This filter definitely works as advertised. I researched exhaustively and checked many reviews before purchasing.
Comes in a nice plastic box with some foam cushioning; I added a layer of thin foam in there to keep it from moving around in my bag.
I'm in Florida - took this outside mid-morning, full noon and afternoon, and on an overcast day. Outstanding results, including with flash. On sunniest days I did not crank it up to the maximum setting, just below, and still got great results for both stills and video.
Shooting on a a Canon 6DMII, got three lenses that'll take this 52mm.
Not a 'pro' but half of my income comes from photography and video.
Would definitely recommend this filter - I feel kind of dumb not having gotten it years ago, could have saved many shots.
I found this after seeing the versatility of a variable ND demonstrated in a video, realized I must be missing something. When I looked up that item I was astounded to see that the low-end for that series prices about $250/$300. If you're making museum or some kind of major publishing landscape images you probably don't think twice about that, and I'm certain those pieces are quality. However, if you're reading this then you've already come across a couple of childish and self-important remarks about how this item doesn't compare to 'pro' or 'real' filters. You're on Amazon here - this thing works, give it a try.
Finally - have seen a string of reviews with tantrum-like rants insisting that this filter doesn't work and puts an 'X' on the image.
I'm guessing that's true ... because in the little page that comes with the filter (and the description online) it's clearly stated that turning the filter up to it's highest setting will create this artifact, so they kind of advise you not to do that.
Also, if you cross the street on a red light, you will likely get run over.
It's working for me!