Both CPL (circular polarizer) and PL (polarizer) lens filters are used in photography to reduce glare, increase color saturation, and improve contrast. However, there are a few differences between the two types of filters.

A PL filter is a linear polarizer filter that works by reducing reflections and glare from non-metallic surfaces, such as water or glass. It can also help to enhance the color and saturation of your photos, particularly in outdoor or landscape photography. However, the use of a PL filter can result in uneven polarization when using auto-focus or metering systems, leading to potential exposure issues.

On the other hand, a CPL filter is a circular polarizer filter that incorporates a linear polarizer filter with a quarter-wave plate. This design enables the filter to overcome the potential issues of uneven polarization and ensure compatibility with auto-focus and metering systems. A CPL filter offers similar benefits to a PL filter, such as reduced glare and improved color and contrast, but with the added advantage of more precise and reliable results.

A PL filter may outperform a CPL filter in situations where there is no need for autofocus or metering, such as when using a manual focus lens or when shooting with a camera that has a separate metering system.

Since a PL filter is a linear polarizer, it can produce stronger polarizing effects than a CPL filter in certain circumstances, such as when photographing a clear blue sky or a reflective surface like a body of water. In these scenarios, the linear polarization of a PL filter can result in more pronounced color saturation and contrast, as well as a greater reduction in glare and reflections.

See our prices for CPL filters and PL filters.