The DJI Air 3S has a unique dual-camera system that creates both opportunity and frustration for aerial filmmakers. Its 24mm wide-angle lens shoots at f/1.7 while the 70mm medium tele lens shoots at f/2.8, meaning both cameras let in different amounts of light. This is exactly why finding the best ND filters for DJI Air 3S is more complex than for other drones, and why split ND filter technology matters so much.
When I first started flying the Air 3S, my footage looked overexposed on bright days. The large apertures let in too much light to maintain the cinematic 180-degree shutter rule, and the mismatch between the two lenses made things worse. Standard ND filters would fix one lens but overexpose the other. I spent weeks researching and testing different filter options to solve this.
In this guide, I’ll walk you through 10 DJI Air 3S neutral density filter options I’ve tested across different lighting conditions. From split ND sets that handle the dual-lens challenge to specialized filters for long exposure and night photography, I’ll cover what works, what to avoid, and how to choose the right setup for your shooting style. Whether you’re a beginner building your first filter kit or an experienced pilot upgrading from the Air 3, this guide has you covered.
Table of Contents
Top 3 Picks for Best ND Filters for DJI Air 3S in October 2026
After testing all 10 filter options extensively with my Air 3S, three stood out from the rest. These picks cover different budgets and shooting needs while all delivering excellent results for the dual-camera system.
Freewell Air 3S Bright Day Split ND/PL 4-Pack
- Split ND/PL technology
- GimbalSafe tested
- 4 filters for bright conditions
- Multi-coated optical glass
Freewell Air 3S Split ND Filter 4-Pack
- Split ND for dual focal lengths
- GimbalSafe Technology
- ND8 through ND128
- 114+ customer reviews
DJI Air 3S ND Filter Set ND8/32/128
- Official DJI product
- Perfect 5.0 rating
- Multi-coated optical glass
- Seamless compatibility
My top pick is the Freewell Bright Day Split ND/PL 4-Pack because it combines split technology with polarization in one set. The Freewell Split ND 4-Pack wins for best value with 114+ reviews backing its performance. And the official DJI ND Filter Set earns the top rated badge with a perfect 5.0-star rating from verified buyers.
Best ND Filters for DJI Air 3S in 2026
Here’s a complete comparison of all 10 filter sets I tested. The table below shows every option with key features so you can quickly find the right match for your needs.
| Product | Specifications | Action |
|---|---|---|
| DJI Air 3S ND Filter Set ND8/32/128 |
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| Freewell Split ND 4-Pack |
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 K&F Concept ND/PL 4-Pack |
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| Freewell Bright Day Split ND/PL 4-Pack |
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 STARTRC ND/CPL Filter Set |
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 K&F Concept 3-Pack ND/PL |
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 Freewell ND1000 Long Exposure |
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 Freewell Light Pollution Reduction |
|
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 Freewell Black Glow Mist 1/4 |
|
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 Freewell PL Polarizer Filter |
|
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1. DJI Air 3S ND Filter Set (ND8/32/128) – Official DJI Filters
DJI Air 3S ND Filter Set (ND8/32/128)
Official DJI filters
ND8 ND32 ND128
Multi-coated optical glass
90 grams
Perfect compatibility
Pros
- Perfect fit guaranteed by DJI
- Seamless ecosystem integration
- Precise shutter speed control
- Improves video quality in bright sunlight
- Multi-coated for color accuracy
Cons
- Only 3 filters in the set
- No polarization option
- Limited stock available
- Higher price point
I started my testing with the official DJI ND filter set because I wanted a baseline to compare everything against. These filters include ND8, ND32, and ND128 options, giving you three stops of light reduction to work with across different lighting conditions. Right away, I noticed the fit was perfect, which makes sense since DJI designed them specifically for the Air 3S.
The multi-coated optical glass produces clean footage with no visible color cast in my tests. DJI designed these filters to work with both the f/1.7 wide and f/2.8 telephoto lenses, maintaining consistent image quality across both cameras. The filters snap on securely and stay in place even during aggressive flight maneuvers.
In bright midday sun, the ND128 brought my shutter speed down to the cinematic sweet spot when shooting at 24fps. The ND8 was perfect for golden hour shooting, while the ND32 handled cloudy conditions well. Every filter felt well-built with smooth edges and quality glass that resisted fingerprints during handling.
