar Pro. When doing such a comparison, all variables must be identical, and in that situation they were not. Perhaps you could have mounted the camera on a tripod when shooting and changing filters to get the exact same angle and focal length. Just a suggestion for future videos. Thanks for posting this; you did present some helpful info.
I like the hotswap mechanism, but I ultimately went with Freewell because the PolarPro are only splashproof. I know you’re not typically taking an ND filter under water, but when I’m using an action cam, it’s generally in or around potentially wet situations. I want to make sure that ND filter isn’t going anywhere and no water can get in.
Hey Russ, nice comparison! I used my Osmo Action a bunch on a trip over the weekend, and was really wishing I had ND filters. I simply could not get them here quickly enough after I received the camera. They will be here tomorrow. I have Polar Pro ND filters for my Mavic 2 Pro and they are great, but I had a hard time justifying spending over 1/3 the cost of the camera on ND filters for the Osmo Action. So, there may be another answer to your question, "Do you really need ND filters for an action camera?", besides yes or no. Do you really need "top of the line" ND filters? To answer this, I went with the Skyreat filters, which actually had really good reviews for their drone ND filters. It is a 6 pack with ND and ND/PL filters for half the cost of the PolarPro and FreeWell kits. I realize this may simply mean I spend even more buying another set if I don't like these. I may be too spoiled with PolarPro by now. I'll let you know how it goes.
Sooooo....... Looking at the differences between the two filters @7:45. Wouldn't you say that the PolarPro allows you to more closely follow the 180 rule?
Hi Russ. Really insightful comparison. I have recently purchased the Osmo Action 5 Pro. Will the above Freewell and the Polar Pro ND/PL filters fit the Action 5 Pro ?
Thank you Russ for a thorough review of the two brands of ND filters. I like the way you come across and how you explain things. Keep up the good work.
10:25 there is something wrong with those shots looks like rolling shutter this was filmed without stabilization? I'm not sure but(jittery), something it's not right it looks odd
"Underexposed" you say? We'll fix that in post! But seriously - One thing you don't mention: It is really important that one can rotate a polarizer filter to adjust the level of polarization. With the PolarPro magnetic system this is no question - but are all FreeWell polarized filters rotateable? Otherwise I also want to mention that the PolarPro "Vivid-5-Pack" collection does NOT feature the straightout polarizer WITHOUT ND(CPL). So cost-wise this is another filter you will be missing.
Thanks for the great comparison Russ. My OA arrives tomorrow and I decided to wait on determining which filter brand to go with. Your video helps. I can't wait to attach the OA facing backwards on my Mav2 Pro, so I can capture both forward and rear view footage simultaneously to combine in post editing for landscape videos!
Nice video and an interesting comparison. I am a bit curious as to the "waterproof-nes" of the camera when using ND filters. I ask because I fish a lot in areas where the water is shallow and very clear. Getting the exposure at the slower shutter speeds would require ND filters due to the light transmission of these clear waters. I think I read that the Osmo Action cannot be used underwater with the lens cover off.
I know this video is old, but I just bought a DJI Action camera and I need to buy filters. What I would like to ask is, with the Polar Pro magnetic system, is the magnet strong enough to not fall off during "real" action and is the camera still waterproof with it? I imaging the Freewell, with it's screw on type, would be waterproof, but I would be worried about the magnetic one.
When I was deciding which filters to buy for my Phantom 4 Pro I bought the ones that DJI sell directly because they worked as good as the PolarPro or Freewell but were a perfect match to the original glass filter that came with the drone. Well, after about a 6 months the glass fell out of the DJI ND filter and I never bought them again. I suggest if DJI releases their own for the Osmo Action don't buy them, get your yourself either the PPs or FW's instead.
I've abused them a lot, and they have stayed on. The disadvantage is they are not waterproof - that being said, you really don't need them underwater anyway.
So the extra filter by Freewell would be good for indoors, right, when you don't need to F with exposure or maybe unless you're going to do a really slow shutter speed photo....?
