Tiffen 52VND 52mm Variable ND Filter — main product image

Tiffen

Tiffen 52VND 52mm Variable ND Filter

Name: Tiffen 52VND 52mm Variable ND Filter
Brand: Tiffen
SKU: 52VND

★★★★★4.5 (1771 reviews)

Control exposure with precision using Tiffen's 52mm Variable ND Filter, offering seamless light reduction in a single, compact filter.

$84.09*

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*Price sourced from Amazon.com. Last updated:Jul 15, 2026.Price and availability are subject to change.

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Overview

The Tiffen 52mm Variable ND Filter is designed to give photographers and videographers smooth, on-the-fly control over light entering the lens. Rather than carrying a set of fixed neutral density filters and swapping them out as conditions change, this single filter lets you rotate the outer ring to dial in the precise amount of light reduction you need. This makes it particularly useful for shooting video at a fixed shutter speed outdoors, or for achieving shallow depth-of-field with wide apertures in bright sunlight.

Built in the USA, the filter features a low-profile black ring intended to reduce vignetting on standard focal lengths. It also offers basic UV protection, serving double duty as an everyday lens protector when set to minimum density. The 52mm thread size fits a range of popular lenses, and step-up adapter rings can extend compatibility to other sizes. Backed by Tiffen's 10-year warranty, it represents a practical, cost-effective solution for light management without the bulk of a multi-filter kit.

Key Features

Provides 2 to 8 stops of light control

Wider outer optic to help reduce vignetting at wide angles

Specifications

Filter Type

Variable ND (Neutral Density)

Diameter

52mm

Ring Profile

Low Profile Black Ring

Additional Protection

Basic UV Protection

Country of Manufacture

USA

Warranty

10 Years

Pros & Cons

👍 Pros

Continuously adjustable density eliminates the need to carry multiple fixed ND filters
Low-profile ring design helps reduce vignetting on standard and moderate wide-angle lenses
Made in the USA with Tiffen's established optical glass manufacturing quality
10-year warranty provides long-term confidence in the purchase
Provides basic UV protection in addition to ND functionality

👎 Cons

52mm thread size limits use to smaller lenses unless step-up rings are purchased separately
At maximum density settings, cross-pattern artifacts or slight color shifts may appear
No hard stop markings on the ring to indicate exact ND stop values
Does not include a protective case or pouch for storage

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the adjustment range of the Tiffen 52mm Variable ND Filter?

The filter provides a continuous range of neutral density, allowing you to dial in the exact amount of light reduction needed without swapping between fixed ND filters.

Does this variable ND filter cause any color cast?

Tiffen designs this filter to reduce light without affecting color balance. However, at the maximum density setting, some cross-pattern vignetting or slight color shift may occur, which is common with variable ND filters.

Will the low-profile ring cause vignetting on wide-angle lenses?

The low-profile black ring is designed to minimize vignetting, but on ultra-wide-angle lenses you may still see some corner darkening at the widest focal lengths.

Can this filter be used for video as well as photography?

Yes, it is well-suited for video work where you need to maintain a specific shutter speed and aperture in changing light conditions without stopping to swap filters.

What is covered under the 10-year warranty?

Tiffen's 10-year warranty covers manufacturing defects in materials and workmanship. It does not cover damage from drops, scratches, or misuse.