I have been using the Wimberley head on a Sirui CF monopod for years and as you say, once you get used to it it's absolutely fine. One other benefit aside from the gimbal action is the ability to sling the camera & lens over your shoulder the weight being spread nicely. If you need to use both hands for something, it just balances on your shoulder. Steve Perry has a video on it if you are interested.
I've been using a Manfrotto 290 aluminum for years and it has served me well. I have a Vanguard 300 head when needed. Although the head is a bit heavy, it's adjustability makes up for it.
Great comparison Matt! I ended up going with a ProMediaGear TR42MX / standard mount and the Wimberley MH-100. The thick leg is more comfortable slinging a big lens over your shoulder. And the Wimberley is the only one in your comparison that you can balance like a gimbal which is essential. You get used the side mount pretty quick 😂
A friend dumped the LensCoat from her monopod during a field trip on the Maine coast. I borrowed it and found that it provided just the right amount of padding to protect my shoulder while lugging a camera with big lenses along a rugged section of coast. After seeing how well the padding worked, she asked for the LensCoat for the return hike which really saved her shoulder. I have sense DIYed versions for my mono and several tripods.
A great review. I've used a heavy, expensive Gitzo for years, with just a Really Right Stuff Arca clamp on the top. I use Really Right Stuff heads on my Gitzo tripods and have always craved RRS tripods, but just too much money. Thanks for sharing your observations.
The ProMediaGear monopod has an Arca-type clamp. A comparable Really Right Stuff clamp, the B2-FAB, is $75 USD. Putting that on the RRS monopod brings the total to $520, much closer to the ProMediaGear and Gitzo options. I have had the RRS head for a few years, it was significantly less expensive before. It is very useful when swiveling up and down quickly is important. I use it for volleyball photography, so it is tilted up when the player is hitting the ball and down when digging. Used Gitzo and RRS gear are often great deals, since there is little risk of anything eventually going wrong, I use it a little, soon after buying it, and if it works in the first hour, it will work for a decade and longer. The Manfrotto plate should never be used for long lenses, it will rotate in the most annoying ways unless everything is perfectly balanced. The foot for long lenses typically has two screw holes, and a good Arca-Swiss plate will have two screws, preventing rotation. After dealing with this on a 3-day trip, before I knew about Arca-Swiss, I quickly got educated. Now, whenever possible, I replace the lens foot with a RRS version which includes the dovetail.
Thanks for the review. Very timely for me as I've just started looking for a monopod. One comment "in defense" of the small Manfrotto plates (200PL) - the small ring for tightening is super convenient IMO. On most Arca-Swiss compatible plates I need a coin or tool to tighten the screw - with the 200PL I don't, but I might have to take off a glove.
I have the iFootage Cobra2 (and the Cobra 3 on order). I shoot Canon R5 (RGB), R6 (IR), and Panasonic G9M2. I will definitely check out the 3LT for a backup monopod. Great video; thanks!
Thank you Matt..appreciate the review..I have a regular tripod..always wanted to consider a monopod when it comes to different scenarios..and this really helped into my considerations..
I have the RRS Monopod and Head; I purchased it to shoot Elephant Seals on the California coast. Provided the stability I needed. Now, however, having a monopod with a three-legged base gives an entirely new level of adaptability.
I've been using the RRS Monopod and Head for years shooting football, and it is perfect for active use. However, I use the ifootage when I'm stationary, such as seated shooting a ballet performance.
I’ve ordered the iFootage Cobra Strike monopod because of the one handed extend/collapse function. We will have to see how it goes in terms of build quality and all but for the light carry, run and gun video uses I have in mind, I think it might be ideal.
The Ifootage stuff is really aimed at video. They tend to have a package with their small fluid head but even without a head you can pan and level the thing. While I wouldn't dare leave it standing with a 400mm and that head of yours but with a shorter lens it's actually stable enough by itself.
Well, you nearly had all the monopods. except for ProMaster professional, which I have. ... I have a spare to use as a small light stand with a 15 inch extension.
Thanks Matt. You have persuaded me to get my Manfrotto 679B going again which I purchased 20 years. I have decided to photograph my Grandson’s Australian Rules Football Match at Sky in Melbourne this weekend. I always love your articles, keep up the great work. John
Hello Matt, I know it may sound bad but, I am using the Gitzo monopod, Yes I know it not cheep but I am butting either my Z9 or Z8 on it with 400mm or 600mm lens the last thing I want is the monopod to fail with that weight. The extera hight is also so good for when you are on uneven ground or a hill side. I am using it with a Benro Monopod head as it is Arca-Swiss like my tripods meaning that I do not have to change quick release plats. Some time I think its is just better to get the right stuff not the cheapest. My Gitzo is not sticky at all.
