Top 20 Snapchat Filters & Lenses to Make Your Snaps Special

Technology has advanced significantly, and social media has made it easier than ever to stay connected. Snapchat, a popular multimedia messaging app, stands out with its fun filters and lenses that allow users to express themselves creatively. Its wide range of funny filters, cool lenses, and beauty effects make it a go-to platform for enhancing your snaps, giving it an edge over other social media apps like Instagram.

Looking for the best Snapchat filters to elevate your snaps? We've compiled a list of the top filters and lenses to help you find the perfect one for every occasion.

• Part 1: What Are the Differences Between Snapchat Filters and Lenses?
• Part 2: 20 Best Filters & Lenses On Snapchat to Use in 2025
• Part 3: How to Use Snapchat Filters and Discover Your Favorites
• Part 4: FAQs About Snapchat Filters & Lenses

Part 1: What Are the Differences Between Snapchat Filters and Lenses?

Snapchat filters are static overlays and sit on the top of your photo or video. In contrast, Snapchat lenses are dynamic, augmented reality animations that alter your voice along with your appearance as you move on the screen. Unlike filters that are added after taking a photo, lenses are displayed while you're taking the photo.

The best filters on Snapchat let you change a snap's tint or change the direction or speed in which your video is played back. On the other hand, Snapchat lenses work by utilizing facial recognition software to track your features and apply an animation that follows your facial movements. While lenses can change the sound of your voice and the appearance of your face, filters can only add color tones, messages, customized images, and icons to your snaps.

Another key difference lies in customization and cost. Snapchat allows you to create your own filters and lenses. While designing a custom filter requires a fee based on its geographical area and usage time, creating a custom lens is completely free and can be done directly through the Snapchat app or its Lens Studio.

Understanding the differences between Snapchat filters and lenses can help you choose the right tool to make your snaps more engaging and fun.

Part 2: 20 Best Filters & Lenses On Snapchat to Use in 2025

Best Snapchat Filters For Selfies

Getting bored with the regular filters that add some brightness and little symbols to selfies? If so, adding special effects to your face with the Snapchat app can transform your selfies. Opting for the best Snapchat filters for selfies can spice up your photo like never before. Here're a few filters that can help you pump up your Snapchat selfie game.

1. Anime Style by Snapchat

One popular filter that has been going viral on Snapchat, Instagram, and TikTok ever since its launch is the Anime Style. The filter uses AI technology in addition to face mapping to create a unique anime face. It will help you imagine how you would look if you were a character in an anime. Start making anime characters out of your friends!

2. Me in 60’s AI

If you love vintage vibes, the Me in 60’s AI filter will take you on a nostalgic journey. Using AI technology, this filter recreates the charm of the 1960s with retro hairstyles, warm tones, and a classic aesthetic. It’s perfect for those who want to bring a touch of the past into their modern-day selfies. This creative addition to Snapchat filters offers a unique way to express personality and style, making it a standout choice for users who value originality.

3. Old By Snapchat

Have you ever wondered how you will look once you're old? At a time when every other filter tries to give you a younger appearance, this amazing selfie filter turns you old. It's a selfie-altering feature that lets you 'age' in front of your eyes. By giving a glimpse of what's coming, it turns your hair to whitish-grey and adds some wrinkles to your face.

4. Sailor's Cap By Snapchat

Have you always been a fan of 'Popeye the sailor man'? If so, try the Sailor's Cap filter from the Snapchat app – one of the best filters on Snapchat – and see a Popeye version of yourself. This cool filter will add an oversized sailor hat, a typical sailor beard to your face, and a blowing pipe into your mouth.

Source: lensesforsnap.com

5. The Elders by JP Pirie

Although Halloween is only months away, it's a completely different feeling to scare people out of nowhere. Although a plethora of Snapchat filters is available, this is a favorite of many snappers. In the beginning, your photo might look normal, but the moment you open your mouth, the filter will add 'The Mummy'.

Funniest Snapchat Filters & Lenses

Are you on the lookout for the funniest Snapchat filters for yourself? Or, do you want to make your friends laugh? Well, given the nature of Snapchat, it's no surprise that many are fond of funny filters. Everyone likes to have a good laugh every once in a while and so we've compiled some of the most popular funny Snapchat lenses and filters.

