It’s been two and a half years since I reviewed the original 3 Legged Thing AirHed Cine, and I was very impressed at the time. It was everything I’d come to expect from the company behind it – an innovative design that packs an array of useful features, with excellent build quality and an impeccable finish.

Enough said? Well, while I’ve been steadily adding to my personal collection of 3 Legged Thing photo and video equipment over the years, the new and improved AirHed Cine CC is destined for a place on my shopping list, with its ability to turn pretty much any set of legs into one of the best video tripods. It certainly looks and feels right at home on my prized 3 Legged Thing Winston 2.0 sturdy carbon tripod.

3 Legged Thing AirHed Cine CC: Specifications

3 Legged Thing AirHed Cine CC: Price

Specialist video heads are often big, heavy, unwieldy, and very expensive to buy. The 3 Legged Thing AirHed Cine CC is ideal in my books (and those of my accountant), in that it’s relatively compact, lightweight, and reasonably priced, at $249 / £229 / AU$799. Considering the feature set and quality of construction, it’s a bit of a bargain.

3 Legged Thing AirHed Cine CC: Design & Handling

I didn’t find much of anything wrong with the original version of the 3 Legged Thing AirHed Cine fluid, video head, but the updated ‘CC’ adds some neat new tricks. Let’s not get ahead of ourselves, though, and start with the basics. The head is designed primarily with videography in mind, but it works just fine for shooting stills as well, especially if panning is the name of the game for tracking sports or wildlife subjects. It’s also a good fit for a large spotting scope.

A key feature of any video head is that it enables smooth pan and tilt movements, and, just like the original, the CC has a lovely fluid feel to it, based on a quality design and spring-loaded counterbalance mechanism. That said, the counterbalance is not adjustable to accommodate different sizes and weights of camera, but the omission is what I’d expect from a relatively compact, lightweight, and affordable video head, such as this one.

Crucial to panning and tilting is the panning handle itself, as your primary point of physical contact with the head. The handle is completely revamped in the new version, the main difference being that it has a retractable design. Not only does it enable you to choose the length that feels most comfortable and natural in use, but it also makes it less likely that you’ll need to remove it and stash it separately when stowing the head. The images above and below show the panning handle in its retracted and fully extended states.

True to type, the panning handle is mounted on splines, which enable a wide range of rotational adjustment as well as ensuring a secure fitment that avoids any slippage or wobbling. The arm release knob can be pulled out and rotated on a six-sided head to ensure it doesn’t stick out in the wrong direction and get in the way when fastened.

Also, as I’d hope for in a video head, the panning handle can be attached to the left or right side, catering not only to left-handed and right-handed users but also to individual preference. Some right-handers will prefer to use the panning handle with their left hand, to leave their right hand free for operating the mounted camera.

At the center of the left side of the head is the main tilt-action lock and release knob. It operates with smooth simplicity and can lock off the tilt very securely for fixed position shooting. Only minimal turning is required to lock or release the head’s tilt mechanism. A generous 165 degrees of tilt is on offer, from 90 degrees forward to 75 degrees backward.

Above and to the front of the tilt knob on the side of the head is a mounting socket with a standard 1/4-inch thread. You can use this to attach accessories like a microphone, LED lamp, or video monitor. 3 Legged Thing offers two sizes of optional ‘Pivot Magic Arms’ for the task.

Down at the bottom of the left-hand side is the panning lock/release knob. Like the release knob for the panning handle, this one is spring-loaded and sits on a six-sided head, so you can pull it out and rotate it to your preferred position. Loosening the lever enables a full 360-degree panning rotation. To help keep tabs on movement, there’s a 360-degree scale on the base, numbered in 15-degree intervals and marked with lines at smaller 2.5-degree increments.

To help with leveling your tripod legs, which in turn helps to ensure that everything stays on the level when you’re panning, there’s a bubble level built into the lower section of the head. A secondary bubble level is fitted to the main clamp at the top, for assistance with leveling the tilt mechanism.

Another upgrade over the original version of the head is that the clamp up on top can be removed by undoing four hex screws, and rotated laterally through 90-degree intervals. The bonus here is that you can change the orientation of the QR plate from running front-to-back to side-to-side. This can be a big advantage if you’re using a camera with an L-bracket or a cage.

The Arca-Swiss compatible quick-release plate is also redesigned. For starters, it’s longer at 100mm instead of 90mm, giving more scope for centering the weight of your camera on the head. It also features a sliding camera screw sled and spring-loaded locator pin, plus a cable management hook at the front. The QR plate also adds compatibility for 3 Legged Thing’s growing range of ‘Xpand’ accessories, cheese plates, and risers, and features multiple 1/4-inch and 3/8-inch threaded screw holes.

The images above and below show the top and bottom of the ‘XP 100 Ultra Plate’, 3 Legged Thing’s redesigned Arca-Swiss compatible quick-release plate that’s supplied with the head.

Last but not least, the head is supplied complete with 3 Legged Thing’s handy ‘Toolz’ multi-tool, which features hex keys, a flat-blade coin key, a keyring clip, and a carabiner for attaching it to whatever you see fit. It even works as a bottle opener if things get really tough.

3 Legged Thing AirHed Cine CC: Performance

I’m impressed that despite having a compact size and weighing in at just 690g / 1.5lb, the AirHed Cine CC has a beefy maximum payload rating of 10kg / 22lb. As I’ve mentioned, it doesn’t feature an adjustable counterbalance system, but I found it worked well with everything from small, lightweight cameras to big, hefty outfits comprising large camera bodies with super-telephoto lenses.

Any video head lives or dies by the smoothness of its pan and tilt mechanisms, and the AirHed Cine CC has a really nice fluid feel to it. The new extending panning handle is a joy to use, and all the controls feel smooth, precise, and intuitive. Suffice it to say, you can devote your entire attention to shooting rather than wrestling with the head to get what you want out of it.

It can be a bit tricky to level the legs of your tripod, which can be essential to ensure your camera stays on the level during panning. One elegant solution is to add a 3 Legged Thing LevelHed Levelling Base into the mix, but it’s pretty pricey at an additional $140 / £130 / AU$259. Something I’ve seen in some video and hybrid heads, like the Benro FS20PRO Video & Foto Head, is a secondary panning plate on top of the head, which enables you to just level the head for panning rather than the legs or a leveling base as well, but this is omitted in the AirHed Cine CC.

3 Legged Thing AirHed Cine CC: Verdict

The 3 Legged Thing AirHed Cine CC is a great fit for me and my gear. It’s conveniently compact and lightweight, so I can stash it away in my photo backpack and grab it whenever I need to swap from shooting stills to video. It actually works really well as a pan-and-tilt head for shooting stills in addition to video, especially if you add in an L-bracket for portrait orientation shots. The laterally rotatable clamp makes the new CC version of the head all the more ideal for this, as you can use the QR plate or slot in an Arca-Swiss compatible L-bracket running sideways instead of just front-to-back.

I also like the redesigned, retractable panning handle, as it enables me to select the length that I want to use, as well as saving on storage space without feeling the need to remove the handle every time I pack the head away. The tricked-up replacement ‘XP 100 Ultra Plate’ is yet another improvement, and I like the way that I don’t even have to use the QR plate at all if I’m shooting with big, heavy telephoto lenses that have an Arca-Swiss profile mounting foot in their tripod mounting collars. All in all, the ‘CC’ is a worthy upgrade over the original. With its clever design, rich feature list, excellent build quality, and stylish finish, this one’s a keeper.

Alternatives

Many of today’s creators aren’t creating just one type of content – which is why it’s not uncommon to see someone shooting a mirrorless camera with a second action camera attached to it. But tripod brand 3 Legged Thing has just introduced the building blocks to create a custom shooting rig.

The 3 Legged Thing Xpand is a modular system to essentially allow creators to build their own custom camera cage, whether they want to add a mic, a top handle, a secondary POV camera – or all three.

The Xpand system is a set of cheese plates, risers, and connectors that are designed to allow photographers and videographers to create their own camera cage in order to house accessories like mics, action cams, lights, and grips.

The system starts with an Xpand base. Then, creators can use cheese plates and risers to build out from the base plate and add connection points for accessories like mics, secondary cameras, lights, and grips. Because the building blocks come in different sizes, creators can also design a camera cage that still gives clearance to different ports and memory card slots.

While the system has launched with cheese plates, risers, bases, and connectors, 3 Legged Thing expects to add rails, quick-release plates, and L-brackets to the system this summer.

The rise of vertical video and social media means that many creators are shooting multiple types of content at once – I’ve even rigged a GoPro to my camera to capture behind-the-scenes videos. The problem with recording multiple types of content at once, of course, is how to house all that gear.

A modular system would allow creators to build their own rig – and even tear it apart and rework it for a different type of shoot if needed. The system reminds me a bit of K’Nex or Lego, though the metal building blocks look far sturdier and need separate connector pieces.

The Xpand system already works with a number of existing 3 Legged Thing products, including some L-brackets, and the company expects to continue to add more parts this year.

The price of the Xpand system will depend on the size of the rig. A base plate starts at $25 / £25. Risers start at $10 / £10, cheese plates at $30 / £19, and connectors at about $15 / £10 for two. Retailers have already begun taking pre-orders for the system, including B&H in the US and Park Cameras in the UK.

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Take a look at the best tripods or the best L brackets.

You know when you quickly want to throw a valuable lens or an extra camera body into a backpack that isn't specifically for gear? You grab a cheap zipper bag, maybe some bubble wrap, and hope for the best. But at the back of your mind, you're thinking: there has to be a better way.

Now 3 Legged Thing (3LT) is stepping in to fix that problem with their new Magic Wraps; a flexible, self-gripping fabric designed to hug and protect your kit. In their own words, "We’ve always believed your gear deserves better than a zip‑lock bag and a prayer." Quite.

Magic Wraps are presented as a superior way to protect your equipment without adding bulk. They're made from a soft, double-sided material that firmly sticks to itself when pressed together, quickly forming a protective pouch or cocoon. The wraps come in four practical sizes, with prices starting at just $9.99 / £9.99.

Cheaper, quieter, cleaner

Magic Wraps aren't a completely new product, but an updated version of 3LT's existing Wrapz line. The original Wrapz came in various funky patterns and included a waterproof TPU layer. The new Magic Wraps line keeps the core function but makes two key changes: a simpler look and a lower price. The wraps are reversible orange and black for a cleaner, minimalist aesthetic.

Danny Lenihan, CEO and founder of 3 Legged Thing, explains the move. “We saw such an amazing success with our Wrapz when we introduced them a year ago that we felt like here was a product that should really be available to the entire world, and not just photographers. Magic Wraps are the answer – we’ve removed the TPU waterproof layer to make it more price accessible, and created customer friendly retail packaging for stores all over the world.”

Above: see the Magic Wraps in action in this video

So if we're losing the full waterproofing, where's the 'magic' exactly? Well, 3LT says it's in the fabric itself, which it calls "nano-tech-infused". One side is soft and looped, the other has tiny hooks. When they meet, they hold tight, keeping your lenses and camera bodies secure without rattling around.

For professional shooters, the biggest practical benefit might be the virtually silent operation. Traditional Velcro makes a loud, disruptive ripping sound, which will cause a huge issue during quiet moments like a wedding ceremony. Magic Wraps solve this because, in the words of 3LT: "Unlike traditional fasteners, separating the fabric is virtually silent," coming apart with just a "satisfying shhhp that won’t wake the dog or the client".

The four sizes offer flexibility for all kinds of photography gear. The smaller 30x30cm and 38x38cm sizes are designed for compact lenses, small bodies, or flash units. The larger 45x45cm and 60x60cm wraps can handle bulkier camera bodies, telephoto lenses, or even a laptop.

Early feedback on social media suggests the wraps are a hit, and the initial rush was so strong that 3LT went quickly out of stock online.

3 Legged Thing, best known for its tripods and monopods named after rock stars and other celebs, has announced Axis, a new modular strap system for carrying your camera. It’s being launched on Kickstarter on Tuesday, September 9, with early bird pricing across the entire range for 31 days.

There are six straps in the range, catering for everyone from minimalist street shooters to those who like to carry multiple bodies to cover every eventuality. All are equipped with Quick Detach (QD) connectors for quickly attaching and releasing your camera while holding it securely.

The Axis Pulse is a wrist strap that is ideal for those who like to have their camera to hand at all times, and is ideal for everyday carrying of compact and lightweight mirrorless cameras via the QD connector.

The Axis 24, 34, and 44 are classic neck/shoulder straps that come in three widths, with a choice between a slim and lightweight 24mm strap, a comfortably padded 34mm strap, or super-supportive 44mm strap designed for heavier pro setups.

The Axis Sling is a breathable, padded crossbody sling strap that securely holds the camera at the hip, and can be used singularly or with a pair joined together to act as a dual-camera harness.

And finally, the Axis Anywhere enables you to clip your camera to a backpack, belt, or harness, and is ideal for travel, hiking, or filming on the go.

All the Axis straps connect securely to cameras via the Quick Detach system, which was originally developed for astronautics, military, and law-enforcement purposes – and is even trusted by NASA for tethering cargo. However, 3 Legged Thing has added a couple of refinements of its own to keep cameras safe, accessible, and ready for action; the company's '4 Axis QD Buckle' and 'QD Swivel' enable photographers to adjust how their strap fits and moves to suit their body shape for a tailored fit.

The straps swiftly and securely attach to 3 Legged Thing’s QD4 and QD7 Arca-Swiss compatible quick-release plates, which have integrated QD sockets for seamless connection. They also work with the company's current range of L-brackets, which boast QD and Arca-Swiss compatibility.

Other design features include cam lever lock adjusters that lock solidly, neck and shoulder padding to reduce irritation and increase airflow, Hypalon-reinforced stitching for increased durability, and optional padded linings to ensure all-day comfort on lengthier shoots.

Axis straps are designed, engineered, and manufactured in Great Britain, joining the company's recently released Zadie L-bracket for the Nikon Z6 III. 3 Legged Thing says that it has invested in a new UK-based sewing facility, creating local jobs and ensuring the entire range is built to the highest standards of craftsmanship.

Danny Lenihan, Founder and CEO, 3 Legged Thing, said: “This project has been eight years in the making, though massively interrupted by the pandemic, so we’re incredibly excited to bring the Axis Strap System to the market. I genuinely believe that QD is the future of camera-carrying solutions, and we will be bringing this technology to many more products in the future. We’re also delighted that we’re creating a production facility in the UK for these straps, so they can proudly carry the ‘Made in Great Britain’ mark.”

The Axis Kickstarter campaign runs for 31 days from September 9, 2025. Backers can expect substantial discounts across the range, with the biggest savings reserved for those who back the production in the first 24 hours from the campaign launch at 4pm, Tuesday, 9 September.

After that, the regular Kickstarter backer prices (or your local currency equivalent) are Axis Pulse £38, Axis Anywhere £42, Axis 24 £49 (£53 with optional padding), Axis 34 £56 (£60 with padding), Axis 44 £64 (£68 with padding), Axis Sling £68, and Axis Double Sling £128. These prices will be available for 31 days, after which they will revert to the full retail price.

3 Legged Thing has unveiled its latest custom-fit L-bracket. Zadie QD has been engineered to snuggly fit the contours of the Nikon Z6 III, and follows in the footsteps of 3LT's other Nikon Z-series L-brackets – the Zelda, Zooey, Zayla, and Zaara – surely the company is running low on suitable names that begin with 'Z' by now…

Like the other brackets in the series, it has been crafted from anodized aerospace-grade magnesium alloy and is fully Arca-Swiss compatible, so it slots seamlessly onto most tripod heads. It has cutouts to leave the battery door, all the important connector ports, and camera straps fully accessible, as well as clearance for full rear-screen articulation.

The 'QD' appended to the name signifies that it has Quick Detach sockets for connecting to compatible straps or accessories. The bracket also includes a Peak Design Capture clip-compatible adapter and long camera screw. There is a range of 1/4”-20 and 3/8”-16 mounting points, plus adapter inserts, as well as a camera strap slot in the base for conventional or modern slings. It is also designed to work with 3 Legged Thing’s forthcoming XPand System, which the company says is a modular collection of interconnectable plates, risers, and connectors that allow photographers and filmmakers to build custom rigs for any workflow.

Unlike previous brackets in the series, the Zadie has not only been designed in Great Britain, but made there too. Danny Lenihan, Founder & CEO, 3 Legged Thing, explains: “Zadie represents a new chapter for us – not just in product design, but in homegrown innovation. Ever since the pandemic, we’ve been working towards moving our production to the UK, and we’re absolutely delighted that Zadie is the first such offering to come to fruition on our shores. She’s tough, elegant, and built with intent, offering real-world functionality for working professionals and creative explorers alike.”

I can't help but wonder whether the decision to manufacture in Britain might also have something to do with the UK having signed a relatively agreeable deal on the recently introduced tariffs imposed by the US on foreign-made goods. This is opposed to the uncertainty caused by the on-again-off-again threats by the Trump administraion to hike tariffs on Chinese imports, the country where other 3LT products are usually manufactured (at the time of writing, a last-minute 30-day 'pause' had just come into effect, keeping tariffs on Chinese-made items at 'only' 30 percent rather than the threatened 125%, but who know where they'll end up).

But I digress! An L-bracket is prized by landscape and studio photographers because it enables orientations to be quickly switched from landscape to portrait, while maintaining the camera's center of gravity above the tripod and keeping the composition similar in both horizontal and vertical shooting.

I really rate 3 Legged Thing's L-brackets, and if the Zadie is true to the other products in the series, it will be one of the top options, as you can see in our best L-brackets buying guide. The Zadie QD is available any minute now in Darkness (black) and Copper (orange) colorways and costs $129.99 / £109.99 (Australian pricing to be confirmed).

Zadie QD is available for pre-order is available from these retailers:
 🇺🇸 3 Legged Thing Zadie QD at B&H (US)
 🇬🇧 3 Legged Thing Zadie QD at Wex (UK)

3 Legged Thing has long been on my radar as a British company that designs high-end yet cost-effective tripods and other supports. It has a ‘think different’ vibe, not only in the innovative features and functions that typify its designs, but also in that the products are generally named after rock stars, skateboarders and other legends of various pursuits. By contrast, the Window Mount Clamp is simply named after its purpose in life. I’d maybe have called it Van, after Van Morrison (and his hit song, Cleaning Windows) or just because it works equally well in vans as well as cars.

Either way, it’s available as a pure and simple window mount clamp, or as a complete kit with an AirHed Trinity. The name Trinity doesn’t imply some kind of godlike status, merely that it can be used for three different things – photography, video and spotting scopes. Let’s take a closer look.

3 Legged Thing Window Mount Clamp: Specifications

3 Legged Thing Window Mount Clamp: Price

There are two options up for grabs. The Window Mount Clamp on its own costs $50 / £40, whereas the complete AirHed Trinity Window Mount Clamp Kit costs $130 / £110 (Aussie pricing wasn't available at the time of writing). The latter is relatively pricey but offers better value overall, unless you’ve already got a suitable compact pan and tilt head. You can’t attach a camera directly to the clamp, as it has a 3/8in mounting screw which is somewhat larger than the 1/4in socket featured in the vast majority of cameras. Both the clamp and the head are available in metallic moss green or in ‘darkness’ (matte black).

3 Legged Thing Window Mount Clamp: Design & Handling

Any support is only as solid as its footing so let’s start with the mount itself (you’ll have to add your own car). It’s definitely a sturdy item, made from aerospace-grade magnesium alloy. The clamp is precision-machined and hard anodized, making it an all-round tough cookie. Nobody wants a cracked window, so the surfaces that come into contact with the glass have protective rubber padding. I especially like that the padding at the top is really deep and soft, which helps to give plenty of flex to accommodate the fact that car windows generally don’t have a flat and level top edge.

The connection screw on the top of the mount is a standard 3/8in diameter. Well, that’s standard for attaching most tripod heads but not for attaching a camera, which will typically have a smaller 1/4in thread. As I’ve mentioned, you’ll really need to add a head, and the 3 Legged Thing head that forms part of the complete kit is pretty much a perfect match in every way, right down to your choice of green or black color schemes.

The design of the mounting clamp makes it very simple to use. There’s basically a single knob on the side labelled ‘lock’ and ‘rock’, with accompanying directional arrows, in case you’re not familiar with ‘Lefty Loosey and Righty Tighty’. All you have to do is loosen it enough so that it fits over the top of your window, then tighten it up again to lock the mount in place.

Let’s move on to the companion AirHed Trinity. It’s a compact pan and tilt head that’s ideally suited to the mount, in the diameter of its mounting base, the thread of its attachment socket and its range of features. The same goes for its size and weight.

There’s a separate control knob on both sides of the head. One is for detaching, attaching and securing the panning handle, the other is for the tilt mechanism. The tilt facility locks off firmly when needed but also has a really nice fluid feel to it when you’re tracking the action.

For panning, there’s a separate lock/release knob, which sits at the base of the head, just above a calibrated scale that’s marked in 30-degree numbered steps and 5-degree sub-intervals.

If you’d rather save space and don’t feel the need for a panning handle, you can easily remove it. All you need to do is slacken the locking clamp and then remove the safety screw from the end of the arm. Splines in the locking mechanism enable you to select your preferred angle for the arm on the vertical plane, and there’s also a fair bit of range from side to side.

Up on top, the camera platform has an Arca Swiss type quick-release plate that has a locking knob to one side. The plate itself has security pins front and back, to avoid it accidentally slipping out when the locking knob is loosened.

The locking screw for attaching your camera or spotting scope to the quick-release plate doesn’t have a D-ring that you can hold between your finger and thumb, but the kit does come with a multi-function tool that gives the option of tightening or loosening the screw with an Allen key or flat blade.

3 Legged Thing Window Mount Clamp: Performance

Depending on what you’re shooting a scenic view or tracking birds in flight or other wildlife with your camera or a spotter, you’ll need the mount and its attached head to stay perfectly still, or to enable a free range of movement. With the simple tightening or loosening of a couple of knobs, this kit does both. It remains solid and firm when locked off, and enables super-smooth and fluid movement for pan and tilt. There’s also a nice counter-sprung feel to its tilting action.

The design remit is perfectly executed for using the clamp and head with cameras, spotting scopes, action / 360-degree cameras, and even phones via a suitable phone mount (the 3 Legged Thing Phil springs to mind for the last of these). If you download the operating instructions, you’ll see that 3 Legged Thing explains at some length that the Window Mount Clamp is designed to be used on the window of a static vehicle, and that any use undertaken in a moving vehicle is done at your own risk, and won’t be covered by the 5-year warranty. Even so, the company’s own promo video for the mount includes footage of it being used while driving around. I’d say just make sure you watch where you’re going.

3 Legged Thing Window Mount Clamp: Verdict

I feel that the 3 Legged Thing Window Mount Clamp is a smartly designed and beautifully built bit of kit, but that it’s only half the story. The mount is simply begging to be paired with the AirHed Trinity compact pan and tilt head, as they’re literally made to be together. I’d definitely go for the complete kit that comprises both items, and makes shooting or scoping from your car a thoroughly enjoyable experience.

Some smartphones these days have 4-figure price tags, so it pays to look after them. If you drop one, you’ve only got yourself to blame but if you’ve given phone-holding duties to a specialist tripod mount and something goes wrong, you’re sure to feel really peeved. There are plenty of cheap smartphone mounts on the market with a nasty, plasticky look and feel. I wouldn’t trust them as far as I could throw them (without phone attached).

By contrast, 3 Legged Thing is a company that I trust. It makes quality tripods and other supports from premium materials that look great and perform even better. Phil is its multi-functional smartphone holder and mount, and a worthy match for even the most pampered phone.

3 Legged Thing Phil: Specifications

3 Legged Thing Phil: Price

Last time I looked (about 2 minutes before writing this review) the 3 Legged Thing Phil was available for about $30 / £30 in the USA and UK respectively, but with no availability in Australia. Maybe gravity works differently down under. Where available, I think that Phil is competitively priced, considering the quality of its build and the smartness of its design and finish.

3 Legged Thing Phil: Design & Handling

Over many years I’ve amassed more tripods and tripod heads than I know what to do with, apart from maybe sell a few on eBay. Like many of us, I shoot an increasing proportion of my stills and video on a smartphone these days, for which all of my tripods and heads are useless. Why? My phone doesn’t have a 1/4in socket for mounting on a tripod.

That’s where Phil comes in. It has spring-loaded jaws for biting down on my phone (in a sensitive manner) and a wealth of connection points for attaching it to tripods, monopods, desk mount systems, window mount clamps, pivoting magic arms and other paraphernalia. Not entirely by coincidence, 3 Legged Thing makes all of these other items as well.

There’s no hint of plastic cost-cutting in Phil’s make-up. When it comes to 3 Legged Thing’s tripods and other supports, the parts of the process tend to be either top-quality carbon fiber or aerospace-grade magnesium alloy. It’s the latter that’s used here, for all the key components. The phone holding cradle is black, whereas the rear bracket has color options of blue, lava orange, darkness matte black or metallic moss green. They all look rather lovely, which makes choosing a color the most difficult purchase decision.

The spring-loaded action of the clamp feels just right to me. There’s not too much force required to open the clamp and fit it to your phone, but when you release the clamp it holds the phone very firmly in place. There’s a knob on the rear for locking the width of the clamp and more securely holding the phone. I like that the areas of the holder that come into contact with the phone at the top, bottom and rear all have a rubberized surface, which not only has anti-slip abilities but also protects my phone from getting marked or scratched.

Rotation is a dual-function matter. Naturally you can rotate the phone to face forwards or backwards in the mount, depending on your preference and how you’re shooting. The bigger challenge is rotating between landscape and portrait orientation shooting. As it turns out though, it’s no challenge at all. There’s a knurled black dial concentric and just behind the main clamp which loosens to enable rotation of the cradle against the supporting bracket, then tightens to lock everything back in place. To make life even easier, there are click steps at 90-degree intervals throughout the whole 360-degree range of rotational movement.

Let’s talk connectivity. You can connect the phone holder to a tripod, tripod head, magic arm or other support via one of two 3/8in threaded sockets. Both are fitted with 1/4in adapters, in case you need the smaller size. Going further, you could for example connect the holder to a tripod head using the bottom one, and then add a magic arm for holding the likes of an LED lamp or microphone to the other. Alternatively, you can connect Phil to any Arca Swiss style tripod head quickly and easily, using the like-minded profile base.

Completing the wide range of connection options, there’s a pair of cold shoes mounted at either end of the phone cradle. It gives you extra options for connecting the likes of an LED lamp but I found the fitment a bit on the tight side and struggled to slot a couple of my accessories into the shoes.

3 Legged Thing Phil: Performance

I wouldn’t describe it as overkill but the Phil holds my phone with even more security than I feel the need for, and that’s no bad thing. I found the holder really quick and easy to fit, and the same goes for adjusting its rotation. All in all, it’s a safe, secure and high-performance holder and mount for mobile phones.

3 Legged Thing Phil: Verdict

There’s a lot to love about the 3 Legged Thing Phil. It’s wonderfully compact and lightweight to carry around, easily adapts to fit almost any phone, and holds it with the utmost safety and security for peace of mind. On top of that, it has quick and simple rotational adjustments to switch between landscape and portrait orientation shooting, and a wealth of connection options including two threaded sockets, an Arca Swiss type base plate and two cold shoes. It’s simply a great bit of kit that will enhance your mobile lifestyle.

