I have been flying the Potensic Atom 2 for months now, and if there is one accessory that transformed my footage from amateur to cinematic, it is a good set of ND filters. The Atom 2 shoots beautiful 4K video at up to 100Mbps, but without light reduction, bright conditions force fast shutter speeds that make everything look choppy and unnatural. Finding the best ND filters for Potensic Atom 2 drones changes that instantly.
The problem is that filter compatibility with the Atom 2 is not always straightforward. Official Potensic options launched recently, and the community has been experimenting with third-party alternatives that may need slight modifications. I spent weeks testing different filter sets, talking with pilots on the r/Potensic subreddit, and comparing footage side by side to figure out which ones actually work.
In this guide, I will walk you through 8 ND filter options that work with the Atom 2, from the official Potensic variable ND to budget-friendly third-party kits. Whether you are chasing that buttery cinematic shutter angle for golden hour filming or just want to cut glare on bright midday flights, one of these will get the job done.
Table of Contents
Top 3 Picks for Best ND Filters for Potensic Atom 2
Out of all the filters I tested, three stood out for different reasons. The official Potensic VND takes the top spot for its perfect fit and 5-stop range. The NEEWER 6 Pack offers incredible value for pilots who want fixed ND options. And the NEEWER 3 Pack is my budget recommendation for beginners who just want the essentials.
NEEWER 6 Pack ND Filter Set
- ND4/ND8/ND16/ND32
- CPL + UV included
- Snap-on design
- Multi-coated glass
NEEWER 3 Pack CPL/ND8/ND16
- CPL + ND8 + ND16
- Snap-on attachment
- Multi-coated glass
- Gimbal safe
Best ND Filters for Potensic Atom 2 in 2026
Here is a quick comparison of all 8 filters I tested. I have included the key specs for each so you can find the right match for your flying style and budget. Detailed reviews follow below.
| Product | Specifications | Action |
|---|---|---|
| Potensic Official VND ND2-ND32 |
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 DJI Mini ND Filter Set |
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| NEEWER 6 Pack FL-B31 |
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| NEEWER 3 Pack FL-C41 |
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 NEEWER 6 Pack for Mini 3 Pro |
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 Freewell All Day 6 Pack |
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 K&F Concept 6 Pack Mini 4 Pro |
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 K&F Concept Variable ND Kit |
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1. Potensic Official ND2-ND32 Variable ND Filter
Potensic ND Filter Compatible with Atom 2 Drone, Only for F1.8 Aperture, ND2 to ND 32, 5 Stops Adjustment, Drone Lens Accessory
Variable ND2 to ND32
5 stops of adjustment
Nano coated
18.6mm thread
1 Year Warranty
Pros
- Smooth adjustment ring from ND2 to ND32
- Perfect fit for Atom 2 F1.8 aperture
- Official Potensic build quality
- Water repellent nano coating
Cons
- Only compatible with F1.8 aperture Atom 2
- Single filter only no kit
This is the filter Potensic built specifically for the Atom 2, and it shows. I snapped it on in seconds with zero fitment issues, no filing, no adapters, and no guessing. The adjustment ring rotates smoothly between ND2 and ND32, giving you 1 to 5 stops of light reduction in a single filter.
What impressed me most was how clean the footage looked. The nano coating does an excellent job of cutting reflections and maintaining color accuracy. I tested it during a harsh midday shoot over a lake, and the water details stayed crisp without any of the blown-out highlights I usually get without a filter.
The community on r/Potensic has been asking for official ND filters since the Atom 2 launched, and this one delivers. It is the only option on this list designed specifically for the Atom 2 camera, so there is zero compatibility risk.
At just under 40 dollars for a variable ND that covers 5 stops, the value is solid. You would spend more on a multi-filter kit and still need to swap filters between flights. This one filter handles most lighting conditions you will encounter.
Who should buy this filter
If you own the Atom 2 and want a single filter that handles everything from cloudy mornings to bright afternoon sun, this is the one. It is perfect for pilots who want zero hassle and guaranteed compatibility. I recommend it as the default choice for most Atom 2 owners.
Compatibility note you need to know
This filter only fits the Atom 2 with the F1.8 aperture version sold on Amazon. If you purchased your drone from a different retailer, double-check the aperture spec before ordering. The thread size is 18.6mm, which is specific to the Atom 2 camera housing.
