NiSi Air UV Brass vs Aluminium: Which Filter Frame?
By NiSi Filters Australia | Published: 2026-10-21
Category: Comparisons
Compare NiSi Air UV (brass frame) and Air Protector (aluminium frame) filters. Learn which frame material suits your lens protection needs based on transmission, coating, and build quality.
Quick answer
Choose the NiSi Air UV (brass frame) for maximum light transmission and scratch-resistant build, or the NiSi Air Protector (aluminium frame) for lightweight protection with excellent clarity and 8K support.
Frame material matters for durability and weight
Brass frames are denser and resist binding or warping over time, making them a favourite for photographers who frequently stack filters or work in humid conditions. Aluminium frames keep the overall weight lower, which can matter when you're hiking or using gimbals.
The NiSi Air UV uses a brass frame with a 48-layer ULRC coating, while the NiSi Air Protector uses an aluminium frame with double-sided multi-layer nano coating. Both offer outstanding transmission rates above 99.8%, but the choice comes down to how you prioritise weight versus long-term mechanical stability.
Transmission and image quality differences
The NiSi Air UV achieves a 99.9% peak transmission rate and supports 100-megapixel sensors, making it a top pick for ultra-high-resolution cameras. Its advanced ULRC coating reduces reflections and flare exceptionally well.
The NiSi Air Protector delivers 99.8% peak transmission and is rated for 8K image quality. That slight difference in transmission is negligible in most real-world shooting, but the Air Protector's coating is designed to maintain contrast and sharpness across the frame even with high-resolution sensors.
Trade-offs between brass and aluminium frames
- Brass frame (NiSi Air UV): Heavier but more resistant to binding and deformation. The 48-layer ULRC coating provides the highest transmission (99.9%) and is compatible with 100MP+ sensors. Best if you stack filters or shoot in challenging environments where frame stability matters.
- Aluminium frame (NiSi Air Protector): Lighter weight reduces overall kit load. Double-sided multi-layer nano coating delivers 99.8% transmission and supports 8K image quality. Ideal for travel, gimbal work, or anyone who wants reliable protection without extra weight.
- Price and value: The NiSi Air UV (brass) is priced at USD 116.07 (down from USD 159.00), while the NiSi Air Protector (aluminium) is USD 131.75 (down from USD 215.99). Both offer strong value for their respective builds. The brass frame is more affordable, but the aluminium frame offers a higher discount off the original price.
Product facts at a glance
- NiSi 72mm Air UV Protection Filter with 99.9% Peak Transmission | 48 Multi-Layer Advanced ULRC Coating | Brass Frame: 99.9% Transmission Clarity – Achieves an incredible 99.9% peak transmission rate with ULRC coating, making it as clear as air. You get virtually no light loss or colour shift, ideal for critical work with high-megapixel cameras.
NiSi 72mm Air UV Protection Filter with 99.9% Peak Transmission | 48 Multi-Layer Advanced ULRC Coating | Brass Frame - NiSi 95mm Pro Nano Air Protection Filter with 99.8% Peak Transmission and Supports 8K Image Quality: 99.8% Light Transmittance – Delivers near-perfect transparency, maintaining the full optical performance of your lens while offering dependable protection. You keep the lens's native sharpness and contrast while adding a protective layer, perfect for everyday use.
NiSi 95mm Pro Nano Air Protection Filter with 99.8% Peak Transmission and Supports 8K Image Quality
Which frame should you choose?
Best for
- Photographers who need maximum transmission and scratch-resistant build for high-megapixel cameras (choose NiSi Air UV brass)
- Travel and outdoor shooters who prioritise lightweight kit and reliable lens protection (choose NiSi Air Protector aluminium)
Not for
- Users who require a filter with a brass frame and also need 8K-specific coating (choose the aluminium frame instead)
- Those who want the absolute lowest weight and still demand 99.9% transmission (no single filter meets both extremes)