Thanks for the video, I tried filters on my videos but it seems Rocksteady is not so happy. I have the Polar Pro PL/ND versions. My channel videos could be better. I also enjoyed your video on accessories for the Osmo Pocket which I have now purchased to improve my content
well done have the Freewell for my Pocket and there client service is fantastic along with their products I have one Polar Pro but havnt used it yet thanks again for a very informative post oh can you use the ND if on auto or does that not have a effect see ya and stay safe
Thanks for sharing. I have the Polar Pro set for my Osmo Action but I have struggled to find one simple answer anywhere online... maybe you can help? Is the Osmo Action still waterproof with the Polar Pro filter/ring installed? I appreciate any info you might have!
Here is their response: "Hey Russ, Thanks for asking, just to clarify the camera body without the stock UV filter has been submerged tested on our end and has worked perfectly though it is not dive rated. With our magnetic base plate installed it is guaranteed to work in the rain, or if dropped in the water though we do not suggest diving with it. We opted to sacrifice the dive rating for the magnetic design due to the fact that you would never look to use ND filters underwater. I hope that helps answer the question!"
51 Drones thank you for looking into this! I imagined that may be the case. Just wanted to be sure before I took my OA out on the water. I won’t be doing any diving but desperately wanted the reassurance if it happened to get splashed a few times! Thanks again!
Hi Russ, thanks for your video! Question for you. Wouldn’t it be easier to pick as close to the right filter and then just leave it on auto and it will correct it to the correct stop? Just a thought. Thanks
Hey Russ, great information on ND filters! i notice on the Freewell site they have budget filters for $69.00. You get 6 filters that are non coated. Do you think the multicoated (16 layers) is worth the extra money. The 8 Day pack is $129.00 and multi coated. Need your advice.......thanks
Hi I'm looking at filters, found some freewell its a two pack Variable ND.. would they be a good way to go. or are you beater to go with the 8 pack Cheers hope you can help Robbie
Just needed all that information, I've also observe your video outdoor was shakkey like mobile phone focus hunting, wondering is that from osmo action.
I am new to the action cam game I shoot primarily in low light concert footage and performances mainly inside do the ND filters offer any benefits in low light situations?
51 Drones so in that case in the low light would you suggest just setting the iso manually to try to get the most light into the sensor and using a mobil light mounted w the camera?
I hear that if you shot in 4k , your 1080p on youtube will look more great, because of the big dynamic range of the 4k. (I think when you put 1080p on youtube I think the video quality goes down a little bit, but I don't know i'm not an expert)
osmo gets moisture under the front screen, it makes jello effect, does not have gps and video quality is not as good as gopro for sure. would be great if you got and checked parrot anafi instead as something new and real competition to dji. now happy memorial day my friend
There's no reason to waste your money on such a completely pointless accessory like ND filters for an action camera. It's a freakin' action camera guys, go out and film some action. You're not making a film, and nobody cares that your stupid gopro video looks cinematic.
I'm researching these ND filters for a camera that has a fixed aperture. The only way to effect exposure is through shutter speed or using ND filters. If you're not able to set your shutter speed high enough to get the effect you want with the proper exposure, then you must use ND filters to achieve proper exposures for your images. Not a waste of money, but rather an investment in the tools that will help you achieve your vision.
Hey Russ,
Thanks for the comparison.
Here are some of the advantages of our filters over magnetic.
1. All our straight filter such as ND, UV, Light pollution are waterproof usually you won’t use them underwater but just a bit of advantage when you are going for extreme sports.
2. No magnets meaning no magnetic interference so you can confidently use our filters on FPV/Drones.
Thanks again
Freewell
Thanks for sharing that info!
That's great! I'm strongly considering purchasing your product! However, are the filters waterproof for 11meters, same as the camera? And we are all (divers) are waiting for a proper underwater housing with external filters for DJI Osmo Action!! :) Cheers
@@re7dev Hey Deny, You will never use any ND filter in general underwater they won't help in making your footage better underwater instead they may spoil your footage by reducing the shutter speed.
ND filters are to be used on the ground.
Presently we do not offer any underwater RED filter for osmo action.