1. Troll Face by Vivek Thakur

Looking for hilarious Snapchat filters to spice up your snaps? Troll Face by Vivek Thakur is a classic! This filter overlays the iconic troll face meme onto your expressions in real time, making it a favorite for pranks and funny moments. Whether you're aiming for a laugh or trying to create a viral moment, Troll Face is guaranteed to make your stories unforgettable.

2. Talking Potato Snapcode

Looking for hilarious lenses and filters? Create some of the weirdest snaps using the Talking Potato filter and have fun with your friends. Once you activate this incredible filter, a baked potato will be appearing on your screen – it will look like it is being held in hand. Go into the frame and your eyes, mouth, and nose will appear on the potato instantly. Talk all you want and ensure you capture everything in a snap video.

3. Face Swap

One of the most entertaining and best Snapchat filters is Face Swap. With the help of this fantastic filter, you can swap your face with anything that resembles it. This is the major reason why face swap is one of the most humorous Snapchat filters as viewers can burst into a laugh by watching the outcome of the filter.

Source: techadvisor.com

4. Scrunched Up Faces

Face distortion filters are possibly one of the most popular types used by snappers. Snapchat offers approximately three or four filters that distort your face. Each of these hilarious filters is great for getting a good laugh with your friends! So, if you are having a terrible day, it is recommended to use the Scrunched Up Faces filter to brighten up your day.

5. Crying Eyes

Is life getting you down? Have the feeling that nothing is going the correct way? Although you want your friends to know that you are upset, you do not have to actually cry. Snapchat's crying eyes filter can make it appear as if your eyes are watering. Simply scan the yellow snapcode and the filter will give you crying eyes.

Source: lensesforsnap.com

Best Snapchat Filters & Lenses For Guys

Snapchat isn't just for girls as even guys can use it. In fact, there is a range of filters that are designed for men. There are numerous filters that you can play around with and based on what you choose, they can drastically change your appearance. Here're the best Snapchat filters for guys.

1. Mustache + Goatee by Snapchat

Mustache + Goatee is one of the most stylish Snapchat filters for guys. This AR-powered filter adds a perfectly groomed mustache and goatee to your face, offering a rugged and trendy look. Experiment with different styles without committing to real facial hair and impress your friends with your virtual makeover.

2. Flame Sunglasses Snapchat Filter

Want to look hot? If so, this is the ideal filter for you. Simply scan the snapcode and a cool pair of flaming sunglasses will appear on your face. Indeed, the lenses will be on fire! All you need to do is just face the camera and the effect will activate the moment it recognizes your face. So, give the filter a try and it will make for a fantastic snap.

3. Fashion Sunglasses Snapchat Filter

Widely regarded as the best Snapchat filters for guys, this effect will give a pair of stunning shades. Interested in trying out this filter? If so, scan the snapcode. Once the front-facing camera turns on and you point it at yourself, the effect will activate. And, the next thing you know, you will be wearing a pair of sunglasses. Furthermore, the filter will give you a big, bushy beard along with a matching mustache.

4. Beard and Glasses Snapchat Filter

This creative effect can give you the sophisticated 'old man look'. Scan the snapcode and the camera will turn on. Point it at yourself to activate the effect and your appearance will change. Not only will you have a mustache and a beard, but your hair will change too. Additionally, the filter will give you a pair of retro-looking frames.

5. Rocker Snapchat Filter

With this filter, you can turn yourself into a rocker. Just scan the snapcode and you will transform yourself. Not will you just have facial hair, but you will also be wearing a headband – a red headband with stars. Also, you will have a leather jacket that will appear automatically once you step in front of the camera.

Source: lensesforsnap.com

Best Snapchat Filters For Beauty

With the availability of a plethora of Snapchat filters for beauty, the possibilities are endless. The purpose of these filters is to make yourself look prettier and they are some of the most creative effects to use for your selfies. Also, you can just use them to change your look for a snap video.