Alternatives

3 Legged Thing is a quirky and fun-loving yet deadly serious British company in the business of designing tripods and other supports. Back in 2011, it took the unconventional approach of naming its first range of tripods after rock gods, the first ‘Rock Legends Range’ kicking off with Brian, after Brian May of Queen. Right from the get-go, the names have tripped off the tongue (and into search engines) much quicker and easier than interminable alpha-numeric product codes. The current Legends range includes the likes of Ray, Bucky, Jay, Mike, Nicky and Tommy, all named after skateboarding heroes.

It’s the Tommy that I’m reviewing here, which is the largest of the collection, stretching slightly taller than the Nicky, despite having 3-section rather than 4-section legs. And in case you’re wondering, it’s named after Tommy Guerrero, a suitably epic skateboarder who later became a successful musician, qualifying on two counts. Long story short, the carbon fiber Tommy aims to be one of the most legendary and best video tripods you can buy.

3 Legged Thing Legends Tommy: Specifications

3 Legged Thing Legends Tommy: Price

If you’re into pro-grade videography and cinematography, kit doesn’t come cheap. Sure enough, Tommy has a weighty price tag of $800 / £730 / AU$1,669, and that’s just for the legs with no head or leveling mechanism. You’ll have to buy those separately. Even so, the price of this set of legs is very competitive, considering the build quality and performance, and some of the even pricier video tripod legs on the market.

3 Legged Thing Legends Tommy: Design & Handling

I’ve reviewed several tripods and other supports from 3 Legged Thing over the years and if I had to sum up the company in two words, they’d be ‘design flair’. Even the box that the Tommy comes in is a work of art and gives you an instant feelgood factor before you’ve got as far as the tripod itself.

Unpacking the box, things only get better. First out is a beautifully crafted padded soft case, complete with internal and external accessory pockets and detachable shoulder strap, finished in deepest blue. Next up is the tripod itself, which positively oozes class and quality.

Naturally, any tripod is only as good as the quality of its legs. These are carbon fiber, which is more exotic than aluminum but no guarantee of quality. Let’s just say that carbon fiber certainly isn’t all created equal. In this case, however, the leg sections are made of top-grade Japanese 8-layer carbon, with a look and feel to match. Moreover, having only three sections rather than four or five in each leg, even the bottom sections have a wide diameter and are highly resistant to any unwanted flexing or vibration. That counts for a lot when you’re using a tripod at or near its maximum operating height. The uppermost section has a particularly wide diameter of 38mm / 1.5in, enabling the lower sections to remain a generous width.

The 3-section design equates to two twist-action clamps per leg. Again, these are chunky and have a really tactile feel. Like the other metal components of the tripod, they’re made from hard-anodized aerospace grade T6061 magnesium alloy, which means they’re tough yet lightweight. Three rubberized grip areas around each clamp add to the attraction and enhance the handling characteristics. Each joint features 3 Legged Thing’s ‘nylon anti-rotation chicken lips’ which, in practical terms, results in smooth operation and minimal twisting being required to loosen or tighten each clamp. To put it simply, the twist clamps work as good as they look, and they look great.

At the bottom of the legs are large and firm rubber pads which give the tripod a particularly solid footing. Typical of the company’s tripods, you’re not limited to these, however, as alternative footwear is available. This includes the likes of Heelz spikes for use on hard surfaces, Stilettoz for soft or rocky ground and Clawz that are ideal for snow or sand. There’s also the option of Vanz, which I’ll come back to later.

The narrowest lockable operating angle of each leg is 23 degrees to the vertical, which gives a generous spread even with the leg sections fully retracted. This helps to give firm and solid support to your camera, as well as avoiding unwanted twisting of the tripod when you’re panning. Fully extending the legs elevate you up to a height of 162.3cm / 63.9in. That might not sound exactly ‘towering’ but bear in mind that’s without a leveling aid or head attached, so it should be plenty tall enough.

Two alternative angles of 55 degrees and 80 degrees are available, via stupendously simple locking levers. Using the legs at different angles can help you keep everything on the level on tricky terrain or work around obstacles. Set all three legs to their widest angle and you can shrink the minimum operating height down to just 15.6cm / 6.1in, for ultra-low-level shooting.

Up on top, there’s a magnesium alloy flat plate. As with the other alloy parts, it’s CNC engineered for the utmost in precision and this time around it’s also got a stylish cutout design. Not just for style over substance, the cutouts help to allow air to flow through for enhanced ventilation, which hot-running cameras might thank you for. The flat plate isn’t the only option, as Tommy comes complete with an alternative 75mm bowl mount.

It’s a quick and easy process to swap between the two, based on removing and refitting three Allen screws with the tools provided, which are of similarly high quality and impeccably finished. The dual options make the tripod fully compatible with the 3 Legged Thing LevelHed which works with pretty much any tripod, and the more specialist 3 Legged Thing 75mm Half Bowl, shown below and featured in our 3 Legged Thing Nicky review.

Whether you’re using either of the leveling aids or none at all, you’ll still need a top-quality video head to make the most of the Tommy legs. Personally, I’d look no further than the 3 Legged Thing AirHed Cine, which I reviewed a while ago and is a perfect fit for this tripod.

I’ve seen plenty of tripods which enable you to detach one leg and couple it with the center column, for alternative monopod duty. That’s not possible here, as the videocentric design precludes the fitment of a center column. Even so, rather than just being able to remove one leg, you can actually remove all three.

I’ve enjoyed the same option of removing all three legs with my 3 Legged Thing Winston 2.0 tripod. Why? Because you can buy an optional set of Vanz footwear that I hinted at earlier, and screw these directly into the hinges, effectively turning the Tommy into a tabletop tripod or enabling ultra-low-level shooting in confined spaces without the legs sticking out, adding even more versatility in the process.

Back up on top, the platform has a wide diameter that caters to sliders and other video-friendly supports, as well as large fluid heads. A bubble level is featured, to aid quick and easy leveling of the legs, and there’s also a 3/8in accessory socket with a 1/4in adapter, which can be handy for attaching a magic arm, monitor, LED lamp, mic or pretty much anything else that takes your fancy.

3 Legged Thing Legends Tommy: Performance

Dipping into the rock and roll archive of which 3 Legged Thing is so fond, there’s no Twist and Shout with Tommy. From its lowest, virtually ground-level configuration right up to its generously tall maximum operating height, there’s excellent resistance to any tortional flexing when you’re panning for all you’re worth in a video take. You can keep your calm while enjoying smooth freedom of movement. The tripod is equally resistant to any unwanted flexing when you’re tilting up or down. In both cases and particularly with panning, three grub screws built into the flat plate enable the head to be held firmly in place, so there’s no risk of it working loose when you’re panning in an anti-clockwise direction.

The middle setting of the three leg angle options enables a really solid platform for fairly low-level shooting. The wider circumference covered by the feet make the tripod highly unlikely to topple over, even if someone knocks into it accidentally.

At their widest setting, the legs enable ultra-low shooting, which can give you a whole different perspective for the likes of sports, wildlife and other scenarios, or just for a little extra creativity and putting an alternative slant on things.

As well as being super-stable and giving ultra-solid, rock-steady support, an important performance factor can be the speed and ease with which you can set up a tripod. Again, the Tommy wins through here by being extremely quick and intuitive in use. And when you’re pushed for time or trying to capture fleeting, definitive moments, that can make all the difference between getting the shot, and missing it altogether.

3 Legged Thing Legends Tommy: Verdict

I’ve really fallen for Tommy. I think it’s a video tripod for all reasons and for all seasons, with endless versatility thanks to its generous range of operating heights, rock-solid dependability and optional footwear that caters to any terrain. On top of that, it can be easily transformed into a tabletop tripod or for ultra-low-level shooting in the tightest of spaces. Yes, it’s a very expensive tripod considering that you have to buy a head and probably a leveling base separately. But Tommy has the kind of quality and performance that should last you a lifetime, and be a great 3 legged friend for your journey.

Alternatives

I spent a lot of time on both sides of studio microphones in my early working life. First I was a studio broadcast engineer for the BBC in London, then moved to Swaziland (now Eswatini) for a couple of years where I continued broadcast engineering while also reading radio news bulletins, my English accent landing me the additional job. The 3 Legged Thing Annie takes me back a few years – actually a few decades, to a time when radio news bulletins were written out on paper using an antiquated machine called a typewriter.

I’m pleased that not much has changed and that Annie works on the same principles. It’s as highly effective as the studio microphone arms of yesteryear. Considering 3 Legged Thing’s habit of naming its products after legends of music, you might wonder if this studio arm is named after Annie Lennox of Eurythmics and solo fame, or maybe even after the hit musical, Annie Get Your Shotgun Mic.

In fact, it takes its name from the legendary Annie Nightingale, whose groundbreaking roles included being the first female DJ and presenter both on BBC Radio 1 and BBC Television’s The Old Grey Whistle Test. Her namesake sets out to do her proud, as one of the best microphone boom arms on the market.

3 Legged Thing Annie: Specifications

3 Legged Thing Annie: Price

What price a decent microphone boom arm? Typically, you can expect to pay from as little as $20 / £15 up to about $150 / £100, which puts Annie in the mid pack, selling for $70 / £60. At the time of writing this review, I was unable to find any Australian outlets selling the boom arm. The same goes for 3 Legged Thing’s other two microphone boom arms that were launched at the same time, namely the Steve (after Steve Wright) at a slightly pricier $80 / £70 and the budget-friendly John (after John Peel) at $45 / £40. The trinity neatly covers off three of Britain’s most iconic and dearly loved radio DJs and presenters of all time.

3 Legged Thing Annie: Design & Handling

Enough of all these studio microphone arms, let’s talk about something else. All the way back in 1932, an automotive engineer by the name of George Carwardine was busy in his garden shed, inventing a new type of spring-loaded suspension mechanism. It could be moved around and positioned at any angle with speed and ease, after which it would hold its place as if by anti-gravity magic. A suitably lightbulb moment followed and the Anglepoise lamp was born.

I only mention it because every studio microphone arm that I’ve ever used works on the same principle. A clever arrangement of springs enables quick and easy movement without the need to release any clamps, or tighten them up again once the mic is in place. It’s simple, intuitive and highly effective. But unlike my old Anglepoise lamps, the spring-loaded mechanisms in the Annie remain completely silent during movement, which is naturally an important consideration when microphones are close at hand.

Unlike most 3 Legged Thing tripods and other supports, this one comes as a kit of parts. Indeed, you’ll usually find a download link for retrieving your 3 Legged Thing user guide online but Annie comes with a good old-fashioned sheet of folded paper. It has what you might call the IKEA effect, in that you’ll love something more if you put it together yourself. In time-honored tradition, the unfolded double-sided sheet of paper contains diagrams and instructions for six steps to reach fully assembled studio arm heaven. Let’s follow the process, as it also neatly guides us through all the salient features.

The first step in construction gives you two choices. You can either go for clamp mounting, in which case you’ll use a C-shaped clamp that fits to the back or side of a desk or table, or you can choose grommet mounting. For the latter, you’ll need to drill 10mm / 3/8in hole through your desk or table, which might sound a bit drastic but is often preferable in the environment of a home studio or professional setup. I like that Annie comes with alternative fixings and that it’s easy to use either option.

Next is the fun part, which comes complete with a safety warning for a ‘stored energy hazard’. When you snip the cable tie that binds the arm in its fully folded position, it might spring out and take you by surprise, so the instructions suggest that one person cuts the tie while the other holds the arm and then releases it gradually. I reckon you can successfully accomplish the task with a single pair of hands and a modicum of care.

The bottom of the arm has a spigot that slots into a nylon bush in the base. It’s the same deal whether the base is mounted to the table by clamp or grommet. To fit the arm, you just need to loosen an Allen screw in the base, plug in the arm, then tighten up the screw again. The net result is that the spigot and bush enable a full 360 degrees of lateral rotation with silent smoothness.

Moving to the other end of the arm, the next job is to fix the microphone mount ball & socket assembly. Again, it’s a simple task, this time involving taking a screw out, wrapping the sides of the socket around the top of the arm, then screwing it back together with the ball section inside. The mount comes with a standard 3/8in threaded shaft plus a 5/8in adapter, to suit the widest range of microphone holders.

Once all that’s done, which only takes a few minutes, you’re pretty much ready to roll. To keep things neat and tidy, however, there’s a final step of sliding out a pair of covers that run the length of both arm sections. These reveal a channel through which you can run the microphone cable, so you can keep it out of sight and out of harm’s way after refitting the covers. There are a couple of load-bearing adjustment screws beneath a magnetic flap but it’s unlikely you’ll need to tinker with these.

3 Legged Thing Annie: Performance

I’m completely satisfied with the performance of the 3 Legged Thing Annie. As I’d hope for, the range of movement is wide-ranging and silky-smooth. It requires barely more than zero time and effort to swing the arm around and to lift it up and down, finding your sweet spot with speed and ease. Even more importantly, there’s no gradual sagging of the microphone after you’ve left it where you want it.

The spring-loaded mechanism works flawlessly and in a similar manner, the ball and socket joint that holds the microphone clamp is equally effective. A simple twist of the lock/release lever is all that’s needed to adjust the angle of the microphone, either laterally or up and down, so you can position it just how you want it. Some prefer to have the microphone angled downwards from above, others like it pointing upwards from below or straight on, and if you’re reading from a script you might like it angled in to face your face from one side or the other. The Annie caters to every need and whim.

3 Legged Thing Annie: Verdict

I’m yet to be anything other than very impressed with 3 Legged Thing tripods and other supports. The Annie continues a winning theme as far as I’m concerned. It’s cleverly designed and well made, fulfilling its purpose in fine style. Movement is smooth and free-flowing, making it quick and easy to get a microphone into perfect position, and once that’s done it stays put with no unwanted drooping, sagging or other drama. It’s a really good studio mic arm, as well as being very good value for money at the price.

Alternatives

3 Legged Thing has announced Luna, a lightweight light stand for use both in the studio and on location outdoors. Constructed from carbon fiber with aerospace-grade magnesium alloy supports, it has spiked feet for prodding into soft ground that have rubber covers for use on hard surfaces.

When folded down, the light stand measures just 56 cm (22 inches) for compact stowage, but extends to a towering 2 m (79 inches), offering plenty of height for versatile lighting setups.

In a clever design twist, the central column detaches to become a boom arm that is ideal for holding lights at awkward angles, as well as acting as a microphone boom for audio setups or overhead camera boom.

A spring-loaded thread adapter transforms the top mount to fit standard lights, microphones, smartphones, action cams, and even 360˚ cameras.

“I’ve avoided the light stand market for ages because I didn’t want to just churn out another generic, uninspired bit of kit," said 3 Legged Thing's Danny Lenihan. "Then, with the explosion of mobile content creators, I saw the chance to make something that wasn’t just a light stand but also a boom arm for mics and cameras – something actually useful."

Luna is available in a Lava (orange) colorway or in plain Darkness (black) to avoid unwanted reflections and is priced at $149.99 / £129.99 (Australian pricing to be confirmed).

3 Legged Thing makes some of the best custom-fit L-brackets for a wide range of cameras, and it’s been steadily updating them to have QD (quick-detach) sockets. The latest model to benefit from such a redesign is the Roxie QD L-bracket, which is compatible with the Canon EOS R5, Canon EOS R5C, Canon EOS R6 and Canon EOS R6 Mark II mirrorless cameras.

The Roxie QD now has an integrated QD socket in its base, allowing for seamless attachment of a wide range of QD straps and accessories. This offers photographers more versatile carrying options, as the QD system is designed for rapid but secure attachment and detachment via a push-button lock.

As with the previous incarnation, the Roxie QD allows full access to its host camera’s battery door and side ports. On its base is a locator pin that, along with custom front-side shaping, fits in firmly in place and prevents unwanted twisting on the camera. There’s also a strap attachment slot at one end of the base.

A pair of ¼”-20 threaded holes are located in the upright of the bracket for attaching a range of accessories, such as 3LT’s new Pivot magic arms, while a cut-out in the upright allows the rear screen to be fully opened and tilted. The base and upright also feature security pins, providing additional safety when attaching the L-bracket to a tripod.

The Roxie QD brackets are constructed from an aerospace-grade magnesium alloy with stainless steel fixings, and come in 3 Legged Thing’s signature Copper colorway for those who like things bright, and Darkness (matte black) for more sober types.

Compatibility with Peak Design Capture clip (v3) has also been added, thanks to an included glass-reinforced nylon adapter and a durable, long, stainless steel camera screw, supplied with the L-bracket.

“Roxie has been incredibly popular since the original release of the Canon R5 and R6, and so it’s time for a refresh,” said Alison Barclay, 3 Legged Thing’s Head of Marketing. “One of our customers’ most-requested features was compatibility with the Peak Design Capture clip, so we’re delighted to add this with the new Roxie QD L-bracket. Plus we’ve added a QD socket that enables use with the growing range of quick-detach accessories and straps.”

Roxie QD has a suggested retail price of $99.99 / £89.99 (Australian pricing to be confirmed).

In a world where cameras have generally been getting smaller, I’ve always gravitated towards larger full-frame bodies, my Nikon D800 and Nikon Z8 being the case in point. But bigger bodies and bigger lenses for larger sensors all equate to a heavier payload, which can exacerbate a photographic phenomenon I like to call ‘ball-head creep’.

You know, being forced to essentially hang the camera and lens off to one side to vertically orient it, only to frame the perfect composition and watch as gravity encourages it to droop. At best, it’s annoying, at worst – if you’re shooting a long exposure – it can be image-breaking.

For years I never considered using one of the best L-brackets. But one day, I witnessed Digital Camera World’s very own News Editor, Adam Waring, merrily capturing portrait-orientation landscapes with his L-bracket. Cue Billy Ocean’s Suddenly playing in my head, my vision ethereally blurred, as I handled an angel-wing-and-halo-clad L-bracket – in cinematic slow motion – for the very first time.

It was love at first shot.

An L-bracket screws onto a camera’s tripod thread. Its L shape allows the bracket to press flush against both the underside of the camera and one side. Each axis has a tripod-head-compatible attachment on both axes, be it Arca Swiss or a proprietary design. This means you can mount your camera directly onto the tripod head horizontally or vertically. Crucially, this allows you to maintain a good center of gravity when shooting portrait-orientation images.

Personally, I haven’t found a better quick-release mechanism than the famed Arca Swiss attachment on my 3 Legged Thing Ellie Universal L-Bracket (now succeeded by the 3 Legged Thing Lexie), so having an L-bracket with this attachment provides me with even more fluidity as I can quickly attach and reattach my camera and seamlessly swap between orientations.

Ellie (great name for an L-bracket) goes with me everywhere, although I keep meaning to pick up Zooey, which is 3 Legged Thing’s L-bracket designed specifically for the Nikon Z8. The company makes a range of bespoke L-brackets for Canon cameras, Sony cameras, Fujifilm cameras, and OM System cameras to boot. And of course, there are plenty of other L-brackets out there from the likes of Manfrotto and Kirk Enterprises.

If you’ve never tried an L-bracket before and you own a tripod, picking one up is a no-brainer. I’ve not come across anybody, yet, who doesn’t like them. You may even find yourself using your tripod more – I know I did. As Digital Camera Worlds How To Editor I believe wholeheartedly that kit doesn’t maketh the photographer and that technique and creativity trumps all. But however small and simple an L-bracket is, it simply makes capturing long exposures more comfortable.

This means you can worry less about ‘ball-head creep’ and more about the scene in front of you and the photograph you’re taking.

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If you're going to invest in a good-quality L-bracket, it pays to have a good-quality tripod. I recently reviewed the Manfrotto Befree Advanced Carbon Fiber travel tripod, although it's not Arca-Swiss compatible. Alternatively, take a look at the best tripods. Plus, here are some tips for taking better professional long-exposure shots after dark.

Accessory specialist 3 Legged Thing has updated its Zelda L-bracket to be compatible with QD and Peak Design accessories. Like the original Zelda, which is already one of the best L-brackets around, the Zelda QD is a custom-fit bracket designed to snugly fit a range of Nikon Z-series full-frame cameras, namely the Nikon Z5, Z6, Z7, Z6 II, and Z7 II camera models.

The standout feature of the Zelda QD is the addition of a quick-detach (QD) socket, which facilitates compatibility with a range of QD straps and accessories. This offers photographers more versatile carrying options, as the QD system is designed for rapid but secure attachment and detachment via a push-button lock.

Additionally, the L-bracket is compatible with Peak Design Capture v3 clips through the use of a strong glass-reinforced nylon adapter and a robust stainless steel screw, providing an alternative way to secure and carry the camera.

Zelda QD perfectly fits the contours of the above full-frame Z bodies, offering full access to the side ports and battery doors. Cut-outs in the base and vertical aspects provide easy access to the rear tilt screens. There's a ¼”-20 screw thread in both horizontal and vertical aspects for the attachment of accessory arms, such as 3 Legged Thing’s Pivot magic arms.

The L-bracket upright is curved at the top to accommodate the camera’s strap lug, and Zelda QD’s base includes a slot for strap and accessory attachment. The front of the bracket is also shaped to give easier access to the lens release button. It is compatible with both the original FTZ and the Nikon FTZ II lens adaptors, and can also be used with the WR-R10 wireless remote adapter.

“The Zelda was a pinnacle project for 3 Legged Thing,” remarked Danny Lenihan, 3LT’s founder and CEO. “It was the first time a camera company had specifically requested us to design a product for them, and our first foray into the world of dedicated L-brackets, so I’m absolutely delighted that, six years on from that moment, Zelda QD continues the legacy of the original bracket, and remains a huge force in our product portfolio.”

The Zelda QD L-bracket is available in 3 Legged Thing’s signature Copper colorway, as well as Darkness (matte black), favored by studio photographers looking to avoid color reflections. It has a suggested retail price of $99.99 / £89.99 (Australian pricing to be confirmed).

You may also like…

For owners of other Nikon Z-series cameras, the Nikon Z8 has its own Zooey QD dedicated L-bracket, The Nikon Z9 has the Zaara and Zaara One brackets, while the Z50 had the Zayla and Zayla PD (with Peak design compatibility). There's no news on L-brackets for the new Nikon Z6 III or Z50 II, but no doubt when they do appear they'll begin with a 'Z'.

British camera accessories brand 3 Legged Thing is known for naming its products with nods to the great and the good of rock 'n roll – with tripods and monopods named after Brian May, Patti Smith and Trent Reznor, among many others. Now, for its new range of desk-mounted microphone arms, it's enlisted some of Britain's best-loved radio jocks.

Annie is named in honor of trailblazing, female DJ Annie Nightingale. This professional studio microphone arm is designed for broadcast or recording studios. It features a balanced, silent, spring mechanism for smooth, omnidirectional movement and 360-degree rotation to ensure effortless adjustments and perfect positioning. An integrated cable management keeps setups tidy, and it mounts securely to desks via a clamp or grommet system. Annie retails for $69.99 / £59.99.

Steve is named after Steve Wright, famed for his anarchic afternoon slots on Radio 1 and later Radio 2. Steve is a compact mic arm ideal for live-streamers and podcasters. It comes with a removable extension column offering flexible height adjustment and tailored equipment clearance for optimum positioning. A built-in cable management helps keep workspaces organized. Mountable via clamp or grommet, Steve is an excellent choice for versatile audio setups where clearance of audio and computer equipment is essential. Steve costs $79.99 / £69.99.

John is the namesake of the legendary John Peel, who broke new artists via his late night show. Compact and easy-to-use, John is an ideal mic arm for vloggers, YouTubers, and podcasters looking for a versatile stand without the professional price-tag. With 360-degree rotation, a desk clamp mount, and reusable cable ties included for cable management, John’s superior build quality ensures a premium solution and great value for money, retailing at $44.99 / £39.99.

All three models are compatible with standard microphone threads, thanks to the supplied 3/8” and 5/8” adapters. Each arm supports microphones weighing up to 1 kg / 2.2 lb, making them suitable for all microphones, including professional shock-mounted USB or phantom-powered condenser mics.

“As someone who spent a lot of my early career on broadcast radio, I’ve been wanting to get my teeth into an AV project for some time. Hosting my own comedy podcast since 2017 left me frustrated with the available equipment (and my ability to entertain) in much the same way that tripods did prior to me founding 3LT, so I’m absolutely delighted to be able to bring our first AV offerings to market,” said Danny Lenihan, Founder and CEO of 3LT.

3 Legged Thing has branched away from traditional photography products (such as some of the best tripods, monopods and L-brackets) of late, into related fields for a broader base of content creators, and the new mic arms join its recently announced its Str3amcase lavalier microphones.

3 Legged Thing – the British camera accessories maker best known for its quirkily named series of tripods – has announced new designs and an additional size for its Wrapz range of self-adhesive, reusable, protective, padded and water-resistant cloth wraps for keeping your photography and tech gear safe from the rigors of everyday life. Once you try camera wraps for yourself, you might forgo padded bags for good. 

The original Wrapz designs, Swirl and Retro, sold out quickly after launch in early 2024, and 3 Legged Thing says that feedback for these handy protective wraps has been overwhelmingly positive from both customers and retailers. To that end, the original two designs have been restocked, alongside three new designs, plus an additional Extra Large size.

“We’re delighted with the reception for Wrapz,” said Stuart Boston, Chief Operating Officer, 3 Legged Thing. “It’s been fantastic seeing how customers have used them with a huge variety of tech and personal belongings. They’re so incredibly versatile that they allow cameras and laptops to be carried in different types of bag, but with excellent protection from knocks, scrapes, and liquids. We hope customers will love the new additions to the range.” 

The new Wraps Extra Large size is 24in/60cm square, and was added due to customer demand for a bigger size to accommodate large laptops. The new size can easily cover laptops with up to 17in screens, as well as larger cameras and lenses.

Alongside the new size, 3 Legged Thing is releasing 3 new designs. With the outdoor market in mind, two new camo designs are now available. Alaska has a grey/white camouflage pattern for wintery locations, and Woodland is a mixed green camo that will be perfect for wildlife photographers. The third new design is a funky graphical design with a deep blue background and acid yellow, green and pink squiggles. This has been christened Bus Seat by the 3LT team, for its resemblance to the brightly colored seating cloth found on busses worldwide.

Wrapz are now available in the following pack options:
SML – 12in/30cm square – $14.99/£14.99;
MED – 15in/38cm square – $19.99/£19.99;
LGE – 18in/45cm square – $24.99/£24.99;
XLGE – 24in/60cm square – $29.99/£29.99;
or a bundle pack – featuring one each of SML, MED and LGE sizes – $54.99/£54.99.

L-brackets are really useful because they let you swap quickly from horizontal shooting to vertical orientation. Most are designed specifically for the Arca Swiss quick release mechanism, which has become the closest thing to a ‘universal’ QR system on the market.

With an L-bracket you don’t need to attach a quick release plate for your tripod head because the L-bracket has Arca Swiss rails built into the base. You slot these directly into your tripod head’s clamp and, if you want to shoot vertically rather than horizontally, you unclip the bracket, rotate it 90 degrees and use another set of rails on the shorter vertical edge to clamp the camera vertically.

