Originally posted by UserAccessDenied I heard people either love or hate the variable ND filters...
That is probably because they are either video or photo people. Variable ND filters are mostly made for video use because it's the only way to control the amount of light that hits the sensor since shutter speed and aperture are mostly fixed at a certain value to control motion blur and depth of field. The quality of fixed NDs is better than the variable ones. So if you don't need it (for video) use fixed NDs.
Since you're new to using filters I would recommend buying something in the midrange. Don't buy the really cheap ones but also don't buy the most expensive ones (yet). Use them, see if you like them and maybe upgrade down the road if you feel the need.
Also have a look at the used market for the higher quality ones. People often replace their lenses and sell the filters because the new lens has a different filter size.