Hmmm, I understand that you cannot test them all but I think with Benro, Leofoto and Feisol there are some major and relevant brands missing. Thank you for your effort!
Leofoto is definitely a great monopod. I usually use a Gitzo but I might need another monopod as a backup or that fits a particular bag. My usual setup is a Canon R6II plus a 400/2.8 or 600/4.0. Never use a head on the monopod.
I had that Suriu one and it lasted about 4 years and the sections came apart and I almost dropped my Z9/600F4 FL. Ive since switched to 3LT Mono and Tri-pods and all good no issues. I also use that SIdekick Gimble and have gotten used to it and actually like its small size. It swivels easy even with the weight on it.
Personally the Wimberlyhead is a much better head when you want to move around with a large lens for the following reasons: you can carry the assembly on you shoulder with the lens camera at the back and it will not dig in your shoulder. It is almost balanced so no need to put weight in front while moving. The équipment rotates around you shoulder blades keeping everything tight (especially when moving around branches). That said the knob needs to be on the top not the bottom like in the video. There is no movement limitation. The off-axis weight is no issue. Just use slightly slanted. I have moved around in the forest and mountain for hours without the least problem with a z9 and the 800pf and especially no shoulder problems.
The official pronunciation of Sirui is "soo ray." Not sure how they get that from how the word is spelled, but at least that's what the company itself says is how it's supposed to be pronounced.
😊Great video Matt, thank you ! It would be nice if you could also test the monopod from YC Onion which is called 'PINETA Carbon Fiber Monopod #MQC145'. I find that its one-click release system called Feiso, which is similar to that of the Sachtler brand but less expensive, seems fast, smooth and ingenious ! ❤ Otherwise, something else about your videos. I like looking at them, but it's a shame that you don't write the weights in kg in parentheses, because for me, who is French and lives in Japan, I have no idea what lbs weigh ... 😅 Best wishes !
Out of majority, made in China im for Promediagear which is usa made, absolute build. Seems the tallest and most robust out of the bunch. It's rare to find quality craftsmanship these days. Coming from or made in Japan, Italy, Germany, USA. Almost all are mass-produced in China. Like there's no art in the build already, unlike the good 'ol days. Craftsmanship is king. Also, it's just like a good tripod. You risk thousands of dollars on lenses and camera only to fail on your tripod or monopod. Cheaping out on the one thing that's important
If you have a good camera, you shouldn't need a monopod. Most modern cameras have at least 6 stops of stabilization and the good models have 7 or 7.5 stops. But Nikon may be behind the times... 🤷♂🤷♀🤷
Umm... did you see that gigantic lens? Perhaps you can handhold that all day with your huge biceps but most of us photo nerds need some help keeping things stable.
Nikon Setup Guide: learn.mattgranger.com/courses/zsetup
My overall top pick: bhpho.to/3yTQiJA
Great Value: bhpho.to/4bUpKGY
Love how you open the bag of little tools over the sewer grate. You live a charmed life.
10:53 knowing Matt's propensity for dropping gear, I was just waiting for something to fall into the grate. 🤣
Shhhh
Thanks for posting. Clearly a lot of effort went into making this. A very comprehensive review. Much appreciated.
I have been using the Wimberley head on a Sirui CF monopod for years and as you say, once you get used to it it's absolutely fine. One other benefit aside from the gimbal action is the ability to sling the camera & lens over your shoulder the weight being spread nicely. If you need to use both hands for something, it just balances on your shoulder. Steve Perry has a video on it if you are interested.
An excellent review. I'll have to re-watch it a few times to remember everything you covered!
I've been using a Manfrotto 290 aluminum for years and it has served me well. I have a Vanguard 300 head when needed. Although the head is a bit heavy, it's adjustability makes up for it.
Thanks for the reviews Matt, very useful actually. The ultra tall mono/tri pods are great on steep mountain slopes etc.. Thanks for uploading this..😊
Very helpful review comparing multiple current models. Thank you.
Great comparison Matt! I ended up going with a ProMediaGear TR42MX / standard mount and the Wimberley MH-100. The thick leg is more comfortable slinging a big lens over your shoulder. And the Wimberley is the only one in your comparison that you can balance like a gimbal which is essential. You get used the side mount pretty quick 😂
Excellent video and review. Thanks
A friend dumped the LensCoat from her monopod during a field trip on the Maine coast. I borrowed it and found that it provided just the right amount of padding to protect my shoulder while lugging a camera with big lenses along a rugged section of coast. After seeing how well the padding worked, she asked for the LensCoat for the return hike which really saved her shoulder. I have sense DIYed versions for my mono and several tripods.