It’s a great system. Some of the best L-brackets are designed for specific camera models, like the 3 Legged Thing Zaara One for the Nikon Z9.

Why video heads are great

Now let’s talk about video heads. These are great too. They separate the panning and tilt axes so that you can carry out controlled camera movement while filming in one axis only. In principle you could do this with a regular three-way head, but video heads go further, with fluid capsules that provide a smooth, controlled ‘drag’ and sometimes an internal counterbalance system. 

The best video tripods easily outperform the regular sort for any kind of cinematic camera movements. No-one who invests in the best cinema cameras would use anything else.

Video heads also often standardize on the Arca Swiss mount, often coming with a longer camera plate to allow for precise fore-and-aft balancing to make tilt movements more controlled.

Video heads are typically two-way heads not three-way heads. You only need a pan and tilt movement for video, right? You do need to level the base first, but video tripods will often including a levelling base specifically made for the job.

The best tripods for conventional photography don't have any of this and don't need it, but if you want to introduce smooth camera movements in filmmaking, these features become essential.

Why they are 90° opposed

So, what’s the problem? Why can’t I use an L-bracket on a video head to swap between regular horizontal filming and vertical filming for social channels?

It’s because the Arca Swiss mechanism only works in one direction. Camera L-brackets rely on the Arca Swiss rails on the base being aligned from side to side. That’s not a problem on regular photographic tripod heads because you can simply rotate the head to match the side-to-side direction of the rails on the clamp. For vertical shooting, the same applies. With the camera detached and rotated through 90 degrees, the rails on the ‘side’ section of the bracket slot in just the same.

But you can’t do this with a typical video head. These fix the Arca Swiss rails in a front to back orientation so that you can use longer plates to move the camera forwards and backwards to balance its weight.

If you try to attach a camera with an L-bracket, it will be pointed sideways, not straight ahead. You can’t rotate the Arca Swiss base on a video tripod because it’s fixed at this angle deliberately. In theory, you could still pan the camera, very awkwardly, from a sideways position, but you certainly can’t use the head’s tilt axis since this will simply rotate the camera.

Any kind of tilt movement is out of the question with the camera facing sideways. So that seems to be that as far as using L-brackets with video heads is concerned.

This first struck me when I was reviewing the excellent little 3 Legged Thing Airhed Trinity video head. Like all the rest it has Arca Swiss rails fixed in the front-to-back orientation. You can’t change it. I also have 3 Legged Thing L brackets… but I can’t use them together.

Surely there must be an answer?

Now it seems the most natural thing in the world to me to want to use L-brackets with video heads. Has nobody heard of vertical video for social? The only way to do this as far as I can see is to try to find a three-way fluid head so that I can at least tilt the camera on its side and keep the tilt movement – but these are both rare and very often expensive.

There has to be a simpler way to fix this? Maybe an L-bracket maker could design a square cutout in the bracket’s Arca Swiss rails to allow for a front-to-back base alignment, or perhaps video head makers could incorporate a 90-degree clamp rotation for mounting L-brackets?

Let’s keep this in perspective. If you’re not going to do any camera movements it’s not a problem. Just use a ball head, a regular three-way head or use an awkward sideways plate mounting kludge on your video head. If you’re not going to use a tilt movement while filming it’s fine.

But what if you want to shoot vertical video with a 2-way video head with a proper counterbalanced tilt movement? Right now, that’s not how video heads are made, and an L-bracket won’t fix it.

Maybe I’m asking too much. Maybe solutions already exist and I haven’t found them yet. But it does seem to me that this basic 90-degree mismatch between L-brackets and video heads is a silly incompatibility that should have been fixed by now.

Accessory specialist 3 Legged Thing has just released an updated version of its L-bracket for the OM System OM-1 and OM System OM-1 Mark II.

In addition to producing some of the best tripods and best monopods on the market, 3 Legged Thing also makes L-brackets for some of the most popular camera models. 

The best L-brackets are fantastic tools that enable tripod users to change the camera's orientation from landscape to portrait, without completely shifting the composition or throwing off the center of gravity.

Each different camera model requires a specially designed L-bracket to ensure a confident fit – and to make sure that the camera features such as the buttons, battery, ports and screen are still accessible. The new Ollie QD provides this for users of the OM-1 and OM-1 Mark II, two of the best OM System cameras.

The Ollie QD is an improvement on the original Ollie, taking on board user feedback to help develop a fresh design. As expected, it perfectly fits the camera bodies ensuring that the tilt screen and all the buttons and doors are accessible, but it also features some great design elements that provide a little extra.

The bracket is Arca-Swiss compatible and incredibly robust and durable in its design, constructed from anodized, aerospace-grade magnesium alloy. Added mounting points enable further customization through multiple the 1/4"-20 and 3/8"-16 screw holes.

The Ollie QD also retains compatibility with the Peak Design Capture Clip (v3) thanks to the robust, glass-reinforced nylon adapter and pass-thru camera screw supplied in the box.

Small adjustments have been made to the original Ollie's base layout, ensuring the camera sits flush with the bracket, and the addition of a QD (Quick Detach) port makes the bracker all the more versatile. 

The QD port enables the use of other QD accessories, such as camera straps, meaning it's easier to keep the bracket on the camera at all times and not just for use on a tripod.

"We had some really useful feedback from customers on our first Ollie L-bracket, so we've incorporated that into the new single-piece QD version," says 3 Legged Thing CEO, Stuart Boston. "We expect these additional features to be really popular with OM System users."

Available in the 3 Legged Thing signature colors of Copper (orange) and Darkness (matte black), the Ollie QD is available for preorder now for $99.99 / £89.99 (Australian pricing to be confirmed).

You may also be interested in our guides to the best tripods for photographers, the best travel tripods, and the best monopods.

3 Legged Thing is offering new kit bundles for its range of monopods. 3LT’s Legends and Punks monopods will now be available in 'Superkits' which bundle a monopod with the Docz stabilizer foot, as well as 3LT's new AirHed Trinity compact pan & tilt head, with the aim of creating an ideal kit combination for wildlife and sports photography, as well as for video use.

Read more: 3 Legged Thing AirHed Trinity full review

The AirHed trinity head is especially suited to video thanks to its smooth fluid panning axis and a spring-weighted tilt axis, making camera movements much smoother and more controlled. It’s equipped with a standard 38mm Arca Swiss quick-release plate and is just 8cm tall and 9cm wide (without the included panning handle attached), yet still has a maximum weight capacity of 5kg.

Four monopod Superkits will be available, based around the Alana and Lance Legends monopods, as well as the Trent 2.0 and Taylor 2.0 Punks monopods. Both Legends monopods are carbon fiber supports, with Alana being a compact, travel-focussed 5-section leg, while Lance is an ultra-tall 4-section version. Trent 2.0 and Taylor 2.0 fulfil the same travel vs. tall split, but are constructed from magnesium alloy instead.

“The Superkits offer an enormous range of features. Additionally, content creators buying a monopod with both Docz and the AirHed Trinity can save a significant amount, versus the cost of buying each item separately. It really is a fantastic bundle for sports, wildlife and video creators”

Stuart Boston, Chief Operating Officer, 3 Legged Thing.

Expect to pay $269.99/£229.99 for the carbon Alana and Lance superkits, while the Taylor and Trent versions are priced at a more accessible $209.99/£179.99.

3 Legged Thing is world-renowned for making some of the best tripods and monopods on the market, but it also offers several other camera peripherals such as camera bags and brackets.

The latest release falls into the latter camp, as 3 Legged Thing announces the Arnie QD L-Bracket, designed to fit perfectly with the best Sony Alpha cameras.

What is an L-bracket?

For those unaware, an L-bracket is a tripod and camera accessory that attaches to your camera and enables the quick and efficient transition between shooting portrait and landscape. This can also be done with certain ball tripod heads however, this usually shifts the weight off the center, whereas an L-bracket enables a stronger central support in portrait orientation.

As a portrait photographer, I often shoot vertically and use an L-bracket attached to a tripod for stability. This was also a method used by Richard Avedon so that he could interact with the subject, without focusing on his equipment, and an L-bracket certainly helps in this regard.

It is also useful for photographers who like to shoot vertically and stitch panoramas together, for wide landscape captures, and for content creators who are now shooting video in vertical formats for social media. 

Following on from the success of the 3 Legged Thing Alfie multi-piece L-bracket, the Arnie is an Arca Swiss-compatible L-bracket that is precision-engineered from a single block of aerospace-grade magnesium alloy. This form of construction provides a rigidity that will be both lightweight and durable.

The base of the Arnie comes with a QD (quick detach) port, for use with QD accessories. This enables the user to seamlessly attach and reattach accessories such as camera straps and clamps in no time.

In addition to the base being Arca-Swiss compatible, it also features two 3/8”-16 screw threads with ¼”-20 adapters for the attaching accessory arms, and has a contoured lip that fits perfectly around the camera, ensuring safety.

The 3 Legged Thing Arnie is available now, priced at $99.99 | £89.99 (Australian pricing coming soon). The Arnie is available in two colors, an orange named Copper, and a matt black named Darkness.

You may also be interested in our guides to the best tripods, best camera straps, and the best camera bags. 

It seems like ball heads are the new norm for tripods. Once, three-way heads were just as common, but these are bigger, heavier and slower to use. Ball heads, especially those with separate panning axes, are quicker to set up and more compact.

But there are still lots of situations when separate axes are better, and shooting video is one of them. If you’re carrying out any kind of camera movement, you need a smooth, level panning action, and for vertical pans you need a separate tilt axis – even the best ball heads cannot do a controlled vertical tilt.

So while old-school three-way heads may have lost popularity with stills photographers, they have become much more relevant again with the new content creation industry.

Two things separate traditional three-way heads from modern video heads, however. First, like a lot of other video heads, the AirHed Trinity, does not offer a 90-degree camera rotation. It’s actually a two-way pan and tilt head. 

This has not traditionally been a problem for video because who shoots video vertically? Well, a whole new generation of social content creators does, so if you need vertical video and your camera doesn’t support it while it’s mounted horizontally, the AirHed Trinity could pose a problem. This is something to take into account when looking for the best video tripods.

The other distinguishing factor with video heads is they use fluid damping for smoother, more controlled camera movements. Some will also come with internal counterbalance mechanisms and longer camera plates to balance up the camera so that it stays still even with the tilt axis unlocked.

So how well does the AirHed Trinity handle the needs of video shooters and hybrid context creators? Let’s see. 

AirHed Trinity: Specifications

AirHed Trinity: Build and handling

3 Legged Thing camera supports always have first class finish and operational ‘feel’, and the AirHed Trinity maintains that standard. It comes in the company’s trademark ‘Lava’ finish (metallic orange) or a more sober ‘Midnight’ (black). We tested the Lava version.

It’s extremely compact with the panning handled detached, and takes up no more room than a regular AirHed Neo or Pro head, so if you’re using it with the Punks 2.0 Billy, for example, you can fold up the legs around the center column for travel and storage in just the same way. 

You can also operate the head perfectly well without the handle as it’s not used for locking the tilt axis. You will need to attach the handle for smooth video pans, though, and that does maybe take a few seconds longer than it should because you have to screw a safety locking nut into the end to make sure it doesn’t slide out accidentally (it does clamp in place anyway, so you could skip this if you’re in a hurry, even if it’s not recommended).

The pan axis is locked with a knurled knob on the base of the head, and there are knobs either side of the tilt axis. One locks the tilt axis, the other locks the panning arm at your chosen position.

The AirHed Trinity comes with a compact square Arca Swiss compatible QR plate. This is fine as far as it goes and it certainly keeps the size down, though if you’re shooting with larger lenses, you might want to consider one of 3 Legged Thing’s new Ultra plates to offer some fore-and-aft camera movement to balance any nose-heaviness.

There’s no spirit level on the AirHed Trinity but arguably it doesn’t need one. With no ball head to add unwanted tilt, you can use the virtual horizon on the back of the camera. If that’s, level the tripod base is level – and you can always do a quick practice pan to check.

If you need to shoot vertical video, though, you could have a problem. Smartphones will be fine because you’ll be using a clamp that can probably mount the phone horizontally and vertically, but you can’t use an L-bracket with regular cameras without losing the tilt movement. That’s because the QR plate slides in front to back, not side to side, and when you do this the tilt axis is at 90 degrees to where it needs to be.

It's not the end of the world. One quick and dirty solution would be to screw a regular ball head like the AirHed Pro on to the Trinity's QR plate, and use that to rotate the camera to a vertical orientation.

AirHed Trinity: Performance

The pan axis is very smooth indeed. With the locking knob loosened, there’s just the right of ‘drag’ for panning movements. Pro-level video heads will sometimes offer adjustable drag (a bit like friction control on ball heads), but they cost a lot more money, and for average video shooters and content creators this is fine.

The tilt axis is slightly different. It too is very smooth, but it has a spring-loaded feel that wants to return the camera to a level position. That’s fine when you’re shooting with a lightweight setup, like a Lumix G100D with 12-32mm lens, but heavier setups like the Sony A7C II and FE 16-25mm f/2.8 lens we’ve been testing at the same time will be very nose-heavy. Here, the tilt action is still very smooth and controllable, but the camera will want to tilt forwards. 

You could probably get round this by using a longer plate and balancing the camera a bit better, but the AirHed Trinity won’t offer the same kind of counterbalancing as a pro video head. It’s unreasonable to expect it to, and this is still a huge step up in operability compared to a regular tripod head.

Incidentally, the AirHed Trinity is also perfect as a monopod head. It gives you the adjustable tilt angle which you so often need for monopod shooting, without the annoying randomness of a ball head.

AirHed Trinity: Verdict

For such a compact head, the AirHed Trinity feels remarkably smooth and extremely well engineered too. It’s easily up to the job of mobile content creation, especially for those who need to travel light, but it’s equally useful as a monopod head or a support for spotting scopes or longer telephoto lenses – though watch out for that maximum 5kg payload capacity.

It’s a terrific lightweight video head for travel and compact travel tripods. You don’t have to pack it separately and attach it for each shoot, and it should fit in your travel tripod case as easily as a regular ball head. Purists may complain there’s no adjustable drag and counterbalance, but these are high-end features that not everyone needs and can hardly be expected at this price.

The one bugbear is the problem of shooting vertically. For regular horizontal video shooters and photographers, though, the AirHed Trinity is brilliant, offering smooth, controlled movement in a head small enough to fit a travel tripod.

The world is awash with ball heads, but there aren’t too many pan and tilt tripod heads to choose from, especially compact video heads. The AirHed Trinity is not just for video, though, being aimed at all kinds of content creators, wildlife watchers, sports fans and more.

It is especially suited to video, however, with a smooth fluid panning axis and a spring-weighted tilt axis, making camera movements much smoother and more controlled. 

The best tripods usually ship with ball heads, a much more common design that's also compact and quick to use, but ball heads don't offer the same controlled movement along a single axis as pan and tilt heads and are less well suited to video.

3 Legged Thing AirHed Trinity features

Designed as an alternative to the regular AirHed Neo ball head offered with 3 Legged Thing’s Punks tripod range, the AirHed Trinity has a regular 3/8-inch threaded socket so it could actually be used on any tripod. It’s equipped with a standard 38mm Arca Swiss quick-release plate with a simple locking screw, so you could swap out the regular square plate for a longer 3LT Ultra plate or Cine plate, for example, for better for-and-aft balancing with longer lenses or heavier gear.

The best video tripods can be pretty expensive and often beyond the scope and needs of everyday content creators, so cheaper, lighter and simpler alternatives will always be welcome.

Perhaps the key feature of the AirHed Trinity is its size – or lack of it. It’s just 8cm tall and 9cm wide (without the included panning handle attached), but still has a maximum weight capacity of 5kg, which is well beyond the average content creator’s camera/kit combo and enough to handle even large telephoto lenses.

You can use the AirHed Trinity with or without its removable 20cm panning arm. This can be adjusted for angle and locks into position. The Trinity also has separate pan and tilt locks, and when these are slackened off, there is still a smooth resistance, or ‘drag’, for camera movements.

AirHed Trinity availability and price

The AirHed Trinity is available on its own right now, and will be offered with Punks Video kits with Corey 2.0, Travis, Patti 2.0, Billy 2.0, and Brian 2.0 tripods from May 14. It will also be offered with will also be bundled with Punks and Legends monopod kits with the Docz foot stabiliser, to create monopod ‘superkit’. The standalone price for the AirHed Trinity is $89.99 / £79.99 (about AU$138).

If you thought camera plates did nothing but fix a camera to a tripod head, then think again. If you use any of the best video heads or the best gimbals you’ll probably have a slightly longer camera plate to help with balancing the camera, but that’s usually as far as the innovation goes.

While the best tripods are often packed with innovative features, camera plate design seldom changes very much.

But the 3 Legged Thing Ultra plates take the idea of a long camera plate and stretches it out into something much more versatile and useful for stills photographers, content creators and filmmakers. They are also Arca Swiss compatible, so although the materials and colors match 3 Legged Thing’s own tripods, like the Leo 2 or 3 Legged Thing Nicky, you can use them with a whole range of other brands too.

There are some key features specifically for content creators. These include a double row of standard size 1⁄4”-20 mounting points for accessory arms, lights, microphones, external recorders or anything else you want to bolt on. There’s a pair of larger 3/8”-16 mounting points at the end, too. If your mic or video light has a coldshoe base  instead, you can slot that into a coldshoe mount at the end of the plate.

When you start adding accessories, you start cables, and 3 Legged Thing has thought of this too, with a ‘cable hook’ at one end of the plate. It’s not complicated, just a machined ‘G’ shaped slot at the end that lets you gather and push cables out of the way.

There are graduated scales on both edges for precise fore-and-aft positioning on a gimbal, for example, or for detailed macro work – the longer plates could even act like a kind of mini-boom for getting the camera closer without having to move the tripod.

On the underside there’s a square cutout in the Arca Swiss rails to allow for quick 90-degree rotations on heads that support it, and you can also mount accessories on the underside, not just the top of these plates.

The 3 Legged Thing Ultra Plates are available in two finishes – ‘Copper’ and ‘Darkness’ – and come in four sizes: 150mm, 200mm, 250mm and 300mm. The camera mounting screws can slide most of the length of the plates and you can add screws for mounting more than one camera if required.

You can find out more about the pricing and availability on the 3 Legged Thing Ultra Kickstarter page. The company is offering extra discounts for Early Bird pledges in the first 48 hours, and big discounts on the final retail price throughout the campaign.

The 3 Legged Thing Patti 2.0 joins the British tripod manufacturer’s range of ‘Punks’ tripods as the last to be upgraded to Version 2.0. As such, it follows in the three-legged footsteps of the Corey, Travis, Billy and Brian, all of which made it to 2.0 a while ago. As with her siblings, Patti has a similarly punk moniker, this time named after rock lioness Patti Smith (not to be confused with Mrs. John McEnroe). She’s available in two color options, black and blue (but unbruised) or ‘darkness’, which is matte black from head to toe.

Whereas other tripods in the Punks range have a beefy maximum load rating of between 14kg and 18kg and come with a fully grown AirHed Neo ball head, the Patti 2.0 has a still very respectable 10kg load rating and features a slightly downsized AirHed Mini ball head. The design focus aims on creating a tripod that’s not only travel-friendly but also beginner-friendly and budget-friendly. That’s a whole lotta friendliness for a ‘punk’.

Specifications

Key features

A key update is that, as with other V2.0 tripods in the Punks range, you can convert the Patti 2.0 for monopod duty. In this case, it involves unscrewing the detachable leg and joining it to the removable center column. The conversion is quick and easy, in keeping with the tripod’s ‘beginner’ status. To remove the center column, you just need to loosen the adjustable height locking clamp, remove the weight hook from the bottom and pull it out. As previously, you can also invert the center column for ultra-low-level shooting, with the camera inverted. But let’s talk height.

The pricier 3 Legged Thing Corey 2.0 is the smallest in the Punks range and shrinks down to just 36.1cm when folded. That makes it small enough to fit inside a camera backpack or daily bag. The Patti 2.0 folds down to 45.5cm, so it’s a bit more of a handful for carrying around. Even so, that’s a shade under 18 inches and very manageable. An upside is that the Patti 2.0 has a more lofty maximum operating height of 163cm rather than 146cm. Measuring 6 feet 5 inches myself, I find that a worthwhile trade-off, as I can use the Patti 2.0 without needing to stoop. In monopod mode, it stretches even further to a maximum height of 166cm.

Typical of current and recent travel tripods, the small stowage size is based on folding the tripod by fully extending the center column and swinging up the legs, so that the feet encompass the head. It’s a neat trick that’s pretty much universally adopted nowadays.

Here’s another question – flip or twist? The Patti 2.0 is the only tripod in the Punks range to feature flip locks instead of twist locks. Whether that’s more beginner-friendly or not is open to debate but they’re certainly easy to operate. When the 4-section legs are fully compressed, you can grab a handful of all three flip locks for each leg and release them with a single gesture, which saves time and effort.

Further feature finery includes 3 Legged Thing’s typical Tri-mount plate. This has three hollowed out spurs for attaching accessories or for channeling cables for tethering or connection to other bits of kit. 

And speaking of attachments, the canopy features a threaded socket for fixing extending arms and accessories like a microphone, LED lamp or monitor screen.

The AirHed Mini ball head is small but sturdy. It has an Arca-Swiss-type quick-release plate that includes two anti-mishap security screws, which are removable if you feel the urge. The main locking screw for the camera attachment lacks the usual D-ring but a multi-function tool is supplied with the tripod, or you can use a spare coin if you have one in your pocket.

For head adjustments, there’s a single locking knob with 3 Legged Thing’s usual ‘Rock’ and ‘Roll’ positions. As such, loosening the main clamp gives access to a full range of movement but there’s no independent pan-only release. On the plus side for panning, the head has a calibrate scale for accurate adjustments. And to keep things on the level, there’s a bubble level at the top of the tripod legs and a spirit level built into the head.

Build and handling

Carbon fiber is usually the preferred option for keeping the weight of tripods down to easily manageable levels. But for smaller ‘travel tripods’, the differences are often fairly minimal. The magnesium alloy construction of the Patti 2.0 equates to a kit weight of 1.7kg including the ball head, which is still very travel-friendly. There’s an upside here as well in that, unlike with carbon fiber, magnesium alloy won’t shatter with an accidental knock.

The flip locks are intuitive and easy to use, as are the center column twist-lock and 3-position spring-loaded leg angle locks. The latter is really useful if you’re shooting on uneven terrain or working around obstacles, with locking angles of 23, 55 or 80 degrees. The selection of wider angle also has the bonus of increasing stability in low-level shooting.

The ball head works with smooth precision and, even though there’s only a single locking clamp and no independent friction adjustment, the roll-off in friction when releasing the clamp incrementally caters well to cameras and attached lenses of varying weights.

Down below, the tripod feet feature rubber pads, which are well suited to wide-ranging terrain, from soft surfaces to a rock and a hard place. For off-piste applications, the feet can be unscrewed and replaced with optional Heelz, Clawz and Stilletoz footwear, available as optional extras.

Performance

Lightweight travel tripods can be notably notorious for their flimsy nature. In a bid to make them lightweight, there’s often a compromise in rigidity and they can be prone to literally swaying around in the breeze. Despite its lightweight construction, the Patti 2.0 has good rigidity and resistance to unwanted flexing. That holds true even when extending the 4-section legs and center column to achieve the maximum operating height. The screw-in weight hook at the bottom of the center column enables you to add ballast.

The ball head has a similarly solid performance. It might be ‘Mini’ by name but it’s more of a ‘maxi’ when it comes to delivering a solid platform, delivering the minimum of sag and flexing. Overall, the Patti 2.0 gives a solid shooting platform from its lowest to tallest operating height, and works well as a monopod too, saving the need to carry two separate supports.

Verdict

Any travel tripod is a bit of a balancing act. You want it to be sufficiently small and lightweight to carry around and to stow away in your baggage, while also offering a useful maximum operating height with a decent payload rating. You also want it to be your inflexible friend, with good rigidity. That’s actually a pretty big ask. Despite being aimed at beginners and priced accordingly, the Patti 2.0 ticks all the boxes on a dreamy wish list, while adding trick features and funky flourishes, while also being easy to use. We found the affordable Patti 2.0 to be a strong performer and very easy to live with. It’s a punk by name, but not by nature.

The new 3 Legged Thing LevelHed is a slightly larger version of the company’s existing ‘Levelling Base’. But why do you need a leveling base anyway? If you’re using a tripod with a 3-way head, ball head, or geared head, you can make the necessary adjustments to ensure the camera is leveled up, just by using the controls in the head. That’s all well and good until you need to pan the head even slightly, after which your horizon will be on the skew.

Especially for shooting video or for taking a sequence of panned images that you’re going to stitch into a panorama, the tripod itself needs to be level, not just the plate in the head that the camera sits on. Traditionally, this means making fiddly and time-consuming adjustments to each of the tripod legs, to get everything leveled up. And we’re not just talking tricky terrain here. I’ve got a hard floor in my home studio that was installed on a ‘self-leveling’ screed. And guess what – it’s anything but level. The LevelHed is designed to take all of the effort and frustration out of leveling up your tripod.

Specifications

Height: 70mm / 2.7”
Maximum diameter: 9.1cm / 3.5”
Base diameter: 30cm / 1.18”
Weight: 375g / 13.2oz
Panning range: 360 degrees
Tilt range: 10 degrees (any direction)
Mounting threads: 1/4” with 3/8” adapters
Load capacity: 20kg / 44lbs
Bubble levels: 1

Key features

As an upsized version of the 3 Legged Thing Levelling Base, the LevelHed is a centimeter taller and has a wider overall diameter and base diameter, again of about a centimeter for each. The increase in size helps to enable really fine and precise adjustments as well as giving a boost in rigidity. As you’d expect, the upsizing also results in a slightly weightier build, at 375g compared with 354g. That’s still pretty lightweight and easily manageable.

The cup section of the LevelHed has a standard 3/8” threaded socket for attaching it to a tripod and comes with a 3/8” to ¼” adapter, for use with tripods that have a smaller fixing stud. The upper section of the cup has a knurled circumference, enabling a secure grip for attaching and removing it to or from a tripod.

The top section of the LevelHed that sits in the cup can be tilted by up to 10 degrees from its central, level position, in any direction. That gives a generous range of adjustment. Freedom of movement is enabled by loosening a ratcheted knob, which is tightened up again to lock it in place. Accurate leveling is simplified by the inclusion of a bubble level, which you can swivel laterally through 360 degrees, placing it at whatever position suits you best.

For panning, a secondary knurled knob is featured. You simply loosen this to enable panning through a full 360 degrees and tighten it again to lock off the base.

Build and handling

We’ve become accustomed to seeing excellent build quality in 3 Legged Thing products, and the LevelHed is no exception. Typical of the breed, it’s made from aerospace-grade magnesium alloy, packing sturdy robustness into a lightweight build. The anodized finish is of similarly high quality, with the head being available in two color options – Metallic Slate (with copper accents) and ‘Darkness’ (matte black). The latter version is featured in the images of our review.

From a handling perspective, everything works a treat. Naturally, the whole idea of a leveling base is to enable you to level off a tripod with speed and ease. The LevelHed excels here. The main leveling mechanism works with smooth simplicity. A nice touch is that you can pull out the spring-loaded handle, rotate it, and pop it back in again at the most convenient orientation. The panning lock/release knob is similarly intuitive, enabling solid locking and smooth panning of the head with a nice fluid feel.

