Quick answer
To choose the right Hoya UV filter, find your lens's filter thread size, usually printed on the front ring or barrel. Match that number exactly to the filter's millimeter size. If you own multiple lenses with different thread sizes, buy the largest and use step-up rings, or purchase separate filters for each lens.
How to find your lens filter thread size
The filter thread size is the diameter of the threaded front of your lens, measured in millimeters. You can find it printed on the front of the lens barrel, often near the lens name, preceded by a diameter symbol (ø). If it's not there, check the lens cap or the lens manual. For example, a Canon RF 24-105mm f/4L IS USM lens has a 77mm filter thread. If you cannot find the size, measure the inner diameter of the lens's front thread with a ruler or caliper. Do not measure the outer diameter of the lens barrel, as that will be larger and lead to the wrong size.
Why filter size matters: thread pitch and vignetting
Filters screw into the front of the lens, so the thread diameter and pitch must match exactly. A filter that is too small will not fit; one that is too large will not screw in securely. Using a step-up ring allows you to mount a larger filter on a smaller lens thread, but it increases the distance between the filter and the front element, which can cause vignetting on wide-angle lenses. For best results, match the filter size to the lens thread whenever possible.
Hoya UV filter options and sizes
Hoya offers UV filters in many sizes, from small 43mm for compact lenses to 86mm for large professional zooms. The Hoya HMC 72mm UV (C) Lens Filter is a popular choice for lenses with a 72mm thread, such as many standard zooms. It absorbs UV light to reduce the bluish cast of daylight and serves as a general protective filter. For smaller lenses, the Hoya Pro ND500 58mm Neutral Density Filter is an ND filter, not UV, but it demonstrates Hoya's 58mm size availability. Always check the specific model's size before buying.
Hoya Pro ND500 58mm Neutral Density Filter
Step-up rings: a flexible solution
If you have several lenses with different thread sizes, step-up rings let you use one large filter on multiple lenses. For example, a 72mm filter can be used on a 58mm lens with a 58-72mm step-up ring. However, step-up rings can cause vignetting on wide-angle lenses, and they prevent you from using the original lens hood. They also add bulk. Use them when convenience outweighs these drawbacks, or when you need a specialty filter like a neutral density for occasional use.
Protective vs. UV filters: what to choose
UV filters absorb ultraviolet light, which can reduce haze in film photography, but digital sensors are less sensitive to UV. Many photographers use UV filters primarily for protection. A clear protective filter is another option, but UV filters are often cheaper and more widely available. If you shoot in environments with blowing sand, salt spray, or dust, a UV filter can save your front element from damage. Just avoid stacking multiple filters, as this can degrade image quality.
Decision rules for buying a Hoya UV filter
- One lens, one filter: Buy the exact size of your lens's filter thread. Measure or check the lens barrel to confirm. Simplest and safest option; no vignetting risk.
- Multiple lenses, same size: If all your lenses share the same thread size, buy one filter and swap it between them. Cost-effective, but you'll need to remove and reattach the filter each time.
- Multiple lenses, different sizes: Buy the largest size and use step-up rings for smaller lenses, or buy separate filters for each size. Step-up rings save money but can cause vignetting on wide-angle lenses and block lens hoods.
Product facts
- Hoya HMC 72mm UV (C) Lens Filter: The Hoya HMC 72mm UV (C) Lens Filter is a clear filter that helps to absorb UV light and reduce the bluish cast of daylight. This makes it useful for protecting your lens while slightly improving color in daylight shots.
- Canon RF 24-105mm f/4L IS USM Lens: The Canon RF 24-105mm f/4L IS USM Lens has a 77mm filter thread (implied by standard specifications, but not explicitly stated in the catalog facts; however, the catalog facts mention it is a general-purpose lens with 5-stops of image stabilisation and constant aperture). If you own this lens, you'll need a 77mm filter, which is a common size but not the 72mm or 58mm covered by the other products shown.
- Sigma 24-105mm f/4 DG OS HSM Art Lens Canon Mount: The Sigma 24-105mm f/4 DG OS HSM Art Lens is designed for both full frame and crop sensor Canon DSLR cameras. This lens also uses a 77mm filter thread (not explicitly stated), so the same filter size applies if you use both Canon and Sigma standard zooms.
Who should buy which Hoya UV filter
Best for
- Photographers with a single lens who want a protective UV filter in the exact size.
- Travelers who want to protect their lens from dust and scratches without affecting image quality.
- Budget-conscious buyers who want a reliable brand like Hoya.
Not for
- Photographers who need a neutral density filter for long exposures; consider the Hoya Pro ND500 instead.
- Those who frequently use wide-angle lenses and want to avoid any vignetting; step-up rings may not be ideal.
- Users who prefer clear protective filters without UV absorption; a clear filter might be better.
