Quick answer

Your filter thread diameter (mm) is printed on the lens barrel or front cap. Match that number exactly — there is no universal size. Common sizes for The Camera Gear Shop include 43mm, 67mm, 77mm, and 86mm.

Why thread diameter matters — and why it varies

Each lens has a fixed filter thread diameter measured in millimeters. A 67mm filter will not fit a 77mm thread, even if the lens front looks similar. The number is usually engraved on the front rim (look for "Φ=67mm") or printed on the lens barrel near the front element. If you lost the cap, check your lens manual or the manufacturer's specs online.

The Camera Gear Shop stocks Hoya HMC UV filters in 43mm, 67mm, 77mm, and 86mm — the most requested sizes for mirrorless kits, standard zooms, and telephoto lenses. If your lens uses a less common size (say 52mm or 72mm), those are available elsewhere; the selection here covers four common diameters.

The case against buying a bigger size with a step-up ring

Some photographers buy a larger filter (e.g., 77mm) and use a step-up ring to mount it on a smaller lens (e.g., 67mm). That saves money if you share filters across lenses, but it adds thickness, may block the built-in hood, and prevents using the original lens cap. For a permanent protective filter, the correct size is simpler and sits flush.

Decision rules for choosing your Hoya UV filter size

  • 1. Find the mm number on your lens: Look for "Φ=XXmm" on the front rim, or check the lens cap's inner mark. That number is your filter thread diameter.
  • 2. Match it exactly — no rounding: Filters are not adjustable. If your lens says 67mm, buy a 67mm filter. A 72mm or 62mm will not thread on.
  • 3. Decide: permanent protection vs. occasional use: If you plan to leave the UV filter on at all times, the correct size ensures you can still use the original lens cap and hood. For occasional use across multiple lenses, consider a step-up ring — but accept the tradeoff in cap fit and added thickness. For permanent protection, skip the step-up ring and buy the exact thread size.
  • 4. Match the size to your budget and lens value: A 43mm Hoya HMC UV costs around $20, while an 86mm version costs around $159 — the price scales with glass area. On a kit lens, the lower-cost 43mm or 67mm filter is a sensible investment. On a pro-grade 86mm lens, the filter cost reflects the larger optical surface. Budget accordingly: a $20 filter on a $300 lens makes sense; a $160 filter on a $2,000 lens is proportionally reasonable.

Filter sizes available at The Camera Gear Shop

  • Hoya HMC 43mm UV (C) Lens Filter: The Hoya HMC 43mm UV (C) filter uses the highest quality heat-resistant tempered glass, which creates a smooth, clear image. A common size for small mirrorless kit lenses (e.g., Olympus 14-42mm or Fujifilm 27mm); the tempered glass adds durability for everyday carry.

    Hoya HMC 43mm UV (C) Lens Filter

    Hoya HMC 43mm UV (C) Lens Filter

  • Hoya HMC 67mm UV (C) Lens Filter: The Hoya HMC 67mm UV (C) Lens Filter is a multi-purpose fine-weather filter that absorbs the ultraviolet rays which often makes outdoor photographs hazy and indistinct. A standard size for many mid-range zoom lenses (e.g., Fujifilm 18-55mm or Sony 24-70mm f/4); it reduces haze on bright days and doubles as a lens protector.

    Hoya HMC 67mm UV (C) Lens Filter

    Hoya HMC 67mm UV (C) Lens Filter

  • Hoya HMC 77mm UV (C) Lens Filter: The Hoya HMC 77mm UV (C) Lens Filter uses the highest quality heat-resistant tempered glass, which creates a smooth, clear image. This filter cuts out all range of UV rays to give an astounding sharpness and clarity without the least affect on color balance. Typical for full-frame wide zooms and fast primes (e.g., 24-70mm f/2.8); the multi-coating minimizes reflections, so image quality stays high even in backlight.

  • Hoya HMC 86mm UV (C) Lens Filter: Absorbs UV Light, Reduces Bluish Cast of Daylight, General Protective Filter, HMC Multi-Coated Glass. Largest size here, often used on super-telephoto or wide-angle professional lenses (e.g., 70-200mm f/2.8 or 16-35mm f/2.8); the HMC coating cuts flare and keeps skies neutral.

Who should buy which size?

Best for

  • 43mm: Mirrorless pancake or compact kit lenses (e.g., m43 or Fujifilm XC series)
  • 67mm: Standard zoom lenses (e.g., Sony 24-70mm f/4, Fujifilm 18-55mm)
  • 77mm: Full-frame wide zooms or fast primes (e.g., 24-70mm f/2.8, 85mm f/1.4)
  • 86mm: Pro telephoto or ultrawide lenses (e.g., 70-200mm f/2.8, 16-35mm f/2.8)

Not for

  • Users looking for a variable ND or polarizer — UV filters only reduce UV haze and add lens protection
  • Lenses with a thread size not listed (52mm, 72mm, 82mm, etc.) — those sizes must be sourced elsewhere
  • Situations where flare control is critical — a multi-coated UV helps, but a dedicated hood or a better AR coating may be needed