A neat handling bonus is that you can take your regular tripod head out of the equation altogether. When you want to keep everything on the level for shooting video or a panning sequence of stills, the uppermost ¼” thread enables you to attach your camera directly to the LevelHed. This avoids the added complication of leveling up an additional 3-way head or ball head. For maintaining a level aspect when switching to portrait orientation shooting, an L-bracket like the 3 Legged Thing Lexie or Zelda is an ideal addition.

You’ll probably need to add the supplied 3/8” to 1/4” adapter if you do want to mount a regular tripod head on top of the leveling base. For shooting movies, where you need tilt as well as panning movements, the LevelHed works well with a movie-centric fluid head like the 3 Legged Thing AirHed Cine.

Performance

The LevelHed delivers excellent performance in all respects. It’s super-sturdy and rigid, so there’s no unwanted flexing nor movement. It’s an ideal match for even the sturdiest of full-sized tripods, like the 3 Legged Thing Winston 2.0  carbon fiber and Charles 2.0 magnesium alloy tripods, as well as for use with pretty much any other make and model of tripod.

The other key performance factor is that the LevelHed genuinely makes it speedy and simple to level up your tripod with the minimum of fuss and bother. It’s a real time-saver and makes even the most high-precision adjustments an absolute cinch.

Verdict

For landscape and architectural photography in particular, it’s easy to adjust any tripod head so that the camera is level. But that’s not the whole story. If you’re shooting video or a sequence of panned stills for stitching into a panorama, the base that supports the head also needs to be level, which can involve endless fiddling around with the length of each tripod leg. This leveling base makes the whole business, quick, simple, and effortless. It’s cleverly designed, beautifully engineered, super-tough, and a joy to use. Oh, and it’s good value for money as well.

The 3 Legged Thing AirHed Cine is engineered to enable smooth, fluid movement in two axes, for tilt and panning when shooting video. That said, it works perfectly well for stills photography, especially when combined with an L-bracket like the 3 Legged Thing Lexie or Zelda, giving the option of additional portrait orientation shooting, with quick and easy swapping between the landscape and portrait modes.

Specifications

Tilt range: 165 degrees (90 down, 75 up)
Panning range: 360 degrees
Maximum load rating: 10kg / 22lb
Base diameter: 60mm / 2.36"
Quick release plate length: 90mm / 3.54"
Height: 95mm / 3.74"
Width: 100mm / 3.93"
Length: 85mm / 3.34"
Weight: 742g / 1.62lb

Key features

The features and overall design of the AirHed Cine make it a perfect match for the 3 Legged Thing Mike and Jay carbon fiber tripods, both of which have levelling bases to keep everything, well, on the level. But compatibility doesn’t end there. We tested the head with the heavy-duty 3 Legged Thing Winston 2.0 tripod from the Pro 2.0 range, using the new 3 Legged Thing LevelHed levelling base. It’s not an entirely perfect match, as the AirHed Cine has a base diameter of 60mm and the mounting platform of the LevelHed base has a smaller 40mm diameter. Even so, the two definitely couple up and play very well together.

Starting at the bottom, the AirHed Cine’s 60mm circular base has a standard 3/8” threaded attachment socket. Naturally, you can also use it with a tripod that has a ¼” stud, via a regular thread adapter. The base has a 360-degree rotary panning scale printed in increments of 2.5 degrees, lines being labelled at 15-degree intervals. A bubble level is featured at the rear of the plate, to aid levelling during setup for a shoot.

The typically elbow-shaped pan arm can be mounted on either side of the head and fastened with a ratchet-action pan lock. A similar ratchet lever is featured for pan lock/release. Both have a spring-loaded design so that you can pull the lever out, rotate it and pop it back in at the optimum operating position. Just above the pan lock sits the rotary tilt lock/release control. Further up towards the front there’s an additional ¼” threaded socket that you can use for attaching accessories like an LED lamp, microphone or monitor screen.

Up on top, there’s a secondary bubble level. This enables you to easily level the tilt function of the head, whereas the lower bubble level ensures that the tripod (or levelling base) is levelled. We tested the AirHed Cine-A version of the head, which has a standard Arca-Swiss style quick-release plate, although it’s typically long for cine use, with a width of 38mm and a length of 90mm, and features both ¼” and 3/8” fastening screws. The head is also available as an AirHed Cine-V version, which has 501-style quick-release plate measuring 50mm wide and 119mm long, and features an additional retractable locator pin. Additional quick-release plates in both styles are available as optional extras. That’s handy if you tend to use more than one camera or like to keep a spare.

Build and handling

Typical of 3 Legged Thing’s premium products, the AirHed Cine is made from aerospace-grade magnesium alloy, combining strength and rigidity with lightness in weight. It’s available in two color options, namely Slate Blue (with copper accents) and ‘Darkness’, as featured in our review images, which is all matte black. Both versions have a high-quality anodized finish.

The kit is very nicely turned out, coming complete with a padded soft case and multi-tool. Handling is very assured and this is a key factor for any cine head, as we’ll come to next in our ‘Performance’ section.

Performance

There’s no adjustable counterbalance mechanism, as feature in some top-end cine heads, but the spring-loaded counterbalance of the AirHed Cine makes tilting movements feel natural and assured. The actual range of tilt is very impressive too, stretching from 90 degrees downwards to 75 degrees upwards. As with the tilt function, panning has a very smooth and fluid feel, boosting performance in practical terms. As you’d expect, a full 360 degrees of panning is available, so there are no start and stop end-points.

Shooting video is often about fluid movement and tracking, but the AirHed Cine is also reassuringly solid and stable when locked off. Any unwanted flexing or movement is entirely negligible. All in all, it’s remarkably rigid for such a compact, lightweight, and travel-friendly cine head.

Verdict

A refreshingly compact and lightweight cine head, this one nevertheless delivers a fluid, silky-smooth range of movement for tilt and panning. And despite its relatively small size, it shoehorns in a smart set of features that are well implemented. It’s quick and easy to set up and a pleasure to use. All in all, the AirHed Cine is very easy to live with and travel-friendly for the journey. Considering its excellent build quality, it’s very good value at the price.

The 3 Legged Thing Zelda is a very specific bit of kit. As one of the company’s ever-growing range of dedicated L-brackets for specific cameras, this one is designed exclusively for use with Nikon Z 5, Z 6, Z 7, Z 6 II and Z 7 II mirrorless cameras. The tailored fit enables it to be engineered from a single piece of metal, so there are no joints or moving parts. This optimizes ease of use as well as performance, as any joint could be a potential weak spot where flexing might occur. The flip side is that you can’t adjust the Zelda to use with other cameras, as you can with more ‘universal’ L-brackets like the 3 Legged Thing Lexie.

Specifications

Base length: 10.6cm / 4.17”
Base width: 3.8cm / 1.5”
Vertical aspect: 8.5cm / 3.35”
Shoe compatibility: 38mm / 1.5” Arca-Swiss
Weight: 67g / 2.36oz

Key features

The Zelda’s key feature is that it’s ‘made to measure’. Like a finely tailored suit, it fits Nikon Z 5, Z 6, Z 7, Z 6 II and Z 7 II cameras perfectly, with no slack or compromise. It simply fits with ultimate precision, so all you need to do is offer it up to the camera and tighten the fixing screw using the supplied hex key. A spare coin works equally well.

The supplied hex key actually includes two sizes of driver. The larger one is for the camera fixing screw and the smaller one is for the stainless steel security screws which are featured on the base plate and the vertical aspect.

Naturally, a key feature of a dedicated L-bracket is that it’s designed to work with specific cameras. As such, there’s no restriction to any of the ports down the left hand side of the camera, nor the battery compartment access flap at the bottom. The memory card door on the right is similarly unaffected and there’s no restriction to the operating range of the tilting rear screen. Suffice it to say that when the Zelda is fitted in place, you can use any of the cameras connections or functions without any problems.

The Zelda also features a securing pin (again as part of its single-piece construction), which fits into a mounting hole just behind the camera’s tripod screw socket, and helps to avoid any potential wobble. Further features include a strap lug at the right hand end of the base plate, and a threaded mounting socket at the top of the upright, which you can use for attaching accessories like an LED light or microphone.

Build and handling

The single-piece magnesium alloy build is tough and rigid yet very lightweight at just 67g or 2.36oz. As such, you can fit it to a camera and just leave it in place, as it has practically zero affect on handling for handheld shooting.

The anodized finish is of similarly high quality. Color is a purely personal preference but, on a suitably personal note, I find the Copper finish a little garish and that the more muted Metallic Slate Grey is still less than an ideal match for my Nikon cameras. I’m glad that, following the initial launch, 3 Legged Thing also brought out a ‘Darkness’ option, the matte black finish being more to my taste.

Performance

Naturally, the main benefit of the Zelda is when using a tripod or monopod. As with any L-bracket, it enables a consistent center of gravity for both landscape and portrait orientation shooting. With the latter, it cuts out any sag caused by the camera being off-center to the tripod head, as well as maintaining a consistent composition when switching between the two.

The Arca-Swiss profile of both the base plate and the vertical aspect enables quick and easy swapping between landscape and portrait orientation shooting, which is exactly what you want from an L-bracket. The camera feels rock-solid in both orientations. In short, performance is everything you could wish for in a dedicated L-bracket. The only potential problem is that you’ll need a tripod head that’s Arca-Swiss compatible, which isn’t universally the case.

Verdict

Engineered from a single piece of aerospace grade magnesium alloy, the 3 Legged Thing Zelda is a purpose-built L-bracket for Nikon Z 5, Z 6, Z 7, Z 6 II and Z 7 II cameras. As such, it’s designed to be an exact fit without the need to adjust any moving parts. We love that it works so simply but with such precision, giving unrestricted access to all the camera’s ports, tilting rear screen, battery compartment and memory card slot. It delivers rock-solid performance and poised balance for both landscape and portrait orientation shooting with a tripod or monopod, at a very competitive price and in Copper, Metallic Slate Grey and Darkness color options.

The 3 Legged Thing Lexie aims to please everybody. An L-bracket is a smart bit of kit for anybody who wants to quickly swap between landscape and portrait orientation shooting when using a tripod. 3 Legged Thing makes a wide range of dedicated L-brackets like the Zelda, to suit specific cameras. Engineered from a single piece of magnesium alloy, they’re very well made and deliver flawless performance. However, if you use more than one make or model of camera, their compatibility is naturally limited.

Following on from the 3 Legged Thing Ellie, the Lexie is a ‘universal’ L-bracket that you can adjust to fit almost any camera, saving the expense of multiple purchases. Catering to different tastes as well as different cameras, the Lexie is available in a choice of colors including, copper, metallic slate and ‘darkness’ (matte black).

3 Legged Thing Lexie: Specifications

Base length: 9.4cm / 3.7”
Working base range: 9.4 – 12.4cm / 3.7 – 4.88”
Vertical aspect: 8.4cm / 3.3”
Shoe compatibility: 38mm / 1.5” Arca-Swiss
Weight: 92g / 3.2oz

3 Legged Thing Lexie: Key features

Unless you’re using an especially big, hefty lens that has its own tripod mounting ring, swapping between landscape and portrait orientation shooting can be a pain. When you rotate the tripod head, the camera shifts position, so you’ll generally need to make further adjustments to maintain the same composition. Worse still, the camera will end up off-axis, with its weight no longer centered on the tripod. This results in a poor balance that can increase sag when making positional adjustments and, if you rotate the camera so that the shutter button is at the top for portrait orientation shooting, you also run the risk of it coming loose on its fixing screw.

Typical of L-brackets, the Lexie fixes securely to the camera and enables easy switching between landscape and portrait orientation shooting, as it can be secured to the tripod using either the horizontal or vertical side of its L-shaped profile. To make it universal, it has an extendable base, so you can adjust its length to suit a wide range of cameras.

To extend compatibility even further, there are two different slots that you can use for the camera attachment screw, enabling a an optimum fit with perfect balance.

For securing the L-bracket to the tripod, the Ellie has an Arca-Swiss compatible profile on both of its horizontal and vertical mounting sections. The upright section has a large cutout, designed to maximize access to ports and sockets, frequently positioned on the left hand side of camera bodies. The horizontal section is also designed so that it doesn’t restrict the use of tilting or vari-angle touchscreens, as featured in most modern cameras.

Catering to more than just cameras, the Lexie has two additional sockets in its base plate and a further two in its upright section, all with standard ¼-inch threads, so you can attach the likes of accessory arms, a microphone, monitor or an LED lamp.

And if you happen to use a Peak Design Capture Clip V3, you’ll be pleased that the Ellie comes complete with a dedicated adapter for use with this.

3 Legged Thing Lexie: Build and handling

Build quality feels every bit up to 3 Legged Thing’s typically high standards. The Ellie is made from aerospace-grade magnesium alloy, so it’s lightweight yet tough. The sliding mechanism for tailoring it to different cameras is quick and easy to use, enhancing handling.

For added security and convenience, there’s a strap lug built into the base plate. The vertical section of the L-bracket can be detached altogether, by removing two hex screws, converting the Ellie into a quick-release base plate for using any camera with any Arca-Swiss compatible tripod head. Another handling bonus is that you can refit the upright section of the L-bracket in the opposite orientation. This enables you to rotate the tripod head into portrait orientation and use it as a rocker head, while maintaining a good center of balance.

3 Legged Thing Lexie: Performance

A challenge in terms of performance is that the Ellie isn’t made from a single block of metal, unlike 3 Legged Thing’s dedicated L-brackets. However, we found that rigidity remained excellent even with the sliding mechanism at its longest extension. There’s no perceptible flexing in the joint between the base and upright sections.

Adjustments are quick and simple to carry out, making the Ellie a superbly versatile bit of kit. We can’t guarantee that the cutout in the vertical section will enable access to the likes of HDMI, microphone and headphone sockets in every make and model of camera. However, any L-bracket is really designed with stills shooting in mind, rather than video, so even the worst case scenario shouldn’t prove a problem in practice.

3 Legged Thing Lexie: Final Verdict

Like a dedicated L-bracket, the Lexie enables you to quickly swap between landscape and portrait orientation shooting when using a tripod, while retaining an excellent balance instead of having the camera hanging off one side of the tripod head. It also avoids a shift in camera position, so there’s less need to reframe the composition. The Lexie’s key advantage is its ‘universal’ design. We love that we can quickly and easily adjust it to suit pretty much any and every DLSR and mirrorless camera. It’s also surprisingly versatile for an L-bracket, with extra bonus features. One size really does fit all, and Lexie’s impeccable build quality and performance make it great value at the price.

Not everyone needs a monopod, but it’s surprising how useful they are. In sports and wildlife photography they take the weight of a heavy lens, reduce wobble with long-range shots and make it easier to carry out level panning movements. They can help reduce camera shake in low light and smooth out micro-jitters when filming. If you’re into landscapes, they can even serve as an ad hoc walking pole on uneven terrain.

Choosing the best monopod sounds like it ought to be simple but, as with tripods, monopods come in different heights, with different leg sections and with either aluminium (or magnesium) construction for affordability or carbon fiber for lightness.

The 3 Legged Thing is at the top end of the scale. It uses lightweight but rigid carbon fiber tubing and extends to a maximum height over just over 2m, which is well above eye level for everyone who isn’t a basketball player.

You don’t have to be 7ft tall to need a monopod that can go this high. The extra height is ideal for filming over the heads of crowds, as 3 Legged Thing points out, and it’s also great if you are shooting or filming on a downward slope or on the bank of a river. Your monopod can stand in the water while you keep your feet dry on the bank!

3 Legged Thing Lance: Specifications

Max height: 202cm / 79.5in
Length folded: 61.4cm  / 24.2in
Leg sections: 4
Weight: 677g / 1.49lb
Max tube diameter: 32mm / 1.26in
Max payload: 60kg / 132 lb
Material: Carbon fiber, magnesium alloy
Colors: Darkness

3 Legged Thing Lance: Key features

The 3 Legged Thing Lance is a monopod stripped back to the basics. It doesn’t even have a tilting or swivelling head, a feature you can often find on rivals. Monopod purists may argue that a head adds unnecessary weight and complication that detracts from a monopod’s basic simplicity, but a tilt head is definitely useful when aiming the camera towards the ground or upwards at tall buildings or interiors. A swivel action can also smooth out panning movements.

However, the Lance can be bought with an additional Docz2 foot attachment. This does turn it into a free-standing camera support, though it’s far less stable than a regular tripod and perhaps best used indoors where there are nice flat surfaces and no strong winds. The Docz2 feet do give it a much smaller footprint than a regular tripod, though, which is really useful when shooting or filming in confined spaces or when you need to change position quickly.

3 Legged Thing Lance: Build and handling

The Lance is really simple to use, mainly because it doesn’t do all that much – which isn’t necessarily a bad thing in a monopod. The four-section leg is quicker to set up than a regular 5-section monopod (of course), but this does mean it’s still pretty long when folded. It’s going to have to go on the outside of your backpack not the inside, and it will need to be strapped down securely.

The thick rubber grip on the top section provides a comfortable, secure hold, and the ‘O-Pad’ twist lock leg section grips give you good purchase for tightening and loosening. You won’t necessarily need to slacken them all off, either. If you’re a bit of a shortie (like me) you’ll probably need only three sections extended out of four for most shooting scenarios.

The dual-thread mounting screw on the top works really well. The wider 3/8” outer sleeve screws straight into a tripod head, while if you push it into the base of a camera, this moves back and the inner 1/4” screw engages with the camera. It’s that simple.

3 Legged Thing Lance: Performance

It is possible to provoke some flex in the leg, but only if you shove it around in a totally unrealistic manner. The leg locks only require a short twist to go from loose to fully tightened, and the Lance easily handled the weight of our heaviest gear – the maximum payload is 60kg, and who even has 60kg of kit? – and if you are going to use it at its full 2.02m height, its stability is going to be limited only by the strength of your biceps. 

The optional Docz2 feet do, however, seem a bit of a weak point. They have a ball-type pivot for panning and camera movement – really useful – which you can tighten up with a locking nut, but even so it’s difficult to tighten the Docz2 on to the bottom leg section fully, and even when it’s locked down as tight as it will go, there’s still a bit of flex and wobble in the setup. It is designed to articulate when slackened off, and that is certainly useful for camera movements.

3 Legged Thing Lance: Verdict

If you need an extra-height monopod with a faster 4-section design and the lightness and rigidity of carbon fiber, then the 3 Legged Thing Lance definitely delivers. It is more expensive than 3 Legged Thing’s magnesium alloy monopods, though, so height and weight need to be your priorities for it to make sense – otherwise, you might just as well get the cheaper Trent 2.0.

But should you get it with the Docz2 feet? This adds considerably to the price and, while it might be useful indoors, it doesn’t have the stability or the adaptability of a tripod outdoors. It would be better, perhaps, if 3 Legged Thing offered a basic pan/tilt head instead (or as well).

Check out the best tripod ball heads, and the best pan-tilt heads

3 Legged Thing has released three new monopods, designed to expand its range for videographers, wildlife, and sports photographers.  

3 Legged Thing is an award-winning British manufacturer of tripods and monopods, often leading or ranking very highly in our best tripod and best monopod guides. Three new monopods have been released from 3 Legged Thing, set to pique the interest of both photographers and videographers. Commenting on the release, Stuart Boston, Chief Operating Officer for 3 Legged Thing said:

“We’re delighted to expand our range of monopods to offer our customers even more choice. These three new models take inspiration from our current best-sellers and add refined features, and handy wrist straps for additional security. We look forward to seeing them in use at sports venues and wildlife locations worldwide!”

The new monopods are named Taylor 2.0, Alana, and Lance, and they each have something a little different to offer. 

3 Legged Thing Taylor 2.0

Named after the late Foo Fighters drummer Taylor Hawkins, this monopod is a magnesium alloy travel-friendly monopod in 3LT’s Punks range. The Taylor 2.0 is designed for compact transportation with a folded length of just 44 cm / 17.32”. The monopod reaches a substantial 1.58 m / 62.2” fully extended, and can support loads of up to 30kg / 66 lb, despite only weighing 677 g / 1.49 lb. 

See our 3 Legged Thing Taylor review

3 Legged Thing Alana

This monopod is a part of the Legends range and is named after Alana Smith, the youngest skateboarder to win a medal at the X Games. The new Legend monopods have been created in conjunction with customer feedback and all feature a smooth bowl-shaped top section that alongside the large rubber grip makes Alana comfortable to use for long periods. The folded length is a compact 44.8 cm / 17.6”, yet reaches 1.58 m fully extended offering users a highly portable and lightweight monopod that can support up to 60 kg / 132 lb of camera gear. 

3 Legged Thing Lance

Like Alana the Lance monopod is part of the new Legends range, so also benefits from the updated smooth bowl-shaped top section alongside the large rubber grip, adding to its comfort. Keeping on theme Lance is named after former skateboarder Lance Mountain, but this time is designed for photographers and filmmakers that need greater extension. With a fully extended height of 2.02 m / 79.5”, Lance can also support up to 60 kg / 132 lb of camera gear. It folds to just over 61 cm / 24” for transportation. 

All three monopods feature a convenient spring-loaded dual thread at the top – 3/8”-16 for mounting a tripod or monopod head, and ¼”-20 for mounting a camera or lens directly to the top. They each include a non-removable rotating wrist strap at the top for additional security and a comfortable textured, rubber grip which is contoured with channels to aid water dispersal. Each of the monopods is also compatible with 3 Legged Thing's Docz foot stabilizer, which also doubles as a mini tripod. Docz has legs that can be folded upward making it extra-compact for transportation. Another useful feature of note, that I personally was unaware of, is that these monopods have the strength to double as boom arms for audio equipment and lighting! 

Monopods are a fantastic way of enabling camera stabilization, especially when using a long lens, and when working in confined spaces where a tripod isn't a viable option. The monopods are out now at the following prices:

Taylor 2.0 $89.99 / £79.99 / AU $153.00 ( for the monopod only), or $139.99 / £119.99 / (approx AU$230.00) (as monopod kit with Docz foot)

Alana $149.99 / £129.99 (around AU$250.00) (monopod only), $199.99 / £169.99 / approx AU$326.00 (as monopod kit with Docz foot)

Lance $149.99 / £129.99 / around AU$250.00 (monopod only), $199.99 / £169.99 / approx  AU$326.00 (as monopod kit with Docz) 

See the articles listed below for more information on monopods:

• Monopod vs Tripod

• The point of a monopod

• Shooting motorsports with a monopod

The 3 Legged Thing Taylor 2.0 is one of Three Legged Thing’s more affordable monopods, launched at the same time as the premium carbon fiber Lance. You can get the Taylor 2.0 on its own, or as a kit with 3LT’s screw-on Docz feet which enable it to stand on its own.

The best monopods can be extremely useful as an extra bit of stabilization for low light or video work, and for taking the weight of heavy telephoto lenses during extended periods of shooting. They take a fraction of the time (and space) to set up needed by a tripod, and they’re easier to carry around – doubling as a walking pole or stabilizing stick on rough ground if necessary.

3 Legged Thing Taylor 2.0: Specifications

3 Legged Thing Taylor 2.0: Key features

The Taylor 2.0 is made of ‘aerospace grade’ magnesium alloy and has a 5-section leg with twist locks, to give a folded length of 44.1cm and a very good maximum height of 158cm – that’s plenty for even the tallest photographers.

It’s relatively inexpensive, but 3 Legged Thing nevertheless says it’s designed for professional photographers and videographers.

The optional Docz feet simply screw into the base and have a collar which can be tightened for use as a free-standing support, or loosened off to provide freedom of movement for panning or tilting movements.

Speaking of which, there’s currently no tilt or ball head option. Monopod users seem divided on this issue, some saying it’s not needed while others would prefer a head of some sort. It’s easy enough to attach one of your own, though, via the dual-size screw attachment in the top. 

3 Legged Thing Taylor 2.0: Build and handling

It might not be a premium carbon fiber model, but the Taylor 2.0 feels extremely well made and not that heavy. The twist locks on the legs loosen and tighten with a short turn and when tightened with only a moderate effort they grip really hard, with no slippage at all even if you put your weight on the top.

The dual-thread screw on the top platform is a near touch. The 3/8” thread is exposed by default (the standard size for most tripod heads) but if you attempt to attach a camera directly, this pushes back to reveal a 1/4” screw to fit the base of the camera.

The Docz feet are quick to attach, but you have to make sure you put the standard rubber foot somewhere safe because you’ll need to reattach it to use the Taylor 2.0 like a regular monopod again.

The rubber grip on the top section is a good size, and the wrist strap provides a little extra security, though it’s a shame it’s non-removable – it can be a bit irritating if it gets caught up with your other camera gear or backpack straps.

3 Legged Thing Taylor 2.0: Performance

We didn’t have any 30kg weights handy to test 3 Legged Thing’s 30kg payload claim, but the Taylor 2.0 does feel absolutely rock solid and we’ve no reason to doubt it (who actually HAS a 30kg camera kit?).

The Docz feet work very well too, though if you’re going to use the Taylor 2.0 as a free-standing camera support, you’ll want to choose a level surface and lock the ball joint down tight – and stay nearby in case the wind gets up. The setup works really well indoors, though, where it takes up a much smaller footprint than a regular tripod, even if it doesn’t offer the same kind of stability.

3 Legged Thing Taylor 2.0: Final Verdict

The 3 Legged Thing Taylor 2.0 is a really solid, no-nonsense tripod at a fair price, given its generous maximum height, rigid feel and materials. The Docz feet are an interesting extra and are available with the Taylor 2.0 as a bundle, but while they are fine on a flat surface, everything gets a bit wobbly if you extend more than a couple of leg sections – though they do give the monopod a more solid grounding if you’re holding it at the same time for static or panning shots.

But it would be better still if the Taylor 2.0 came with an optional head, even one with a simple tilt mechanism. Without that, it’s difficult to photograph or film things on the ground or up high, without leaning at all sorts of awkward angles.

Alternative camera accessory manufacturer 3 Legged Thing has released an update to its dedicated L-bracket for one of the best mirrorless cameras on the market, the Nikon Z9. You might be wondering how much one of the best L-brackets can change, but according to the UK-based company’s chief operating officer, the Zaara One is the product of customer feedback.

• Want more stability? These are the best tripod for photographers

Gone is the old L-bracket’s extendable base, in favor of a single piece of aerospace-grade magnesium alloy, carefully shaped to provide easy access to the strap lug – so a strap can remain attached – and focus mode button, without impeding the use of the Z9’s rear, tilting screen. 

The bracket is also rated to provide access to the flagship mirrorless camera’s battery compartment and all side ports, so you can expect it to pair seamlessly with your mirrorless pride and joy. 

The L-bracket also includes a pair of 1/4-in-20 screw threads for attaching external accessories – one on the outside of the vertical portion and one on the underside of the base. And, as you’d expect from a 3 Legged Thing L-bracket, it’s also Arca-Swiss compatible. The Zaara One is available in Darkness (black) or 3 Legged Thing's trademark Copper.

