Lela Stratton
AmazonBasics Carbon Fiber
Neewer Aluminum Alloy
AmazonBasics 67-Inch
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Have you been on the search for the best monopod? It can be quite difficult to land on one. Most camera pods that you'll often come across are tripods. These three-stand pods will mostly offer greater stability to especially heavier cameras.
But are we just interested in the quality photos or quality monopods? Making a decision on any product as to be best does not always come as easy as you or one may think or imagine. This is because there are many products available out there, especially of the best monopods and this can thus get quite confusing.
We have, however, reviewed some top five monopods that we believe to be the best in the market. Why don't we have a look at them with the hope that you'll gain something from this article?
Best Monopod List
1
AmazonBasics Carbon Fiber
This is quite a simple and yet capable monopod. By simple, I'm talking about how it looks and serves its purpose without weighing you down. It also comes with some additional features that you are sure to love- why don't we check most of them out?
Most people usually have a problem moving their kits across grounds due because of their weight. Well, for activities that involve as much movement, monopods are best preferred light and thus easily portable. This AmazonBasics Carbon Fiber is quite light and give you the versatility you're looking for.
For most monopods of its standard and price, the AmazonBasics Carbon Fiber is indeed an exceptional choice. It features a height extensibility of 5 feet high and considering its price and simplicity, this could be the only monopod you will find out there with such features and at a similar price.
From what we have talked about, you will realize that what is most amazing about this monopod is that it has a lot to offer and while it may seem like it wouldn't otherwise fit to be on the top of the list, when other factors like price are matched against its features, you'll come to realize that it indeed is one of the few monopods that you could consider going for.
Pros
Cons
2
Neewer Aluminum Alloy
I know how this must look! It does look like a tripod, and it actually is. But it also serves as a monopod. How do you make it a monopod? You don't have to extend a single leg so that it's the only one that your camera stands on. No.
For this particular monopod, what you really have to do is actually just extend the camera head and the pole which is in the tripod's center should slip out and so it'll be standing on a monopod! We have mentioned that this product can stand as a tripod, but didn't really show any emphasis on the importance of that feature.
The fact that this monopod can extend to a tripod and thus become a standstill tool is a great plus for you! This means that you'll be having two tools in one, so two functionalities in one. A mount's swivel capacity is key when choosing what will work for you because being able to swivel in several ways will deliver the best shots for you.
This mount has a three-way swivel. The few features that we have looked at have perhaps or already told you something about this product- it's amazing, right? For the same features, it is a great value for your money and you should consider getting it.
Pros
Cons
3
AmazonBasics 67-Inch
This monopod is not fancy or fancy, just what you would expect of an AmazonBasics product. You shouldn't expect it to collapse very far down. This is everything you'd need for still images or video which are enhanced by the solid balance offered by the ground.
Simple equipment are usually attractive and even more appealing. Most people don't like complications or sophistications. It is not just how they look but also how they simplify their tasks and make everything fast and thus fun.
This monopod's elegant design should draw you closer to its additional features which include its use indoors and outdoors. Most monopods don't usually take into account people who like to take their shots indoors, and may therefore not have a soft rubber for the foot of the monopod.
This AmazonBasics product does and has some hidden spikes below the rubber which will help hold onto rugged terrains and rougher grounds outdoors. Are you a hiker? Then this monopod is a plus for you! It is great for hikers too and anyone who may consider converting it to a walking stick.
While this monopod may not be as compact, it does have some other amazing features which should point you to it as an ideal product that will give you a value for your money.
Pros
Cons
4
COMAN KX3232
So much time was invested in designing the COMAN monopod so that it delivered on versatility, stability and other key points of use, optimally. This monopod doesn't come on its own but as a whole kit; so, you should have an aided amazing time taking your cool snaps and even tricky panoramas.
This monopod is also adjustable, so you will be able to attach and/or detach the pan bar and choose the height that will work best for you. You should be aware, however, that the available sizes are within the range of 26"-73"; and considering that it is adjustable, this range makes so much sense and fits reason.
This monopod features swivel, pan and revolve capacities. This monopod also comes with a vertical patent lock. This will enhance its stability thus ensuring it stays in place at all times. This monopod weighs 13lbs.
This is quite convenient for the lock which may need stronger monopods to avoid tears and even breakages of your camera lenses. While this monopod may come at a rather high price, it is worth every cent of it.
It is a monopod that comes with add-ons which are sure to come handy for you. It also comes with a carrying bag. With all these amazing benefits and features, this product is indeed a value for your money.
