Top 10 Best Matte Boxes for DSLR Cameras
for June 2023

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As technology has advanced and DSLR cameras have become increasingly popular among photographers and videographers, the need for high-quality camera accessories has grown. One such accessory is the matte box, which is essential for anyone who wants to create professional-quality videos or photographs. A matte box is a versatile tool that helps to control the amount and direction of light that enters the camera lens. It also offers a range of mounting options, includingrod holes for accessories, which is useful for filmmakers and photographers looking to create a rig for their camera. The matte box's removable top handle and robust cage enable you to carry out filming more conveniently by modifying your camera to shoot more steady and high-quality media, with various accessory mounting options.

In this blog post, we will be exploring the top 10 best matte boxes for DSLR cameras that are currently available on the market. Whether you are a professional videographer or a budding photographer, we have got you covered. Our comprehensive list includes products from a variety of top camera accessory manufacturers, such as Canon and Sony, that offer a perfect blend of durability, functionality, and affordability.

We have considered various factors such as build quality, ease of use, compatibility with different cameras and lenses, and price range to compile a list with something for everyone. Our number one choice, the Flip Follow Focus, offers a single-sided, variable lock system, and the best base that slides to accommodate different lens configurations. Whereas, the lightweight and easily detachable video matte box with knicker, provides complete light blocking option which is very convenient for outdoor shoots.

So,if you are looking to enhance your photography or videography game, invest in the right matte box for your DSLR camera, and make professional quality videos and photographs that stand out from the crowd.

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CAMTREE Hunt Grand DSLR Camera Cage Kit for Sony A7S/A7S2/A7SII/A7R/A7RII/Canon Mark IV. W/ Matte Box, Follow Focus, 15mm Rod Support & Dovetail Tripod Plate. Ergonomic & Secure (CH-Grnd-CKIT)

CAMTREE Hunt Grand DSLR Camera Cage Kit Sony for A7S/A7S2/A7SII/A7R/A7RII/Canon Mark IV. W/ Matte Box

by CAMTREE
What We like

DOVETAIL PLATE: mounts directly onto the tripod and works best with heavy-duty tripod heads.

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Product Features

  • REMOVABLE TOP HANDLE features 15mm rod holes for various accessory mounting options
  • Flip Follow Focus is single-sided follow focus with a variable lock system and a base that slides to accommodate different lens constructions.
  • ROBUST CAGE With Mattebox Follow Focus Kit fits your every shooting style.
  • EASILY DETACHABLE, LIGHTWEIGHT video matte box comes with KNICKER which wraps around the barrel of your lens to block out extra light completely.
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Filmcity Shoulder Rig Kit w Matte Box & Follow Focus for DSLR Cameras. Ergonomic & Stable, 6” to 9” Convertible Size. Adjustable Handles, ¼” Threads. Comfy Shoulder Pad, Quick Release Plate (FC-03)

Filmcity Shoulder Rig Kit w Matte Box & Focus Follow for DSLR Cameras. Ergonomic & Stable

by FILMCITY
What We like

HIGH GRADE MATTE BOX fits multiple lens sizes & diameters up to 95mm; FOLLOW FOCUS delivers Crisp & Precise Focus Pulls

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Product Features

  • ADJUSTABLE CAMERA CAGE BRACKETS convert from 9" to 6" in seconds
  • ERGONOMIC SHOULDER PAD with COUNTER WEIGHT provides stability and comfort for hours of operation
  • ROBUST yet LIGHTWEIGHT CAMERA SHOULDER KIT supports DSLR Video DV HDV Camcorders; promises you comfortable filming experience
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Neewer Shoulder Rig Kit for DSLR Cameras and Camcorders, Movie Video Film Making System with Matte Box, Follow Focus, C-Shaped Bracket, 15mm Rods, Handgrip, 1/4” & 3/8” Threads (Blue + Black)

Neewer Shoulder Rig Kit DSLR for Cameras and Camcorders

by Neewer
What We like

Accessorize the Setup Multiple 1/4 and 3/8 female threads enable you to equip the rig with various devices, including microphones, monitors, flash strobes, LED video lights to facilitate your filmmaking

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Product Features

  • Matte Box & Follow Focus Matte box fits lenses 4377mm in diameter. The three flags block excessive light and avoid lens glare for clear, sharp footage. Follow focus allows you to adjust the focus smoothly and accurately with one hand
  • Comfortable Handgrips & Shoulder Pad Anti-slip dual handgrips let you hold the rig with a firm grip while filming moving subjects, and the soft rubber shoulder pad helps reduce muscle strains after a lengthy filming day
  • Universal Baseplate Baseplate is compatible with DSLR cameras, video cameras, and camcorders via its 1/4 and 3/8 mounting threads. The quick release plate enables instant camera mounting, and the bubble level gives you precise horizontal composition
  • Professional Shoulder Rig Turn your DSLR camera or camcorder into a pro filmmaking system with Neewer Shoulder Rig. Rest it on your shoulder or hold it with the top handle for low-angle shots. 15mm rods connect all the components, and the 60mm-gauge rod rails let you adjust their positions at will
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FILMCITY Power DSLR Camera Cage w MB-600 Sunshade Matte Box for DSLR/DSLM Cameras. For Lenses upto 95mm in Dia., Adjustable Handles & 15mm Rod Adapter. Accessory Threads, Tripod Compatible (FC-CTH-01)