A great review. I've used a heavy, expensive Gitzo for years, with just a Really Right Stuff Arca clamp on the top. I use Really Right Stuff heads on my Gitzo tripods and have always craved RRS tripods, but just too much money. Thanks for sharing your observations.
The ProMediaGear monopod has an Arca-type clamp. A comparable Really Right Stuff clamp, the B2-FAB, is $75 USD. Putting that on the RRS monopod brings the total to $520, much closer to the ProMediaGear and Gitzo options.
I have had the RRS head for a few years, it was significantly less expensive before. It is very useful when swiveling up and down quickly is important. I use it for volleyball photography, so it is tilted up when the player is hitting the ball and down when digging.
Used Gitzo and RRS gear are often great deals, since there is little risk of anything eventually going wrong, I use it a little, soon after buying it, and if it works in the first hour, it will work for a decade and longer.
The Manfrotto plate should never be used for long lenses, it will rotate in the most annoying ways unless everything is perfectly balanced. The foot for long lenses typically has two screw holes, and a good Arca-Swiss plate will have two screws, preventing rotation. After dealing with this on a 3-day trip, before I knew about Arca-Swiss, I quickly got educated. Now, whenever possible, I replace the lens foot with a RRS version which includes the dovetail.
Thanks for the review. Very timely for me as I've just started looking for a monopod. One comment "in defense" of the small Manfrotto plates (200PL) - the small ring for tightening is super convenient IMO. On most Arca-Swiss compatible plates I need a coin or tool to tighten the screw - with the 200PL I don't, but I might have to take off a glove.
I have the iFootage Cobra2 (and the Cobra 3 on order). I shoot Canon R5 (RGB), R6 (IR), and Panasonic G9M2. I will definitely check out the 3LT for a backup monopod. Great video; thanks!
Thank you Matt..appreciate the review..I have a regular tripod..always wanted to consider a monopod when it comes to different scenarios..and this really helped into my considerations..
Glad it was helpful!
I have the RRS Monopod and Head; I purchased it to shoot Elephant Seals on the California coast. Provided the stability I needed. Now, however, having a monopod with a three-legged base gives an entirely new level of adaptability.
Promediagear all the way! Thanks, Matt for the review.
I've been using the RRS Monopod and Head for years shooting football, and it is perfect for active use. However, I use the ifootage when I'm stationary, such as seated shooting a ballet performance.
I’ve ordered the iFootage Cobra Strike monopod because of the one handed extend/collapse function. We will have to see how it goes in terms of build quality and all but for the light carry, run and gun video uses I have in mind, I think it might be ideal.
I appreciate you using the gloves. Feels far more realistic the testing because of it.
That GVM monopod reminds me of the iFootage a lot.
The Ifootage stuff is really aimed at video. They tend to have a package with their small fluid head but even without a head you can pan and level the thing.
While I wouldn't dare leave it standing with a 400mm and that head of yours but with a shorter lens it's actually stable enough by itself.
Great video! Ty! Benro MSD46C SupaDupa Monopod, 72" max Height, Waterproof Twist Locks, Carbon Fiber, Spiked Foot, CNC machined Aluminum flip Lock (MSD46C)
Well, you nearly had all the monopods. except for ProMaster professional, which I have. ... I have a spare to use as a small light stand with a 15 inch extension.
Can't have them all - and i;ve never heard of Promaster :)
Very helpful... Thank you for posting.
i have the ifootage ...but i do wish the handle had a lil more cushion to hold on to for longer games when i shoot with it
The model is a knockout!
Expensive Lens/Camera + ProMediaGear = Makes Sense!
i have a leofoto MP364 or 36mm 4 section can not fault in very little flex if any light weight and au$ 170 very happy just need a monopod head
Cool monopod review and buying guide. The low priced monopod are good for beginners with light camera gears to start off with. Great video!
You can adjust the RRS clamp by screwing it to the right distance
Did you end up taking the RRS monopod and head to Iceland? Or did you use one of the others.
Thanks Matt for the great review, whew, how long where you there going through everything?
I used them for weeks, and filmed this over a few days.
Love the lens 😊
I use the Manfroto 290 without the swivel head
Thanks Matt.
You have persuaded me to get my Manfrotto 679B going again which I purchased 20 years.
I have decided to photograph my Grandson’s Australian Rules Football Match at Sky in Melbourne this weekend.
I always love your articles, keep up the great work.
John
Go for it!