The contents of the box have changed too. The original Zaara featured a mini tool, flat tool, allen key, spare 1/4-inch screw thread and micro fibre bag, while the Zaara One has opted for a much more streamlined approach. It features a rather swanky looking multitool – complete with a bottle opener – 1/4-in screw and micro fibre bag. 

The Zaara One weighs in at one gram lighter than its predecessor at 145g / 5.11oz and is almost identical in size, save for a slightly longer base length of 12.4cm / 4.88in, as opposed to the older bracket’s 12.2cm / 4.8in. 

If you’re a regular tripod user who frequently wrestles with a drifting head, every time you position your camera in portrait orientation, then an L-bracket is a quality-of-life upgrade that comes highly recommended. The ability to quickly swap between landscape and portrait orientations, while retaining the same centre of gravity may well revolutionize your tripod-photography experience. 

If you're a Nikon photographer you might be interested in the best Nikon camera, the best lenses for Nikon Z9 and Z8, and even the best Nikon camera bag.

British tripod manufacturer, 3 Legged Thing, has just introduced two new dedicated camera L-brackets, the Alfie and the Ollie. The Alfie is designed for use on Sony Alpha cameras including the A7 IV , A7R V, A7 III, A7R III, A7R IV, A7S II, A7S III, A9 II and A1, while the Ollie is for the OM System OM-1.

The Alfie I tested is made from aerospace-grade magnesium alloy and is available in Copper (orange), Metallic Slate Grey, or Darkness (matte black). It’s supplied unassembled so the first step in using it is to remove two bolts so that the plates can be slotted together and the bolts re-threaded and tightened. Then it’s ready to be fitted to the camera. 

I used the 3 Legged Thing Alfie on the Sony A7R V and it fits perfectly around the contours of the camera even accommodating the strap lug and leaving the battery bay, memory card slots and cable ports accessible. Thanks to the 4-axis vari-angle mechanism of the A7RV’s screen and a cutout in the Alfie’s vertical plate, you can also tilt and swivel the monitor to give a good view from a wide range of angles.

Both plates of the Alfie are Arca-Swiss compatible to enable speedy mounting in an Arca-Swiss type tripod head (including 3 Legged Things' own range of tripods).

• The best pan and tilt tripod heads
• The best geared tripod heads
• The best panoramic tripod heads
• The best ball heads for tripods
• The best gimbal heads for tripods
• Best L-bracket for your camera

3 Legged Thing is expanding its range of L-brackets with two new additions: Alfie, and Ollie, designed for Sony cameras and the OM System OM-1, respectively.

If you're unfamiliar with this type of accessory, the best L-brackets are particularly useful when using a tripod and switching from portrait to landscape orientation, as they enable you to do so without repositioning the tripod head, and you can maintain the same focal plane and weight distribution. Extra mounting points on the bracket itself also allows for easy fitment of accessories, making L-brackets ideal for videographers.

Alfie is 3 Legged Thing’s first camera L-bracket built specifically for Sony cameras, including the latest A7 IV and A7R V, but is also compatible with the A7 III, A7R III, A7R IV, A7S II, A7S III, A9 II and A1 cameras. The Alfie bracket is constructed from magnesium alloy and has been designed to precisely fit the contours of the camera, while also allowing unimpeded access to the battery door and side ports. A cut-out in one of the vertical bars allows the rear screen to be opened (either upright or tilted), while the extending base enables cables to be plugged in when the camera is in portrait orientation. A supplied adapter allows the bracket to be paired with Peak Design's Capture Clip system.

3 Legged Thing claims it was inundated with requests for an L-bracket to fit the OM System OM-1 camera, so it made Ollie: an L-bracket designed to perfectly fit the OM-1. Like Alfie, Ollie’s design enables full access to the camera's side ports and battery door, so the L-bracket can remain on the camera at all times. There's also the same cut-out on one of the vertical bars to make way for the camera's flip-out screen, and Ollie shares Alfie's ability to use the camera's side ports, or to tether the camera in portrait orientation.

The Alfie and Ollie L-brackets are available in Copper or Metallic Slate Grey colors, and a new 'Darkness' matte black colorway. Expect to pay US $129.99/£109.99 for the Alfie bracket, and US $119.99/£99.99 for Ollie.

Read more:

The best L-brackets
The best Sony cameras
The best Sony lenses
The best Micro Four Thirds cameras
The best Micro Four Thirds lenses

The 3 Legged Thing Charles 2.0 is a full-sized tripod that features swing-up legs, more akin to a travel tripod, so the feet encircle the head when it’s folded down, reducing the carrying size. And then there’s the weight. Aluminum is often seen as the poor relation to carbon fiber when it comes to tripods, but the Charles 2.0 goes its own separate path, being made from aerospace-grade magnesium alloy. That’s actually a great choice for stability and lightweight construction.

Let’s play the numbers game for a moment. Magnesium alloy is actually 75 per cent lighter than steel, 50 per cent lighter than titanium, and 33 per cent lighter than aluminum. Better still, it has more damping capacity than any other structural metal, to soak up vibrations, while delivering a class-leading load capacity for its weight.

Read more: Is carbon fiber still for you? Find out the best options in our guide to the best carbon fiber tripods.

Essentially, the Charles 2.0 is a magnesium version of the 3 Legged Thing Winston 2.0 carbon fiber tripod, both being from the ‘Pro 2.0’ line-up. As such, it has the same feature set, dimensions and super-hefty load rating. It’s 0.39kg or 14 ounces heavier than its carbon sibling but shaves about £70/$100 off the purchase price.

Specifications

Material: Magnesium alloy
Folded height: 61.2cm / 24”
Maximum operating height: 194cm / 76.4”
Minimum operating height: 23.1cm / 9.09”
Max monopod height: 202cm / 79”
Weight: 2.44kg / 5.38lbs
Load rating: 40kg / 88lbs
Sections per leg/center column: 3 / 1
Maximum leg section diameter: 29mm / 1.14”
Locking leg angles: 3
Feet: Rubber pads
Case/bag included: Padded case

Key features

For keeping your shooting options open, a tripod that stretches to a lofty operating height as well as enabling ultra-low shooting angles will always win out. It’s even better if the tripod folds down to a manageable stowage size, so it’s not too big to lug around. The Charles 2.0 succeeds on all fronts. Although it features conventional 3-section legs and a single-section center column, to optimize rigidity, the legs swing up for compact storage, taking a lead from recent travel tripod designs.

The long and the short of it is that the full kit, which includes an AirHed Pro 2.0 ball head, stretches to a towering 194cm or 76.4” maximum operating height, yet shrinks to a compact folded height of 61.2cm or 24”. For really low-level shooting, you can remove the center column completely and attach the head directly to the legs, enabling a 23.1cm or 9.09” minimum height. If you need to go even lower, you can invert the head and shoot with the camera upside down.

There’s an option to buy the legs on their own but the AirHed Pro 2.0 ball head is so perfectly matched to the legs that it’s practically a no-brainer to buy the complete kit. The head features a main locking knob and a pan-only release knob. Panning also benefits from a calibrated scale that’s ideal for shooting a series of shots for stitching into a panoramic image. A bubble level on the ball head’s camera platform helps to keep everything squared off.

For attaching a camera or hefty lens with a tripod collar, there’s an Arca-Swiss type quick-release plate. Unusually, this doesn’t feature D-ring for tightening the screw with just a finger and thumb. You’ll therefore need to use a coin, or the supplied ‘Toolz’ gadget, which features a hex drive and flat blade, both of which fit the camera screw, plus a carabiner and even a bottle-opener.

The ‘tri-mount’ that sits below the head has three cutouts which are useful for attaching accessories or for passing through cables. We’re well accustomed to tripods with a detachable leg, so you can team it up with the center column to act as a monopod. In this case, all three legs are detachable, not only giving a monopod option with a mighty maximum height of 202cm or 79 inches, but also a whole different tripod configuration. With all three legs removed, you can fit ‘Vanz’ footwear (sold separately) which feature both metal spikes and rubber pads, effectively turning the Charles 2.0 into a really solid tabletop tripod.

Alternative footwear for full-sized tripod and monopod use include short and long metal spikes, different sizes of rubber pads and ‘Claws’ for use on ice and rock. There’s also a suitably 3-legged DOCZ2 foot stabilizer for use in monopod mode. They’re all available as optional extras.

Build & handling

Build quality feels rock-solid and the standard of construction is superb throughout, right down to the supplied padded soft case and carrying strap. The twist-clamps for the leg sections and center column require very little rotation to lock or release them, and all the moving parts work really smoothly. The same goes for the ball head, which enables very fine and precise adjustments.

A weight hook is fitted to the bottom of the center column, so you can add ballast for enhanced stability, if and when required. This unscrews quickly and easily if you want to invert the center column or remove it completely for attaching the head direct to the tripod legs.

Performance

Even at maximum height with full extension of the center column and all three legs, the tripod is remarkably rigid and resistant to flexing and vibration. That’s equally true when splaying the legs to wider lockable angles, with three alternatives on offer. This enhances stability for low-level shooting and helps to keep things on the level if you’re shooting on uneven terrain.

The ‘Parallel Locking’ twist-locks give rock-solid support, with the added bonus of secondary locking rings that avoid the risk of accidental disassembly. Both the legs and the head have a really hefty 40kg / 88lbs maximum load rating. It’s unlikely you’d ever load the tripod to the max but, in practical terms, it translates into really firm support even for chunky DSLRs and mirrorless cameras with heavyweight telephoto lenses attached. All in all, the Charles 2.0 is a top performer.

Verdict

It’s perhaps a little hard to get excited about tripods. They’re often an unwanted burden that you feel you have to lug around when you don’t really want to. Every once in a while though, a new tripod comes along that goes above and beyond the call of duty, offering supreme versatility and flexibility (in a good way) while being robust, precision-engineered, beautifully finished, and giving your photography rock-solid support. The Charles 2.0 is a classic case in point and more besides.

Read more: Find the right tripod for your needs with our guides to the best tripod for photography, the best travel tripod, and the best budget tripod.

The 3 Legged Thing Punks Corey 2.0 goes its own way, diverting from the usual choices of aluminum and carbon fiber and instead being built from aerospace-grade magnesium alloy. It’s a good choice, as this type of metal is both very lightweight and extremely strong and rigid. The set of legs can be bought on its own but the complete tripod kit is the most sensible buy, as it includes the companion Airhed Neo 2.0 ball head that’s a perfect, tailored fit and enhances the overall design.

• Read More: find the best tripod for your kit with our best tripod for photography guide.

The Corey 2.0 is the smallest and most travel-friendly of four 'Punks' tripods currently offered by British manufacturer 3 Legged Thing. The Travis 2.0 and Billy 2.0 are a little larger, constructed from magnesium alloy and carbon fiber respectively, while the Brian 2.0 extends to a greater maximum operating height than these two while folding away smaller, thanks to having a larger number of sections in each leg and the center column.

Specifications

Material: Magnesium alloy
Folded height: 36.1cm / 14.2"
Maximum operating height: 146cm / 57.4"
Minimum operating height: 18.4cm / 7.24"
Max monopod height: 149cm / 58.66"
Weight: 1.78kg / 3.92lbs
Load rating: 14kg / 30lbs
Sections per leg/center column: 5 / 2
Maximum leg section diameter: 23mm / 0.91"
Locking leg angles: 3
Feet: Rubber pads
Case/bag included: Padded case

Key features

Typical of most modern compact travel tripods, the Corey 2.0 has swing-up legs that fold around the center column when extended, so that the feet encircle the head. This tends to reduce the folded height by as much as 20cm or 8”. Indeed, the tripod features 5-section legs and a 2-section center column, enabling it to fold down to just 36.1cm or 14.2". The upshot is that you don't have the usual hassle of strapping it to the outside of your photo bag or backpack and instead can stow it away inside. That can be a big bonus when traveling, or when you’re on a walkabout and don’t want to draw attention to the fact that you’re carrying a camera kit.

Although it folds down very small, the tripod extends to a useful maximum operating height of 146cm or 57.4" with all of the leg sections and the center column fully extended. For really low-level shooting, you can remove the center column completely and attach the head and 'tri-plate' directly to the canopy of the legs, giving a working height of just 18.4cm or 7.24".

If you need to go lower still, you can invert the center column and refit it, shooting with the camera upside down.

The tri-pate that sits just below the head is a clever bit of design. It features three cutout sections to enable the easy attachment of accessories, or for passing cables through. There’s also a threaded accessory socket built into the side of the canopy that joins the legs together.

The legs have twist grips for loosening and clamping each of the sections. There are also three separate locking leg angles, in addition to the legs swinging up vertically. More unusually, all three of the legs are completely detachable. You can use any one of them with the center column and ball head in monopod configuration, with a maximum operating height of 149cm or 58.66".

Another plus point is that with all three legs detached, you can mount optional Vanz footwear (sold separately) in place of the legs, neatly transforming the Corey 2.0 into a sturdy tabletop tripod.

Build and handling

Build quality feels absolutely top-notch, from the tip of the ball head right down to the padded rubber feet. The twist locks for the extending sections in the legs and center column require minimal rotation to unlock them and enable a smooth range of movement, while also clamping everything rock-solid with little torque required.

The ball head has an industry standard Arca-Swiss style quick-release platform. Our only slight gripe is that the usual D-ring is omitted, so you need to use a coin or the tool that’s supplied in the kit to tighten or loosen the locking screw. It’s not a big deal. There’s no separate friction adjuster for the ball head but the main locking knob works really well whether you’re using a lightweight or heavyweight camera/lens combination. There’s also a separate panning knob with a similarly simple operation that enables a nice fluid feel to rotation, along with a scale that’s calibrated in degrees.

Performance

Think ‘travel tripods’ and you might well be thinking of flimsy affairs that tend to wobble around in the slightest breeze. That’s certainly not the case here, as the Corey 2.0 delivers the kind of rigid, vibration-free support that we’d normally expect from full-sized heavyweight tripods. Indeed, it has a maximum load rating of 14kg or 30 lbs, which far exceeds the weight of kit that most of us would ever use. As usual, though the maximum load capacity drops off as you splay the legs further apart in the wider of the three locking angles. Even so, the tripod is very rigid even at its widest leg angle.

In other areas of performance, the legs and head both work really well to enable smooth, precise adjustments along with really firm clamping. And while the feet offer stable support on solid ground, with their rubber pads, a range of alternative footwear is also available. This includes both long and short metal spikes, ‘Clawz’ for use on ice or rock, and a DOCZ2 foot stabilizer for use in monopod configuration.

Verdict

Designed with passion and flair, precision-engineered from aerospace-grade magnesium alloy, and immaculately turned out in two color options with either copper or blue accents, the Corey 2.0 is a first-class travel tripod. It folds down small enough to fit inside a photo bag or backpack, yet extends to a generous maximum operating height and packs a host of clever features. You can buy just the legs but the complete kit that includes an Airhed Neo 2.0 ball head is the best option.

Read more: Looking for a tripod for your kit, find the right one for you with our guides to the best tripod for photography, the best travel tripod, or the best video tripod.

Funky and fashionable British tripod and accessory manufacturer 3 Legged Thing has released a custom-fit L-bracket for the Nikon Z9. Named Zaara, 3LT has designed the L-bracket to perfectly fit the contours of the Z9 and its unique design ensures that it functions correctly as an L-bracket, enabling users to switch orientations and maintain the same focal plane.

The best L-bracket is an essential tool for photographers who regularly use a tripod and are useful across a wide variety of photography genres. They enable image creators to quickly switch from landscape to portrait orientations and vice versa whilst maintaining a level horizon and keeping the same focal plane. 

L-brackets also allow the camera to remain above the center of the tripod – the most stable position. You can use an L-bracket to capture stunning landscape photography, but it's great to have for a variety of genres.

“We have had many requests from customers to make an L-bracket for the Nikon Z9,” said Stuart Boston, COO of 3 Legged Thing. “We’ve listened to all their feedback and designed Zaara to ensure it gives Z9 users full L-bracket functionality. We feel sure that Z9-owners will love using Zaara.”

The L-bracket’s contours give users full access to the battery door on the side, and to lower ports on the side of the camera with the base closed. The upper headphone and mic ports can also be accessed by extending Zaara’s base. The extending base also uses a self-contained non-detachable screw to secure it in either an open or closed position.

The vertical aspect features a ¼”-20 screw thread for attachment of accessories, and two dual 1/4"-20 and 3/8”-16 threads are set into the base for use in portrait orientation. A cut-out in the base also saves weight.

Zaara is available in 3 Legged Thing’s eye-catching Copper or Metallic Slate Grey colors, as well as 3LT’s new Darkness (or matte black, to you and me) colourway.

The Zaara L-bracket for Nikon Z9 is available now directly from 3 Legged Thing and from select retailers worldwide. The suggested retail price is as follows: £129.99 / US $149.99.

3 Legged Thing also make the Zelda L-bracket for Nikon Z5, Z6, Z7, Z6 II, and Z7 II, as well as the generic Ellie universal bracket that fits a wide variety of cameras.  

Something of a wonder material, carbon fiber is used extensively in the construction of racecars and other high-performance vehicles, as well as in most of the best tripods you can buy. Carbon fiber tripods are both stronger and lighter than their aluminum counterparts, which is useful for pretty much any genre of shooting. But ‘better’ usually equates to ‘more expensive’ and carbon tripods are certainly no exception.

Although renowned for being pricey, carbon fiber tripods don’t have to be prohibitively expensive. Many major manufacturers offer carbon options of their tripods that are fairly budget-friendly. Check out some of the big names in the business like Manfrotto, 3 Legged Thing, Benro and Vanguard, and you’ll see a number of carbon fiber tripods that offer premium quality at very good value for money.

So how do you choose? Different carbon fiber tripods offer different features – some can carry more weight than others, while others have clever extra options like the ability to convert to a monopod, or a reversible central column that makes it easy to shoot close-ups down at ground level. It's worth shopping around to find a tripod with all of the features you need, and that you’re not paying for a whole bunch of extras that you’re never going to use. Let’s take a closer look at some of the best options on the market right now.

Best carbon fiber tripods 

Best multi-purpose carbon fiber tripod

Carbon fiber tripods usually fall into one of two categories – big full-height tripods or travel tripods. From 3 Legged Thing’s Pro 2.0 range, the Winston 2.0 is a full-height tripod that reaches a towering 194cm / 76.4” maximum operating height, complete with a super-strong 40g / 88lbs load rating, and that includes its rock-steady AirHed Pro ball head that comes in the complete kit, all wrapped up in a high-quality padded carrying case. And carrying is actually simplified by Winston taking a leaf out of travel tripod design. The legs swing up and surround the extended center column, enabling it to fold down to just 61.2cm / 24” in length.

Naturally, it can sometimes be just as important to be able to shoot from a really low level instead of from up on high. The tripod obliges, as you can remove the center column and attach the head directly to the legs, which splay out to enable a minimum operating height of just 23.1cm / 9.09”.

In many recent tripods, you can remove one leg and attach it to the center column to act as a monopod. The Winston goes one (or two) better in that you can remove all the legs. As well as monopod duty, this enables you to fit optional Vanz dual ball/spiked feet (sold separately as an optional extra) and turn the Winston 2.0 into a sturdy tabletop-tripod. Other footwear is also available, to suit pretty much any kind of terrain.

Read our full 3 Legged Thing Winston 2.0 tripod review

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Best budget carbon fiber tripod

The Vanguard Vesta TB 204CB is a highly affordable and complete carbon fiber travel tripod kit, and the inclusion of carbon fiber legs and a ball head at this price point is remarkable. Weighing just 0.78kg (1.72lb) and folding down to a compact 37.5cm (14.8 inches), it is ideal for travelers who want to pack it inside a daily bag without it being a burden.

The tripod's design features four-section legs with twist-locks and a reversible center column that can be used for low-level shooting. The included T-46 ball head has a quick-release plate, a single locking knob for pan and tilt, and a separate friction control.

Its main limitation is its modest maximum height of 130cm (51 inches) with the center column extended, and the tripod can feel a little bit wobbly at this full height. But on the whole, the Vanguard Vesta TB 204CB is an attractive and well-made kit that offers exceptional value for money, and makes an excellent choice for budget-conscious photographers on the go.

Read our full Vanguard Vesta TB 204CB review

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Best travel carbon fiber tripod

Built from carbon fiber and aluminum alloy, the Freewell FW-T1 supports everything from smartphones to medium-format cameras while remaining exceptionally lightweight. Its standout feature is versatility; the quick-release plate cleverly doubles as a phone holder when flipped, allowing creators to switch seamlessly between professional photography and social media content.

One leg can be detached to convert into a monopod, offering flexibility for fast-paced shooting. The tripod also includes a 360° ball head that supports portrait orientation without needing an L-bracket, accessory expansion holes, and a hidden compartment for an AirTag.

The twist-lock legs allow for quick setup with three flexible angle positions (20°, 55°, and 75°), making it adaptable to uneven terrain. The ball head is smooth and precise, though the multiple levers can initially be confusing. While it sits in a mid-range price bracket, the professional build quality and thoughtful engineering make it excellent value for money.

Read our full Freewell FW-T1 review

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Best premium travel carbon fiber tripod

This is the first tripod Peak Design (best-known for its camera bags) has made – and considering the carbon fiber version is one of the most expensive travel tripods around, it needs to be good. And it is. The low-profile ball head is quite simple but well-made, the overall rigidity is excellent, and it reaches to a good height.

Perhaps the nicest touch is the attention Peak Design has paid to how the tripod folds down. There’s very little ‘dead volume’ between the center column and the legs, so not only is the folded tripod short (just 39cm), it’s also slim enough to go inside a camera bag, while most tripods have to strap to the outside.

There is a much less expensive aluminum version available, with the same design features but slightly less resistance to vibration.

Read our full Peak Design Travel Tripod review

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Best design

The Benro Cyanbird Carbon Tripod comes as a kit with Benro's FS30 Head, and the pair makes for a great combination that stands out for its innovative design and performance. Unlike many typical travel tripod designs, this forgoes swing-up legs, thus allowing for quicker setup and breakdown, but rather than being completely circular in shape, the legs are made of oval, curved leg sections that wrap around a triangular center column, minimizing its stowed size to a still-very-compact 45.5cm. The supplied FS30 ball head offers similarly innovative design solutions, with the panning section located at the top of the head rather than the base, which makes leveling the tripod for panning particularly easy.

Despite its lightweight construction – tipping the scales at a shade under a kilogram – it offers impressive rigidity and stability, offering solid support for loads up to 4.5kg, even at its maximum height of 150cm, effectively resisting vibrations and ensuring stable shots. While this carbon tripod is priced higher than the hybrid version (which combines carbon fiber and aluminum), its clever design and attention to detail justify the cost, and it's a worthwhile investment for photographers and videographers seeking a compact, lightweight, and high-performing travel tripod.

Read more: Benro Cyanbird Carbon Tripod + FS30 head kit review

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Best for height range

The Neewer LiteTrip LT38 travel tripod is constructed from high-quality carbon fiber, but rather than traditional circular tubes, the legs have a flattened profile for compact stowage. It features five-section legs and a two-section center column, and offers three locking leg angles, which enable a really versatile range for shooting up high and down low, with a maximum operating height of 155cm and a minimum operating height of 15cm.

Some five-section tripods are a bit on the flimsy side, but not so the LiteTrip LT38, which boasts a substantial 10kg load capacity and effectively minimizes vibrations and unwanted flexing. What's more, the 12 leg-locking levers are quick and easy to operate, enabling quick setup times. All in all, this Neewer tripod makes for an excellent choice, combining a high-end carbon fiber build with a robust and adaptable ball head, delivering outstanding performance.

Read more: Neewer LiteTrip LT38 review

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Best carbon fiber tripod for video

Built to an exceptional standard, this tripod kit is made with professional-grade video in mind. It’s robust enough to take a specialist cine camera or a pro-level full-frame camera, and gives rock-solid support. In my testing, I was delighted with the ease of setup, with single-twist legs making adjustments a breeze.

The head supplied in this kit is a work of art, with beautifully smooth pan and tilt, and adjustable drag to choose the degree of friction you want. This isn’t a cheap kit, but the fluid filming experience it delivers easily justifies the cost.

Read our full Manfrotto 635 Fast Single Leg Carbon & 504X head review

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Best easy-setup carbon fiber tripod

The carbon fiber version of Manfrotto's 055 tripod, the Manfrotto MT055CXPRO3 is designed to marry superior stability with smooth operation. Its redesigned center column can pivot 90 degrees easily, with redesigned ‘one-finger’ operation that makes the whole enterprise easier than ever to set up. Its legs are secured by new Quick Power Locks that provide 50% more rigidity compared to its predecessor, and each leg can be positioned independently.

A bubble level has been set into the top of the center column, rotating freely around it so you can always position it somewhere you can see it. This allows you to get your horizons straighter than straight. What's more, the Easy Link connector at the top supports the attachment of additional accessories like video monitors or extra lights, further expanding the tripod's utility for a broad swathe of users.

Read our full Manfrotto MT055CXPRO3 review

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Best tough carbon fiber tripod

Benro Rhino tripods are designed to be as sturdy and hefty as their name implies. This model, the catchily named FRHN34CVX30, is able to support a whopping 20kg of camera kit, making it more than equipped for even the most extravagant of photo or video setups.

It's all down to the build, which uses braided carbon fiber tubing to keep the weight down without compromising on strength. The tripod packs away pleasingly small, with reverse-folding legs that flip up to surround the head when they're not being used. It's also easy to attach an extra accessory arm for a smartphone or video monitor, further expanding your shooting options.

This tripod also comes bundled with one of Benro's VX ball heads, which have been specifically designed to complement the Rhino range. In real terms, this means that they are also strong and lightweight, but there are a few extra features as well, such as the redesigned quick-release plate with a safety catch to prevent calamity resulting from accidentally releasing the camera. All in all, it adds up to an impressive, high-quality setup for pretty much any camera user.

Read our full Benro Rhino FRHN34CVX30 review

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Most versatile carbon fiber tripod

With so many knobs, this doesn’t look at first glance like an easy tripod to use, but it’s actually pretty intuitive to set up – and it gets better from there.

This is a tripod that ticks all the boxes. It can take a heavy load (up to 25kg), it’s tall and proved to be extremely sturdy during our testing, and all for a reasonable price. You can pivot the center column when you want to shoot low, perhaps for macro.

If compact storage is important to you, other tripods reach similar heights but fold down much smaller. But if you want a tripod that can cope with virtually any shooting situation, this is a strong choice.

Read our full Vanguard VEO 3+ 303CBS review

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Aluminum vs Carbon Fiber

Aluminum tripods are created from an aluminum alloy, and while it's not the strongest metal available, it is relatively strong for its weight. It also has the benefit of being fairly malleable, meaning that if you manage to damage it via impact, it will more likely become bent rather than completely broken, and therefore still be usable.

Carbon fiber is a composite material in which strings of carbon atoms are set in a plastic resin, and have a very high strength-to-weight ratio, meaning that tripods made from the material are much lighter to carry. However, while tougher than aluminum, if it suffers from a sudden impact, its greater rigidity means it’s prone to cracking or shattering – in cold weather or when dropped onto a hard surface. So carbon fiber tripods need to be used with more care than aluminum ones.

