Cheap filters are very good when used as coasters for hot drinks on a wood table, that is about it. If you are buying an inexpensive lens skip the filter all together. It makes no sense to me to put a $50 filter on a 50 1.8. On the other hand I often use B+w mrc filters on my expensive glass for protection when I will be in a situation where I will be changing lenses often and quickly. I use them instead of lens caps. Funny thing is though I have yet to scratch one. I use a hood all the time in either case. The hood offers protection and will increase contrast. No brainer there.