STARTRC Air 3S ND & CPL Filter Set for DJI Air 3S - Precision Exposure

In this review the STARTRC Air 3S ND & CPL Filters Set is evaluated for drone pilots who want more consistent exposure and truer skies from the DJI Air 3S. The bottom line: this four-pack of filters (ND16, ND64, ND256 and CPL) is aimed at photographers and videographers who need reliable light reduction and color control without adding gimbal strain. The review focuses on optical performance, build quality, and real-world usefulness for aerial shooting in bright or reflective conditions.

Key Features

• Model fit: Designed specifically for the DJI Air 3S lens, the set snaps on securely and aligns with the gimbal without fiddly adapters.
• Neutral density range: ND16, ND64 and ND256 provide precise exposure control across bright conditions so shutter speeds and motion blur can be controlled.
• CPL function: The circular polarizer reduces reflections and boosts color saturation, deepening blue skies and clarifying water and glass surfaces.
• Optical quality: Multi-coated HD optical glass reduces reflections and improves light transmission for sharper images and fewer flare artifacts.
• Frame design: Ultralight aluminum alloy frames are gimbal-safe and tested to avoid adding noticeable weight during long flights.
• Surface protection: Multi-layer coatings resist water droplets and oil residues, making cleaning easier after inland or seaside flights.

Who It's For

This filter set is best for DJI Air 3S owners who shoot video or stills in varied daylight, from harsh mid-day sun to reflective water scenes. The combination of ND16 through ND256 covers common exposure needs, while the CPL delivers stronger skies and fewer reflections for landscape and real estate aerial work.

It is less useful for pilots who rarely fly in bright light, those who already rely on post-processing to correct exposure, or users of other drone models who require different mounting hardware. Professionals needing custom filter densities beyond ND256 should look elsewhere.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Precise exposure control across 3 to 8 stops lets users maintain ideal shutter speeds for cinematic motion.
• Multi-coated HD glass improves clarity and reduces unwanted reflections for cleaner footage.
• The CPL noticeably increases color saturation and reduces glare on water and glass surfaces.
• Lightweight aluminum frames are designed to be gimbal-safe for stable long flights.

Cons

• Limited to the included ND strengths; users needing intermediate densities may want additional filter options.
• As with any add-on, careful handling is required to avoid fingerprints on the coated glass.

Specifications

Compatible model	DJI Air 3S
Filter types included	ND16, ND64, ND256, CPL
Optical material	Multi-coated HD optical glass
Frame material	Aluminum alloy (gimbal-safe)
Light reduction	Approximately 3 to 8 stops
Coating features	Multi-layer anti-reflection and water/oil resistant coating

Our Verdict

The STARTRC Air 3S ND & CPL set is a practical, value-minded accessory for DJI Air 3S pilots who need dependable exposure control and improved color in reflective scenes. Its combination of three ND filters and a CPL, multi-coated glass and lightweight frames make it a solid everyday choice for hobbyists and pros who want better in-camera results without adding gimbal issues.

Frequently Asked Questions

Will these filters affect gimbal performance?
When used as intended the ultralight aluminum frames are designed to be gimbal-safe and should not adversely affect normal flight stability.

Do the coatings reduce flare and reflections?
Yes, the multi-layer coatings improve light transmission and reduce reflections, which helps lower flare and ghosting in bright conditions.

Can the CPL change overall color balance?
The CPL mainly reduces polarized reflections and increases color concentration without altering the overall color balance of the image.