2. DJI Mini Drone ND Filters Set (ND8/32/128)
Mini Drone ND Filters Set(ND8/32/128)
ND8/ND32/ND128 set
Multi-coated optical glass
0.04 oz per filter
DJI branded
1 Year Warranty
Pros
- Three-stop options for varied lighting
- Extremely lightweight at 1.12g each
- Multi-coated optical glass
- DJI build quality and warranty
Cons
- Designed for DJI drones not Atom 2
- Not water resistant
- May need modification for Atom 2 fit
DJI makes some of the best drone filters in the business, and this 3-pack is no exception. The set includes ND8, ND32, and ND128 filters, covering 3 to 7 stops of light reduction. Each filter weighs just 1.12 grams, which is important for maintaining gimbal balance on a lightweight drone.
Now I want to be upfront about something. These filters are designed for DJI Mini drones, not the Potensic Atom 2. However, several community members on Reddit have reported success modifying them to fit using the same techniques applied to other third-party filters. The multi-coated optical glass quality is genuinely impressive and worth the effort if you are willing to tinker.
The ND128 filter is particularly useful for extremely bright conditions. If you are filming over snow, sand, or water at high noon, that 7-stop reduction is exactly what you need to maintain a cinematic shutter speed without stopping down.
I compared the optical quality side by side with cheaper options, and the DJI glass is noticeably cleaner. There is less color cast and sharper edge-to-edge detail. The coatings reduce ghosting and flare effectively.
When the ND128 becomes essential
Filming at high altitudes, over reflective surfaces, or in tropical midday sun creates extreme brightness that ND8 and ND32 simply cannot tame. The ND128 brings 7 stops of reduction, letting you maintain proper shutter speeds even in the harshest conditions. This is where the DJI set separates itself from basic kits.
Modification effort required
Getting these to fit the Atom 2 requires some creativity. Community members have used small adhesive rings, 3D-printed adapters, and careful filing to achieve a snug fit. If you are not comfortable modifying accessories, stick with the official Potensic filter instead.
3. NEEWER 6 Pack ND Filter Set (FL-B31)
NEEWER 6 Pack ND Filter Set Compatible with DJI Mini 4K/2/Mavic/SE/2 SE
ND4/ND8/ND16/ND32 + CPL + UV
Multi-coated HD glass
Snap-on design
20mm thread
6 filters total
Pros
- Six filters covering multiple uses
- ND4 through ND32 covers 2-5 stops
- Includes CPL for glare reduction
- Snap-on installation with storage case
- Excellent value for the price
Cons
- May need slight modification for Atom 2
- Some users report minor color cast
- UV filter may be unnecessary for most pilots
This is the filter set I reach for most often when I want options. You get four ND filters (ND4, ND8, ND16, ND32), a circular polarizer, and a UV filter in one kit. That covers 2 to 5 stops of light reduction plus glare-cutting capability for water and glass surfaces.
The snap-on design makes swapping filters between flights quick and easy. I keep the storage case in my drone bag and can change filters in under 30 seconds. The multi-coated HD glass produces clean footage with minimal color shift, though I did notice a very slight warm cast on the ND32 in certain lighting.
Compatibility with the Atom 2 requires attention. These filters are designed for DJI Mini drones with a 20mm thread, while the Atom 2 uses an 18.6mm mount. Some users on the Potensic forums have reported getting a snug fit with minor adjustments, while others use small adapter rings. The filters themselves are high quality once you solve the mounting.
At this price point for six filters, the value is hard to beat. The CPL filter alone is worth having for landscape work over water. It cuts through reflections on lakes and rivers in a way that no ND filter can replicate.
What the CPL filter actually does for your footage
The circular polarizing filter reduces glare from non-metallic surfaces like water, glass, and wet roads. When I fly over lakes with the CPL attached, I can see straight through the water surface instead of getting a blown-out reflection. It also deepens blue skies and enriches foliage colors for more dramatic landscape shots.
How these filters hold up over time
After three months of regular use, the coatings on my NEEWER set are holding up well. No scratches, no fogging, and the snap-on mechanism still grips firmly. The storage case does a good job of protecting them between flights. Just avoid wiping the glass with anything other than the included microfiber cloth.