The main drawback is that you only get three filters. There’s no ND16 or ND64, which leaves gaps in your coverage for certain lighting conditions. DJI also doesn’t include any polarizer option in this set, so if you film over water frequently, you’ll need to buy additional filters separately from third parties.
Best Use Cases
These filters shine when you want guaranteed compatibility and don’t want to risk third-party options. They’re ideal for pilots who already own DJI drones and trust the brand’s quality standards. The perfect 5.0-star rating from 13 reviewers backs up the quality claims.
Who Should Look Elsewhere
If you need polarization, split ND technology, or more than three filter strengths, you’ll want to explore the Freewell or K&F Concept options instead. The official DJI set is premium but limited in variety compared to third-party alternatives.
2. Freewell Air 3S Split ND Filter 4-Pack – Dual Lens Solution
Freewell Air 3S Split ND Filter 4-Pack
Split ND technology
4 filters ND8-ND128
GimbalSafe tested
Multi-coated glass
Dual focal length optimized
Pros
- Split ND handles dual lenses perfectly
- GimbalSafe Technology tested
- 4 filters cover wide range
- Better value than DJI filters
- Excellent fit reported by users
Cons
- Some report thin plastic construction
- Not compatible with original Air 3
- Plastic may feel less premium
- No polarization option
The Freewell Split ND 4-Pack was the filter set that finally solved my dual-lens exposure problems. Unlike standard filters, these split ND filters apply different light reduction to each lens, compensating for the f/1.7 wide and f/2.8 telephoto aperture difference. This means both cameras produce properly exposed footage simultaneously without manual adjustment.
The set includes ND8/ND16, ND16/ND32, ND32/ND64, and ND64/ND128 combinations. Each filter is designed for a specific brightness range, from daylight to extreme conditions. I tested these extensively on sunny beaches and found the split technology made a noticeable difference in maintaining balanced exposure across both cameras throughout the day.
With 114 reviews and a 4.3-star average, this is one of the most popular Air 3S filter sets on the market. Reviewers consistently praise the fit and value compared to DJI branded options. The GimbalSafe Technology passed my balance tests, with no calibration issues during flights in various wind conditions.
The main complaint from users involves build quality. Some reviewers mention the plastic construction feels thin compared to aluminum-frame alternatives. I didn’t experience any durability issues during my testing period, but I’d recommend handling them with care during installation and removal to extend their lifespan.
Installation and Gimbal Performance
The filters snap on quickly without tools, and GimbalSafe Technology means you won’t get gimbal overload errors. I flew in various conditions including wind gusts without any gimbal calibration warnings. The lightweight design keeps the drone balanced and responsive.
Compatibility Warning
Make sure you have the Air 3S and not the original Air 3. These filters are not compatible with the older model, and several reviewers reported issues after accidentally buying the wrong version. Double-check your drone model before ordering to avoid disappointment.
3. K&F Concept ND/PL Filter Set 4-Pack – Hybrid Performance
K&F CONCEPT 4Pack ND PL Filter Set Compatible with DJI Air 3S
Hybrid ND/PL 2-in-1 design
ND8/PL through ND64/PL
Matte black finish
Gimbal safe tested
Multi-coated glass
Pros
- Combines ND and polarization in one filter
- Eliminates need for separate filters
- Excellent contrast and polarization
- Multiple stops of light reduction
- Matte finish minimizes reflections
Cons
- Some users report yellow color cast
- May introduce glare in certain conditions
- Results vary by lighting
- Not split filter design
The K&F Concept ND/PL filter set caught my attention because it combines neutral density and circular polarizer technology in a single filter. This hybrid approach means you get light reduction and glare reduction simultaneously, which is perfect for shooting over water, snow, or other reflective surfaces where both issues occur together.
The set includes ND8/PL, ND16/PL, ND32/PL, and ND64/PL filters, offering 3 to 6 stops of light reduction with polarization. I tested these extensively while filming lakes and coastal areas, and the glare reduction was immediately noticeable. Colors appeared more vibrant, especially blue skies and green foliage that typically wash out in bright conditions.
With 166 reviews and a 4.5-star rating, this is actually one of the most-reviewed Air 3S filter sets available. The matte black finish helps minimize internal reflections, and the filters come with a secure storage case that keeps them organized and protected during transport to flying locations.
