ND Filters for Drones: Which Strength Do You Need? (UK Guide)
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If your drone video looks jittery or "too sharp", the fix is usually a small, cheap accessory: an ND filter.
What an ND filter does
ND (neutral density) filters are like sunglasses for your drone's camera. They cut the amount of light without changing colours, letting you use a slower shutter speed in bright conditions.
Why that matters: for natural-looking video, your shutter speed should be about double your frame rate (1/50s for 25fps). On a bright day, without a filter, the drone has to use something like 1/2000s — which makes motion look choppy. See our drone photography settings guide for more.
You don't need ND filters for photos. They're mainly for video shot in manual settings.
Which strength for UK light?
The number tells you how much light is blocked. Each doubling halves the light again.
| Filter | Light reduction | Typical UK conditions |
|---|---|---|
| ND8 | 3 stops | Overcast days, early morning, late evening |
| ND16 | 4 stops | Bright cloud, mixed sun |
| ND32 | 5 stops | Sunny days |
| ND64 | 6 stops | Bright sun on water, sand or snow |
For most of the UK year, ND8, ND16 and ND32 cover you. Add ND64 if you film beaches, snow or summer sun a lot.
What about polarisers (CPL)?
A circular polariser cuts reflections and glare from water and wet surfaces and deepens blue skies. Some sets combine ND and polariser ("ND/PL"). They're great over lakes and the sea — but the effect changes as the drone turns, so they're best for straight-line shots.
How to choose a set
- Buy filters made for your exact drone model. Drone gimbals are delicate and balanced for very little weight; the wrong filter can cause gimbal errors.
- Check the weight if your drone is sub-250g — filters are light, but every gram counts near the limit.
- Look for multi-coated glass to reduce flare.
- A set of 3–4 strengths in a case is the best value.
ND filter set for DJI Mini series
Model-specific sets usually include ND8/16/32 (sometimes ND64 and a polariser) in a protective case.
Best for: Mini 4 Pro / Mini 5 Pro owners
ND filter set for DJI Flip
Make sure the set is specifically for the Flip — its camera housing is different.
Best for: DJI Flip owners
ND filter set for DJI Lito
Check compatibility with Lito 1 vs Lito X1 before buying.
Best for: DJI Lito owners
Quick tips
- Fit filters before powering on the drone, so the gimbal calibrates with the filter on.
- Check exposure on the histogram after fitting — then pick a stronger or weaker filter.
- Keep them clean — a smudged filter softens every shot.
- Store them in their case — loose filters scratch easily.
More kit ideas in our essential drone accessories guide.
