>>4252441I'd still like to have a lens cap because it would usually keep small particles of dust out (although not with the squarehood since it leaves some open space behind the ring) and it prevents my hand or other things in my bag from touching the front element. I always use a lens cap when I'm not actively using the camera for this reason. I don't use a hood on most of my lenses because I prioritize compactness, but I always use a lens cap. right now, in my bag, I've got to position the X-E4 + 27mm f/2 + squarehood carefully because if I don't, the strap would get inside the hood and touch the front element. I don't know if that's going to cause any scratches, but I don't like having to worry about it. and then when I take it out of my bag, I have to be careful to grab it in a way that won't send my finger inside the hood. with a lens cap on, it's much easier: I can just put it in the bag without thinking and take it out without thinking as well. but yeah, when I'm actually out taking photos, I have never used a protective filter.