K&F CONCEPT 72mm True Color Variable Fader ND2-32 ND & CPL Filter (Nano-X Series)

If you shoot in daylight and you keep running into the same two problems—too much light and annoying reflections—this K&F CONCEPT 72mm variable ND paired with CPL design is built to handle both. Over the paper, it’s a single circular filter that can reduce exposure (ND) and also help manage glare/reflections (CPL), while aiming to keep colors looking more natural thanks to its “true color” approach.

That said, it’s not magic. A variable ND is still a compromise in exchange for convenience, and the result you get will depend on your subject, angle, and how you dial the stops. If you’re the type of shooter who prefers maximum consistency over maximum flexibility, it may feel more “middle-of-the-road” than “set-and-forget.”

Key takeaways (what matters most)

This filter is designed for 72mm lens threads and is meant to combine ND2-32 exposure control with CPL reflection reduction in one piece of glass.

The big practical benefit is workflow: fewer filters to swap when you want to darken the scene and tame highlights off water, glass, or non-metal surfaces. It also uses a variable fader that rotates between 1 and 5 stops (ND2-32) and is described as using self-locking technology intended to help avoid the “black cross” artifact some variable NDs can show.

Color matters too. K&F CONCEPT is positioning this as having a “true color” variable ND approach and specifically calls out “no partial yellow” and reduced color shift with a titanium coating approach.

What you’ll notice in real shooting

Using a combo ND & CPL filter makes the effect easier to control when you’re already changing settings for light.

For example: imagine you’re filming outside near a window or along a shoreline. You want a longer, smoother look (ND helps), but the water and glass reflections can get distracting fast (CPL helps). With this style of filter, you can rotate to dial down light while also cutting some glare—without removing the filter from the lens.

The other day-to-day difference is contrast and how highlights behave. The product description says the filter can enhance color and contrast, which—if it holds true for your camera and lighting—can make skies and reflective surfaces look cleaner instead of washed out.

Where it shines (and where it may fall short)

It makes the most sense if you want one filter that does more than one job. The “in 1” idea is exactly for people who don’t want to stack multiple circles or constantly re-thread different filters.

Where you should be a bit careful: variable ND filters can behave differently across focal lengths and compositions, and the exact look can change with how you rotate the fader. The listing also notes that this filter works with all 72mm lenses, so you’ll need to confirm compatibility by lens thread size before ordering—if you mismatch the thread, nothing else matters.

Tech specs

• Name: K&F CONCEPT 72mm True Color Variable Fader ND2-32 ND & CPL Filter
• Type: Variable ND & CPL combination circular filter
• Size: 72mm
• Format: Circular filter
• Diameter range/stops: Rotates infinitely between 1 and 5 stops (ND2-32)
• Glass/coatings: Imported AGC optical glass with 28 multi-layer coating, waterproof and scratch-resistant (as stated)
• Coating claim: Titanium coating technology aimed to prevent partial yellow/color shift

Buying considerations before you commit

Before purchasing, double-check the basics because they determine whether the filter will actually fit your kit.

First, confirm your lens thread size. The listing explicitly says this is compatible with all 72mm lenses, and you should verify the diameter printed next to the “ø” symbol on your lens.

Second, consider the handling/fit details: it also says a 77mm lens cap is required for this 72mm variable ND filter. That’s easy to miss, and it matters if you already have a cap system you rely on.

Lastly, think about your tolerance for “one-filter convenience.” If you prefer highly predictable results and you’re the kind of shooter who already owns dedicated ND and CPL filters, this combo can still be handy—but it may not outperform specialized setups in every lighting scenario.

For who it’s for (and who should skip it)

Worth considering if you’re a hybrid shooter who does both photos and video, and you want a streamlined way to reduce light and manage glare without swapping filters constantly.

It might not suit you if your workflow depends on ultra-consistent ND behavior across every focal length and scene, or if you already have a dedicated ND filter and a separate CPL and you want maximum control with no compromises.

It’s also not the best match if you don’t have (or aren’t sure about) 72mm filter-thread lenses, since compatibility is tied directly to that size.

Is it worth it?

If you have a 72mm lens setup and you routinely deal with bright daylight plus reflections, the K&F CONCEPT 72mm True Color Variable Fader ND2-32 ND & CPL combo is the kind of “practical buys” that makes sense. On its own design, it targets two common annoyance points: glare (CPL function) and exposure reduction (variable ND), while specifically addressing variable-ND artifacts like the “black cross” and aiming to reduce partial yellow/color shift.

You should probably pass if you’re sensitive to the look variability that can come with variable NDs, or if you don’t want to accommodate the mentioned lens cap requirement. For everyone else—especially shooters who want fewer filter swaps—this is built to be convenient without feeling like a total gamble.

Quick FAQ

Frequently asked questions

Does this filter replace both an ND and a CPL?

Yes, the listing describes it as one filter providing both variable ND and CPL features.

What size lenses is it compatible with?

It’s stated as compatible with all 72mm lenses. You’ll still want to verify the thread size on your lens by checking the diameter next to the “ø” symbol.

Does it help with the “black cross” issue?

The description says the frame design and rotation method are intended to avoid producing black crosses.

Is it meant to keep colors natural?

K&F CONCEPT claims “no partial yellow” and “true color” behavior with a titanium coating technology designed to reduce color shift.