PolarPro Chroma VND/PL McKinnon Series 82mm - 2-5 Stops

Our review of the PolarPro Chroma VND/PL McKinnon Series 82mm finds it aimed squarely at photographers and videographers who need a compact way to control exposure and reflections in one element. The single biggest reason to consider this filter is its combination of variable neutral density and polarization in a bi-rotational design, which gives independent control over both the VND strength and the polarization effect. For shooters who care about color neutrality and glass quality, the Chroma glass promises noticeably truer color and robust 16 layer coatings for long-term field use.

Key Features

• Peter McKinnon Signature Filter: combines polarization and variable ND in one unit so users can reduce reflections and control exposure without switching filters.
• All New Chroma Glass: engineered to deliver neutral color accuracy so images retain natural tones under varied lighting.
• Bi-Rotational Design: allows independent adjustment of polarization separate from the VND setting, making it easier to fine tune reflections and exposure together.
• 16 Layer Coating: anti-scratch, anti-reflective and anti-fingerprint coatings increase durability and help maintain optical clarity in challenging environments.
• Wide Size Availability: offered in multiple thread sizes including 82mm so it fits a broad range of lenses used by enthusiast and pro shooters.

Who It's For

The Chroma VND/PL is best for landscape photographers, travel shooters and hybrid video creators who frequently contend with glare from water or glass and need flexible exposure control without changing elements. Its neutral color reproduction and independent polarization control make it useful for scenes where both reflection management and variable light reduction are required.

It is less relevant for photographers who rarely use polarization or who prefer separate, dedicated filters for ultimate flexibility with stacked glass. Also, shooters with lens sizes outside the offered range will need a different fit or step-up rings.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Combines VND and polarizer in one unit, saving time and reducing the need to swap filters during shoots.
• Chroma glass produces neutral, accurate color that helps maintain natural tones in photos and video.
• Bi-rotational mechanism provides independent control for precise adjustments to polarization and ND level.
• Durable 16 layer coatings resist scratches, reflections and fingerprints for reliable field performance.

Cons

• As a combination filter it may not replace the control or optical characteristics of separate high-end dedicated filters in every situation.
• Limited to specific thread sizes, so users must confirm fit for their lens before purchase.

Specifications

Product	Chroma VND/PL - McKinnon Series
Brand	PolarPro
Thread Size	82mm
ND Range	2-5 stops
Glass	All New Chroma Glass for neutral color accuracy
Design	Bi-Rotational (independent polarization control)
Coating	16 layer anti-scratch / anti-reflective / anti-fingerprint

Our Verdict

The PolarPro Chroma VND/PL McKinnon Series 82mm is a practical choice for photographers and videographers who need combined polarization and variable ND in one durable package. Its color-accurate Chroma glass and independent bi-rotational control deliver real-world convenience and reliable image quality, making it good value for shooters who prioritize versatility and fewer filter swaps in the field.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does this filter offer separate control of polarization and ND?
Yes. The bi-rotational design allows independent adjustment of the polarizer and the variable ND setting.

What sizes are available?
The McKinnon Series Chroma VND/PL is offered in 49mm, 67mm, 77mm, 82mm, 95mm, 95mm Coarse, and Helix MagLock options.

Is the glass coated for durability?
Yes. The filter features a 16 layer coating that is anti-scratch, anti-reflective and anti-fingerprint for improved durability and clarity.