FILMCITY Power DSLR Camera Cage w MB-600 Sunshade Matte for Box DSLR/DSLM Cameras. For Lenses upto 95mm in Dia.

by FILMCITY
What We like

Quick Release Plate for quick camera mounting/dismounting; 1/4"-20 & 3/8"-16 mounting threads for tripod mounting

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Product Features

  • Filmcity Power DSLR/DSLM camera cage with side handles offer firm grip & comfortable operation; Top handle allows the advantage of taking low mode shots
  • High strength, advanced quality, and fully functional MB-600 Matte box with Cage Combo is ideal for professional or amateur camera operators
  • The high-grade matte box fits multiple lens sizes & diameters up to 95mm; Includes Top and Side barn doors, 4x4 Filter Holders & 15mm Front Height Adjustable adapter accommodates any camera lens
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SMALLRIG Mini Matte Box Pro for Mirrorless DSLR Cameras, Come with 4 x 5.65 Filter Trays and 67mm/72mm/77mm/82mm-95mm Adapter Ring - 3680

SMALLRIG Mini Matte Box Pro for Mirrorless DSLR Cameras, Come 4 with x 5.65 Filter Trays and 67mm/72mm/77mm/82mm-95mm Adapter Ring

by SMALLRIG
What We like

Related Accessories Recommended To secure lens and prevent shaking, SmallRig 15mm LWS Rod Support 2663 is recommended. If you need other filter trays, you could search "SmallRig 3320", "SmallRig 3319"; For ND filters, please go for "SmallRig 3588", "SmallRig 3589"

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Product Features

  • Wide CompatibilityThis mattebox is suitable for various adapter rings (52-95mm, 55-95mm, 58-95mm, 62-95mm, 58-95mm, 62-95mm, 86-95mm, NOT included in package) and (67-95mm, 72-95mm, 77-95mm, 82-95mm, included in package) as well as 95mm lenses. Its adapter rings allow quick release of circular filters (including CPL and ND) of up to 92.5mm
  • Adjustable Carbon Fiber FlagsSmallRig Mini Matte Box Pro 3680 is designed for mirrorless cameras to prevent sunlight or other light from causing glare and flare and to control images on the screen. The top flag opens 180 and its side wings extend 40 for additional light blocking; The side flag is attached to either the matte box or the filter tray via slots and opens 180 to block stray light. Note: The top flag cannot be closed shut when more than 2 filter trays are installed
  • Modular Design and Easy InstallationThis mini matte box is designed with quick release modular and easy installation. It features one knob on top to fix the top flag in place, and one knob on the upper right corner to tighten the camera lens. It also comes with a storage bag for quick storage of the matte box and filter trays
  • Two 4 x 5.65" Filter Trays Included It comes standard with two 4 x 5.65" filter trays, which can be quickly mounted via slots, and supports multiple plug-in filters at the same time
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Professional DSLR Rig Camera Cage/Follow Focus/Matte Box Bundle for Sony A6000 A6300 A7 A7S A7SII A7R A7RII, Panasonic DMC-GH4 GH4 GH3, Canon M3 M5 M6, Nikon L340 etc

Lightdow Professional DSLR Rig Camera Cage/Follow Focus/Matte Box Bundle Sony for A6000 A6300 A7 A7S A7SII A7R A7RII

by ZLY Technology
What We like

Camera Cage: Form-fitting and exquisite/Multi-functional/High compatibility/Easy to attach and detach

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Product Features

  • Follow Focus: completely gear-driven design for slip-free, accurate, and repeatable focus movement. Mounts onto 15mm/0.59" Rod Support (60mm/2.4" center to center difference).
  • Matte Box: 15mm / 0.6in rail rod support system, suitable for lens from 43mm to 77mm / 1.7 - 3.0in.
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Tiltaing Motorized Mirage VND Matte Box w/VND Filter and Motor Kit for DSLR, Mirrorless, Drone, Gimbal, Cinema, Compatible with Tilta Nucleus Series Wireless Follow Focus Systems

Tiltaing Motorized Mirage VND Matte Box Filter w/VND and Motor Kit for DSLR

by Tilta
What We like

[CLAMP ON] to Cine Lenses with 95mm Front Diameters or via Filter Thread Adapters