I did notice a slight warm color cast in some of my footage, which other reviewers also mentioned. This was easy to correct in post-processing but worth noting if you shoot in JPEG or need perfect color accuracy straight from the camera. The filters are gimbal safe and didn’t cause any calibration issues during my flights.
Polarization Benefits
The circular polarizer in these filters reduces reflections from water, glass, and other non-metallic surfaces. This makes them ideal for landscape photography, water filming, and aerial photography where reflections can wash out details and reduce contrast in your footage.
Color Cast Considerations
Some users report a yellow tint that requires white balance adjustment. If you shoot in D-Log or RAW, this is easy to correct in editing. For pilots who need accurate colors straight from the drone without post-processing, the Freewell or DJI options might be better choices for your needs.
4. Freewell Air 3S Bright Day Split ND/PL 4-Pack – Premium Choice
Freewell Bright Day Split ND/PL Filters for Air 3S
Split ND/PL filters
ND4PL through ND64PL
Enhanced polarization
GimbalSafe Technology
Multi-coated optical glass
Pros
- Split technology for dual lenses
- Enhanced polarization for vivid colors
- 4 filters for bright conditions
- Excellent 4.8-star rating
- GimbalSafe tested for stability
Cons
- Higher price than basic ND sets
- No cons reported by users
- Limited to bright day conditions
- May be excessive for cloudy shooting
This is the filter set that earned my Editor’s Choice pick. The Freewell Bright Day Split ND/PL 4-Pack combines two technologies I love: split ND design for the dual-lens system and enhanced polarization for color vibrancy. It includes ND4PL/ND8PL, ND8PL/ND16PL, ND16PL/ND32PL, and ND32PL/ND64PL combinations that cover the full brightness range.
I tested these on bright summer days over ocean and mountain landscapes, and the results were impressive. The split technology balanced both cameras perfectly while the polarization cut through haze and water reflections. Colors looked vibrant and true to life, with deep blue skies and rich greens that popped without looking oversaturated or artificial.
With a 4.8-star rating across 50 reviews and 88% giving 5 stars, this set has exceptional customer satisfaction. The GimbalSafe Technology passed all my balance tests, and the multi-coated optical glass showed no color cast in my footage. These filters feel like the complete package for serious aerial filmmakers who demand quality.
The polarization effect is what really sets these apart from the standard split ND set. When filming water, I could see through the surface to the bottom in conditions where my other filters showed only glare. The enhanced contrast made landscapes look more dramatic and professional, saving significant time in post-production color grading.
When to Choose These Over Standard ND Filters
If you frequently film in bright conditions over water, snow, or other reflective surfaces, the polarization in these filters will transform your footage. They’re the best ND filters for DJI Air 3S owners who want maximum image quality in challenging lighting without compromise.
Investment Justification
While these cost more than basic ND sets, you’re getting both split ND technology and polarization in one product. This means you don’t need to buy separate polarizer and ND filters, making them a smart long-term investment for serious pilots who fly regularly.
5. STARTRC ND & CPL Filters Set – Maximum Light Reduction
STARTRC ND & CPL Filters Set for DJI Air 3S Accessories, 4 Filters Pack-(ND/16/64/256/CPL)
ND16/64/256 + CPL
Ultralight aluminum frame
Waterproof design
HD multi-coated glass
GimbalSafe tested
Pros
- ND256 offers extreme light reduction
- Waterproof aluminum alloy frame
- CPL filter included
- Lightweight design
- Gimbal safe
Cons
- Lower review count
- Some question value vs competition
- No split filter technology
- Limited filter range
The STARTRC filter set stands out for including an ND256 filter, which offers 8 stops of light reduction. This makes it ideal for extremely bright conditions where even ND64 filters can’t bring shutter speeds down enough for the 180-degree shutter rule. The set also includes ND16, ND64, and a CPL polarizer filter.
I found the ND256 particularly useful for shooting in snow conditions and high-altitude environments where light is intense and reflective. The aluminum alloy frame feels durable and premium compared to plastic alternatives, and the GimbalSafe design kept my drone stable throughout testing in various weather conditions.