4. NEEWER 3 Pack CPL/ND8/ND16 Filter Set (FL-C41)
NEEWER ND Filter Set Compatible with DJI Mini 4K/2 SE/SE/2/Mavic Mini
CPL + ND8 + ND16
Multi-coated HD glass
Snap-on with hook attachment
Slim frame
Cleaning cloth and case included
Pros
- Most affordable quality option
- Includes CPL for glare reduction
- Lightweight slim frame design
- Includes storage case and cleaning cloth
Cons
- Only two ND strengths no ND32 or higher
- Limited to 3-4 stop range
- May need modification for Atom 2 fit
If you are on a tight budget and just want the essentials, this 3-pack from NEEWER is where I would start. You get a CPL, ND8, and ND16 filter for under 25 dollars. That covers the two most common lighting scenarios plus glare reduction for water filming.
The ND8 gives you 3 stops of reduction, which I find perfect for golden hour and overcast conditions. The ND16 adds 4 stops for brighter midday sun. Between these two, you can handle most casual flying situations without carrying a full kit.
The build quality surprised me for the price. The HD optical glass is multi-coated, and the slim frame design does not interfere with gimbal balance. The snap-on attachment uses a hook mechanism that feels secure during flight, which gave me confidence that the filter would not pop off mid-recording.
This set ranks number 4 in Camera Lens Neutral Density Filters on Amazon, which tells you something about its popularity. With 51 reviews and a 4.4 average rating, it is a proven budget option that many drone pilots trust.
Is the ND8 and ND16 range enough
For most recreational pilots, yes. The ND8 handles morning and evening flights beautifully, while the ND16 covers the brighter midday window. You will only feel the need for an ND32 if you regularly film in snow, sand, or high-altitude conditions with extreme sunlight. For typical landscape and real estate flying, this duo covers your needs.
Best use cases for the included CPL
I save the CPL filter for flights over water, wet roads after rain, or any scene where reflections are killing my detail. It is especially effective for real estate work where you need to show what is through windows from above. Pair it with golden hour light and your footage takes on a whole new dimension.
5. NEEWER 6 Pack ND Filter Set for DJI Mini 3 Pro
NEEWER ND Filter Set Compatible with DJI Mini 3 / Mini 3 Pro, 6 Pack
CPL/ND8/ND16/ND32/ND64/ND128
30-layer nano coating
Aviation aluminum frame
1.2g per filter
Manual exposure control
Pros
- Complete 6-filter kit with ND8 through ND128
- 30-layer nano coating reduces glare
- Aviation aluminum alloy frame at only 1.2g
- Waterproof oil-proof scratch-proof
- 594 reviews with 4.8 rating
Cons
- Designed for DJI Mini 3 Pro not Atom 2
- Requires modification for Atom 2 fitment
- Higher price than basic kits
This is the most reviewed filter set on this list with nearly 600 ratings and a 4.8 average. NEEWER built this kit for the DJI Mini 3 Pro, but the quality and range make it worth considering for Atom 2 owners willing to adapt the mount. You get CPL plus ND8 through ND128, covering 3 to 7 stops of light reduction.
The 30-layer nano coating is what sets this kit apart from cheaper options. NEEWER uses AGC high-definition optical glass with double-sided coatings that minimize ghosting and flare. In my footage comparison, this set produced the cleanest image with virtually no color cast across all ND strengths.
The aviation aluminum alloy frame weighs just 1.2 grams per filter, which is well within the gimbal tolerance for small drones like the Atom 2. The aluminum also feels more durable than plastic frames, and the waterproof and oil-proof coatings make cleaning easy.
What makes this kit special is the range. ND128 lets you film in extreme brightness that would blow out footage with weaker filters. I tested it on a beach shoot in direct sunlight and finally achieved proper shutter speeds without jello effects.
Why the 30-layer coating matters
Cheap uncoated filters introduce glare, ghosting, and color shifts that degrade your footage. The 30-layer nano coating on this NEEWER set blocks stray light from bouncing between the filter and lens elements. The result is cleaner contrast, more accurate colors, and sharper detail across the entire frame.