1. Makeup with Eyeshadows by Snapchat

For beauty enthusiasts, Makeup with Eyeshadows stands out as one of the best Snapchat filters. This filter enhances your appearance with vibrant eyeshadow colors, flawless skin tones, and bold eyeliner effects. Whether you're preparing for a selfie or testing out makeup ideas for a night out, this filter adds instant glam to your snaps.

Source: lensesforsnap.com

2. Rainbow Makeup Snapchat Filter

If you want some color to your face, use the rainbow makeup filter. Once you're ready, just scan the snapcode to get started. The filter will activate and your camera will turn on. You will be wearing virtual makeup – lipstick, eyeliner, and eyeshadow too. The great part is that your eyeshadow will change colors and this is why it's called rainbow makeup.

3. WOW Snapchat Filter

With this filter, you can give yourself a doll-like look. Using this filter will change the look of your eyes completely – they will be big, bubbly – just like a doll's. If anything, these effects will be the highlight of your snap. You will have pink cheeks. It will appear as if you have applied a generous amount of blush.

Source: lensesforsnap.com

4. Skin Smoother Snapchat Filter

Want to smooth out your skin without anyone being able to see your blemishes? Unlock the yellow snapcode to activate and use Skin Smother – one of the best Snapchat filters for beauty. Wondering how? Simply look at the camera and the filter will automatically give you flawless skin without you having to do anything.

5. Simple Look Snapchat Filter

When it comes to makeup, simple is the way to go. If that's your preference, this is the ideal beauty filter for you. Scan the snapcode, activate the effect, and turn the camera around so that your face is the center of the screen. Once the filter recognizes your face, your appearance will slightly change. Your eyebrows will be cleaner and you will be wearing mascara and eyeliner!

Part 3: How to Use Snapchat Filters and Discover Your Favorites

Snapchat filters are a fantastic way to make your snaps more engaging and creative. Not only can you use the filters available in the app, but you can also explore and save your favorite ones for future use. Here’s how you can use Snapchat filters and discover the ones you love the most.

• Step1 Activate and Browse Snapchat Filters： Log in to your account, open the camera screen, tap the screen to activate filters, and then swipe left or right to explore the available options, ranging from fun overlays to color enhancements for quick customization.

• Step2 Capture Your Snap: Once you’ve selected a filter, take your snap by tapping the camera button for a photo or holding it down for a video. Filters will apply automatically, adding fun effects to your content.

• Step3 Discover and Save Your Favorite Snapchat Filters:
  • Use Lens Explorer: Tap the smiley face icon next to the camera button to open Lens Explorer. Browse through trending and recommended filters, or use the search bar to find specific ones.
  • Save Filters: Once you find a filter you like, tap the star icon to add it to your favorites for easy access on future snaps.
  • Discover Filters via Snapcodes: Scan Snapcodes shared by creators or friends to unlock and use exclusive filters.

• Step4 Add or Change Filters Post-Capture:
  • Swipe to Apply Filters: After taking your snap, swipe left or right to explore additional options.
  • Access More Filters: Tap the smiley icon to unlock hidden filters and AR effects.
• Step5 Share Your Snaps with the Perfect Filters:
  • Send Directly: Tap ‘Send to,’ select your contacts, and hit ‘Send.’
  • Post to Stories: Share your snap as ‘My Story’ or contribute to ‘Our Story’ for a global audience.

Part 4: FAQs About Snapchat Filters & Lenses

1. Are Snapchat Filters Safe?

Yes, Snapchat filters are safe. In fact, this is one of the major reasons why Snapchat filters and lenses are a huge hit among the Generation Y & GenZ.

2. Can You Get Snapchat Filters Without Snapchat?

Yes, you can easily get Snap filters without a Snapchat account. Unlike many photo editing apps, Snapchat allows its users to use the filters without having an account.

3. Why Don't I Have Filter and Lenses On Snapchat?

If you don't have filters & lenses currently, the first and foremost thing you need to do is allow filters on Snapchat. No matter whether you are using Android or iOS, enabling filters or making sure they are enabled is a simple task.

Conclusion

With the best Snapchat filters and lenses, there's no end to creativity and imagination. Try these popular effects to look stunning and cool in photos & videos. Time to step up your Snapchat game using trending filters and lenses that make your snaps so elegant!

Happy snapping, Millennials & GenZ!