With a 4.2-star rating from 16 reviews, this set has fewer reviews than some competitors but still earns positive feedback. Users praise the precision exposure control and professional build quality. The CPL filter effectively eliminates polarized light, making it versatile for different shooting scenarios beyond just light reduction.
ND256 Applications
The ND256 filter is perfect for shooting in snow, sand, or high-altitude environments where sunlight is extremely intense. It allows you to maintain proper shutter speeds even in the harshest conditions, which other filter sets simply can’t handle without overexposing your footage.
Build Quality and Design
The ultralight aluminum alloy frame is noticeably more durable than plastic alternatives. The waterproof design adds peace of mind when flying near water or in light rain. This is a well-engineered set for demanding conditions that would challenge lesser filters.
6. K&F Concept 3-Pack ND/PL Filter Set – Budget Champion
K&F CONCEPT 3Pack ND PL Filter Set Compatible with DJI Air 3S
3 filters ND8/ND16/CPL
28-layer nano coatings
Water-repellent
Scratch-resistant
Gimbal safe tested
Pros
- Most affordable option at this quality
- 28 layers of nano coating
- Water and oil repellent
- Scratch-resistant surface
- Strong customer ratings
Cons
- Only 3 filters in the set
- No split filter technology
- Limited range for extreme conditions
- Some quality variation reported
If you’re looking for the best budget ND filters for DJI Air 3S, the K&F Concept 3-Pack is hard to beat. This set includes ND8, ND16, and a CPL polarizer filter, covering the most commonly needed strengths for daytime flying. At this price point, the quality is genuinely impressive and rivals more expensive alternatives.
The standout feature here is the 28-layer nano coating on both sides of the HD optical glass. This coating makes the filters water-repellent, scratch-resistant, and oil-proof, which means they’ll survive rough handling better than cheaper alternatives. I tested these in dusty conditions and they cleaned up easily with a microfiber cloth.
With 166 reviews matching the 4-pack version and a 4.5-star rating, this budget set has earned strong customer loyalty. The ND8 and ND16 filters provide 3 and 4 stops of light reduction respectively, which covers most daytime conditions. The polarizer effectively reduces glare from water and glass surfaces.
The main limitation is the smaller range. Without ND32 or ND64, you’ll struggle in extremely bright conditions like midday sun or snow. There’s also no split filter technology, so you may notice exposure differences between the wide and telephoto lenses. For beginners or budget-conscious pilots, these trade-offs are reasonable and expected.
Beginner-Friendly Choice
This set is perfect for new Air 3S owners who want quality filters without a large investment. The three filters cover the most common shooting scenarios, and the included polarizer adds versatility for landscape and water photography that basic ND sets lack entirely.
Coating Quality
The 28-layer nano coating is exceptional at this price point. It rivals coatings on filters costing twice as much, providing excellent protection against water, oil, and scratches. This coating quality is what makes this budget set punch above its weight class and earn consistent praise.
7. Freewell ND1000 Filter – Long Exposure Specialist
Freewell ND1000 Filter Compatible with DJI Air 3S
ND1000 filter
9-10 stop reduction
Split design
Motion blur effects
GimbalSafe Technology
Pros
- Dramatic motion blur effects
- 9-10 stops of light reduction
- Perfect for harsh lighting
- Professional long exposure results
- Gimbal safe design
Cons
- Specialized single filter
- Not for everyday use
- Not water resistant
- May be too strong for most conditions
The Freewell ND1000 is a specialty filter designed for long exposure photography and video. With 9-10 stops of light reduction, it allows you to capture motion blur effects that would be impossible with standard ND filters. This is the filter I reach for when I want to create smooth, ethereal water effects or capture dramatic cloud movement.
In my testing, the ND1000 transformed rushing waterfalls into silky smooth ribbons and turned busy city streets into ghostly motion trails. The filter also works in extreme sunlight conditions where even ND128 filters can’t reduce exposure enough for proper shutter speeds. The split design ensures both the wide and telephoto lenses are properly filtered simultaneously.
With a 4.8-star rating from 11 reviews and 76% giving 5 stars, this filter has excellent satisfaction among users who understand its specialized purpose. The GimbalSafe Technology maintained proper gimbal balance throughout my flights, which is critical when using such a dense filter that could potentially affect drone performance.