Carbon fiber tripods are touted as stronger and lighter than their metallic counterparts. When we refer to tripod ‘strength’, we’re essentially talking about stiffness – resistance to compression when a load is placed on top. Stiffness is measured in gigapascals (GPa), and aluminum scores 69 compared to around 181 for carbon fiber. So, for the same diameter tripod leg, carbon fiber is much stronger, and because the material is less dense, it’s far lighter, too (although you should note there are different grades of carbon fiber).

Metal is a better thermal conductor than carbon fiber, which is bad news in cold weather, as aluminum tripods will be incredibly cold to the touch – too cold to handle without gloves. Carbon fiber tripods are warmer to the touch, which landscape photographers will appreciate. Many aluminum tripods have a foam covering on the top section of one leg, but this further adds to the bulk, and you’ll still need gloves to set up the tripod.

How to choose

Although all tripods have three legs, there are lots of features to differentiate between different models. These are some of the key features to consider when picking the right one for you:

Maximum height
A tripod that can at least reach up to your own head height is useful – but it can make the tripod bigger and heavier, so you may need to compromise on this.

Minimum height
How low can you go when photographing a subject? Some tripods allow their legs to stretch out sideways, or to reverse the column so the head is suspended between the legs, to get you close to the ground. This is particularly useful, say, when photographing flowers.

Folded size
The size of the tripod when folded is important for travel. Some tripod legs have more sections than others, to help keep the tripod compact when not in use. Some have swing-up legs, so the feet encircle the head.

Heads
Some tripods are sold with a head, and others are not, to allow you to choose the legs and head separately. Most tripod kits are sold with a ball head.

Leg section clamps
Twist-action locking clamps are generally more popular for loosening and locking the leg sections, but the Manfrotto 055 uses equally effective flip locks.

Monopod option
With some tripods, you can unscrew one leg and use it with the center column as a monopod.

Pivot facility
Some tripods have a center column that pivots to allow you to have the camera pointing straight down to the ground – useful for flat-lay photography, and more.

How we test tripods

When we test carbon fiber tripods for review, we take note of the manufacturers' specifications for payload, working height, and folded length, and carry out our own subjective assessment of rigidity, stability, ease of use, and design to see how the tripod measures up. Over the years, we've tested many, many tripods, either for standalone reviews, for group tests, or while working on tutorial or how-to articles, so by now we know exactly what we're looking for and which features count most.

Read more about how we test and review on Digital Camera World

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In the mirrorless march to overachieving technology, IBIS (In-Body Image Stabilization) has become a key feature in the vast majority of recent and current cameras. Claims of up to 8-stop effectiveness, or thereabouts, are frequently touted, enabling you to shoot handheld in very low-light conditions. Even so, a decent tripod is still a must-have accessory for most of us, enhancing our versatility as photographers or videographers. Many camera techniques simply aren’t possible without a good, solid camera support, and while tripods can come with quite a high price tag, there are plenty of budget-friendly options that really deliver.

The main concern is that a small outlay will only get you a poor-quality product. There’s certainly the potential for false economy, so it’s best to stick to reputable brand names, many of whom have done a commendable job of offering affordable tripods alongside their more expensive products. To qualify as a 'budget' tripod, I've imposed a typical street price ceiling of $200 / £200 / around AU$400, but be sure to check around, as I've noted some retailers sell the same model tripod notably cheaper than their competitors.

Depending on your needs, you’ll want to look at slightly different types of budget tripod, and I’ve included plenty of options in this guide. The majority are 'travel tripods', but I’ve also added in a great-value video tripod with a three-way head that is ideal for videographers, as well as options with reversible central columns for low-down shooting – this is great for macro and close-up work. What I haven't included are tabletop tripods that you'll need to pop on a table or wall and are only suitable for lightweight setups. For those, see our separate guides to the best mini tripods or the best phone tripods.

Sticking to a low budget does rule out certain types of tripod, so you might need to stick with aluminum legs rather than splashing out on pricey carbon fiber. You can also expect a relatively simple ball head as part of a complete kit, but you can always upgrade later with our guides to the best ball heads or best pan-and-tilt heads. Let’s take a closer look at the low-cost tripods that stand out from the crowd. For a more in-depth analysis of each model, I've provided links to our full reviews to help you make the most informed buying decision.

The best budget tripods

Best budget tripod overall

The 3 Legged Thing Punks Corey 2.0 travel tripod is aimed at hybrid content creators who need a compact yet robust support system. It has an exceptionally compact folded height of 36.1cm, which makes it easy to pack inside a camera bag rather than strapping it to the outside, while still providing a respectable maximum operating height of 146cm. This is due, in part, to its five-section leg columns and two-section center column, yet it still manages an impressive load rating of 14kg (30lbs), which is unusually high for a travel tripod and enables it to take heavier camera and lens combinations in its stride.

The upshot is that it remains rigid and vibration-free and is a rock-solid support under even the most trying conditions. Tricks include a detachable leg that can be used as a monopod, and the option to convert it into a tabletop tripod with optional Vanz footwear. While the legs can be purchased separately, the full kit, which includes the Airhed Neo 2.0 ball head, offers cracking value, and is my pick of the budget tripods.

See our full 3 Legged Thing Punks Corey 2.0 review

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Best budget tripod for options

Some people prefer twist leg locks, others prefer lever-style clamps, and the Manfrotto Befree Advanced AS is available in both variations for around the same price. You can also opt for aluminum or carbon fiber; the latter is pricer and doesn't save a huge amount of weight, so my advice to the budget-conscious is to go for the metal version, which I particularly rate for its excellent value.

It folds to a compact 40cm and reaches a reasonable maximum height of 150cm when fully extended, and has a solid 9kg payload rating, which is pretty good combo for a travel tripod, although that may be a little low for taller ’togs. Three lockable leg angles add to its versatility. Best of all, it comes with Manfrotto's Befree Advanced 494 Center Ball Head, which has an adjustable friction damper and dedicated panning lock, and is topped with an Arca-Swiss compatible plate.

See our full Manfrotto Befree Advanced AS review

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Best budget tripod for macro

The 3 Legged Thing Patti 2.0 is a travel tripod from the company's 'Punks' range aimed at beginner photographers. Made from a magnesium alloy and weighing 1.7kg, it combines travel-friendliness with durability. A neat feature is its ability to convert into a monopod by detaching a leg and connecting it to the center column. You can also invert the center column, so the camera sits upside-down between the legs, making it useful for low-level shooting and macro photography work.

The tripod retains excellent rigidity and stability, even at its maximum operating height of 163cm, and extends even higher, to 166cm, in monopod mode, but its folded size of 45.5cm is not the most compact. The legs are extended using easy-to-operate flip locks, on top of which a tri-mount plate has three accessory spurs. It comes with an AirHed Mini ball head, which boasts a decent 10kg load rating, a single locking knob for movement, and a panning scale, although it lacks an independent panning lock.

See our full 3 Legged Thing Patti 2.0 review

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Best budget carbon fiber tripod

The Vanguard Vesta TB 204CB is a highly affordable and complete carbon fiber travel tripod kit, and the inclusion of carbon fiber legs and a ball head at this price point is remarkable. Weighing just 0.78kg (1.72lb) and folding down to a compact 37.5cm (14.8 inches), it is ideal for travelers who want to pack it inside a daily bag without it being a burden.

The tripod's design features four-section legs with twist-locks and a reversible center column that can be used for low-level shooting. The included T-46 ball head has a quick-release plate, a single locking knob for pan and tilt, and a separate friction control.

Its main limitation is its modest maximum height of 130cm (51 inches) with the center column extended, and the tripod can feel a little bit wobbly at this full height. But on the whole, the Vanguard Vesta TB 204CB is an attractive and well-made kit that offers exceptional value for money, and makes an excellent choice for budget-conscious photographers on the go.

Read our full Vanguard Vesta TB 204CB review

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Best budget video tripod

The Neewer LL27 video tripod with fluid head offers exceptional value for videographers. It is easy to set up with single-lock legs and a leveling bowl base, and has an impressive maximum operating height of 192cm (76in). The fluid head provides smooth panning and tilting, aided by independent locks and a reversible panning handle, while the tripod features robust rubber feet, multi-tube aluminum legs for quick adjustments, and a 75mm (3in) leveling bowl. A long Arca-Swiss compatible quick-release plate has dual connection screws, enhancing stability.

However, its rigidity at full extension could be better, and I found the tripod to be susceptible to vibration when extended to its full height. Its maximum load capacity is fairly modest too, at 8kg (17.6lb), and it lacks the ability to shoot at very low angles. These minor drawbacks aside, the Neewer LL27 is well-built for its price, offering a solid solution for videography needs without a hefty price tag.

See our full Neewer LL27 video tripod review

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Best budget pan-and-tilt tripod

The Vanguard Vesta 203AP is an exceptionally affordable aluminum tripod kit, making it an excellent value for budget-conscious photographers. Weighing in at just 1.1kg (2.4lb), the tripod is easy to transport. Its design includes a standard three-section leg system, which facilitates a quicker setup compared to models with four or five sections. Despite its simplicity, the Vesta 203AP has a respectable load rating of 3.5kg, making it suitable for compact cameras and smaller mirrorless or DSLR setups.

On the downside, the height range is somewhat restrictive, spanning from a minimum of 53.5cm to a maximum of 155cm, and, when fully extended, it exhibits a slight wobble and susceptibility to vibration. It also lacks multiple locking leg angles for versatile positioning on uneven terrain. The center column is not reversible, which limits creative low-angle or macro shooting.

The included 3-way pan head is really rather good. It boasts a unique capability to rotate the camera platform by 90 degrees, which is particularly useful for capturing images in portrait orientation. While it may lack advanced features and top-tier stability, it's commendable as a basic tripod and a great value proposition considering its low cost.

Read our full Vanguard Vesta 203AP review

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How to choose the best budget tripod

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How we test tripods

We measure the maximum operating height of each tripod and its folded height for carrying, complete with the head attached. We also measure the combined weight of each set of tripod legs and head, using electronic scales, and measure the diameter of all leg sections, from the widest to the thinnest, using digital calipers.

We check the ease of use, smoothness, and precision of all available adjustments in each set of tripod legs and heads. This ranges from adjusting leg sections and pivot facilities (where available) to the locking mechanisms of the head, as well as independent pan and friction damping adjustments, where fitted.

To check overall stability, we shoot with a range of camera bodies fitted with wide-angle, standard, telephoto, and macro lenses. We look for good resistance to flexing and vibrations throughout the whole range of operating heights, including the tallest available settings, with the legs and center column fully extended.

Find out more about how we test and review on Digital Camera World

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There are various types of tripod heads to consider, including traditional 3-way heads, geared heads, and more specialist items like gimbal heads, panoramic heads, and pistol-grip heads. For my money, though (and probably yours too), there’s no beating a ball head for quick and easy setup, making it possible to get a vital shot before the moment has passed.

We often spend a lot of time thinking about the best tripods to buy, and rightly so, but ball heads often get forgotten about. A good ball head can make a huge difference when it comes to shooting, so it's worth investing in a good one, especially if your tripod came with a relatively humble ball head as part of a kit. So what makes a ball head stand out from the crowd? Particularly for travel tripods, you want something compact and lightweight, so it doesn't weigh you down. It's worth thinking about the size of your setup and how much weight the head needs to support; if you're using a camera with a long lens attached, the maximum payload capacity is a vital consideration.

It's best to pick a head with a larger ball diameter: around 40 or 50mm is a good compromise between stability and portability. Of course, if you're using a small camera with diminutive lenses, you can probably get away with something smaller. But fancy ball heads will provide functionality, such as smoother panning movement and well-engineered quick-release systems, often based on the Arca-Swiss standard. An adjustable friction damper is often featured, enabling you to tailor the tactile feel for the camera kit you’re using at any given moment. For shooting video or taking sequences of shots to stitch into a panorama, a ball head with a separate panning lock/release can pay dividends. Let’s take a closer look at the best options on the market.

The best ball heads for tripods

Best for ergonomics

At first glance, Manfrotto's XPRO ball head doesn’t look particularly special, but there’s more than meets the eye. The magnesium construction is rated to support 10kg: enough for almost any full-frame set-up, yet the head tips the scales at a reasonable 520g.

At its heart is a fairly large ball for good stability, and its grease-free polymer housing enables exceptionally smooth movement, even with a lot of friction applied. The friction is set using a tactile, clicky wheel that’s better than most systems for dialing in a precise level of drag. Rather than using rubberized or knurled knobs, the ball and pan movement is tightened using levers that lock securely with minimal user effort. In testing, I found that this head was particularly good at resisting any sagging after tightening the main clamp and letting go of the camera.

The XPRO ball head can be specced with several mounting plate designs. I went for the Top Lock system which is Arca-Swiss compatible, with the QR plate released using a simple but effective button. The top plate is surrounded by three individual bubble levels for precision camera leveling, and they’re all viewable with your camera mounted.

See our full Manfrotto XPRO ball head review

Best for professionals

The ProMediaGear BH1 is a unique ball head that has excellent craftsmanship and ease of use. Equally, as at home in the kitbag of a landscape photographer or indoors in a studio, the BH1 is as solid and as precise as any ball head I've used. I liked its flexibility and the fact that I can operate the main lock knob and the pan lock knob quite easily while wearing gloves.

One thing that really impressed me is that the BH1 shines for its precision and complete lack of droop. All too often with ball heads, you can position a fairly heavy camera and lens, tighten the clamp, and find that everything sags a bit when you let go of the camera. That's certainly not the case with the BH1.

Sure, it's expensive and its movement is not as smooth as that of some of its rivals, but you're getting something uniquely precise – and if that’s your priority then the BH1 delivers.

See our full ProMediaGear BH1 review

Best for value

Keeping things simple doesn't mean compromising on quality. You may just need an unfussy ball head that works but still want the reassurance of a trusted brand. Step forward the Manfrotto 494 Center Ball Head, which comes at a great price but still offers that Manfrotto dependability.

Don’t be fooled by the price of this ball head, I found it was really rather good when I tested it. It can support up to 8kg of kit, and offers panoramic and friction control knobs for easy, intuitive operation. This version comes with the 200PL-PRO Quick Release Plate, and the head has an integrated RC2 quick-release cam lock. The aluminum construction is lightweight but reasonably hardy, and there's a dedicated tension control dial for the ball-and-socket movements.

Compared with many ball heads, the 494 has a very slim profile. That makes it ideal for use with travel tripods in which you extend the center column and swing the legs up, so that the feet surround the head for compact stowage.

Read our full Manfrotto 494 ball head review

Best for luxury

The Gitzo GH4383LR Center Ball Head Series 4 is a high-end, professional-grade ball head designed to support substantial camera setups, particularly those with long, heavy lenses. Its robust construction, crafted from high-tolerance steel and aluminum, ensures exceptional durability and stability. A large, hollow ball facilitates remarkably smooth movement, even in challenging conditions.

This ball head stands out as a versatile alternative to a traditional gimbal head, offering a fluid pan cartridge for jerk-free horizontal adjustments. It boasts an impressive 30kg payload capacity, and separate locking and friction control knobs allow for precise adjustments, and a firm locking mechanism that prevents unwanted movement.

Tipping the scales at 900g, however, it is relatively heavy, reflecting its robust construction and high payload capacity. Furthermore, its advanced feature set and professional-grade materials contribute to a steep asking price that might cause you to balk. Overall, it's a high-performance, solidly built head that will last a lifetime and is aimed at the most demanding professional photographers.

See our full Gitzo GH4383LR Center Ball Head review

Best hybrid for stills & video

Vanguard’s Veo BH-160S Dual-Axis Ball Head looks and feels very well made yet its price is attractively low. The controls are also nicely shaped to give a good, comfortable grip and allow you to apply the force that’s sometimes required.

The dual-axis design means that you can pan the complete head, or just the camera platform at the top. The latter gives the advantage that you don't need to exactly level the tripod legs if you're going to panning when shooting videos or panoramic sequences.

As with some other heads, it’s a shame that the bubble level isn’t visible when a camera is mounted, and it would be nice to see an Allen key provided, ideally on a key ring, to tighten the quick-release plate. Overall, however, it’s an excellent ball head that copes superbly with heavy optics to ensure shake-free images.

Read our full Vanguard’s Veo BH-160S Dual-Axis Ball Head review

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Best low profile

The Leofoto LH-36LR is a compact, low-profile ball head with an impressive 18kg (40lb) load rating, clever design, beautiful engineering, and luxurious finish. I particularly like its ease and speed of adjustment for both landscape and portrait orientations, along with its robust construction and resistance to sagging, even with heavy camera gear.

Its panning mechanism is super-smooth and includes a calibrated scale for accurate 15-degree interval adjustments. The large, comfortable main locking knob facilitates smooth, free movement, enhancing usability. Additionally, the inclusion of dual drop-notches ensures convenient accessibility at any rotational setting of the panning mechanism. The ball head’s design prioritizes both functionality and aesthetics, delivering solid performance across the board.

While it's more expensive than some competing heads, with its smart design, excellent build quality, and overall solid performance, the Leofoto LH-36LR is actually very good value for money and is highly recommended for photographers seeking a reliable and high-performing ball head.

Read our full Leofoto LH-36LR Ball Head review

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Best for flexibility

Although they tend not to come as cheap as other options, 3 Legged Thing's ball heads and tripods have a reputation for exceptional carrying capacity and stability. It's well-deserved. The AirHed Pro is the firm's flagship ball head, able to handle a whopping 40kg of kit (really more than you're ever likely to need) without issue. It is milled from aircraft-grade magnesium alloy, meaning it's not only strong but also lightweight, weighing just 323g.

It comes with an integrated 360-degree clamp that allows for smooth panning even on bumpy terrain, and its quick-release plate is Arca-Swiss compatible. It's an extraordinary piece of kit that does everything you need from a ball head and more. While it is more expensive than some contenders on this list, I'd add that the AirHed Pro represents absolutely fantastic value for money.

Two product options are available: the standard AirHed Pro has a knob to release the QR plate from the head, and the AirHed Pro Lever, which – you've guessed it – uses a lever release instead. Both versions have the same asking price.

See our full 3 Legged Thing AirHed Pro review

Best lightweight

Despite weighing only 400g, the Benro GX35 is able to support a whopping 35kg of camera gear, with extra stability assured by the relatively large 40mm-diameter ball. There's a dedicated panning lock for the rotating base of the head, along with a numbered degree scale to assist with shooting accurate multi-shot panoramas. What's more, a secondary panning axis above the ball adds even more panorama versatility.

The low-profile design of the head gives it a relatively squat appearance and works in your favor for low-level shooting. It also keeps the folded size of a tripod kit to a minimum, if you need to stash it away in small spaces.

An Arca-Swiss compatible mounting plate maintains easy cross-compatibility with other Arca-based tripods or monopods you may have, while the eye-catching design is supplemented by nice ergonomic touches like the knurled metal locking knobs.

See our full Benro GX35 review

Best budget

It's inexpensive for a big-brand tripod head, but the Alta BH-250 is still rated to support a whopping 20kg of kit. Build quality also feels reassuringly robust, but the ball movement isn’t quite as fluid-feeling as that of some other tripod heads and the D-ring on the quick-release plate needs to be better attached. Nevertheless, it’s capable of holding heavy lenses and camera set-ups still without drooping.

Such a hefty payload capacity does mean this isn’t the most portable option, tipping the scales at 577g and measuring 117mm tall, but the overall shape is slim and should sit comfortably within a tripod with flip-up legs. The relatively compact quick-release top plate helps with this, yet it still sports two useful, easily visible bubble levels, and maintains Arca compatibility.

Vanguard’s chunky, rubber-covered locking knobs are all very easy to grip, though the conventional friction adjustment dial isn’t quite as tactile as Manfrotto’s clicky design.

See our full Vanguard Alta BH-250 review

How to choose the best ball heads for tripods

Many of the considerations around which ball head to use for a tripod depend on what you're going to be using it for. If you want a lightweight option for run-and-fun shooting, then something of either plastic or lightweight metal will be your best bet. Alternatively, if you're working in a studio and want something that isn't going anywhere, then a solid metal construction is the way to go.

The type of mount is also important. The Arca-Swiss quick-release mounting standard is great for maintaining interchangeable compatibility with other tripod heads, but some manufacturers still stick to proprietary designs.

The requirement for smooth panning and tilting is another consideration. If you do a lot of these types of shots, then you'll probably want to spend a little bit more to make sure you get the best quality mechanism. There's nothing worse than jittery movements or a tripod head that seizes up after a few months of use.

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How we test ball heads for tripods

The main areas of testing are the build quality and the performance of the ball head. The build quality considers things like the materials and how durable they are. It also looks at how fit for purpose each individual part is – something that is important for a mainstay piece of camera equipment.

The performance of the ball heads is tested in real-world scenarios with a camera mounted on top. All the features are tested, and movement is put under the microscope, so to speak. Locking mechanisms are tried and tried again to make sure they are both robust and reliable.

I like to travel light, whether I’m walking city streets, trekking across the countryside, or jetting off to the other side of the world. Conventional full-sized tripods tend to be big, heavy, and unwieldy – so I often leave mine at home, making it completely useless. By contrast, the best travel tripods literally take a load off. They’re made to be compact and lightweight, but in the past, they’ve often been notorious for being flimsy, relatively unstable, and too small to offer a useful operating height. The new breed of travel tripod tempts me with the promise of giving me the best of both worlds.

Many modern travel tripods have legs that swing upwards for storage, so that the head is encircled by the feet. This typically reduces the folded height by as much as 4in / 10cm. Some also include as many as five sections in each leg, and a two-section extending center column, reducing the folded height even further, while still enabling reasonably lofty shooting. I find they take longer to set up and fold away, but it’s a trade I’m willing to make for smaller stowage.

These are the best of the best travel tripods, but if you're on a limited budget, you might also want to check out our guide to the best budget tripods, many of which are also travel tripods. I've linked each mini-review to our full reviews so you can get even more in-depth info on the models you're most interested in.

My recommendations of the best travel tripods

Best tripod overall

The Peak Design Travel Tripod may be the first tripod that Peak Design has made, but it's hands-down one of the best travel tripods that I've ever used! While I tried the carbon fiber model, there is an aluminum version that has all the same design features, with a little more weight and less vibration resistance, but is a massive 40% cheaper. A couple of the other tripods here will go higher, but the Peak Design will still go to eye level for an average-height person, and it packs down to just 39cm in length.

I like that it's designed to cut out the dead space between the legs and the column when packed, which means it's not just short when folded but very slim too – I can put this inside my camera bag or cabin bag instead of just strapping it to the outside. The low-profile ball head is simple but brilliant. There's a phone holder hidden inside the center column, and best of all for me, the tripod feels seriously rigid.

Read more: Peak Design Travel Tripod review

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Best for versatility

The Manfrotto Befree Advanced AS is a great travel tripod compromise: it’s sturdy but lightweight, folds down nice and small, and the clever head takes just about anything I can throw at it.

The included Befree Advanced 494 Center Ball Head is super quick and easy to work with, but fully featured, with independent adjustments for the main ball lock/release, plus an adjustable friction damper and a panning lock. Below the head is Manfrotto’s ‘Easy Link’ socket, which is ideal for mounting an LED video lamp, microphone, or other accessories.

You can have the Manfrotto Befree Advanced AS is an aluminum or carbon construction, but I reckon the aluminum option is the best value. It still weighs just 1.51kg / 3.3lb, making the complete kit impressively lightweight for an aluminum setup. What's more, you can also have this tripod with either twist clamps for the leg sections or lever locks, depending on your personal preference. The 9kg load capacity is also generous, and despite the tripod's low weight, it still feels reasonably sturdy, even at its full 150cm stretch.

Read more: Manfrotto Befree Advanced AS review

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Best alloy tripod

I find that all of the Punks tripods from 3 Legged Thing are very travel-friendly, but the Corey 2.0 is the smallest and easiest to pack for the journey. It has the usual swing-up legs to save stowage space, this time with five sections in each, plus a two-section head, enabling a decent maximum operating height but a very small stowage size.

Don’t be put off that this one’s not a carbon fiber tripod. It’s actually made from aerospace-grade magnesium alloy, and the upshot is that it’s still lightweight yet very strong, with a hefty 14kg maximum load rating.

It ticks another two boxes on my wish list by easily converting to a monopod and enabling ultra-low-level shooting, with the option of attaching the ball head directly to the canopy (leaving the center column out of the equation). All three legs are removable, and Vanz footwear (sold separately) transforms the Corey 2.0 into a stylish tabletop tripod.

Read more: 3 Legged Thing Punks Corey 2.0 review

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Best tripod for features

Built from carbon fiber and aluminum alloy, the Freewell FW-T1 supports everything from smartphones to medium-format cameras while remaining exceptionally lightweight. Its standout feature is versatility; the quick-release plate cleverly doubles as a phone holder when flipped, allowing creators to switch seamlessly between professional photography and social media content.

One leg can be detached to convert into a monopod, offering flexibility for fast-paced shooting. The tripod also includes a 360° ball head that supports portrait orientation without needing an L-bracket, accessory expansion holes, and a hidden compartment for an AirTag.

The twist-lock legs allow for quick setup with three flexible angle positions (20°, 55°, and 75°), making it adaptable to uneven terrain. The ball head is smooth and precise, though the multiple levers can initially be confusing. While it sits in a mid-range price bracket, the professional build quality and thoughtful engineering make it excellent value for money.

Read more: Freewell FW-T1 review

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Best for height range

The Neewer LiteTrip LT38 travel tripod is constructed from high-quality carbon fiber, but rather than traditional circular tubes, the legs have a flattened profile for compact stowage. It features five-section legs and a two-section center column, and offers three locking leg angles, which enable a really versatile range for shooting up high and down low, with a maximum operating height of 155cm and a minimum operating height of 15cm.

Some five-section tripods are a bit on the flimsy side, but not so the LiteTrip LT38, which boasts a substantial 10kg load capacity and effectively minimizes vibrations and unwanted flexing. What's more, the 12 leg-locking levers are quick and easy to operate, enabling quick setup times. All in all, this Neewer tripod makes for an excellent choice, combining a high-end carbon fiber build with a robust and adaptable ball head, delivering outstanding performance.

Read more: Neewer LiteTrip LT38 review

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Best design

The Benro Cyanbird Carbon Tripod comes as a kit with Benro's FS30 Head, and the pair makes for a great combination that stands out for its innovative design and performance. Unlike many typical travel tripod designs, this forgoes swing-up legs, thus allowing for quicker setup and breakdown, but rather than being completely circular in shape, the legs are made of oval, curved leg sections that wrap around a triangular center column, minimizing its stowed size to a still-very-compact 45.5cm. The supplied FS30 ball head offers similarly innovative design solutions, with the panning section located at the top of the head rather than the base, which makes leveling the tripod for panning particularly easy.

Despite its lightweight construction – tipping the scales at a shade under a kilogram – it offers impressive rigidity and stability, offering solid support for loads up to 4.5kg, even at its maximum height of 150cm, effectively resisting vibrations and ensuring stable shots. While this carbon tripod is priced higher than the hybrid version (which combines carbon fiber and aluminum), its clever design and attention to detail justify the cost, and it's a worthwhile investment for photographers and videographers seeking a compact, lightweight, and high-performing travel tripod.

