First option. Gnd’s and really heavy nd filters are more niche use, at least for me.

So, I use an ND8/PL, ND64/PL, and ND1000/PL. opted for polarized to just get around the hassle of separates.

Found that I used the ND64 the most (I shoot landscapes) and ND1000 for those longer exposures where needed.

I also ended up using my PolarPro Recon a bit (VND 3-6+ w/CP) as well. Comes down to what you want to fool around with and learn. One of the other folks used an ND1000 constantly but they were more than happy to shoot high ISO as well. 🤷‍♂️

Cheap filters are a gamble.

Don’t be surprised when you get color cast and softness issues

Also be careful with the threads I have had 2 polaroid filters freeze up onto lenses and were a giant PITA to get off

Variable filter that handles the ND2-ND400 (1-9 Stops) range, a ND1000 (10 stop) filter and a CPL should be all you need.

Graduated filter can be done in post so no real need for it.

The Nano-X series is good value for money.

Don’t take people who talk about color casts too seriously, there can be a color cast but it’s easily fixable in post.

Also when you are buying from K&F be sure to check out their other sites as well, most big markets have their own top-level domain with everyone having different prices and sales. Just yesterday I ordered a Black Mist filter from their .com site that was half the price from my local top-level domain. And vice versa a couple months ago, my local site had half price compared to their .com domain.

Save up for nisi or something else good. The cheap stuff is junk.

Cheaper is pretty much worthless. Take your money and buy just one of the items you think you will use the most and get a better filter.

Cheap just means you’ll pay twice. One for poor stuff, then more for the good stuff.

First option. Gnd’s and really heavy nd filters are more niche use, at least for me.