Nice shoot and comparisons
Hello Matt, I know it may sound bad but, I am using the Gitzo monopod, Yes I know it not cheep but I am butting either my Z9 or Z8 on it with 400mm or 600mm lens the last thing I want is the monopod to fail with that weight. The extera hight is also so good for when you are on uneven ground or a hill side. I am using it with a Benro Monopod head as it is Arca-Swiss like my tripods meaning that I do not have to change quick release plats. Some time I think its is just better to get the right stuff not the cheapest. My Gitzo is not sticky at all.
Why would it sound bad? Enjoy!
Hmmm, I understand that you cannot test them all but I think with Benro, Leofoto and Feisol there are some major and relevant brands missing. Thank you for your effort!
Correct - and I can only get what’s in stock. I also asked people on IG what they’d like to see tested 👍🏼
Leofoto is definitely a great monopod. I usually use a Gitzo but I might need another monopod as a backup or that fits a particular bag. My usual setup is a Canon R6II plus a 400/2.8 or 600/4.0. Never use a head on the monopod.
I'd also add Neewer. They seem to be decent quality for a more affordable price. I've got a lot of their gear, and I'm pretty happy with it.
Congratulations to Kiki on the movie release. Hopefully it gets distribution here.
Have you also tried the yc onion pineta Peaks monopod?
Nope. Never tried any 'yc onion' product.
ProMediaGear for the Win 💪🏼💪🏼 Super durable, thanks for the review Matt
wow!!! that mono pod can handle huge lens
The manfroto quick plate is too small for big cameras, I don’t like mine…
I had that Suriu one and it lasted about 4 years and the sections came apart and I almost dropped my Z9/600F4 FL. Ive since switched to 3LT Mono and Tri-pods and all good no issues. I also use that SIdekick Gimble and have gotten used to it and actually like its small size. It swivels easy even with the weight on it.
My impression is that most tripods and monopods have “wobbly” joints and are NOT firm.
RS. Canada
Pro media Gear is the key for more creativity
Personally the Wimberlyhead is a much better head when you want to move around with a large lens for the following reasons: you can carry the assembly on you shoulder with the lens camera at the back and it will not dig in your shoulder. It is almost balanced so no need to put weight in front while moving. The équipment rotates around you shoulder blades keeping everything tight (especially when moving around branches). That said the knob needs to be on the top not the bottom like in the video. There is no movement limitation. The off-axis weight is no issue. Just use slightly slanted. I have moved around in the forest and mountain for hours without the least problem with a z9 and the 800pf and especially no shoulder problems.
The official pronunciation of Sirui is "soo ray." Not sure how they get that from how the word is spelled, but at least that's what the company itself says is how it's supposed to be pronounced.
Thanks!
Promediagear for sure. Chonky af🔥 just the way I like it.
ProMedia, its for the pro(professional).
The right angle mount is silly idea on monopod ?
It's designed for Monopods....
3LT Alana (Morisette?)
😊Great video Matt, thank you ! It would be nice if you could also test the monopod from YC Onion which is called 'PINETA Carbon Fiber Monopod #MQC145'.
I find that its one-click release system called Feiso, which is similar to that of the Sachtler brand but less expensive, seems fast, smooth and ingenious ! ❤
Otherwise, something else about your videos. I like looking at them, but it's a shame that you don't write the weights in kg in parentheses, because for me, who is French and lives in Japan, I have no idea what lbs weigh ... 😅
Best wishes !
Thanks mate. I don't think I will be testing more monopods anytime soon :)
Pounds - divide it by 2.2 to get your kilos.
Out of majority, made in China im for Promediagear which is usa made, absolute build. Seems the tallest and most robust out of the bunch. It's rare to find quality craftsmanship these days. Coming from or made in Japan, Italy, Germany, USA. Almost all are mass-produced in China. Like there's no art in the build already, unlike the good 'ol days. Craftsmanship is king. Also, it's just like a good tripod.
You risk thousands of dollars on lenses and camera only to fail on your tripod or monopod. Cheaping out on the one thing that's important
Agree the PMG is outstanding quality. Can’t go wrong.
I don't see the link to, NO SUCH PERSON?
It’s in the description…
Shouldn’t she be at school?
Shouldn't you be in a retirement community?
If you have a good camera, you shouldn't need a monopod. Most modern cameras have at least 6 stops of stabilization and the good models have 7 or 7.5 stops. But Nikon may be behind the times... 🤷♂🤷♀🤷
Nonsense
Umm... did you see that gigantic lens? Perhaps you can handhold that all day with your huge biceps but most of us photo nerds need some help keeping things stable.