Thanks
@@FreewellGear Understood, thank you! I wouldn't use the ND filters underwater, it's just that I'd like to be sure that if I have a filter attached to my camera when I swim from the shore to an island or through a cave and I have to dive under rock, swim for a minute or two then surface in a wadi to (get inside the cave) and all of my equipment is exposed to elements, would I then be able to safely continue shooting, after such elements exposure? The reason I am asking is that I cannot sometimes water seal my equipment, max I can do is put a camera into housing while free dividing deeper than 10 meters. That being said, using dry bags adds way too much buoyancy and I cannot dive safely in caves. I hope that makes sense :) Basically, if DJI osmo action was exposed to a few meters of underwater, ideally as deep as the cam itself can safely go, would it be okay to take for such a ride? And I often find myself driving through extreme rains in India by bike, could I still keep the filter on, etc? Cheers!
Are nd pl filters safe to be used in water such as swimming pool/water park or beach ?
I got PolarPro and learned the hard way that it does not work with water sports. Lost one ND filter while water rafting.
Just an observation of your comparison between the two filters at 7:55 in the video. The exposure between the two different videos is NOT identical; the camera settings may be the same, but the exposure is not the same. The image on the left side is shot a little closer to the flags in the foreground than the image on the right side, but the greatest variable affecting the exposure of the image is the angle of view, more than the focal length. The image on the right side is shot at a more upward angle than the left image, so you're getting much more light reflecting from the sky with the Freewell filter than the Polar Pro. When doing such a comparison, all variables must be identical, and in that situation they were not. Perhaps you could have mounted the camera on a tripod when shooting and changing filters to get the exact same angle and focal length. Just a suggestion for future videos. Thanks for posting this; you did present some helpful info.
This is gold advice.
Thanks Russ...
Your professionally done video just helped me make a decision between the Polar Pro & Freewell. Your videos are so helpful!
Thanks for the comparison. I have the Freewell and like. I put camera in pocket and would worry about losing the Polar Pro lens.
Another great job Russ. I liked the way you explained how there will be slight differences from one manufacturer to another.
I like the hotswap mechanism, but I ultimately went with Freewell because the PolarPro are only splashproof. I know you’re not typically taking an ND filter under water, but when I’m using an action cam, it’s generally in or around potentially wet situations. I want to make sure that ND filter isn’t going anywhere and no water can get in.
Great video. I enjoyed your comparison between both filter companies. I think I would buy the Freewell over Polar Pro.
Hey Russ, nice comparison! I used my Osmo Action a bunch on a trip over the weekend, and was really wishing I had ND filters. I simply could not get them here quickly enough after I received the camera. They will be here tomorrow. I have Polar Pro ND filters for my Mavic 2 Pro and they are great, but I had a hard time justifying spending over 1/3 the cost of the camera on ND filters for the Osmo Action. So, there may be another answer to your question, "Do you really need ND filters for an action camera?", besides yes or no. Do you really need "top of the line" ND filters? To answer this, I went with the Skyreat filters, which actually had really good reviews for their drone ND filters. It is a 6 pack with ND and ND/PL filters for half the cost of the PolarPro and FreeWell kits. I realize this may simply mean I spend even more buying another set if I don't like these. I may be too spoiled with PolarPro by now. I'll let you know how it goes.
As promised, I'm back to let you know how it went. I should have listened to you.
ruclips.net/video/eDzNVyiKNBE/видео.html
Sooooo....... Looking at the differences between the two filters @7:45. Wouldn't you say that the PolarPro allows you to more closely follow the 180 rule?
Hi Russ. Really insightful comparison. I have recently purchased the Osmo Action 5 Pro. Will the above Freewell and the Polar Pro ND/PL filters fit the Action 5 Pro ?
I reckon the PGYTECH ones are best - no need to take off the lens cover.
Did you notice issues with rocksteady with ND Filters fitted?
Thank you Russ for a thorough review of the two brands of ND filters. I like the way you come across and how you explain things. Keep up the good work.
Thanks Russ!! Nice to know these for the beginner .. Never even thought about that.. Living in AZ will be a problem with the light issues
This was good info I just recently got an Osmo Action. Bright light here in Texas is the norm during the summer
10:25 there is something wrong with those shots looks like rolling shutter this was filmed without stabilization? I'm not sure but(jittery), something it's not right it looks odd
"Underexposed" you say? We'll fix that in post!
But seriously - One thing you don't mention: It is really important that one can rotate a polarizer filter to adjust the level of polarization.
With the PolarPro magnetic system this is no question - but are all FreeWell polarized filters rotateable?