Pros
Cons
5
Opteka CFM 300
Most monopods come quite pricey, so getting a budget one is not always easy, with factors like quality kept constant.
The Opteka CFM 300 Photo Camera Monopod actually comes with some amazing features that most other pricier options may not, and is this a worth consideration. Let's have a closer look at this product therefore.
Durability is quite an important factor to every monopod, and this particular one is sure to last you some good time. Unlike most other monopods which come quite sturdy and strong, the Opteka CFM 300 has some little room for a wiggle.
It comes with a dual mounting screw which will enable you to attach just about any camera or head to it. Do you want to make smooth panoramas without breaking much of a sweat? Then try this monopod and enjoy the experience.
It comes with a wrist strap which will come quite handy as you'll not have to constantly hold the monopod. This strap will ensure that you have the freedom you need to do other stuff, thus lessening your strains and effort.
Pros
Cons
Things to Consider Before Purchasing the Best Monopod
Still, photography has evolved from the years photographers trained their hands to be steady to this age where equipment has been invented for that purpose. In recent years photographers have incorporated the use of tripods in their work for grounding their cameras.
However, with the growth of the multimedia industry, some innovations have come up, and hence, a monopod was created. To date, even the monopods have transformed into selfie sticks and are now used in mobile photography.
You may need to ground your camera when taking photos, possibly in the wild or at a party. However, the use of a tripod makes you conspicuous and easily spotted. To become unobtrusive, you should consider using a monopod.
Monopods are sleek, slender, and easy to carry around, and most importantly, they perform the same functions a tripod does. Tripods are bulky and not easily moved while monopods are mobile and perfect for taking photos on the go.
Although they do not ground the cameras for long, they are the perfect accessory you will require to take excellent panorama shots.
Features to Look For When Choosing a Monopod
There are thousands of monopods in the market. Each of them has a variety of features that make them unique. You need to come up with the elements in a monopod that will benefit you most. Here are some that will get you started.
Length
Monopods vary in length. The different sizes are perfect for carrying out various tasks. Longer monopods are useful in the wild when taking photos from above the tree lines or above bushes. Shorter ones are useful when recording your child’s football game.
Find out whether your task could be better completed with a long or short monopod then choose from the sizes available.
Portability
The primary reason monopods are preferred to tripods is because they are easier to move around. Checking to ensure whether the monopod you are buying is easily portable is essential.
Material With Which It is Built
The material used in making monopods affects other features of the monopod. Monopods made of iron are heavy and may rust while those made from carbon fiber are light and durable. Always go for the material that gives you both comfort and strength.
Cost
I am a firm believer in using the price of products to narrow down my search. Buying gear that is affordable and meets most if not all of your requirements could go a long way in ensuring you get the absolute best value for your money.
However, expensive items do not necessarily have everything you are looking for, so weigh your options using cost and the features you are hoping to get.
Weight
The weight of the monopod affects how you carry it and also how you handle it. If they are made using heavy materials, they will be bulky. On the flip side, heavy monopods have a higher probability of carrying heavy equipment.
Again, your choice is dependent on the equipment you have and the work you want to do.
Durability
The toughness of the material used to make a monopod will determine how long it can last. If you are working for long periods in challenging weather, you will need equipment that stands the test of time.
Stabilizing Legs
For the monopod to stand correctly, they will need good legs. Some do not have these legs. Others have detachable legs.
I would recommend you take one with the detachable legs; if you need them, you attach them, and if you do not, you remove them.
The Load Limit
Photographers have different types of cameras of different weights. Many monopods do not support heavy cameras, and so you must pick the monopods whose load-bearing limit is higher than the weight of your equipment.
This way, they are safe, and any chances of falling are eliminated
Build
There are different makes out there. Some are appealing, and others are purely functional. There are some, however, that blend the aesthetic properties and functionality to come up with beautiful models.
Ensure that the colorful exterior does not sway you and sacrifice the features you require.
Locking Mechanisms
The locks have to be secure. Otherwise, cameras will end up falling and breaking. There are many locks, but the best ones include the quick flip-lock and vertical locks. The twist-lock mechanism is outdated and less safe compared to the others. Avoid them.
Swivel Capacities
Monopods that allow you more movement are the best. It is a great feature to have in your monopod. Additionally, they may have an ability for better panning and revolving.