Creative Applications
This filter opens up creative possibilities that standard ND sets simply can’t achieve. Use it for smooth water effects in bright daylight, dramatic cloud streaks during sunset, or motion blur on vehicles and crowds. The key is understanding that this is a creative tool, not an everyday filter for normal shooting conditions.
Lighting Requirements
The ND1000 requires very bright conditions to be practical. In normal daylight, your footage may be too dark with this filter attached. Save this filter for extremely bright environments or when you specifically want long exposure effects that create visual interest and artistic impact.
8. Freewell Light Pollution Reduction Filter – Night Sky Essential
Freewell Light Pollution Reduction Filter Compatible with DJI Air 3S
Light pollution reduction filter
Blocks unwanted wavelengths
Multi-coated glass
GimbalSafe tested
Maintains true colors
Pros
- Reduces artificial light interference
- Perfect for urban astrophotography
- Maintains true sky and star colors
- Gimbal safe design
- Specialized for night shooting
Cons
- Very specialized filter
- Not water resistant
- Only useful for night photography
- Limited to specific use case
The Freewell Light Pollution Reduction (LPR) filter is designed specifically for night photography, blocking the artificial light wavelengths that wash out stars and night skies. This is a must-have filter for anyone shooting aerial night photography or astrophotography with their Air 3S, especially in urban or suburban areas with significant light pollution.
I tested this filter in both city environments and dark sky locations. In urban areas, the difference was dramatic, cutting through the yellow-orange glow of streetlights to reveal stars that were previously invisible to the camera. In darker locations, the filter enhanced contrast and brought out more detail in the Milky Way galaxy.
With a 4.7-star rating from 16 reviews, users praise the filter’s ability to maintain true colors while reducing light pollution effectively. The GimbalSafe Technology ensures the filter won’t interfere with gimbal performance during delicate night flights. The multi-coated optical glass preserves image quality while blocking unwanted artificial wavelengths.
Urban Night Photography
This filter transforms night photography in cities and suburbs by blocking sodium and mercury vapor light emissions. Stars become visible against darker skies, and the overall image quality improves dramatically compared to unfiltered night shots that suffer from orange tinting.
Color Accuracy
Unlike some light pollution filters that introduce strong color casts, Freewell’s version maintains natural color balance. Stars appear their true colors, landscapes retain natural tones, and the sky shows realistic gradients from horizon to zenith without unwanted shifts.
9. Freewell Black Glow Mist 1/4 Filter – Cinematic Creative Tool
Freewell Black Glow Mist 1/4 Filter Compatible with DJI Air 3S – Create Soft Highlights and Dreamy Cinematic Effects for Stunning Aerial Shots
Black Glow Mist 1/4 filter
Soft highlight effects
Dreamy cinematic glow
Scratch-resistant coating
GimbalSafe Technology
Pros
- Creates beautiful cinematic effects
- Softens harsh highlights
- Adds dreamy quality to footage
- Scratch and dust resistant
- Outstanding 4.9-star rating
Cons
- Specialized creative filter
- Not water resistant
- Effect may be too subtle for some
- Single strength only
The Freewell Black Glow Mist 1/4 filter is the highest-rated filter in this entire roundup with an incredible 4.9-star rating from 21 reviews, with 92% giving 5 stars. This creative filter softens highlights and adds a dreamy glow to your aerial footage, creating a cinematic quality that’s hard to replicate in post-production editing.
I was skeptical about mist filters initially, but after testing this one, I’m a convert. It creates a subtle diffusion that softens harsh sunlight, smooths transitions between light and shadow, and adds a film-like quality to landscape footage. The 1/4 strength is perfect for aerial work, providing noticeable effects without being overwhelming.
The dustproof and scratch-resistant coating means this filter can handle the rigors of outdoor flying in challenging environments. The color-neutral coating ensures the filter doesn’t introduce unwanted color shifts, just the beautiful soft glow effect that adds production value to your footage.
Cinematic Effects
This filter mimics the look of vintage cinema lenses, adding character and warmth to digital footage. It’s particularly effective during golden hour, creating halos around the sun and softening transitions between light and shadow. The effect adds emotional quality to your footage that viewers will feel.
Best Shooting Scenarios
The Glow Mist filter excels in portrait-style aerial shots, golden hour landscapes, and any footage where you want a softer, more romantic look. It’s less suitable for technical or documentary work where maximum sharpness and detail are priorities over aesthetic mood.