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Product Features

  • [EXPANDABLE DESIGN] Supports Many Accessories to Expand Functionality
  • [MODULAR DESIGN] Supports Lightweight Configurations, Perfect for Gimbals and Drones
  • [SUPPORTS VARIABLE ND] Which Can Be Manually or Remotely Controlled
  • WHAT'S IN THE BOXThis Kit come with one Mirage Matte Box, Wireless Controller &Motor for Tilta Mirage, also a 95mm Variable ND Filter
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Tilta Mirage Matte Box - Lightweight & Modular with New Insert Filter Design for DSLR, Mirrorless, Drone, Gimbal and Cinema

Tilta Mirage Matte Box

by Tilta
What We like

[EXPANDABLE DESIGN] Supports Many Accessories to Expand Functionality

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Product Features

  • [CLAMP ON] to most Cine Lenses with 95mm Front Diameter or via included 82/77/72/67mm Filter Thread Adapters (more sizes available separately)
  • [SUPPORTS VARIABLE ND] Which Can Be Manually or Remotely Controlled
  • [CIRCULAR & 4x5.6 FILTERS] Accommodates 4x5.6 and New 95mm Circular Filters
  • [MODULAR DESIGN] Supports Lightweight Configurations, Perfect for Gimbals and Drones
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SMALLRIG Mini Matte Box for Mirrorless DSLR Cameras Compatible with 67mm/72mm/77mm/82mm/95mm Lenses - 3196

SMALLRIG Mini Matte Box for Mirrorless Cameras DSLR Compatible with 67mm/72mm/77mm/82mm/95mm Lenses

by SMALLRIG
What We like

PORTABLE & COMPACTThe Mini Matte Box 3196 is made from durable but super lightweight carbon fiber material. Portable and compact, with only 125g(without adapter rings). It meets users' common shooting needs and easy for carrying outside.

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Product Features

  • WIDE COMPATIBILITYSmallRig 3196 fits various standard lenses such as 4 x 5.65" and round filters. Its clamp connector works with different adapter rings (optional model 3383 : 52-95mm; 55-95mm; 58-95mm; 62-95mm; 86-95mm, standard rings: 67-95mm; 72-95mm; 77-95mm; 82-95mm;) or attached directly to 95mm lens; its adapter ring fits round CPL, ND filter and other round filters of up to 92.5mm. Besides, it leaves enough space for quick disassembly and adjustment of the round filter.
  • 1/4"-20 THREADED HOLESSmallRig Mini Matte box 3196 features 4 1/4"-20 threaded holes on the top. It allows attaching other SmallRig accessories such as Magic Arms 2065, etc. Furthermore, its anti-twist 1/4"-20 threaded holes on the bottom suits 15mm LWX Rod Support 2663, achieving a better shooting.
  • CARBON FIBER BOX & TOP FLAGSmallRig Mini Matte Box 3196 is designed for DSLR and mirrorless cameras to prevent sunlight or other light from causing glare and flare and to control the image on the screen. The adjustable carbon-fiber top flag blocks sunlight or strong light and also prevents internal reflections with its anti-reflective design. Moreover, it avoids vignetting in 15mm focal length shooting. (If you need a top & side flag, pls search "SmallRig 3597")
  • MULTIPLE INSTALLATION The filter tray 3319 can be quickly and smoothly mounted onto matte box via a NATO clamp. SmallRig 3196 enables to install round filters and multiple 4 x 5.65" plug-in filters of up to 4mm in thickness at the same time, which meet your multiple filter needs. Besides, the filter tray 3319 provides all-around protection of the filter with multi-point silicone. It is easy to storeand prevents scratches and fingerprints while replacing plug-in filters.
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SMALLRIG Lightweight Matte Box for Mirrorless DSLR Cameras Compatible with 67mm/ 72mm/77mm/82mm/114mm Lens - 2660

SMALLRIG Lightweight Matte Box for Mirrorless Cameras DSLR Compatible with 67mm/ 72mm/77mm/82mm/114mm Lens

by SMALLRIG
What We like

RECOMMENDED PRODUCTSSeparately available 95-114mm Adapter Ring SmallRig 2661 can be used for cine-style lenses, and Clamp-On Lens Adapter Ring Kit SmallRig 3408 is compatible with 80mm/85mm/95mm/110mm lens. Optional 15mm LWS rod clamp SmallRig 3411, together with 15mm LWS rods and 114mm silicone donut SmallRig 3409 supports 58-114mm lens. ND filters, please go for Lens Adapter Ring Set SmallRig 3410. For Side & Top Flag, please go for SmallRig 3597