Adjustability
Monopods that have excellent telescope capabilities, add-ons and which can be customized are the ones you need. You will be able to make it the way you need it to be depending on the work. This way, you will be able to use one monopod in multiple ways for various projects.
Versatility
Being able to have a monopod that can work with a wide range of equipment is a bonus to you. You will not need new monopods, and that saves you on cost and having to carry much gear around.
Ease of Use
Ultimately, you are purchasing a monopod to ease your work. It is, therefore, only prudent to buy one that you can efficiently operate before advancing to more technical ones.
Size
Monopods come in different sizes. Not all of them can retract fully, so there are various modes of carrying them. All these sizes are meant to hold various sizes of equipment, so pick one that suits your camera best.
Once you can figure out the features that you require, you will need to compare the various monopods in the market. Here are some that have been sampled.
AmazonBasics Carbon Fiber
It can stretch to up to five feet, making it suitable for work that requires a long monopod. It is made out of carbon fiber, which gives it its strength and makes it light. It is durable and has a load-bearing weight of 22 lbs.
As a bonus, it is sold with a warranty and at a price of about $53. This monopod is, therefore, affordable and guaranteed to give optimum performance.
Neewer Aluminum Alloy
Made from premium materials, this monopod comes with a tripod. The monopod is detachable from the tripod and stands alone. The only downside to it is the weight it has. At 4 lbs. It is heavy and not easy to carry around.
It can stretch to 5 feet and has a three-way swivel head giving better movement to the camera attached.
AmazonBasics 67-Inch
This one comes with a unique outdoor grip and indoor softness. On its legs, spikes come out for better grasp of the ground when outside and when indoors, it has a rubber padding that keeps it firm.
It is very affordable, light, and is 67 inches long which makes it excellent for anyone using a monopod for the first time.
COMAN KX3202
The most notable feature of this monopod is the panhandle that has changeable sides. This gives it a better pan, swivel, and revolves capacity. It can stand alone, but it may not be able to stand firm when mounted with a camera and left alone. Take care not to leave it with your equipment.
It, however, has a vertical lock that safely secures the camera. It is available in many colors and sold as a complete set for $138.
Opteka CFM 300
Sold for $40, it has features like the foam grip and universal threads for mounting any camera. It is light and robust because the materials used to make it are magnesium and carbon fiber. It also has a wrist strap that helps in carrying it.
Koolehaoda
This lightweight monopod has built-in legs and a smooth pan. It is currently going for $49, which is affordable.
DIGIANT MP-3606
It has a swiveling base, a wrist strap, and a detachable tripod stands. It is firm and budget-friendly selling at $90.
Manfrotto Lightweight
It is budget-friendly and extremely light. It has an aluminum body and comes with add-ons. The downside to it is the twist-lock mechanism, which is not the safest.
Manfrotto Xpro
Unlike the Manfrotto Lightweight, this monopod is expensive and for a good reason. It has a video camera head, a swivel base stand, and hardcore locking mechanisms. It makes the connection secure and minimizes accidents. They are both, however, similar in weight.
The Dolica WT 67” 1003
It is the cheapest one on this list, but it does not lack in some excellent properties. It is the lightest, weighing less than 1 lb. It is made of aluminum and has grooved legs. To keep it firmly on the ground, its rubber foot has a retractable spike. Its load-bearing maximum is 6.7 lbs.
Once again, choosing any gear like a monopod should involve a comprehensive search for the one that combines features you require into one. You should also consider only purchasing equipment according to your skill level. Experienced photographers will pick monopods that they have experience handling. If it is your first time making a purchase, choose the one that you will have the least problem handling.
You have known the features to look for and how to look for them. The ones that work and the ones that suit your work best, therefore, remember to practice this. Researching the products that you wish to buy goes a long way in ensuring you get precisely what you are looking for.
Conclusion
As we earlier noted, it is not easy deciding on anything where your preference is concerned. Sometimes things can get quite tough and at such times, you may prefer to make most personal decisions that will affect you directly, only the things relevant to you.
You should watch out for performance and thus, results too, and there are a few reasons here why that should be crossing your mind too. The five products that we looked at indeed have what it takes, and yet the AmazonBasics Carbon Fiber stands out of the rest.
This is quite a simple and yet capable monopod. By simple, I'm talking about how it looks and serves its purpose without weighing you down. It also comes with some additional features that you are sure to love, like its carbon fiber strength and light-weight. You should check out the rest of what we discussed about this AmazonBasics produc.
Get the AmazonBasics Carbon Fiber today!