10. Freewell PL Polarizer Filter – Glare Reduction Specialist
Freewell PL Filter Compatible with DJI Air 3S- Reduce Glare and Enhance Color Vibrancy for Stunning Aerial Photography
Dedicated PL polarizer filter
Reduces water and glass reflections
Enhances color vibrancy
GimbalSafe Technology
Multi-coated glass
Pros
- Superior glare reduction from reflective surfaces
- Enhances natural colors and contrast
- Perfect for water and landscape filming
- Strong international reviews
- Gimbal safe design
Cons
- Not adjustable (not circular PL)
- Some report gimbal error messages
- Not water resistant
- Fixed polarization angle
The Freewell PL Filter is a dedicated polarizer that reduces reflections and enhances color vibrancy without any ND effect. This makes it perfect for overcast conditions or when you want glare reduction without reducing shutter speed further. I use this filter extensively for water photography where reflections can obscure underwater details.
In my testing, the PL filter transformed shots over lakes and oceans. Where unfiltered footage showed only glare, the polarized version revealed underwater features and created deeper, richer blue tones in the water. Skies appeared more saturated, and foliage looked more vibrant without any post-processing adjustments needed.
With 51 reviews and a 4.6-star rating, this filter has solid support from the community. International reviewers from Italy, Turkey, France, and Germany all praise its performance in varying conditions. However, some users report occasional gimbal error messages, so I recommend recalibrating your gimbal after installation for best results.
Polarization Without ND
Unlike ND/PL hybrid filters, this dedicated polarizer doesn’t reduce light for shutter speed control. This makes it ideal for cloudy days, early morning, or late afternoon when you need glare reduction but don’t want to slow your shutter speed further beyond what conditions already dictate.
Gimbal Calibration Tips
A few users report gimbal overload warnings when using this filter. To prevent this, always recalibrate your gimbal after installing any filter. If you fly aggressively or in windy conditions, monitor your gimbal status closely during the first few flights to catch any issues early.
Buying Guide: How to Choose ND Filters for DJI Air 3S?
Choosing the right ND filters for your DJI Air 3S requires understanding several technical concepts. This buying guide covers everything you need to know to make an informed decision and get the best results from your aerial footage in any lighting condition.
Understanding ND Filter Numbers
ND filter numbers indicate how much light the filter blocks. An ND8 reduces light by 3 stops, ND16 by 4 stops, ND32 by 5 stops, ND64 by 6 stops, ND128 by 7 stops, and ND1000 by approximately 10 stops. Each stop halves the amount of light reaching the sensor, allowing you to use slower shutter speeds in bright conditions.
For the DJI Air 3S with its f/1.7 wide lens, you’ll typically need stronger ND filters than with other drones. The large aperture lets in significant light, meaning even moderately bright conditions may require ND32 or ND64 to achieve proper shutter speeds for cinematic video footage.
The 180-Degree Shutter Rule Explained
The 180-degree shutter rule is a fundamental principle of cinematic video. It states that your shutter speed should be approximately double your frame rate for natural-looking motion blur. If you’re shooting at 24fps, your shutter speed should be 1/48 second (or 1/50 on most cameras). At 30fps, aim for 1/60 second.
Without ND filters, shooting at these slow shutter speeds in daylight is impossible. Your footage would be massively overexposed and unusable. ND filters reduce the light entering the lens, allowing you to maintain the 180-degree shutter rule even in bright sunlight. This produces the smooth, professional motion blur that distinguishes cinematic footage from amateur video.
Split ND Filters: Why Air 3S Needs Them
The DJI Air 3S has two cameras with different apertures: the 24mm wide shoots at f/1.7 while the 70mm telephoto shoots at f/2.8. This means the wide lens lets in significantly more light than the telephoto lens at the same ISO and shutter speed. A standard ND filter applies the same light reduction to both cameras, which means one camera will be properly exposed while the other is over or underexposed.
Split ND filters solve this problem by applying different light reduction to each lens. For example, a split ND16/ND32 filter applies ND16 to the wide lens and ND32 to the telephoto lens, compensating for the aperture difference and ensuring both cameras produce properly exposed footage. This technology is essential for Air 3S owners who want to maintain image quality across both cameras simultaneously.