Read more: Benro Cyanbird Carbon Tripod + FS30 head kit review

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Best lightweight tripod

With five sections in each swing-up leg and a two-section center column, this Vanguard folds down to just over a foot long yet gives a reasonable maximum operating height. I find it can easily fit into my daily bag or backpack. It’s also very lightweight, although, as expected, the alternative aluminum version is a little heavier. The bottom leg sections are quite spindly, with a diameter of just 11mm, but stability is pretty good even at full stretch.

As well as giving a typically quick and easy change to monopod configuration, the Vanguard is more unusual in coming complete with a smartphone adapter. I like that it works well as a monopod and even a selfie stick, so I only need to take one support for the journey rather than two or three.

Read more: Vanguard VEO 3GO 235CB review

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Best for sturdiness

The 3 Legged Thing Leo 2.0 is no ordinary tripod. It folds down to just 35cm in length but opens out to offer a maximum height of 146cm and a huge payload capacity of 30kg. That far exceeds the weight of any of my camera and lens combinations, but the net result is great rigidity.

I like that it has a detachable monopod leg that can also be used as a microphone or camera boom, a Tri-Mount system for adding accessories, and an innovative two-section center column. That helps it to fold down really small yet reach a decent maximum operating height. You can buy the legs on their own, but I’d get the complete kit with 3 Legged Thing’s new and improved AirHed Pro Lever ball head.

The Leo 2 is not the lightest travel tripod you can get, and not the cheapest, but its ratio of folded length to maximum height, combined with its all-around versatility, makes it one of the best.

Read more: 3 Legged Thing Leo 2.0 + AirHead Pro Review

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Best with 3-way head

The Manfrotto Befree 3-Way Live Advanced is a lightweight photographer’s travel tripod paired with a three-way head. Although ball heads have become hugely popular, I actually prefer a 3-way head for the likes of architectural and close-up shooting, where precise adjustments can be critical. The 3-way fluid head in this case uses a hydraulic damping system to make it easy for smooth, fluid camera movements, so I find it also works well for shooting video.

The tripod, meanwhile, provides a good balance between capacity, weight, and price. It’ll take 6kg of kit and only weighs 2kg itself. I’ve tested lighter and stronger tripods, but they tended to be more pricey than this one.

It’s not as tall as some of the other tripods in this guide, and doesn’t fold down particularly small, the latter not helped by having a 3-way rather than ball head. But, for the vast majority of purposes, this is an impressive all-around package and merits serious consideration for any traveling photographer or videographer.

Read more: Manfrotto Befree 3-Way Live Advanced tripod review

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Best compact tripod

A plus point for me when space is at a premium is that the Benro Rhino 05C VX20 (also called the Rhino Zero Series VX20) is the smallest in a group of four recently launched Rhino travel tripods. Compactness doesn’t equate to flimsiness, though, and I’ve found that it’s remarkably rigid and robust for such a compact tripod. Another nice touch is that Benro’s companion VX ball heads have a secondary pan axis just under the camera plate. It’s great for taking sequences of panned shots to stitch into a panorama, and shooting video, as the panning axis remains on the level without the need to meticulously level the legs as well as the head.

I find that travel tripods have limitations, including a lower maximum working height and longer ‘unfolding’ time, but this goes with the territory, and I can’t criticize the Rhino for that. Sure enough, this Benro doesn't extend to a particularly tall height, and outright rigidity can feel a little compromised if I fully extend all of the leg sections and both of the center column sections. When it’s not at full stretch, though, I find this Benro is as rigid as much bigger and heavier tripods.

Read more: Benro Rhino 05C VX20 review

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How to choose the best travel tripod

It’s good to be choosy when picking your perfect travel tripod for your needs and budget. Here are a few things to bear in mind…

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How we test travel tripods

We measure the maximum operating height of each tripod and its folded height for carrying, complete with the head attached. We also measure the combined weight of each set of tripod legs and head, using electronic scales, and measure the diameter of all leg sections, from the widest to the thinnest, using digital calipers.

We check the ease of use, smoothness, and precision of all available adjustments in each set of tripod legs and heads. This ranges from adjusting leg sections and pivot facilities (where available), to the locking mechanisms of the head, as well as independent pan and friction damping adjustments, where fitted.

To check overall stability, we shoot with a range of camera bodies fitted with wide-angle, standard, telephoto, and macro lenses. We look for good resistance to flexing and vibrations throughout the whole range of operating heights, including the tallest available settings, with the legs and center column fully extended.

Find out more about how we test and review on Digital Camera World

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Today's prices compared

Image stabilization is a wonderful thing, whether it’s in-camera, in-lens, or both. I often find that I can get pin-sharp shots at slow shutter speeds, the kinds of which I could only dream of in bygone times. Another upside is that I much prefer the freedom of movement I can enjoy in handheld shooting, compared with using a tripod, and it’s also one less thing to carry. But that’s not the whole story, especially when I’m using a big, heavy telephoto lens for the likes of sports and wildlife photography.

A good monopod can literally take a load off, as far as I’m concerned. Especially for long periods of shooting, when I’m covering a sports event, a heavy camera and lens kit can be a real pain in the neck (and the back). It’s great to be able to transfer all of the weight to a monopod and let it take the strain. In the absence of stabilization, they can also cut camera shake at slower shutter speeds in low light, and they're great for adding stability to video. But while a monopod might seem like a very simple device, there is a huge range of different options on the market with different advantages and drawbacks.

The quality of the build of monopods can vary greatly, as can their height, weight, and maximum payload. Some monopods have more leg sections than others, some have stabilizing feet that can sometimes also be used as mini tripods, and some even double as video sliders or have their own leveling heads. For the following guide, I've picked out some of the best options to suit a range of needs and budgets but, if you still feel that three legs are better than one, make sure you also check out our guides to the best tripods and the best travel tripods.

The best monopods

The best monopod overall

3 Legged Thing is a reliable British brand for tripods and monopods, and I've tested lots of their products over the years. The redesigned Trent 2.0 stands out for its impressive max load-to-weight ratio, able to support up to a hefty 30kg of kit. It can also reach very high, up to over two meters, all while being relatively light as well as more affordable than some of the brand's more premium options.

It features redesigned leg locks, which I found easy to operate even in the cold when wearing gloves. And there's the option to include 3 Legged Thing's Docz2 foot attachment, which adds extra stability and allows you to use the monopod hands-free (don't go too far!). The feet can be attached and removed, but that involves screwing them on or off.

The Trent 2.0 still measures a pretty chunky 60cm when packed down (an unavoidable trade-off for all that height). It also lacks a quick-release plate or head, so you'll need to have one already or buy one separately if you want to avoid having to screw the monopod to your camera every time you use it. If you don't mind those frustrations, I think this is a fantastic value for big setups.

Read our full 3 Legged Thing Punks Trent 2.0 review

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The best monopod for innovative design

Just when I think I've seen everything in monopod design, Benro comes along and surprises me with the Benro SupaDupa Pro MSDPL46C, which proves there's still innovation to be found. It's a clever monopod design with a few interesting tweaks that I really appreciated when I tested it.

First, there's a clever rotating foot that I found makes it easier to produce smooth panning movements without the heavy and expensive addition of a video head. Second, there's an inbuilt leveling head that offers 20-degree movement in all directions. Like the first feature, it doesn't offer the range and fluidity of a pan and tilt head, but I found it can be useful in certain situations. For example, you could lean the monopod up against a wall or railing to keep it steady and adjust the leveling head to set the camera straight.

Finally, the leg locks are all twist-style except for the top one, which is a flip catch. This makes it very easy to use the top section for quick height adjustments. All of these features make this a relatively expensive monopod, and it's probably more than most monopod users need, but these touches could make the difference, particularly for sports photographers who don't want the expense and weight of an additional head.

Read our full Benro SupaDupa Pro MSDPL46C review

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The best monopod for feet

Constructed from carbon fiber, the Vanguard VEO 2S CM-264TR is both lightweight and incredibly sturdy, a combination that’s not always easy to find. In the field, it proved to be a reliable companion. The twist-lock legs were quick to deploy and secure, allowing me to set up for a shot in moments.

The standout feature for me, however, was the set of tri-feet at the base. These offered a surprising amount of stability on uneven ground, giving me the confidence to shoot at slower shutter speeds without worrying about camera shake. While the added stability of the feet was a huge plus, I did find the panning function a bit stiff. It wasn't as smooth as I'd hoped for capturing fluid motion. The included smartphone clamp and Bluetooth remote were a nice touch, though, and I can see them being very useful for vlogging or behind-the-scenes shots.

Overall, I found the VEO 2S CM-264TR to be a versatile and dependable monopod. It’s a solid choice for any photographer who needs reliable support without the bulk of a full tripod. Despite the minor issue with panning, its robust build and thoughtful features make it a worthy contender if you need a little additional stability. If you don't mind a little extra weight, the Vanguard VEO 2S AM-264TR offers the same features but is made from aluminum.

Read our full Vanguard VEO 2S CM-264TR review

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The best value monopod

The Benro A48FD Series 4 Aluminum Monopod with 3-Leg Locking Base is an exceptionally solid support system that cleverly bridges the gap between a monopod and a tripod. One of the little luxuries I love is that it doesn't fall over if and when I let go of it, thanks to its foldout three-leg base.

Benro bills this as ideal for small cameras, but with its impressive 20kg (44lb) payload rating, I found it tough enough to support the heaviest camera setups with long lenses for both video and stills. At 6 feet 5 inches tall, I could use its four leg sections comfortably without stooping. The three flip locks operate with smooth, solid efficiency, and the base features a helpful ball joint for fluid panning and tracking.

The aluminum build is highly durable and won't shatter if hit, though it can feel cold to the touch in chilly weather. It is also nearly twice the weight of some carbon fiber alternatives. However, the tough build and removable three-legged stand make it cracking value for the money.

Read our full Benro A48FD Series 4 Aluminum Monopod review

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The best carbon fiber monopod

My first impression of the Benro Adventure 8x CF Series 3 Monopod was how incredibly lightweight it is, a real back-saver on long hikes. The carbon fiber construction is top-notch, providing a sense of durability that inspires confidence. I found the twist-lock leg sections to be a breeze to use, allowing for quick and silent adjustments, which is crucial when you're trying to capture wildlife. The monopod extends to a very generous height, which I, as a taller photographer, really appreciated.

In the field, it performed admirably. The large rubber foot at the base provided a solid grip on various surfaces, from rocky trails to slick city streets. I did find myself wishing for a little more stability in some situations, as the lack of tripod feet meant I had to be more mindful of my own movements to avoid camera shake. The foam grip was comfortable to hold, even in colder weather, and the attached wrist strap gave me an extra sense of security.

The Benro Adventure 8x CF Series 3 is a fantastic choice for photographers who prioritize portability and speed. While it may not offer the same level of stability as a monopod with tri-feet, its lightweight design and solid build make it an excellent companion for those who need to travel light and react quickly. It's a no-fuss, reliable piece of kit that I would happily take on my next adventure.

Read our full Benro Adventure 8X CF Series 3 Monopod review

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The most versatile monopod

Moza's original Slypod is an innovative 2-in-1 slider-come-monopod: a clever motorized device that could automatically extend at different speeds via a dedicated mobile app. Its big brother, Slypod Pro, which I'm concentrating on here, is an evolution of the same concept, with more power and a set of detachable feet.

It's mainly aimed at videographers, and most of the versatility is more beneficial for video than stills. When I tested it, I found the addition of the feet, larger than many such detachable bases, to be a welcome addition for allowing me to use the device vertically, hands-free. Using the motor in the vertical position, I was able to create smooth vertical tracking shots.

Meanwhile, fitted to a regular tripod, the monopod becomes a horizontal or angled slider or boom. Both in this position and vertically, it can automatically extend a total length of 1.46m. I found that the app works well, allowing me to regulate the extension speed between 0.5mm/s and 40mm/s to create different looks.

Unsurprisingly, given that it includes a motor, this monopod is far more expensive than most. It's also fairly heavy and measures 65cm when collapsed (without the tripod attachment). But while the motor is of limited use for photography, I found that it comes into its own as a slider or jib arm for shooting video.

Read our full MOZA Slypod Pro review

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The best tall monopod

I think this is the best monopod overall if you need a lot of height. A fast four-section design makes it quick to extend, and the lightness and rigidity of carbon fiber helps keep weight down while giving over 2m / 6.5ft of reach.

That level of extension might be more than what most people need to bring their viewfinder to eye level, but it can be useful in various scenarios, including situations where you want to shoot downward, over people's heads, or if you're on a hill or steps and the base of the monopod is lower than your feet.

When I tested it at its full extension, I felt reassured by the solidity of the build. The thick rubber grip feels secure and comfortable to hold, and the wrist strap provides extra security. I liked the grips on the ‘O-Pad’ twist locks on the leg sections to aid purchase for tightening and loosening.

There's an option to include the brand's Docz2 feet for extra stability, but, alas, no head is included. The Lance doesn't pack down small, so you'll need to strap it to a backpack to carry it. Also, due to the carbon fiber body, it is more expensive than 3 Legged Thing’s magnesium alloy monopods. If convenience and keeping weight down are priorities, it's a great buy.

Read our full 3 Legged Thing Lance review

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How to choose the best monopod for you

Buying a monopod doesn't have to be too complicated – fundamentally, all you're dealing with is a single-leg support for your camera – but there are a few things worth looking out for. It's worth thinking about the type of shooting you're doing and what you might prioritize based on that. Is it more important to you that a monopod is quick to set up or light to carry?

A monopod must be able to support the combined weight of your camera/lens/accessories setup, so the best monopod for you will depend on your kit. If you're using a lightweight mirrorless camera and a small lens, this will be a pretty different proposition than if you're using a hefty DSLR with a super-telephoto lens.

You also need to consider how high you need your monopod to go. This will depend on several factors, not least of which is how tall you are yourself. Monopods that reach greater heights are useful for high-angle work, but they're more expensive. If you're short in stature and you don't plan to take shots from high angles, you could save money by picking up a monopod that doesn't extend so far.

Also consider the practicality of each monopod's design. Monopod leg sections will be separated with twist- or flip-style locks. Twist-locks tend to be more secure, but flip-locks are faster. Tripod users tend to prefer more secure locks, but for a monopod, you may be better off with something that can be deployed faster in order to take advantage of the monopod's greater shooting versatility.

Monopod feet

Some monopods also have additional flip-out feet for more stable support. In some cases, these are fixed, and in others, the feet form a detachable base that can also be used as a handy mini tripod. Other types of bases include a fixed, rounded foot.

Monopod head

Like tripods, monopods can be fitted with different heads to allow panning and tilting, but in most cases, you will need to buy these separately. Most monopods have a standard 3/8in screw, which will allow you to attach most tripod heads, but it's always worth checking. See our pick of the best ball heads for options to accompany a tripod or monopod.

Monopod grips

Finally, at the top of the monopod, there should be a grip. As the monopod won't stand up on its own without your assistance, it's important that you're able to keep a secure grip on it, so this is something worth paying attention to. On cheaper monopods, the grip is likely to be foam, while some more expensive models use textured rubber.

Model variations

Be aware that many monopod brands make several variations of the same model, which sometimes have the same name but a different product code. For example, they may have a carbon fiber version and an aluminum version, or combination products that add in feet and/or a tripod head. On some retail websites, these variations often appear as different options under the same listing, so always be sure to check you are buying the version that you want.

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How I tested the best monopods

I have made this selection of the best monopods based on our reviews of each monopod and real-life testing in the field. To begin with, I set certain criteria as a minimum, choosing monopods capable of supporting the weight of a full-frame camera and lens combination. I also ensured the monopods were compatible with most tripod heads.

I then evaluated each monopod's strength, build, design, portability (weight and compactness), how quick and easy it was to set up, and useful features. Finally, I picked out the best monopod for different needs, considering more affordable options for those on a budget and more versatile options for content creators.

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FAQs

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The 3 Legged Thing Trent 2.0 is a no-fuss monopod from 3 Legged Thing’s ‘Punks’ range. That means it’s a bit more down to earth and affordable than the company’s premium products, but effective nonetheless.

Whether or not you think you need a monopod is up to you. If you shoot a lot of sports and wildlife with big, heavy lenses, a monopod will save you a lot of muscle ache and get you sharper shots too.

But a monopod can also give you a more stable platform for everyday shooting, especially video. A monopod will eliminate any vertical movement and a lot of any potential camera shake with it. It won’t replace a tripod, but it will go places tripods can’t.

Specifications

Max Height: 2.02m
Max Height with Docz2: 2.08m
Min Height: 60.4cm
Min Height with Docz2: 65.7cm
Leg sections: 4
Max Leg Tube Diameter: 29mm
Load Capacity: 30 kg
Weight: 0.73kg
Weight with Docz2: 1.22 kg

Key features

The 3 Legged Thing Trent 2.0 is notable for a number of things. First, you can get it with or without 3 Legged Thing’s Docz2 triple-foot attachment. This is useful, but it does add almost 50% to the cost and to the weight too. But the Docz2 feet do lend extra stability for panning shots, and they let the Trent stand on its own, leaving you two hands free for sorting you camera gear.

You might not want the Docz2 feet for every job, in which case you can unscrew the unit from the base of the monopod, and screw in the regular Trent Boot (rubber foot, in other words).

The other notable feature is that it does not come with a head, even as an option. Some say monopods don’t need heads and that they just get in the way and slow you down; others might want a head to be able to use the camera at a different angle to the monopod. You can fit any regular head to the Trent 2.0 easily enough, but you’ll have to source one yourself.

A third notable feature of the Trent 2.0 is its maximum height of 2.02m. For most of us, that’s well above eye level, so here’s a tripod that you can use on a downward facing slope without having to crouch down, for example. In my testing, I only ever needed to extend three of the four leg sections.

Build and handling

The Trent 2.0 may be from 3 Legged Thing’s Punks range, but it feels very well made. The leg locks grip tight, the Docz2 feet fold out easily and give a good firm stance on the ground, and the thick rubber grip at the top gives you a solid hold.

The spring-loaded attachment screw at the top is a nice idea. It means you can fit a camera directly or screw on a tripod head with the larger 3/8 inch screw fitting.

If you bought the Trent 2.0 with the Docz2 feet but decide you don’t want to use them for whatever reason, you can unscrew them and screw in the Trent Boot (foot) supplied with the monopod.

Performance

Even more than the legs of a regular tripod, a monopod leg has to be super rigid because it’s taking all of the torsional stress of the camera on its own. I’m happy to report the Trent 2.0 feels rock-solid. I’ve used plenty of smaller, lighter monopods that don’t, and plenty of removable tripod legs that can serve as monopods which are even more disappointing. The Trent 2.0, however, is definitely a cut above.

The Docz2 feet are more than just a novelty too. They incorporate a small ball head which allows a few degrees of movement away from the vertical in all directions, allowing some freedom over the camera angle for both static shots and panning.

The feet are not an alternative to a tripod, and neither would 3 Legged Thing claim that they are. But they do let you stand the monopod upright while you need to do other things, and could, if you must, leave the camera on top – but you would only do that at the minimum height and you wouldn’t want to step too far away. The real value of the feet is the extra stability they give you while shooting.

Verdict

The 3 Legged Thing Trent 2.0 is a really good, no-nonsense tripod that goes a lot higher than most and yet feels completely rigid. The Docz2 feet might look like a bit of a novelty, but they are both effective and useful – as long as you don’t imagine they turn the Trent 2.0 into a tripod. (Though you can actually detach them and use them as a separate mini tripod – neat!)

The one thing missing is a head. It’s easy to understand why this isn’t included as standard since not everyone wants one on a monopod, but if 3 Legged Thing is going to offer the Trend 2.0 with the Docz2 feet as an option, it could at least have done the same with a tripod head.

We all know the value of using a tripod for shooting landscapes. Not only does it keep your camera rock-steady through the duration of an exposure, but it’s also a vital composition aid. It enables you to carefully compose your scene, then wait for just the right moment before firing the shutter. Jobbing pros also know that to maximize the sales potential of their shots, they have to shoot in both landscape and portrait orientations, so that their images are equally suitable for magazine or brochure spreads and covers.

However, tripods are primarily designed for shooting horizontally. While most tripod heads can be tilted by 90 degrees to flip the camera into a vertical orientation, this shifts the camera's position to the side of – and often below – the original shooting position, so your carefully considered composition needs to be redone from scratch. It also shifts the centre of gravity from directly above the tripod legs to one side, potentially destabilizing the entire setup.

An L-bracket is a camera plate that wraps around the camera in an L-shape, with the tripod mount running underneath and to the side of the camera. To change the shooting orientation from horizontal to vertical, you pop the camera off the tripod and remount it using the socket on its side. It takes mere seconds to change composition, which can make or break a shot if timing for the right light is critical.

On the face of it, an L-bracket is simply a right-angled piece of metal – but, as ever, there’s a little more to it than that. Let’s check out the L-bracket options…

The best L-bracket for your camera

Best custom-fit L-bracket

The Zelda QD is a custom-fit bracket for the Nikon Z5, Z6, Z6 II, Z7, and Z7 II mirrorless cameras, as their form factors are virtually identical. But don't worry if you don't own one of these models; 3 Legged Thing has a range of custom-fit brackets tailor-made for other Nikon, Canon, Sony, Fujifilm, and Olympus cameras, so chances are there's one made specifically for your camera. The Nikon Z50 has the Zayla, the Z8 gets the Zooey QD, the Z9 has the Zaara QD, and the Nikon Z5 II and Z6 III get the Zadie, There’s also the Alfie and Arnie QD for various Sony Alpha cameras, the Riley QD for the Canon EOS R7, the Roxie QD for Canon EOS R5, R5C, R6 and R6 Mark II, the Freya for the Fujifilm X-T5, Gracy for Fujifilm GFX100S and 50S II, and the Ollie QD for the OM System OM-1.

The important thing is that they all fit their host cameras just as snugly, so you can apply the general points about the Zelda QD here to these other L-brackets. The 'QD' versions are updates to the original models, but with the addition of a quick-detach socket and compatibility with Peak Design Capture Clips.

Unlike universal aluminum brackets, these are crafted from a single piece of metal; with no joins, there shouldn’t be any danger of the right angle sagging over time. The camera connection screw doesn’t slide along the frame but is fixed in exactly the right place; a notch next to it slips into a recess on the underside of the host camera, ensuring it is perfectly lined up. The open side plate is designed to fit the ports of the host camera precisely, and the battery door is unobscured. There’s also a screw hole for attaching accessories. It fits its host camera so well that it’s the obvious choice if you own any one of these mirrorless machines.

The downside is, of course, that it won’t fit any other camera you might have – now or in the future, so if you upgrade to a new camera, you'll have to splash out on a new L-bracket too.

See our full 3 Legged Thing Zelda QD review

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Best L-bracket alternative

The Benro QRB95Dual Quick Rotation Lens Bracket is an interesting alternative to a traditional L-bracket. It feels more like a tripod collar that you’d typically find on larger telephoto lenses, but adapted for a wider range of lenses and camera bodies. The main appeal is the promise of quick switching between landscape and portrait orientations without having to remount the camera or significantly adjust the tripod head.

The rotation mechanism is smooth. A simple twist of the lock/release lever allows the camera to be rotated within the bracket, which is much quicker than fumbling with an L-bracket’s release clamps. The build quality is also impressive; the components are precision-engineered from aluminum and have a smart gunmetal gray finish, feeling very robust.

Setting it up initially is a bit fiddly, as you need to ensure that the lens is perfectly centered within the rotation bracket. This is crucial because if it's off-center, the composition will shift as you rotate the camera, which kind of negates one of the key benefits. But once set up, using it is pretty straightforward. It definitely speeds up the process of changing orientation. It’s not a complete replacement for a traditional L-bracket in all scenarios, but it offers a different, and in some ways more fluid, shooting experience.

See our full Benro QRB95Dual Quick Rotation Lens Bracket review

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Best universal L-bracket

3 Legged Thing’s Lexie is an Arca-Swiss compatible L-bracket, with a modular construction that makes it suitable for use on many cameras - and more than its predessor the Ellie. It’s available in Copper, Metallic Slate Grey or Darkness (matte black), and is made from anodised aerospace-grade magnesium alloy, with a 1/4-inch-20 stainless steel Stagsden screw to mount it on a camera. There are also four 1/4-inch-20 threads (two in the upright plate and two in the base plate) for attaching accessories such as a light, accessory arm or monitor.

3 Legged Thing supplies the two plates of the Lexie unconnected, so the first step in using it is to slot them together and tighten the bolts before adjusting the length of the horizontal plate (if necessary) to fit your camera. This means using the tiny hex key supplied in the box, which is a little fiddly.

With this done, it should be possible to mount the camera on an Arca-Swiss-type tripod head, in either portrait or landscape orientation, without shifting the focal plane and while keeping the centre point of the camera directly above the tripod for maximum stability.

Understandably, being a Universal L-Bracket, the Lexie may not fit as snugly as a bracket that’s designed for a specific camera, but it costs much less and has the big bonus of being transferable.

See our full 3 Legged Thing Lexie review

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Best ring bracket

The NiSi Wizard Camera Bracket is rather different from a regular L-bracket. Here, the camera mounting plate sits within a circular ring that can be freely rotated within a fixed circular mount that attaches to the tripod. As such, switching from landscape to portrait orientation is even quicker than using an L-bracket; rather than physically removing the camera from the tripod to reorientate it, you simply unlock the inner ring via a knob, rotate the whole shebang, and lock it again, the whole operation taking a fraction of a second – useful when time is of the essence, such as shooting a rapidly disappearing sunset.

While there are 90-degree click-stops to make getting the camera level in other orientations easy, you can also shoot off kilter, should you wish, for the 'Dutch tilt' look, or even upside down – ideal for low-level shooting when the camera is suspended below the tripod.

There are several different-sized versions, ranging from 63mm to 82mm in diameter, depending on your preferred camera/lens combo, so it isn't quite the one-size-fits-all solution of a 'universal' L-bracket. The downside of the ring design is that it can obscure Function buttons with some cameras and lenses, and block vari-angle screens in portrait orientation when using cameras that have a handgrip.

See our full NiSi Wizard Camera Bracket review

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Best for large cameras

By far the most substantial bracket here, Manfrotto’s Q2 is a one-piece design and is constructed from magnesium. While most other brackets come with an Arca Swiss fitting, the Q2 is compatible with Manfrotto’s 200PL-14 quick-release plate; Arca Swiss plates slide along the length into a tripod mount, while this clicks into a fixed position on the tripod head. Further variations are the RC4, fitted with 410PL plates, and the Q5, which uses 501PL plates.

The Q2 comes with a Y-shaped ruler to measure the distance between the lens barrel and plate; the idea is you set the same distance between the lens and both the base and side plates, so the center of the lens is perfectly lined up in both portrait and landscape orientation. Other features include a level bubble, and a pullout peg to prevent the camera from rotating.

The Q2 dwarfed all my mirrorless cameras to the point of being difficult to use the controls. This bracket is really designed for the squarer shape of bigger pro-grade cameras that have an oversized built-in grip, or when a battery grip is fitted to the camera.

See our full Manfrotto Q2 review

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Best for video

It may be marketed as an L-bracket, but the Chromlives Camera L-Bracket Mount Video Grip offers quite a different take on the traditional L-bracket. Instead of focusing on tripod mounting, it's all about enhancing the handheld shooting experience, particularly for video, with a sculpted handgrip designed to offer a more secure and comfortable hold for your camera.

