What is a "multicoated" UV filter??

Answer 1

It is coated to prevent some of the flare associated with sunlight (or other light) hitting the glass surface. It's an upgrade generally worth buying.

Answer 2

First, ignore "electrosmack1".

Second, using a UV filter can improve your images. In landscapes, distant mountains and/or snow scenes will often have a bluish cast, especially in shaded areas. The UV filter effectively removes it. The same is true of photos taken in open shade. (Some photographers use the bluish cast to show cold since blue is associated with cold. Personal preference comes into play here).

Third, the UV filter protects the front element of your lens. I'd much rather clean or replace a filter than a lens. I have lenses that are 35 years old with perfect front elements because they've always had either a UV or Skylight filter mounted - except when I use my polarizer. The only lens I own that faces the world naked is my 16mm full-frame fisheye. Its 180 degree angle of view makes using a filter impossible.

Forth, use the correct lens hood for your lens. The hood helps keep flare to a minimum and offers even more protection for your lens.

Answer 3

Now, boys, you can't fight in here, this is the War Room.

A multicoated UV filter functions just as the other answerers said.

But, since your lens may already have 12 or 14 pieces of glass in it, the last thing you need is another one.

So, I'd saw off at this: unless you are sure you need UV filtering, leave it off.

And if you are worried about end glass damage, use a lens cap.

Answer 4

Multi coated filters, like lenses, are multi coated with a material to prevent lens flares-a problem that arises when light enters the lens at an obscure angle.

My personal suggestion would be to not waste your money on UV filters, because they don't work and they degrade the quality of images. What happens, is it actually increases the amount of lens flares.