Otherwise I also want to mention that the PolarPro "Vivid-5-Pack" collection does NOT feature the straightout polarizer WITHOUT ND(CPL). So cost-wise this is another filter you will be missing.
Thanks for the great comparison Russ. My OA arrives tomorrow and I decided to wait on determining which filter brand to go with. Your video helps. I can't wait to attach the OA facing backwards on my Mav2 Pro, so I can capture both forward and rear view footage simultaneously to combine in post editing for landscape videos!
With the Polarpro you probably lose the waterproofing right?
Nice video and an interesting comparison. I am a bit curious as to the "waterproof-nes" of the camera when using ND filters. I ask because I fish a lot in areas where the water is shallow and very clear. Getting the exposure at the slower shutter speeds would require ND filters due to the light transmission of these clear waters. I think I read that the Osmo Action cannot be used underwater with the lens cover off.
What camera did you use to record this review? Looks really good!
Hi Russ,
Thanks for the great review! Just wondering if any of the two brands affect the rocksteady.
I'm Lazy polar pro it is...lol This video answer a lot of my questions
I know this video is old, but I just bought a DJI Action camera and I need to buy filters. What I would like to ask is, with the Polar Pro magnetic system, is the magnet strong enough to not fall off during "real" action and is the camera still waterproof with it? I imaging the Freewell, with it's screw on type, would be waterproof, but I would be worried about the magnetic one.
ND are a must have for sure
Thank you Russ need more videos on the mavic pro 2.
When I was deciding which filters to buy for my Phantom 4 Pro I bought the ones that DJI sell directly because they worked as good as the PolarPro or Freewell but were a perfect match to the original glass filter that came with the drone. Well, after about a 6 months the glass fell out of the DJI ND filter and I never bought them again. I suggest if DJI releases their own for the Osmo Action don't buy them, get your yourself either the PPs or FW's instead.
I like both companies. I have Polar Pro for my Spark and Freewell for my Pocket. I would like to know how well the magnet holds on with abuse.
I've abused them a lot, and they have stayed on. The disadvantage is they are not waterproof - that being said, you really don't need them underwater anyway.
So the extra filter by Freewell would be good for indoors, right, when you don't need to F with exposure or maybe unless you're going to do a really slow shutter speed photo....?
Hi great vid, are those PolarPro filters olso waterproof with that magnetic system?
Thanks for the video, I tried filters on my videos but it seems Rocksteady is not so happy. I have the Polar Pro PL/ND versions. My channel videos could be better. I also enjoyed your video on accessories for the Osmo Pocket which I have now purchased to improve my content
I’m thinking that the hot swap system might not be a good option for FPV quadcopters given that we sometimes crash at speeds above 50 mph...
will it still waterproof after filters fit in?
thank for explanation.....useful for beginner
FreeWell 100%
well done have the Freewell for my Pocket and there client service is fantastic along with their products I have one Polar Pro but havnt used it yet thanks again for a very informative post oh can you use the ND if on auto or does that not have a effect see ya and stay safe
Anyways great video I actually bought the free will because of that magnet issue
Great video btw. Really helpful comparisons and user experience tidbits.
Thanks for sharing. I have the Polar Pro set for my Osmo Action but I have struggled to find one simple answer anywhere online... maybe you can help? Is the Osmo Action still waterproof with the Polar Pro filter/ring installed? I appreciate any info you might have!
I will find out!
Here is their response:
"Hey Russ,
Thanks for asking, just to clarify the camera body without the stock UV filter has been submerged tested on our end and has worked perfectly though it is not dive rated. With our magnetic base plate installed it is guaranteed to work in the rain, or if dropped in the water though we do not suggest diving with it. We opted to sacrifice the dive rating for the magnetic design due to the fact that you would never look to use ND filters underwater. I hope that helps answer the question!"
51 Drones thank you for looking into this! I imagined that may be the case. Just wanted to be sure before I took my OA out on the water. I won’t be doing any diving but desperately wanted the reassurance if it happened to get splashed a few times! Thanks again!
Do you think the polar pro magnetic ND filter work under water? Just asking cuz I might getting freewell
Do these filters are waterproof?
Thanks for the testing, glad to see you back in action on reviews.
Enjoyed your video. Do you have the same recommendations for the Filters for the Osmo Pocket?