There are a pair of robust metal cold shoes that come with clamping mechanisms and locking screws, for firmly attaching flashguns, external microphones, LED panels and the like without worrying about them falling off. This is a bonus for run-and-gun videography, where you need a compact and reliable setup.

While it’s not designed for quick portrait/landscape switching on a tripod like other L-brackets, that’s not its intended purpose. Its strength lies in providing a solid grip and convenient mounting points for accessories when shooting handheld. It's well-made, especially considering its price point. If you’re looking for a way to improve your handheld stability and add essential accessories to your camera rig, the Chromlives Camera L-Bracket is worth considering. It’s just not an 'L-bracket' in the conventional sense, but it offers a practical and affordable solution for those specific needs.

See our full Chromlives Camera L-Bracket Mount Video Grip review

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L-bracket:  things to look out for

1. A universal bracket offers flexibility to upgrade your camera, but a custom-fit bracket ensures a perfect fit.

2. Most L-brackets are Arca Swiss-compatible: if your tripod head doesn’t have this mount, it won’t fit.

3. Designs that enable you to access the battery door are handy should you run out of juice mid-shoot.

4. Some brackets obscure the connection ports, which may be a problem if you like to shoot tethered. It may be preferable to use a wireless remote, rather than a cable release.

5. An L-bracket often obstructs the battery compartment of the camera – insert fully charged batteries before you attach the bracket to save you time disassembling the setup during your shoot.

6. Take advantage of your bracket and don’t move the head once it’s level (excluding pivot functions). Adjust the legs if you need to re-level your camera.

7. Rubber strips on the base plate prevent scratches and scrapes on the underside of your camera.

8. Larger lenses often come packaged with a rotatable lens collar, fitted with a tripod screwthread. This is a better option to an L-bracket for these front-heavy setups as it reduces strain on the lens mount.

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3 Legged thing sells the Leo 2.0 by itself or with the AirHed Pro Lever ball head. We're looking at the kit with the head here.

As the most compact tripod in 3 Legged Thing's Pro range, the Leo 2.0 packs down to just 37.4cm in length with the head still attached. And at full height with the centre column extended, it measures 146cm. If the centre column is removed, the maximum height is 112cm and the minimum shooting height is just 21cm. Alternatively, the centre column can be reversed and the camera slung between the legs for even lower-level shooting. 

The 5-section legs can be set to one of 3 angles, with the 23° setting delivering the highest load capacity of 30Kg. Using the legs at the 55° setting reduces the load capacity to 20Kg, while the 80° setting enables a maximum load of 10Kg.

While several tripods allow one leg to be removed to create a monopod, all three of the Leo 2.0's legs can be removed. As well as enabling one to be attached to the 2-section centre column to create a monopod or boom up to 1.5m long, this allows 3 Legged Thing's optional Vanz footwear to be attached to the canopy in place of the legs to create a table-top tripod. 

3 Legged Thing also offers a range of other optional footwear that can be swapped in for the standard rubber feet to give better grip in some situations.

The Leo 2.0 comes with a smart zip-closed bag with a carry handle and strap, plus a zippered side pocket to hold accessories like the included Toolz carabiner with hex and coin keys, and the microfibre head bag.

While the Leo 2.0's tubes are made from carbon fibre, the canopy, locks, fixings and AirHed Pro are made from aerospace-grade magnesium alloy. The head clamp is also Acra-Swiss compatible, and the included plate has a bolt with a slot and hex socket which means it can be tightened onto a camera with the supplied 'Toolz'.

Specifications

Material: Carbon fibre and aerospace-grade magnesium alloy

Folded length: 37.4mm

Maximum height: 146cm

No. leg sections: 5

Weight: 1.85Kg

Maximum load: 30Kg

Build and handling

3 Legged Thing makes the Leo 2.0 in two color variants, one with copper metal parts and a blue and orange AirHed Pro, and the other with silver/grey metal parts and a matching AirHead Pro. Both look good but the silver/grey version looks especially smart with its orange accents matching those on the head.

Although it's fairly compact, the Leo 2.0 looks quite chunky. That's in part down to the large leg and centre column locks. These have scalloped grooves alternating with rubber pads to give plenty of grip even when wet or you're wearing gloves. 

All of the metal parts have a high-quality look and feel with excellent machining. This latter point is apparent whenever you unscrew and reattach anything as everything threads on smoothly. Even the movement of the leg angle lock feels great.

The Leo 2.0's legs fold up and over the centre column and head for storage and transport. This and the fairly wide canopy means that although the tripod is just 37.4mm in length when it's folded, it has a comparatively wide diameter. Consequently, getting all three of the Leo 2.0 legs in the tripod pocket of some bags can be a bit of a squeeze. 

Performance

While the chunky leg and center column locks don't look as smart as the slimmer versions on some other travel tripods like the Benro MeFoto RoadTrip Pro Carbon Fibre and Vanguard Veo 3T 235CBP, they provide excellent grip and feel very well made. The locks on each leg also butt-up against each other when the tripod is collapsed and, with a bit of practice, it's possible to loosen them all with one twist. 

As with any tripod, I'd aim to avoid using the center column if possible, but even when that's extended, the 3 Legged Thing Leo 2.0 is impressively stable for its size and weight. It's more than up to the task of supporting a full-frame camera and standard lens and can even cope with longer lenses should the need arise.

A D-ring in the base of the center column allows a weight to be added using the supplied carabiner tool (Toolz), should extra downward force be required.

The AirHed Pro is nicely matched in performance to the tripod legs and is capable of holding a long lens steady without drooping, provided that it's balanced (ie supported via lens collar). Its ball moves smoothly and locks nice and tight with a twist of the large knob.

Verdict

The 3 Legged Thing Leo 2.0 is one of the chunkier travel tripod options, but it's also one of the most stable. It doesn't have a phone holder like some other models, but it converts quickly into a monopod, and if you invest in the optional 3 Legged things Vanz footwear, it can transform into a mini tripod. 

The head also lacks that 'kit head' feel and is a good quality unit capable of holding heavy gear still. 

It's also worth mentioning the bag, which is a cut above those supplied with most other travel tripods. If you have the camera on a strap round your neck, the tripod and bag could be all you need for a spot of long exposure or night photography when you're on holiday.

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Dating from 2010, UK-based 3 Legged Thing is a comparative new-comer to the tripod and tripod head market but it has developed a strong reputation for well-thought and precision-made products. 

The AirHed Pro is designed for use with larger, heavier camera gear and it comes in two variants, the twist clamp version that I’m testing here and the lever version. The lever locking mechanism is a little quicker to use but the twist lock system gives that added feeling of security that we want when attaching an expensive camera and lens to anything.

Both versions of the AirHed Pro are rated as capable of supporting loads of up to 40Kg and have a small bubble level to help ensure that the camera is straight when you want it to be. Unlike the levels on some other heads, this bubble level remains visible when a camera is mounted.

3 Legged Thing uses aerospace-grade magnesium alloy to make the AirHed Pro and the clamp is compatible with Arca-Swiss type release plates. The included plate has a bolt with a slot and hex socket which means it can be tightened onto a camera with a coin or a hex key as you’re unlikely to be able to fix it securely using just your fingers. Thoughtfully, 3 Legged Thing includes its ‘Toolz’ carabiner multi-tool in the box. This has both a hex tool and a coin key and can be used as a key ring or clipped on your bag, so you’re never without it.

Thanks to a hex bolt in the base of the clamp, the clamp can be removed from the tripod head if you wish and attached to another 3/8-inch threaded support.

There are two knurled-metal knobs on the main body of the AirHed Pro. The larger of the two is the ball release, which also functions as the friction control. Lower down and 90° away, there’s the pan control and along the bottom edge of the head, between the two knobs, there’s an arrow that points towards a 360° scale to guide any rotation and panorama-shooting.

Specifications

Height: 88mm

Base diameter: 38mm

Weight: 323g

Controls: Pan knob, ball lock/friction, clamp knob

Plate compatibility: Arca-Swiss

Maximum load: 40kg

Build and handling

3 Legged Thing offers two color ways for the AirHed Pro, blue or grey, with both featuring orange accents. The blue makes an attractive splash of color that could be useful in low light while the grey looks very smart.

At 323g, the AirHed Pro is a nice weight in your hand and it feels well-made. The quality of the manufacturing becomes apparent when you mount the head on a tripod, attach a camera and put it to use. Firstly, the ball release knob allows precise control and over the friction and its easy to lock in place. When released, the ball also moves delightfully smoothly with no sticky bits or awkward movements.

Two locating pins in the quick release plate mean that it has to be mounted the correct way round on the camera or lens, with a pin on either side. Then, in order for the bubble level to be visible, the camera has to be mounted with the level sitting under the back of the camera and the plate lock at the front under the lens. This means that you don’t have a great deal of room to access the clamp knob, especially with chunky lenses, but it’s not usually a major issue. 

Performance

One of the frustrations with using some tripod heads is the drooping that occurs after you’ve locked the camera in position. The AirHed Pro performs well in this respect, but as you’d expect, it pays to ensure that everything is tightened properly. It’s important, for instance, to ensure that the head is properly screwed onto the tripod so that it only rotates when the pan lock is released.

To give the AirHed Pro a bit more of a challenge, I mounted the Nikkor AF-S 80-400mm F4.5-5.6 G ED VR (1.57kg) on the Nikon D7100 (765g) and popped them on the head mounted on the 3 Legged Thing Nicky (a very stable tripod). This lens has a tripod collar and foot and when it’s used to mount the camera and lens on the AirHed Pro, the head does a great job of keeping everything motionless in the position that you want, there’s very little drooping if any. 

Switching to mounting this camera and lens combo with the camera directly on the head shows why the tripod collar is there. The balance shifts dramatically with all the weight in front of the head. Consequently, the composition tends to change a little after the head is fixed in position and you release your hold on it. Investigating this reveals that the movement occurs between the camera and the quick release plate, even when the plate was screwed on as tight as I could get it. There’s less drooping with a more robust camera, but it’s still best to use the collar with a long lens.

Verdict

3 Legged Thing’s AirHed Pro has understated looks and a modest price but it performs extremely well, giving a good range of movement, being easy to use and keeping heavy camera gear still. It can cope with long lenses but it’s best suited to wide, standard and mid-range zooms for everyday, long exposure and landscape photography.

Some photographers may wish for a separate friction control, but I like the simplicity of a single release knob and the size of the one on the AirHed Pro makes it easy to make precise adjustments. It means you get just the degree of movement that you need before locking the ball tightly.

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The 3 Legged Thing Nicky is just one step down from the company’s top tripod, the Tommy, and part of 3LT’s premium Legends range. These are tripods for photographers and videographers who need the best kit for the job, and the price is a secondary factor. Just as well, because the Nicky’s price tag practically puts it in Gitzo territory.

Most enthusiasts will prefer a more even blend of quality and value, and that’s where 3 Legged Thing’s Pro range comes in. Cheaper still is 3LT’s fashion-savvy ‘Punks’ range.

3 Legged Thing makes tripods across a range of price points, then, but the Nicky is right at the top end, with its thick 4-section carbon fiber legs, large baseplate and rock-solid rigidity.

It’s designed equally for photographers and videographers. There’s no center column, and no way we can see to fit one, but it’s high enough not to need a center column, and what it does have is interchangeable plates for mounting a regular tripod head or a levelling bowl attachment (sold separately) for video heads.

Specifications

Max Height: 1.56m / 61.41“
Min Height: 12.4cm / 4.88“
Detachable Leg Max Height: 1.66m / 65.3“
Folded Length: 59cm / 23.2“
Leg sections: 4
Load Capability: 60kg / 132lbs
Tripod Weight: 2.4kg / 5.29lbs
Leg Angles: 23º, 55º, 80º
Max Leg Tube Diameter: 32 mm / 1.25“

Key features

Like many of the best tripods, the Nicky is actually very straightforward. It has four-section legs which offer a good compromise between folded length and set-up speed, and the maximum height is a decent 1.56m. That’s above eye level for a shortie like me.

That’s just as well, because there’s no center column. To be fair, you want the maximum stability, rigidity and payload, a center column would be a handicap, not a benefit.

Another key feature is the width of the baseplate platform. Not only that, it’s removable. The Nicky comes with both a flat plate for regular use and a 75mm bowl plate for an optional levelling bowl (not included). For many videographers, a levelling bowl is a must-have – it enables you to get the platform for head dead level without having to spend ages tweaking the leg lengths. You need this for any kind of panning shot.

Swapping the plates is just a minute’s work. You just need to undo three hex screws with the supplied multi-tool. 

Beyond that, there’s not much else to say. All three legs are detachable, in typical 3LT style, so you can make yourself a monopod if you need one. You can detach your tripod head and screw it straight to the top of the leg.

Talking of screwing things on, you can also attach 3LT’s VANZ short legs and feet either into the end of each leg or, if you remove all three legs, straight into the Nicky base to make a massively over-engineered mini-tripod.

Build and handling

Being carbon fiber, the Nicky is pleasantly warm to the touch, even on a cold day, and the four section legs are quick to open out and lock firmly with a short twist on the locks.

You push in a prominent catch lever on the top of each leg to change the leg angles, but these levers have a pleasantly light touch, so you don’t get the busted thumbnails that some other tripods give you. 

When you’re done, folding the Nicky back up again takes almost no time at all, and it slips neatly into its bag with a little room to spare – handy if you decide to fit the bowl plate and leave 3LT’s 75mm bowl attachment (sold separately) fixed on. There’s not enough room in the bag, however, to leave a head attached too, which could be a bit annoying.

Performance

At full extension with all the legs locked, the Nicky feels rock-solid. it’s still possible to provoke a little ’twist’ by grabbing the legs and turning, but this is an artificial test – tripods are designed for vertical forces not torsion. 

The lack of a center column helps with the rigidity, as does the very wide baseplate, which offers a much larger contact patch with bigger tripod heads. It’s the only tripod in our cupboard with a baseplate wide enough for our massive (and massively strong) Gitzo GH4383LR Series 4 ball head.

The Nicky is not just for big heads (there’s got to be a joke there somewhere). Its broad mounting platform is also ideal for heavier and potentially off-balance kit like sliders. We tried it out with the motorized Moza Slypod Pro and it coped easily, even with the Slypod at full extension.

Swapping the flat plate for the bowl plate turns the Nicky into an excellent video tripod, though you will also need (if you decide to stay in the 3LT stable) 3LT’s 75mm levelling bowl and its expensive but excellent Airhed Cine video head.

I tried all of these during our testing, and the Nicky proved solid and unmoved throughout. It’s not a complete tripod kit on its own, but matched it’s an excellent supporting base.

Verdict

It's probably worth repeat this key thing about the Nicky. It is a tripod to which you add your own head, levelling bowl or other accessories – it's not complete in itself. It’s ideal for photographers and videographers who already have these things and just want a better tripod, but if do need all these extras too, then you’re going to need to get your wallet out – and keep it out.

So for sure, the Nicky is not cheap, but professional gear of any quality never is. It’s not a travel tripod, and the lack of an angled boom arm means it’s not great for confined spaces, close-ups or nature photography. But for heavy kit, more complicated rigs and more considered photography/video setups, its simplicity, style, ease of use, stability and adaptability have won me over. At this price, though, it would be good to get a head, or at least a kit that saved just a little on the combined price bought separately.

The original 3 Legged Thing QR11 L-bracket was launched back in 2017, and this updated model has been completely redesigned with new features to provide compatibility with a wider range of camera models. Dual camera strap connectors, on both the horizontal and vertical aspects, allow attachment of a variety of wrist, neck and sling straps. 

A dual-Arca Swiss reversible open profile section in the vertical upright allows optimal access to cable doors and side ports, while new base cut-outs provide better access to rear moveable screens. 

There are two 1/4”-20 screw threads in the vertical aspect enabling users to attach universal devices, like accessory arms, monitors, lights, or any accessory with a male 1/4”-20 thread, along with dual 3/8”-16 and 1/4”-20 threads in the base for accessory attachment in portrait orientation.

The QR11 2.0 is constructed from aerospace-grade magnesium alloy and is available in two colors, Copper and Metallic Slate Grey,  and two sizes – the QR11-L 2.0 is for standard-sized mirrorless and DSLR cameras (£49.99/US$59.99) while the QR11-FB 2.0 is for full-bodied cameras or those with a battery grip fitted (£59.99/US$69.99).

An L-bracket makes switching between landscape and portrait orientations a breeze, and this updated universal system should fit snugly, no matter what camera you have.

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Following staggering growth, 3 Legged Thing has announced a new Levelling Base that is compatible with all its tripods, and those of other brands, that feature a ⅜”-16 mounting options. Alongside it is a 75mm Half Bowl that is suited to its own Nicky and Tommy tripods, and is cross-compatible with all 75mm bowl mount video tripods. Both new additions are perfect for any photo or video application.

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The 3LT Levelling Base is made from aerospace-grade magnesium alloy that has been anodized, making it a lightweight and fetching-looking mount. It offers two mounting options – one with a standard ¼”-20 thread, enabling users to mount  cameras directly to the Levelling Base or the larger ⅜” 16 adapter, which allows for greater versatility.

Equipped with a ratchet locking mechanism, you are able to slide the base to achieve a level horizon without moving your tripod legs – which can be very handy if you are taking a landscape shot, and you're not able to find a flat surface. In addition, to assist you with achieving the perfect level horizon, there is a spirit level built in the top of the base.

The 75mm Half Bowl is also made from the same fancy aerospace-grade magnesium, enabling you to save some weight. It features a standard ⅜”-16 thread on top and for extra security, support screws tighten up to give an extra strong connection between the bowl and head.

A handy feature is the knurled hook attached to the stem, which can be used to add additional weight – something that might be needed in windy conditions. However, its most impressive feature is that this can be removed to reveal an additional female ⅜”-16, making this a great option for additional accessories if you are a one-person film crew.

The Levelling Base and Half Bowl are now available for pre-order at retailers, with stock shipping in the week commencing 13 December 2021. The Levelling Base’s suggested retail price is $159.99 / £129.99 (approximately AU$226.66), while the 75mm Half Bowl will retail for $179.99 / £149.99 (AU$254.99).

Pre-order the 3 Legged Thing Levelling Base from B&H (US)
Pre-order the 3 Legged Thing 75mm Half Bowl from B&H (US)

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Popular tripod brand 3 Legged Thing (3LT) has just announced its entry-level Punks tripods have has a revamp. Now with improved engineering, increased stability and a brand-new look, the updated versions are more user-friendly than before. 

The British tripod manufacturer is well known for making some of the best tripods for photographers and naming them after famous band members. There is Cory after Cory Taylor (Slipknot), Travis after Travis Barker (Blink 182), Brian after Brian May (Queen) and Billy after Billy Idol. Collectively, the new and improved tripods have been christened Punks 2.0.

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Each of the Punks 2.0 tripods now has a chunkier leg lock that lowers the center of gravity improving the stability and therefore the usability of the tripod. The new leg locks benefit from rubber pads and knurling which increase grip making the tripod easier to use even in wet conditions. 

Punks 2.0 now have the same anti-rotation ‘Chicken Lips’ as in the Pro range and Legends range. A Chicken Lip or shim for those who don’t know is a piece of plastic that sits inside the tripod leg to stop them from spinning or extending too far. They also make the legs more rigid when extended. 

The patented tri-mount plate at the top of the center column has also been redesigned so that it’s easier to attach accessories and keep cables tidy. All Punks 2.0 come with a screw-in D ring at the bottom of the center column so you can attach a weight or bag if extra stability is needed. 

Stuart Boston, 3LT's chief operations officer said, “I’m excited to see our hugely popular Punks tripod getting a refresh with new features and improved engineering. It’s particularly exciting that our entire catalog of twist-lock tripods will now have 3 detachable legs which give them a level of versatility above many of their peers.”

The Airheds (which is what 3LT names its tripod heads) and tripod carry case have also received a bit of an update. The knobs on the Airheds are now knurled for extra grip and the bag comes with a built-in carabiner that allows the bag to be attached to the tripod’s d ring. 

If you’re unsure of which tripod to go for, Corey 2.0 is an ultra-compact travel tripod ideal for photographers on the go, Travis 2.0 is a general use tripod suitable for a variety of different photographic pursuits while Billy 2.0 and Brian 2.0 are carbon fiber versions of aforementioned tripods. 

The Punks 2.0 tripods go on sale from 25 October. Prices are expected to start at £199.99/$239.99 for the Corey 2.0 and go up to £299.99/$349.99 for the Brian 2.0.

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Winston 2.0 is the largest tripod in 3 Legged Thing’s updated Pro 2.0 range. Even so, it folds down to a travel-friendly 61.2cm / 24 inches, thanks to swing-up legs so that the feet encompass the head for stowing in its immaculately tailored, well-padded carrying case. 

And despite being based on minimalist three-section legs and a single-section centre-column, which are quick and easy to adjust, it extends to a towering 194cm / 76.4-inch maximum operating height, suiting anyone and everyone right up to the jolly green giant and a team of Harlem Globetrotters, with the weightiest of camera kit. But really, it’s the features, build quality and all-round performance that makes Winston a winner.

Specifications

Material: Carbon-fibre
Folded height: 61.2cm / 24”
Maximum operating height: 194cm / 76.4”
Minimum operating height: 23.1cm / 9.09”
Max monopod height: 202cm / 79”
Weight: 2.05kg / 4.51lbs
Load rating: 40kg / 88lbs
Sections per leg/centre column: 3 / 1
Maximum leg section diameter: 29mm / 1.14”
Locking leg angles: 3
Feet: Rubber pads
Case/bag included: Padded case

Key features

3 Legged Thing’s Pro 2.0 line-up sits slap dab in the middle of the company’s Punks range of entry-level (yet high-performance) tripods and the Legends collection of premium supports. 

For our money, it’s the Pro 2.0 tripods that offer the most bang per buck if you’re after solid support for hefty gear. Travel photographers obsessed with compactness will be drawn to the Leo 2.0 and Albert 2.0 kits in the Pro 2.0 range, which fold down to just 37.4cm / 14.7 inches and 43.1cm / 16.9 inches respectively. However, the former has 5-section legs and a 2-section centre-column, while the latter goes further still with 3-section centre-column. As quick and easy as the twist-locks are to operate, there’s a lot of them, which can make setup a bit of a chore, to be repeated in reverse when it’s time to pack up.

The Winston 2.0 is a more conventional ‘full-sized’ tripod, in that it has the time-honoured combination of 3-section legs with two twist locks, and a single-section centre-column. Even so, it’s no stickler for tradition and brings a feast of innovative design flourishes to the 3-legged race.

Like the vast majority of current travel tripods, the Winston 2.0 aims for minimum stowage size. The trick is to fully extend the centre-column and swing the legs fully upwards, so that the head nestles between the tripod feet. Even without a myriad of leg- and centre-column sections to contend with, this enable a relatively compact folded height of 61.2cm / 24 inches, along with a positively skyscraping maximum operating height of 194cm / 76.4 inches. To give a sense of scale, you’d need to be 7 feet 2 inches tall to see through a mounted camera’s viewfinder. Monopod configuration raises the stakes even higher, with a maximum height of 202cm / 79 inches.

Another bonus is that ‘what you see is what you get’. With the reduced number of leg-sections, there’s comparatively little reduction in diameter as you work your way down to the thinnest sections hidden away at the bottom, and there are naturally no smaller-diameter centre-column sections concealed at the top. The result is greater stability and reduced flexing, the Winston 2.0 also having the heaviest payload in the Pro 2.0 group, at 40kg / 88lbs, compared with the other two tripods’ 30kg / 66lbs.

The tripod is crafted from carbon-fibre and there’s no cut-price aluminium option. It’s available as a complete kit with an AirHed Pro ball head, or you can buy just the legs on their own. In the UK, the complete kit costs very little extra, making it a no-brainer, although the price difference is more significant in some world regions, including the USA. The other choice comes down to colour preference for the tripod’s anodised magnesium alloy fixtures, which are finished in either earth bronze or metallic slate grey.

Three lockable angles are available for the legs, which is par for the course these days. Unusually though, all three of the legs can be unscrewed for quick and easy detachment from the tripod. As with many modern tripods, you can use a separated leg either with or without the removable centre column for use as a monopod. However, remove all three legs and you can fit Stilletoz spiked feet or Vanz dual ball/spiked feet (both sold as optional extras) and turn the Winston 2.0 into a sturdy tabletop- or low-level tripod. Another option for really low-level shooting is to splay the legs to their widest lockable angle and remove the centre column. The head then separates from the centre-column and connects to the tripod platform, enabling shooting from a height of just 23.1cm / 9.09”. The centre-column is also reversible for inverted shooting right down to ground-level.

For easy levelling, there’s a bubble level on the tripod spider, and another one on the AirHed Pro ball head, both of which are made from magnesium alloy. The ball head itself is as tricked-up as the legs, and similarly quick and effortless to operate. The main locking knob is accompanied by a pan-only release knob, the latter function coming complete with a calibrated 360-degree scale. The high-quality quick-release plate is Arca-Swiss compatible but there’s no D-ring for tightening the camera screw with just a finger and thumb. You’ll therefore need to use a coin, or the ‘Toolz’ gadget that comes with the tripod, which features a hex drive and flat blade, both of which fit the camera screw, plus a carabiner and even a bottle-opener.

Build and handling

The Winston 2.0 lives up to its ‘Pro’ branding with absolutely impeccable build quality throughout. The 8-layer carbon-fibre leg- and centre-column sections are beautifully turned out and, while lightweight, they’re extremely resistant to flexing and vibration. The ‘Parallel Locking’ twist-locks give rock-solid support and require minimal turning for clamping or releasing. Moreover, the twist-locks come complete with secondary locking rings that avoid the risk of accidental disassembly.

Sliding plates for locking the leg angles are similarly quick, easy and intuitive to operate, with the minimum of fuss and bother. Even the ‘tri-mount plate’ that joins the top of the centre column to the ball head is cleverly designed, featuring three spurs with cut-outs for easily attaching accessories. And while the tripod is supplied with rubber feet, a wide range of alternative spikes and claws are available as optional extra ‘footwear’.

All in all, build quality and handling are both exemplary. The Winston 2.0 is everything you could wish for from a tripod, in terms of solid, sturdy dependability and speedy, effortless operation.

Performance

Ultimately, it doesn’t really matter how high or low a tripod can go, or how well it’s suited to working on challenging terrain, unless it offers solid support. The Winston 2.0 passes all tests with flying colours, being superlatively resistant to flexing and vibrations. The same holds true for the AirHed Pro, which performs flawlessly, especially for a ball head with a fairly modest ball diameter. Even with a heavy camera body and lens combination attached, the degree of sagging after tightening the main clamp is absolutely minimal.

Verdict

Sure, the Winston 2.0 won’t win any prizes for compactness in a competition of tiny travel tripods. But who wants to be limited to shooting at waist-height? Complete with AirHed Pro, this kit is still refreshingly compact and lightweight to carry around, and in some style thanks to the padded case in which it’s supplied. 

If you thought that the current vogue for image-stabilized camera bodies and lenses were giving tripods their marching orders, the Winston 2.0 will make you think again. Its versatility, speed and ease of operation, along with its all-round performance, makes it an indispensable shooting aid. And for a top-spec carbon fibre tripod kit, it’s also standout value for money.

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