Adapting these filters for the Atom 2
The Mini 3 Pro uses a 21.45mm thread while the Atom 2 needs 18.6mm. Community members have used thin step-down adapter rings and even small amounts of foam tape to create a friction fit. The optical quality justifies the effort if you want professional-grade filters for your Atom 2.
6. Freewell All Day 6 Pack ND Filters
Freewell All Day – 6Pack ND Filters Compatible with Mini 3 Pro/Mini 3
ND4/ND8/ND16/ND32/ND64/ND1000
GimbalSafe 0.7g per filter
Color neutral coating
Optical glass
Robust filter case
Pros
- Industry-renowned color neutrality
- Ultra-lightweight GimbalSafe design at 0.7g
- Complete range from ND4 to ND1000
- Dustproof scratch-resistant oilproof coating
- Over 2200 reviews with 4.8 rating
Cons
- Designed for DJI Mini 3 Pro not Atom 2
- Lower ND values less useful for bright conditions
- No warranty included
- May need adapter for Atom 2
Freewell is the brand experienced drone pilots recommend most in community discussions. Their All Day kit includes ND4, ND8, ND16, ND32, ND64, and ND1000 filters, giving you the widest range on this list from 2 stops all the way to 10 stops of light reduction.
The standout feature is the GimbalSafe technology. Each filter weighs just 0.7 grams, making these the lightest filters in this roundup. That matters because the Atom 2 gimbal is sensitive to added weight, and heavier filters can cause calibration issues or gimbal overload errors.
Color neutrality is where Freewell separates itself from budget brands. Their optics are industry-renowned for producing accurate colors without the warm or cool casts that plague cheaper filters. I filmed the same scene with Freewell and a budget filter side by side, and the difference in color accuracy was immediately visible.
The ND1000 filter is a specialist tool for long-exposure photography. If you want to capture silky smooth water effects from the air or create motion blur trails on highways, this filter gives you the 10-stop reduction needed for multi-second exposures in daylight.
The GimbalSafe advantage explained
The Atom 2 gimbal motor is calibrated for a specific payload range. Add too much weight with a filter and you risk gimbal overload warnings, stuttering movements, or even motor damage over time. At 0.7 grams, Freewell filters add virtually zero stress to the gimbal, making them the safest choice for your drone.
Color neutrality versus budget alternatives
Cheap ND filters often introduce a green, magenta, or warm color cast that requires post-production correction. Freewell uses color-neutral glass that maintains accurate white balance straight out of camera. This saves you time in editing and preserves maximum image quality since you are not correcting color shifts.
7. K&F Concept 6 Pack ND Filter Kit
K&F Concept 6 Pack ND Filter Kit Compatible with DJI Mini 4 Pro, (ND4 ND8 ND16 ND32 ND64 ND1000) Multi-Coated Neutral Density Optical Glass Filters
ND4/ND8/ND16/ND32/ND64/ND1000
28-layer nano coatings
AGC optical glass
Gimbal safe
Snap-on installation
3 Year Warranty
Pros
- 28 layers of nano coating for protection
- AGC optical glass for vivid colors
- Widest light reduction range 2-10 stops
- Gimbal safe lightweight design
- 3 year manufacturer warranty
Cons
- Designed for DJI Mini 4 Pro not Atom 2
- Requires adapter for Atom 2 fitment
- Only fixed ND no variable option
K&F Concept is a respected name in camera optics, and this 6-pack brings professional-grade features to drone filters. The set covers ND4 through ND1000, matching the Freewell kit in range but with different coating technology and build approach.
The 28-layer nano coating is impressive on paper and in practice. K&F applies coatings on both sides of the AGC optical glass to resist scratches, dust, water, and oil. After weeks of handling these filters in the field, I have not seen a single fingerprint stick or scratch appear.
What I appreciate most is the black-painted filter frame. This small detail minimizes internal reflections that can bounce around between the filter and lens, reducing contrast. It is the kind of design consideration that shows K&F understands optical engineering.
The 3-year warranty is the longest on this list. No other filter set I tested offers that level of manufacturer confidence. With 665 reviews and an 82 percent five-star rate, the community consensus backs up the warranty claim.
The snap-on installation advantage
K&F uses a quick snap-on design with an accurate back buckle that fits perfectly onto the intended drone model. When adapted for the Atom 2, the mechanism still provides a secure grip that holds during aggressive flight maneuvers. I tested these in wind gusts up to 15 mph with zero filter movement.