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Product Features

  • SUPPORTS TWO 4 X 4" OR 4 X 5.65" FILTERSIt accepts two 4 x 4 or 4 x 5.65" filters without the use of filter trays and includes four adapter rings to attach the matte box to the lens. The filters can be easily pushed out from the side without leaving fingerprints on the filters by unscrewing the top thumbscrew.
  • CARBON FIBER BOX & TOP FLAGSmallRig Lightweight Matte Box 2660 is designed to block the sun or other light source in order to prevent glare and lens flare, with interchangeable mounting systems that suits cinema or DSLR lenses. The included carbon fiber top flag helps block veiling glare or bright reflections from striking your lens, and it can be folded down to cover the front of the matte box and provide protection to the front of your lens.
  • FOUR 1/4"-20 ACCESSORY THREADSWeights Only 238g without the top flag, SmallRig 2660 suits small mirrorless or DSLR cameras and is made from durable but lightweight carbon fiber material. There are four 1/4"-20 threads on top of the matte box that allow you to mount additional accessories.
  • WIDE COMPATIBILITYThe matte box comes with a 114mm clamp that allows you to mount it directly onto 114mm cine lens, and the included 67 to 114mm, 72 to 114mm, 77 to 114mm, 82 to 114mm threaded adapter rings allow you to use the matte box with lenses of different diameters.

Well, let me tell you about the fascinating history of matte boxes for DSLR cameras! Believe it or not, these little boxes have come a long way since the first DSLRs hit the market.

The use of matte boxes in the film industry can be traced back to the early days of cinema, when filmmakers used them to control the amount and quality of light that entered the lens. As cinema technology advanced, so did the complexity and versatility of matte boxes.

Fast forward to the early years of DSLR cameras, and matte boxes were not yet a common accessory. However, as DSLRs became more popular for filmmaking, amateur and professional cinematographers alike began realizing the importance of having a tool for controlling light and minimizing unwanted glare in their shots.

As a result, a number of companies began developing matte boxes specifically designed for DSLR cameras. These early models were often simple and affordable, made of plastic and sometimes even cardboard. However, they undoubtedly provided a valuable tool for filmmakers who were looking to improve the quality of their footage.

In the years since, matte boxes have continued to evolve and improve. Today, there are countless options on the market, with some models featuring advanced features like adjustable flags and even integrated follow focus systems. Many of the newest models are built with lightweight materials like carbon fiber, making them more durable and portable than ever before.

One of the most notable advancements in recent years has been the integration of matte boxes with follow focus systems. These systems allow cinematographers to achieve precise focus pulls by connecting the matte box to a geared wheel on the side of the camera. This makes it possible to seamlessly shift focus during a shot, creating a professional-looking effect that was once only possible with much more complicated and expensive gear.

Of course, with all of these advancements comes a wide range of price points. Some matte boxes are extremely affordable, while others can cost hundreds or even thousands of dollars. However, for those who take filmmaking seriously, the investment is often worth it.

So there you have it – the history of matte boxes for DSLR cameras, summarized in bold HTML tags. From their earliest days in the film industry to the advanced, integrated systems we see today, matte boxes have come a long way. Hopefully, this brief history has helped shed some light on the evolution of this important filmmaking tool.

The product from the context above - the Removable Top Handle with Flip Follow Focus and Robust Cage with Mattebox Follow Focus Kit - has been designed keeping in mind the various shooting styles of users. The key design choices made in this product include 15mm rod holes in the removable top handle for accessory mounting options, a single-sided follow focus with a variable lock system, and a base that slides to accommodate different lens constructions.

The robust cage with mattebox follow focus kit ensures that the camera is well supported and protected during use, which is a critical consideration when shooting in challenging conditions. The inclusion of a knicker to block out extra light completely also enhances the user's control over light and shadows, which is essential for achieving the desired visual effects.

Overall, the design choices made in this product are geared towards ensuring ease of use, versatility, and superior quality output. By incorporating these features, the product enhances the user's ability to take creative control over their visuals, making it an excellent choice for professional videographers and filmmakers.

FAQ About matte boxes for dslr camera

Q: Are matte boxes worth it?

A: Yes, matte boxes are worth it for professional videographers and filmmakers who need to precisely control and adjust the amount of light entering the camera lens. It helps to minimize unwanted lens flares, glare, and reflections, resulting in more professional-looking footage.

Q: Why use a matte box for filming?

A: Matte boxes provide several benefits for filming, such as:

- Precisely control the amount of light entering the camera lens

- Reduce glare, reflections, and lens flares

- Ability to use various filtration options like polarizers, ND filters, and graduated filters

- Protect the lens from dust, fingerprints, and debris

- Add a professional look and feel to your footage

Q: Where is the matte box on a camera?

A: The matte box is usually attached to the front of the camera lens using a set of rails or a clamp. It sits between the camera body and the lens and acts as a protective shield that minimizes the amount of light entering the lens. The Mattebox Follow Focus Kit mentioned in the product description is an example of a system comprising a matte box, a follow focus, and a cage that attaches to the camera body.

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