B+W

B+W 43mm Basic UV/IR Cut MRC 486M Filter

4.0 (2 reviews)

Block UV and infrared contamination from your digital sensor with precision MRC-coated glass.

$51.95*$64.12Save 18%
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*Price sourced from Amazon.com. Last updated:Jul 14, 2026.Price and availability are subject to change.

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Overview

The B+W 43mm Basic UV/IR Cut MRC 486M filter addresses a problem that many digital photographers overlook: infrared light contamination. While standard UV filters have long been a staple for protecting front lens elements, digital sensors are often more sensitive to infrared wavelengths than film ever was, leading to subtle color shifts, reduced contrast, and a loss of image crispness. The 486M solves this by cutting both UV and IR wavelengths simultaneously, ensuring that only the visible light spectrum reaches your sensor. The result is cleaner color rendition and sharper images, particularly noticeable in landscape photography, architectural work, and any shooting situation with strong ambient infrared content.

Build quality reflects B+W's reputation for precision optical accessories. The filter uses high-quality optical glass mounted in a brass ring — a material chosen for its resistance to cross-threading and its durability over years of use. The black knurled edge provides a confident grip when threading the filter onto your lens, and the Multi-Resistant Coating serves double duty: optically, it suppresses reflections, flare, and ghosting; practically, it repels water, dust, and smudges, making field cleaning straightforward. B+W has rated this filter safe for use on full-frame lenses down to 24mm focal length without vignetting, and the included QR code authentication system gives buyers confidence they are getting a genuine product. The eco-friendly packaging rounds out a thoughtfully designed accessory for photographers seeking measurably better optical performance.

Key Features

Black Knurled Filter Mount for Better Grip

MRC Coating to Control Flare & Ghosting

New QR Code included to Verify Authenticity

Good for down to 24mm Full Frame Format

ECO-Friendly Packaging

Specifications

Brand
B+W
Model
43mm Basic UV/IR Cut MRC 486M
Filter Size
43mm
Filter Type
UV/IR Cut
Coating
Multi-Resistant Coating (MRC)
Glass Material
Optical Glass
Mount Material
Brass
Mount Finish
Black Knurled
Minimum Focal Length
24mm (Full Frame)
Water Resistance
Water Resistant
Packaging
Eco-Friendly

Pros & Cons

👍 Pros

  • Blocks both UV and infrared light, preventing the color casts and softness that can affect digital sensors.
  • MRC coating effectively reduces flare and ghosting while repelling water and fingerprints.
  • Brass mount ring is more durable and less prone to cross-threading than aluminum alternatives.
  • Black knurled edge provides a secure grip for easy installation and removal.
  • Slim enough for use on lenses down to 24mm full-frame without vignetting.

👎 Cons

  • 43mm is a less common filter size, which may not match many lenses in a typical kit.
  • Premium optical glass and brass construction make it noticeably more expensive than basic UV-only filters.
  • Does not include a protective case or pouch for storage when not mounted on a lens.
  • The UV/IR cut effect is invisible to the eye, making it hard to confirm the filter is working without comparing test shots.

Frequently Asked Questions

A UV/IR cut filter blocks both ultraviolet and infrared wavelengths, whereas a standard UV filter only addresses ultraviolet light. Digital sensors can be sensitive to infrared, which causes color casts and reduced contrast — the 486M eliminates both sources of interference.
MRC stands for Multi-Resistant Coating. It is a multi-layer coating applied to the glass that reduces reflections, minimizes flare and ghosting, and provides resistance to water, dirt, and fingerprints for easier cleaning.
This filter fits any lens with a 43mm front filter thread. Check your lens cap or the front ring of your lens for the filter diameter marking (often denoted with the ⌀ symbol).
Yes, B+W rates this filter as suitable for focal lengths down to 24mm on a full-frame sensor without introducing vignetting.
The packaging includes a QR code that you can scan to verify authenticity directly with B+W.