Why I've Upgraded to Magnetic Filters
- Gary Holpin
- Aug 19
- 5 min read
Even though I've been taking the summer off from landscape photography, that doesn't mean I haven't been looking ahead to the autumn, when I plan to get back in the photography saddle! In fact, I've recently just made the leap from my previous set of square filters, to a shiny new set of NiSi magnetic filters; so I thought you might find it interesting to hear more about the different types of filter system, and the reasons for my recent upgrade...
As a landscape photographer, filters have been a fixture in my kit for years—especially circular polarisers (CPLs) for cutting down glare, and neutral density (ND) filters for achieving longer shutter speeds, even in daylight. Recently, though, I've decided to make the move to a magnetic filter system. Here’s why, and what it means for my approach to capturing the outdoors.
The Filter Landscape: Screw-In vs. Slot-In vs. Magnetic
When it comes to attaching filters, photographers have traditionally had two main options:
1. Screw-In Filters
These attach directly to the lens' filter thread.
Pros:
Compact and easy to transport.
Fewer light leaks, ideal for long exposures.
Cons:
Stacking filters can be awkward—each one has to be screwed on or off individually, which slows down the process.
Can be fiddly, especially with cold hands or gloves.
Rotating variable ND or CPLs stacked together becomes tricky.
2. Slot-In (Square/Rectangular) Filter Systems [my previous system]
These use an adaptor ring and filter holder, allowing you to slide square or rectangular filters in and out.
Pros:
Quick to switch out or stack multiple filters.
Perfect for graduated ND filters, as you can move them up and down to match the horizon.
Cons:
Bulky in the camera bag.
More parts means more faff in the field (and more to lose or drop!).
Prone to light leaks on DSLR cameras, particularly with very long exposures.
Can be expensive to build a full set.
3. Magnetic Filter Systems
These are the newest players, using strong magnets to snap filters directly onto the lens (or onto each other).
Pros:
Extremely quick and intuitive: filters snap on/off instantly.
Effortless stacking—ideal for mixing CPLs and NDs.
No cross-threading or filter-ring jams.
Lightweight and compact in the field.
Cons:
Limited options for graduated ND filters (as you can't move them up/down).
Some early models lacked strong enough magnets, but quality has improved.
May require proprietary sizes or adaptors for different lenses.
Why Magnetic Filters Are a Game-Changer
After years of using square filters—and occasionally dropping a costly bit of glass on the rocks—I was ready for a system that made life a bit simpler. Magnetic systems reduce the friction between idea and execution. When the clouds break for a fleeting moment, and the light is just perfect, I want to get my shot—not spend time faffing with filter stacks and adaptors. The benefits of a magnetic system appealed to me because of:
Speed: Swapping between a CPL and varying NDs now takes seconds.
Reliability: Magnets are strong enough to hold firm, even in a brisk Dartmoor wind or with cold hands.
Simplicity: Less kit in the bag, fewer moving parts, so less stress.
The ND Grad Trade-Off (And Why It Doesn’t Matter To Me)
One common gripe with magnetic systems: they don't really work with graduated ND filters. With traditional slot-in systems, you could carefully align a graduated filter to control exposure between sky and land.
But here’s the thing—I don’t use ND grads. Instead, I bracket exposures and blend them afterwards, which gives me more flexibility and better results. The time saved and the creative freedom far outweigh the occasional convenience of a grad ND. For more info on this, see my blog here.
Main Suppliers of Magnetic Filter Systems
If you’re considering an upgrade, these are the brands you’ll want to look at—each offers something a bit different for a range of needs and budgets.
NiSi JetStream / JetMag Pro [My Chosen System]
High-end and robust, NiSi’s magnetic filters are designed for professional use. Filters are slim, optically excellent, and lock in with impressively strong magnets. They’re known for excellent colour neutrality and minimal image degradation. The system is one of the pricier options but well-suited to demanding work and awkward weather.
Kase Magnetic Filters
Another professional-grade choice, Kase is praised for minimal colour cast and strong magnetic force. Slimline and easy to use, Kase kits are well built and reliable. Pricing tends to be at the pricier end of the scale, but they are a great choice if you’re after top performance.
K&F Concept Nano-X Magnetic System
The best-known budget option. K&F’s kits are affordable and efficient, with good sharpness and coatings for casual and enthusiast use. Build quality isn’t quite at the pro level, but for most outdoor photography, they prove good value for the money.
Urth Magnetic Filters [IÂ Almost Went For This System!]Â
Urth offers a brilliant middle ground in the magnetic filter world. Their kits include high-quality CPL and ND options, with sturdy magnetic attachment and optics made from B270 Schott glass. The filters stack neatly, are easy to use in the field, and are small and lightweight—perfect for minimalist setups. Image quality is excellent with little to no colour cast; vignetting is negligible, even on wide-angle lenses. Price-wise, Urth is comfortably below the very top tier, but a step up from bargain-basement offerings. There are a couple of minor niggles: the box can be fiddly in the field and, in very cold conditions, filters can be a bit snug to remove. On the plus side, Urth’s environmental credentials are a strong bonus—they plant trees with every purchase and use plastic-free packaging. Urth magnetic filters also work with K&F magnetic adapters and vice versa, which is useful if you own gear from both brands.
In Summary
Although I've yet to use my new NiSi magnetic filter set much in anger, I'm convinced that upgrading to magnetic filters will make landscape photography much more enjoyable and hassle-free. I will no longer waste time with screw threads or bulky holders; my new magnetic kit will let me react instantly to changing light and weather. The only trade-off—no ND grads—is irrelevant for me now that I bracket exposures.
Whether you’re after the absolute best in optical performance or just want an easy, reliable system that doesn’t break the bank, brands like NiSi, Kase, Urth, and K&F all offer great choices worth exploring. For me, the speed, simplicity and flexibility of magnetic filters mean I won’t be going back to traditional options any time soon.
Want some help improving your photography skills?
Don't forget that if you want some direct help with your photography, I offer a range of 1-2-1 photography courses for Devon based folks. If you're not nearby then I also  offer residential workshops for beginner photographers or improving photographers.
About Gary Holpin Photography
As a professional photographer based in Devon, my journey began along the stunning South West Coast Path. Disappointed with my initial attempts to capture its beauty, I embarked on a second 630-mile journey, this time dedicated to mastering photography. Today, I'm a nationally acclaimed photographer with award-winning landscape photos.
I specialize in providing top-notch property photography, business photography, and drone photography services to businesses across the South West. Additionally, I offer comprehensive photography training courses tailored for both businesses and individuals. Whether you're looking to enhance your corporate image or improve your personal photography skills, my training programs are designed to help you capture stunning images.
As an award-winning and widely published photographer, I frequently share my passion for photography and Devon through engaging talks at local camera clubs and community groups. My expertise spans the entire South West region, ensuring that clients from Devon, Dorset & Somerset benefit from high-quality photography services and training.