NiSi

NiSi 500170 72mm True Color Variable ND Filter

4.5 (546 reviews)

A true-color variable ND filter with 1–5 stops of light reduction and 20-layer nano coating for color-accurate photography.

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Overview

The NiSi 72mm True Color Variable ND Filter offers photographers a practical way to control exposure in the field without swapping between fixed-density filters. Covering a range of 1 to 5 stops (ND2 to ND32), it allows smooth, stepless adjustment of light reduction — enabling wider apertures for shallow depth of field in bright conditions or slower shutter speeds for motion blur effects. What sets this filter apart from many variable ND competitors is NiSi's proprietary True Color coating, which actively counteracts the color shifts that typically appear as density increases. The result is neutral, accurate color across the entire adjustment range, reducing the need for white balance correction in post-processing.

Construction quality is a standout feature. The filter glass receives a 20-layer multi-nano coating on both surfaces, providing resistance to water, oil, dust, and fingerprints — a meaningful advantage for photographers shooting outdoors in less-than-ideal conditions. The matte black frame interior absorbs stray light to minimize flare and ghosting, while the oversized front thread eliminates vignetting on wide-angle lenses down to 16mm focal length. For photographers looking to expand their filtration setup, the filter is compatible with NiSi's Swift System, which allows additional 72mm filters to snap onto the front magnetically for fast, thread-free stacking. It is a well-engineered filter that prioritizes optical accuracy and usability in equal measure.

Key Features

EXCLUSIVE TRUE COLOR COATING: Experience the NiSi True Color Variable ND Filter with an exclusive true color coating that prevents unwanted yellow tint often seen in other ND filters. This 72mm ND filter offers neutral color rendering for accurate hues, avoiding the color distortion that many camera filters cause. This VND filter keeps colors natural across varied lighting conditions, an ideal addition to your camera accessories collection or as a cool gift for photographer.

NO “X” EFFECT FOR SEAMLESS ROTATION: Our Nisi Vable ND filter provides 1-5 stoppers (ND0.3-ND1.5) for smooth, gradual light control without the "X" effect found in standard neutral density filters. Enjoy hassle-free light adjustments with precise control, making this camera lens filter perfect for wide-angle lenses and any situation where smooth gradation is key, whether you’re shooting stills or video with your camera lenses, an ideal photographer gift.

20-LAYER NANO COATING: Built with up to 20-layer multi-nano coating, this Nis True Color Variable ND filter ensures low reflections, water resistance, and oil resistance. The dustproof & waterproof nano coating on both sides protects against dust, smudges, and fingerprints, keeping your camera lens pristine even in challenging environments. This 72mm ND filter was an essential camera accessory for photographers needing a rugged and reliable VND filter, a cool gift for photographer.

NO VIGNETTING: Our Nisi VND filter is designed with a larger front thread to eliminate vignetting to 16mm wide-angle lenses, this 72mm filter minimizes edge shadows and glare. The matte black frame interior absorbs stray light, making this an ideal camera lens filter for professionals seeking sharp, high-contrast images free from shadow distortion, even with wide-angle camera lenses, a must-have to your camera accessories and a cool gift for photographer.

SWIFT SYSTEM FOR EASY EXPANSION: This NiSi Variable ND filter is compatible with the NiSi Swift System, allowing for seamless expansion by adding a 72mm Swift lens filter (sold separately). Simply press additional filters onto the front for enhanced versatility and control over your shots. The Swift System makes it easier than ever to customize your camera lens filter setup for various lighting conditions and creative effects. This combo is a great gift for photographer.

Specifications

Filter Size
72mm
Filter Type
Variable ND (VND)
Density Range
ND2–ND32 (1–5 stops)
Color Technology
True Color coating (neutral rendition)
Coating
20-layer multi-nano (water, oil, dust resistant)
Vignetting
None down to 16mm wide-angle
Swift System Compatible
Yes (72mm)
Model
500170

Pros & Cons

👍 Pros

  • True Color coating eliminates the yellow or green color shifts that plague many competing variable ND filters
  • 1–5 stop range is specifically limited to avoid the cross-shaped "X" artifact at higher densities
  • 20-layer nano coating on both sides resists water, oil, fingerprints, and dust for easy field maintenance
  • Larger front thread design prevents vignetting on wide-angle lenses down to 16mm
  • Compatible with the NiSi Swift System for quick, tool-free filter stacking

👎 Cons

  • Maximum density of 5 stops (ND32) may be insufficient for extreme long exposures in bright daylight
  • The 72mm thread size requires step-up rings for use on lenses with smaller filter threads
  • Swift System expansion filters are sold separately, adding cost to build a complete stacking kit
  • Variable ND filters inherently cannot match the optical consistency of single-density fixed ND filters
  • Premium pricing compared to basic variable ND options from budget filter brands

Frequently Asked Questions

No. NiSi's exclusive True Color coating is specifically designed to prevent the yellow tint common in other variable ND filters, maintaining neutral, accurate color rendering across the full 1–5 stop range.
The "X" effect is a cross-shaped dark pattern that appears in some variable ND filters at higher density settings, especially on wide-angle lenses. NiSi's design limits the range to 1–5 stops specifically to avoid this artifact.
The filter is designed with a larger front thread and slim profile to eliminate vignetting down to 16mm wide-angle lenses. The matte black frame interior also absorbs stray light to reduce flare.
The Swift System allows you to press additional 72mm Swift-compatible filters onto the front of this variable ND filter for quick stacking, adding effects like polarization or graduated density without threading multiple filters.
The 20-layer multi-nano coating on both glass surfaces provides water resistance, oil resistance, and dust repellence, making the filter easy to clean and durable enough for outdoor and field use.