TIFFEN 46ND12 Filter Neutral Density Optical 049383209211 2X 46MM 4-STOP 1.2
( Brand: Tiffen ), ( Manufacturer Part Number: 46ND12 ), ( Part Type: Filter ), ( Filter Effects: Neutral Density ), ( Filter Size: 46 Mm ), ( Country Of Origin: United States ), ( UPC: 049383209211 )
Review TIFFEN 2x New Nd Filter 46mm Neutral Density 1.2 Optical
The Tiffen 46ND12 2x ND Filter is a high-performance, optically superior neutral density filter designed for photographers seeking precise control over exposure in challenging lighting conditions. Crafted from Tiffen s renowned optical glass, this 4-stop (ND4) filter delivers a consistent, neutral gray tone across the entire visible spectrum, ensuring true color fidelity without any color cast or hue shift. With a 2x designation, it effectively reduces the amount of light entering the lens by four stops equivalent to doubling the shutter speed or halving the aperture while maintaining razor-sharp image quality and minimal distortion. The 46mm thread makes it compatible with a wide range of lenses, from standard to telephoto, and its durable, scratch-resistant coating protects against environmental wear while preserving optical clarity. Ideal for long-exposure photography, motion blur effects, or situations where natural light is overwhelming, this filter is a staple for landscape, architectural, and creative photographers who demand both reliability and artistic flexibility. Its precision-engineered design ensures seamless integration with other Tiffen filters, making it a versatile addition to any photography kit.
The Tiffen 46ND12 2x ND filter (46mm, 4-stop neutral density, 1.2 optical) is a versatile tool for photographers seeking to control exposure without adjusting shutter speed or aperture. Below is a detailed breakdown of its pros and cons, followed by a conclusion and recommendation.
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### **Pros:**1. **High-Quality Optical Design**
The 1.2 optical coating ensures minimal color fringing and ghosting, which is critical for sharp, accurate images. Tiffen is known for its precision-engineered glass, reducing optical aberrations that can degrade image quality.
2. **Consistent Neutral Density**
A true neutral density filter blocks all wavelengths of light equally, maintaining color accuracy. This is essential for maintaining the original tones of your subject, whether shooting landscapes, waterfalls, or motion blur effects.
3. **Versatile Stopping Power**
The 4-stop reduction (equivalent to a 1/15 to 1/60 second exposure at f/8) allows for long exposures in bright conditions without overpowering the sensor. This is particularly useful for creating silky water effects, light trails, or cinematic b-roll.
4. **Durable Construction**
Tiffen filters are built to withstand harsh conditions, with screw-in metal rings that resist warping or bending. The glass itself is scratch-resistant and designed for longevity, making it a reliable investment.
5. **Compatibility with Other Filters**
The 46mm size is standard, allowing you to stack it with other filters (e.g., polarizers, graduated ND) without compatibility issues. This flexibility is valuable for dynamic shooting scenarios.
6. **Reduces Camera Shake**
By extending exposure times in daylight, you can use slower shutter speeds on a tripod, minimizing the risk of blur from hand-holding the camera.
7. **Creative Control**
The filter enables techniques like intentional camera movement (ICM), star trails, or abstract motion effects that would otherwise require dark conditions or flash.
8. **Professional-Grade Build**
Tiffen is a trusted brand in the photography industry, often preferred by professionals for its reputation for quality and consistency.
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### **Cons:**1. **Cost**
High-quality ND filters, especially those with optical coatings, are expensive. The Tiffen 46ND12 may represent a significant investment compared to cheaper alternatives, which could compromise quality.
2. **Weight and Bulk**
While not overly heavy, ND filters add to the weight of your lens or filter stack. Over time, this can contribute to fatigue during long shoots, particularly if you re using multiple filters.
3. **Potential for Vignetting**
Some ND filters, especially cheaper ones, can cause vignetting (darkening at the edges). However, Tiffen s optical coating minimizes this, but it s still a consideration if you re shooting wide-angle lenses where vignetting is more noticeable.
4. **Limited to 46mm**
If you use lenses with larger or smaller filter threads (e.g., 52mm, 58mm, or step-up rings), you ll need additional adapters, which can add to the cost and complexity.
5. **Reflections and Flare**
While the 1.2 coating reduces flare, no filter is entirely immune to it. In bright sunlight, reflections from the filter s surface can occasionally appear in your images, though this is usually minor with Tiffen s quality.
6. **Maintenance Requirements**
ND filters require careful cleaning to avoid scratches or smudges, which can degrade image quality. They should be stored in a protective case when not in use.
7. **Not Ideal for All Scenarios**
While 4-stop ND is useful for bright conditions, it may not be sufficient for extremely sunny environments (e.g., midday deserts or beaches), where an 8-stop or 10-stop ND might be more practical.
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### **Conclusion:**The Tiffen 46ND12 2x ND filter is a well-engineered, high-performance tool that excels in maintaining image quality while providing creative exposure control. Its optical coating ensures minimal color shift or distortion, making it a reliable choice for photographers who prioritize accuracy and versatility. The filter s durability and compatibility with other filters further enhance its appeal, particularly for those who frequently shoot in variable lighting conditions.
However, the cost is the most significant drawback, and while it s justified by the quality, it may not be feasible for budget-conscious photographers. Additionally, the weight and potential for vignetting (though minimal) are minor considerations that depend on individual workflows. If you re investing in a filter that will see regular use especially in landscape, architectural, or cinematic photography the Tiffen 46ND12 represents excellent value for its performance.
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### **Recommendation:** Purchase the Tiffen 46ND12 2x ND filter if:- You prioritize image quality and color accuracy over cost.
- You frequently shoot in bright conditions where long exposures are desirable (e.g., landscapes, waterfalls, cityscapes).
- You already own or plan to use other 46mm filters, as this size is widely compatible.
- You re willing to invest in a filter that will last for years with minimal degradation.
Avoid or reconsider if:- Your budget is tight, and you re unsure whether you ll use the filter enough to justify the cost. In this case, a slightly cheaper alternative (e.g., B W or Lee) might suffice.
- You primarily shoot in low-light conditions where ND filters are rarely needed.
- You re concerned about vignetting or flare, though Tiffen s optical coating mitigates these issues significantly.
For most photographers who value quality and versatility, the Tiffen 46ND12 is a strong recommendation. Pair it with a tripod and a polarizing filter for even greater creative control in outdoor photography.
Details:
The 46mm size makes it suitable for a wide range of camera model's, allowing photographers to achieve longer shutter speeds and capture stunning depth field. With the trusted Tiffen brand and neutral density filter effects, photographers can create stunning images with precise control over their composition. The 2x New Tiffen ND Filter is a high-quality neutral density filter with 4-STOP optical density, designed for cameras and lenses.
part #: 46nd12 prices
- $19.99-$53.04
specifications filtecam:
- brand: Tiffen
- mpn: 46nd12
- part type: Filter
- filter effects: Neutral Density
- filter size: 46 Mm
- country of origin: United States
- upc: 049383209211
payments filtecam:
- credit card: Discover
- wallet: Apple-pay
- other
- money order
general filtecam:
- Cameras Photo > Lenses Filters > Filters
- condition: Used
seller filtecam:
- rating: 99.2%
- # reviews: 137
- city: Lubbock, Texas
offer filtecam:
- sold: 0
- availability: In Stock
- options: Ship-to-home
- started: March 4, 2026
- quantity: 1
- best offers: True
shipping filtecam:
- carrier: USPS
- class: Standard
- transit: 5-10 Days
- service: USPS Ground Advantage
- cost: $5.52
- type: Calculated
returns filtecam:
- policy: No Returns
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