The FreeWell ones are best for the Pocket
maybe I will wait for NEEWER.
Hi Russ, thanks for your video! Question for you. Wouldn’t it be easier to pick as close to the right filter and then just leave it on auto and it will correct it to the correct stop? Just a thought. Thanks
No, because the shutter speed will change all of the time. To keep a constant shutter speed, it needs to be in Manual.
I was looking at the PP 3 pack would that work for basic stuff like making a waterfall water blur or ad motion blur to videos ?
It’s called action camera so I’m worried that the magnets would not be strong enough when let’s say mounted on a ATV
They actually stay on quite well!
I have a Mavic 2 Pro, which filter kit should I get for it? Thx
Right here: ruclips.net/video/KPfHmNkuPFI/видео.html
Hey Russ, great information on ND filters! i notice on the Freewell site they have budget filters for $69.00. You get 6 filters that are non coated.
Do you think the multicoated (16 layers) is worth the extra money.
The 8 Day pack is $129.00 and multi coated.
Need your advice.......thanks
The non-coated will cause a color-cast on your video, and they tend to have wicked sun glares.
@@51Drones Just ordered the 8 All Day pack from Freewell!
Hi I'm looking at filters, found some freewell its a two pack Variable ND.. would they be a good way to go. or are you beater to go with the 8 pack Cheers hope you can help Robbie
PS Love your cap
Yes, that is the way to go. Those filters are amazing!
The ND filters also usable under water?
No.
Do ND filters lessen the stabilization effects of Rocksteady?
Nope
Have a safe Memorial Day Russ!!
Just needed all that information, I've also observe your video outdoor was shakkey like mobile phone focus hunting, wondering is that from osmo action.
I am new to the action cam game I shoot primarily in low light concert footage and performances mainly inside do the ND filters offer any benefits in low light situations?
No. Actually, they hurt in low light because the camera will bump up the ISO, giving you grainy footage.
51 Drones so in that case in the low light would you suggest just setting the iso manually to try to get the most light into the sensor and using a mobil light mounted w the camera?
Why is this video on 1080p so much sharper than when i upload footage on youtube shot with osma action
I hear that if you shot in 4k , your 1080p on youtube will look more great, because of the big dynamic range of the 4k. (I think when you put 1080p on youtube I think the video quality goes down a little bit, but I don't know i'm not an expert)
Hey Russ... Did you remove your drone insurance video? I can't find it.
right here! ruclips.net/video/7B0PIara4MM/видео.html
@@51Drones ahhh! Thank you!!! Going to share it with a few friends!
What are the still photos like with this Osmo compared to the Go Pro?
I am testing that out!
Is the camera still water proof with the ND filters?
Yes, but not positive about the PolarPro ones.
Thanks Russ 👍
Osmo pocket might be best option
osmo gets moisture under the front screen, it makes jello effect, does not have gps and video quality is not as good as gopro for sure. would be great if you got and checked parrot anafi instead as something new and real competition to dji. now happy memorial day my friend
That camera has problems. Many reporting condensation on the front screen.
Only if you let water sit on it in hot temps. It's a condensation issue. Yes, not good, but also not a major problem.
@@51Drones My years with working with electronics say otherwise, Russ.
Had no problem and water in the cam after 10 days of snorkeling. Whatch ny channel for footage
I is very good filters. But i am not capable to buy this. I think I am buy this.. but after some months or some years i don't know..
Mani Singh huh??
@@tundrawhisperer4821 why u say huh. i don't know its meaning because my english is weak. Sorry
Thanks for that! :-)
Yes! Giveaway!!! 🙌🙌🙌🙌 I’m first! 😁✌️
Skyreat, same quality result, half the price ;)
There's no reason to waste your money on such a completely pointless accessory like ND filters for an action camera. It's a freakin' action camera guys, go out and film some action. You're not making a film, and nobody cares that your stupid gopro video looks cinematic.
I'm researching these ND filters for a camera that has a fixed aperture. The only way to effect exposure is through shutter speed or using ND filters. If you're not able to set your shutter speed high enough to get the effect you want with the proper exposure, then you must use ND filters to achieve proper exposures for your images. Not a waste of money, but rather an investment in the tools that will help you achieve your vision.