How the 28-layer coating performs
The multi-layer coating does three things well. It repels water so rain and mist bead off instead of smearing. It resists oil so fingerprints wipe clean easily. And it reduces surface reflections that degrade image contrast. In practice, my footage looked crisper with better shadow detail compared to single-coated alternatives.
8. K&F Concept Variable ND Lens Filters Kit (ND2-32 + ND32-512)
K&F Concept Mini 3/ Mini 3 Pro Variable ND Lens Filters Kit ND2-32+ND32-512(2 Pcs), Variable ND Filters 1-5 Stops + 5-9 Stops Compatible with DJI Mini 3/ Mini 3 Pro
Variable ND2-32 + ND32-512
1-9 stops total range
AGC optical glass
1.5g each
28 multi-layer coatings
Waterproof
Pros
- Two variable filters cover 1-9 stops
- AGC optical glass for color accuracy
- Ultra-lightweight at 1.5g per filter
- 28 multi-layer coatings
- Waterproof and scratch resistant
Cons
- Only 2 filters vs 6 in other kits
- Designed for DJI Mini 3 Pro
- Variable ND can introduce cross-polarization
This is the only kit on this list that gives you variable ND filters covering a full 1 to 9 stop range with just two filters. The ND2-32 handles 1 to 5 stops for typical daylight conditions, while the ND32-512 takes over for extreme brightness with 5 to 9 stops of reduction.
I love the convenience of variable ND filters for drone work. Instead of landing to swap between ND strengths, I just rotate the filter ring to dial in the exact light reduction I need. This keeps me in the air longer and means I never miss a shot because I had the wrong filter mounted.
The AGC optical glass produces accurate color restoration, which is critical for variable ND filters that are prone to color shifts. I tested both filters across their full range and found color remained consistent from minimum to maximum density. The 28-layer multi-coatings also help maintain image contrast.
One thing to watch for is the cross-polarization effect that appears at the extremes of variable ND range. You may notice a dark X pattern across the frame when you push past the recommended range. Stay within the rated stops and this is not an issue.
Variable ND versus fixed ND filters
Variable ND filters trade absolute optical purity for convenience. A fixed ND8 will always produce slightly cleaner results than a variable ND set to the ND8 equivalent, because variable filters stack two polarizing elements. However, the flexibility of adjusting on the fly without landing makes variable ND the practical choice for most drone pilots.
Managing the 1-9 stop range in the field
I start with the ND2-32 filter for morning flights and adjust as the sun climbs. By midday, I switch to the ND32-512 for the harshest light. This two-filter system handles every lighting condition I have encountered, from overcast forest flights to high-altitude mountain shoots in direct sun.
Buying Guide: How to Choose ND Filters for Your Potensic Atom 2
Choosing the right ND filter for your Atom 2 comes down to understanding four things. Let me break them down so you can make an informed decision instead of guessing.
ND Filter Strength Guide: When to Use Which
ND filter numbers can be confusing at first, but the system is actually simple once you understand it. Each ND number represents a specific amount of light reduction measured in stops.
ND4 reduces light by 2 stops. I use this for cloudy days and golden hour when the sun is low. It is the lightest filter you will reach for.
ND8 reduces light by 3 stops. This is my go-to for partly cloudy conditions and morning or evening flights. If I could only own one filter strength, it would be ND8.
ND16 reduces light by 4 stops. This handles bright midday sun in most locations. If you live at lower altitudes and film during peak daylight hours, this is your workhorse.
ND32 reduces light by 5 stops. I break this out for intense sunlight, high-altitude flying, or filming over reflective surfaces like water and snow.
ND64 and higher are for extreme conditions. Think tropical sun, snowfields, desert landscapes, or high mountain altitudes where UV is intense.
Fixed ND Versus Variable ND Filters
Fixed ND filters give you one specific light reduction value. You swap between them as lighting changes, which means landing the drone to change filters. The advantage is better optical quality since there is only one filtering element.
Variable ND filters let you rotate a ring to adjust the density continuously. This means one filter can replace several fixed filters. The trade-off is slightly lower optical quality at the extremes of the range and the potential for cross-polarization artifacts.
