Embarking on creative projects often means facing unexpected technical hurdles. For me, it was the challenge of capturing dynamic, immersive video, particularly those cool “bullet time” effects or simply getting stable shots from unique perspectives without bulky gear. The thought of missing out on those shots because my existing setup wasn’t up to the task was frustrating, knowing that unstable footage or the inability to get a specific angle could completely derail a project’s vision and impact. I needed a solution that was versatile and easy to use.
- 【Multi-Function Tripod】 The tripod can be deployed on ground or assembled on the selfie stick as a handle to shoot bullet time videos. Also, the 1/4 inch screw allows it to connect the camera...
- 【Compatibility】 Designed for bullet time shooting, and compatible with Insta360 ONE X3 ONE X2 ONE R, ONE X, ONE, EVO Action and many more.
- 【Smooth and Stable】The 360 degrees rotation handle can turn smoothly and firmly, which makes the video captured has a perfect clarity.
Considering Your Options Before Choosing a Camera Support
Before diving headfirst into purchasing, it’s wise to consider what problem a camera support like a tripod or handle solves. Essentially, these tools provide stability, enable unique camera movements, and keep your hands free (or out of a 360-degree shot). An ideal customer for a versatile handle and tripod would be someone who uses action cameras or 360 cameras frequently, needs portable support, and wants to experiment with different shooting techniques, especially the bullet time effect. However, if you primarily shoot with heavy DSLRs or mirrorless cameras, or require precise pan/tilt adjustments and significant height adjustability, this specific type of lightweight, fixed-height mini tripod might not be the best fit. Those users would likely benefit more from a dedicated, heavier-duty tripod with a ball head or fluid head. When deciding, think about the weight of your gear, the required height, desired stability, necessary movement options (pan, tilt, rotation), and portability.
- CONSTRUCTION: The tabletop tripod is made of Aluminum Alloy, durable and solid; With the use of a vlogging tripod, it can achieve greater performance and maintain image quality for cropping larger...
- ADJUSTABLE MINI DESK TOP TRIPOD: Extend to 24.4 inches/62 centimeters, folds to 12.6 inches/32 centimeters, with extended center column to meet your different vlogging, shooting, photography and...
- ▶【Click-to-Open】ULANZI TT38 Camera Tripod, Grip to Tripod in a Snap, Seamlessly switch between camera grip and tripod with just a push, never missing a shot. It also has a cold shoe mount on the...
Introducing the SALYMECONY ZPG-114
The SALYMECONY Bullet Time Handle Tripod is designed to be a flexible accessory for action and 360 cameras, promising multi-functional support for both stable shots and dynamic effects like bullet time. When you purchase this mini tripod, you get the handle itself, which features folding legs to act as a tripod base, and includes a cover for the screws when not in use. This particular model, the ZPG-114, seems to aim for a similar user base and function as the official Insta360 bullet time handle, often at a more accessible price point. It’s built for creators using lightweight cameras, particularly those focused on 360 video and the unique perspectives they offer. It’s likely not the best choice for someone needing a full-sized tripod for traditional photography or videography setups requiring adjustable height or precise framing control beyond simple panning.
Here’s a quick look at the pros and cons based on my experience and product details:
Pros:
* Versatile functionality (handle, tripod, bullet time)
* Sturdy aluminum construction for the main body
* Smooth 360-degree rotation for bullet time
* Compact and portable folding design
* Compatibility with various action and 360 cameras via 1/4″ screw
Cons:
* Legs are made of lightweight plastic and can feel less secure
* Height is fixed (cannot be adjusted)
* