The globally recognized brand K&F Concept specializes in photography and videography accessories. The company has built a strong reputation by creating lens filters, tripods, camera bags, and lens adapters. It is also known for balancing quality with an affordable price. In this review, we are taking a close look at the K&F Concept Mini Matte Box, which starts as low as $55 for the version without side wings. So, how good is it for the price? Let’s dive into it.
K&F Concept Mini Matte Box
K&F Concept was founded in 2012 and a major highlight of the company’s product range is the well-priced magnetic filter systems, variable ND filters, and matte box solutions for cinematographers. Their 4×5.65 filters, for example, are designed to seamlessly integrate with the K&F Concept Mini Matte Box, providing professional-grade light control for filmmakers.
What is a matte box and why is it needed?
For some, screw-in filters are more than enough, but when it comes to preventing lens flares, matte boxes are the way to go. This device is attached to the front of the lens and next to the important task of preventing flares it also serves as a filter holder. Traditionally, matte boxes used to be an expensive piece of equipment (and still are on the higher spectrum of the market), but recent changes in our industry like the appearance of DLSRs and mirrorless cameras that can shoot video, brought the price significantly down. Let’s say that controlling the light entering your camera has never been so easy and affordable.
K&F Concept Mini Matte Box
It is not every day that we come across a product that starts selling from $55 yet has the ambition to play in the same field as the bigger players. In this regard, the K&F Concept Mini Matte Box is an affordable and well-built accessory and while it may not be on par with high-end matte boxes used in professional cinema setups, it provides great value for budget-conscious creators.
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Build quality & design
In this review, we are taking a close look at the version that comes with two side wings and costs $109. The side wings are the only difference from the base version which costs $55. K&F Concept Mini Matte Box is primarily made from lightweight yet durable plastic, while the side and top flags are both made out of carbon with some metal components for reinforcement. The design is sleek and functional, offering adjustable flags to block unwanted light. However, the plastic construction may not feel as premium as higher-end models, but it helps in keeping the setup lightweight—ideal for handheld and gimbal use. But still, it won’t be as durable as an all-metal matte box.
Compatibility & ease of use
The Mini Matte Box is designed as a “screw-on” matte box to fit most standard DSLR and mirrorless camera lenses. It comes with multiple adapter rings (67mm, 72mm, 77mm, 82mm, and 95mm), making it versatile and easy to attach to different lens sizes bearing those front-diameter measurements. Please note that “screw-on” matte boxes won’t fit lenses that have no front filter threads.
The installation process is straightforward, screw on the adapter ring to your lens and clamp the matte box on the ring. They improved the matte box from the older, cheaper ‘Nano’ model by making the top adjustable and adding side wings. So, it wasn’t helping that much apart from maybe making you look cooler on set.
The Matte Box Mini, however, comes with side wings and a top adjustable flag for extra coverage. They even upgraded it with a second 4×5,65 filter tray. As mentioned before, adapter rings are also included, next to a protective case.
Filters
While testing and reviewing the Mini Matte Box, we also had the opportunity to play around with the company’s filters (in case you missed it, my colleague Nino reviewed them). Of course, their 4×5.65-inch (100x143mm) rectangular filters can be used with matte boxes from other companies too.
Being rectangular, they provide greater surface area compared to traditional circular filters, offering more precise light control and reducing vignetting on wide-angle lenses.
Filters key features
- Multi-Layer Nano Coatings – Reduce reflections, improve light transmission, and resist scratches, water, and oil.
- Ideal for controlling exposure, reducing highlights, and enhancing contrast in professional video and film production.
- Compatibility with Matte Boxes – Designed to slide into standard 4×5.65 filter trays for seamless integration with professional rigs.
Types of 4×5.65 filters available
1. ND Filters (ND4, ND8, ND16, ND32, and ND64) – Used to control light exposure, allowing for precise aperture and shutter speed control in bright environments.
2. UV Filter – Primarily used for lens protection while slightly reducing haze in landscape photography.
3. Black Mist Filters (1/8 and 1/4Strength) – Create a cinematic soft glow effect, reducing digital sharpness for a more film-like appearance.
4. Blue Streak Filter – Used for creative lighting effects, mimicking the look of anamorphic lenses.
The price range of the above-mentioned filters for K&F Concept is between $50 and $100 making them good value for money.
Performance & functionality
For its price, the K&F Concept Mini Matte Box does a solid job of controlling light and minimizing lens flares. To have two filter trays is a great upgrade, though it lacks the advanced filter tray system that is found in premium matte boxes allowing rotation of the back filter, for example. This might be a drawback for filmmakers who rely on using graduated ND filters to “paint their frame” or, quick filter swaps.
Pros & cons
Pros:
• Affordable and budget-friendly.
• Lightweight design, good for handheld and gimbal setups.
• Compatible with various lenses through adapter rings.
Cons:
• Plastic build may not be as durable as premium options.
• Lacks advanced filter tray functionality.
• Limited to lenses that are compatible with screw-on filters.
Final thoughts
The K&F Concept Mini Matte Box is a great entry-level matte box for indie filmmakers and budget-conscious videographers. While it may not replace high-end professional matte boxes, it offers great functionality at a fraction of the price. If you need basic light control without breaking the bank, this is a solid choice. However, professionals requiring more advanced features might want to look at higher-tier alternatives.
What do you think about the K&F Concept Mini Matte Box? Do you have some experience working with it? Please share your thoughts in the comment section below.
