Is B+W MRC worth it on a 77mm UV/protection filter?
Asked 2/28/2011
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2 answers
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I’m choosing between two B+W 77mm UV/Haze filters for a Canon 24-105L: one standard and one with MRC (Multi-Resistant Coating). The MRC version costs about twice as much. I’m not looking for advice on whether to use a protective UV filter at all—I only want to understand the practical, real-world benefits of B+W’s MRC coating. For people who have used coated and non-coated filters, what difference does MRC make in everyday shooting, cleaning, durability, and image quality?
Originally by Photography Stack Exchange contributor. Source · Licensed CC BY-SA 4.0
Photography Stack Exchange contributor
15y ago
2 Answers
24
MRC coating is a good thing to consider if you want your filter to last long enough for your lens. MRC stands for Multi Resistant Coating is something like the weather seal for lenses. Its necessary if you tend to shoot in extreme conditions against mist/dust/water drops etc etc. MRC gives you a few benefits:
- Cleaning is easier.
- More resistant to mechanical scratches.
- Water/Moist/Dust is repelled.
Overall my suggestion would be to get the one having MRC as you'll be pairing it with an awesome weatherproof lens, it deserves it ;)
Originally by user2476. Source · Licensed CC BY-SA 4.0
user2476
15y ago
0
Generated from our catalog & community — verify before relying on it.
B+W’s MRC coating offers practical benefits over an uncoated filter, especially if the filter will stay on the lens most of the time.
Real-world advantages mentioned:
- reduced ghosting and glare/reflections compared with non-coated filters
- easier cleaning
- better resistance to moisture, dust, and water droplets
- improved scratch resistance / durability
- generally longer service life
In use, the biggest photographic benefit is lower flare/ghosting from the extra glass surface. The handling benefit is that the filter is easier to wipe clean and is less bothered by mist, spray, and dust.
If you’re already committed to using a protective filter on a high-end lens, the coated version is the better choice. A cheap or uncoated filter is more likely to add unwanted reflections and reduce image quality. Some users still prefer no protective filter at all and rely on a lens hood, but between these two B+W options, MRC is usually the one worth buying for better durability and fewer optical side effects.
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