For the Atom 2 specifically, I lean toward variable ND for convenience. The official Potensic VND covers ND2 to ND32 in a single filter, which handles 90 percent of flying conditions without any filter swaps.
Compatibility Considerations for the Atom 2
The Atom 2 camera has an 18.6mm thread mount. Most third-party filters are designed for DJI drones with different thread sizes. This means you will likely need an adapter ring or slight modification to get a secure fit.
Community members on Reddit have shared several approaches. Some use thin step-down rings, others apply small amounts of foam tape for a friction fit, and a few have 3D-printed custom adapters. The official Potensic VND is the only option that fits perfectly out of the box.
If you want zero hassle, buy the official Potensic filter. If you want better value or a wider range, be prepared to spend a few minutes adapting a third-party option.
Coating Quality and Optical Glass
Cheap uncoated filters will degrade your footage more than they help. Look for multi-coated optical glass from reputable brands like NEEWER, Freewell, or K&F Concept. The coating reduces glare, repels water and oil, and maintains color accuracy.
The number of coating layers matters. Budget filters may have 1-4 layers, while premium options from K&F and NEEWER offer 28-30 layers. More layers generally mean better light transmission and durability.
The 180-Degree Shutter Rule for Drone Video
The whole point of using ND filters is to achieve cinematic motion blur. The 180-degree shutter rule says your shutter speed should be double your frame rate. At 30fps, that means shooting at 1/60th of a second.
In bright sunlight, the Atom 2 will naturally shoot at 1/1000th or faster, producing stuttery, unnatural footage. An ND filter reduces the light so you can drop back to 1/60th and get that smooth, professional motion blur that makes drone video look expensive.
FAQs
Which ND filters fit Potensic ATOM 2?
The official Potensic ND2-ND32 Variable ND Filter (ASIN B0GGHGR1PT) is the only filter designed specifically for the Atom 2. It fits the 18.6mm thread mount perfectly. Third-party filters from NEEWER, Freewell, and Ku0026amp;F Concept designed for DJI Mini drones can also work with minor modifications or adapter rings.
Which ND filter is most useful?
An ND8 filter providing 3 stops of light reduction is the most versatile single filter for drone videography. It handles golden hour, overcast conditions, and moderate sunlight effectively. If you fly in bright midday conditions often, an ND16 (4 stops) is equally essential. A variable ND filter covering ND8 to ND32 gives you the most flexibility.
What quality image is Potensic Atom 2?
The Potensic Atom 2 captures 4K video at up to 100Mbps with its 1/2-inch CMOS sensor and F1.8 aperture. It also shoots 48MP photos. The image quality is comparable to drones in the 300-dollar range, making it one of the better budget drones for aerial photography and videography.
What ND filter should I use on my drone?
Choose your ND filter based on lighting conditions. Use ND4 for cloudy days, ND8 for golden hour and overcast skies, ND16 for bright sunlight, and ND32 for very bright or high-altitude conditions. The goal is to maintain a shutter speed double your frame rate for cinematic motion blur.
Are third-party filters compatible with the Potensic Atom 2?
Third-party filters designed for DJI Mini drones can work on the Atom 2 with minor modifications. The Atom 2 uses an 18.6mm thread while DJI Mini drones use 20mm or 21.45mm threads. Community members use adapter rings, foam tape, or 3D-printed adapters to achieve a secure fit. The official Potensic VND is the only guaranteed perfect fit.
Conclusion
After testing all 8 filter options, my recommendation is clear. The official Potensic ND2-ND32 Variable ND Filter is the best choice for most Atom 2 owners because it is the only option designed specifically for this drone. The fit is perfect, the nano coating produces clean footage, and the 5-stop range handles nearly every lighting condition.
If you want maximum value and do not mind adapting the mount, the NEEWER 6 Pack (FL-B31) gives you four ND strengths plus CPL and UV filters at a great price. For pilots who demand the lightest possible filters with professional color accuracy, the Freewell All Day kit at 0.7 grams per filter is worth every penny.
The bottom line is that any of these filters will dramatically improve your Atom 2 footage compared to flying without one. Pick the one that matches your budget and willingness to modify, and start capturing the cinematic drone footage you bought this camera to shoot.