ND vs ND/PL: Which to Choose
Plain ND filters only reduce light, while ND/PL filters combine light reduction with polarization. Polarization reduces reflections from non-metallic surfaces like water, glass, and foliage, and it can enhance color saturation in skies and landscapes. However, polarization also reduces light by an additional 1-2 stops beyond the ND rating.
Choose plain ND filters when you need pure light reduction for shutter speed control. Choose ND/PL filters when you’re shooting near water, snow, or other reflective surfaces where glare is a problem. Many pilots build kits with both types for different shooting scenarios they encounter regularly.
Filter Strength Guide by Lighting Condition
Choosing the right filter strength depends on the lighting conditions you’re flying in. Here’s a practical guide based on my testing experience across multiple seasons and locations:
ND8 (3 stops): Perfect for overcast days, golden hour, and shaded areas. Ideal for early morning or late afternoon shooting when light is soft and diffused.
ND16 (4 stops): Great for partly cloudy conditions and late afternoon sun. This is your go-to filter for variable lighting conditions where brightness changes frequently.
ND32 (5 stops): The workhorse filter for typical sunny days. If I could only have one filter, this would be it for most daytime shooting scenarios.
ND64 (6 stops): Essential for bright midday sun, snow, sand, and high-altitude environments. When the sun is directly overhead, this is what you need.
ND128 (7 stops): For extremely bright conditions like tropical beaches at noon or reflective snow fields. This is a specialty filter for harsh lighting.
ND1000 (10 stops): Pure creative tool for long exposure effects. Use for silky water, motion blur, and dramatic cloud streaks in bright daylight conditions.
FAQs
Which DJI ND filter should I use?
The filter strength you need depends on lighting conditions. Use ND8 for cloudy or golden hour conditions, ND16 for partly cloudy days, ND32 for typical sunny conditions, ND64 for bright midday sun, and ND128 for extremely bright environments like snow or sand. Follow the 180-degree shutter rule: your shutter speed should be double your frame rate for cinematic footage.
Which brand of ND filter is best for DJI Air 3S?
Freewell consistently ranks as the top brand for DJI Air 3S filters due to their split ND technology and GimbalSafe design. Ku0026amp;F Concept offers excellent value with hybrid ND/PL options. The official DJI filters guarantee perfect compatibility but lack split technology. For most pilots, Freewell provides the best combination of quality, variety, and value.
Are DJI Air 3S ND filters split?
Some DJI Air 3S ND filters are split, meaning they apply different light reduction to each lens to compensate for the aperture difference between the f/1.7 wide and f/2.8 telephoto cameras. Freewell pioneered split ND technology for the Air 3S. Standard non-split filters apply the same reduction to both lenses, which can cause exposure mismatch between the two cameras.
How to know which ND filter to buy?
Consider your typical shooting conditions, budget, and whether you need polarization. For beginners, start with a 3 or 4-pack covering ND8 through ND64. If you shoot over water or snow, choose ND/PL hybrid filters. For the Air 3S specifically, prioritize split ND filters to handle the dual-lens system. Read reviews and check that filters are marked gimbal safe to avoid balance issues.
Do ND filters affect image quality?
Quality ND filters from reputable brands like Freewell, Ku0026amp;F Concept, and DJI should not negatively affect image quality when properly installed. Multi-coated optical glass maintains color accuracy and sharpness. However, cheap unbranded filters may introduce color casts, reduce sharpness, or cause lens flare. Always choose filters with multi-coating and optical glass for best results.
Final Thoughts on the Best ND Filters for DJI Air 3S
After testing all 10 filter options extensively with my DJI Air 3S, my top recommendation is the Freewell Bright Day Split ND/PL 4-Pack for its combination of split technology, polarization, and excellent build quality. For budget-conscious pilots, the K&F Concept 3-Pack offers incredible value with quality coatings at an affordable price. And for those who want guaranteed compatibility, the official DJI ND Filter Set delivers perfect results every time.
The best ND filters for DJI Air 3S ultimately depend on your shooting style and budget. Whether you choose split ND filters for dual-lens balance, ND/PL hybrids for water photography, or specialized filters for night sky and long exposure work, investing in quality filters will transform your aerial footage from amateur to professional. Start with a versatile set and expand as your needs grow.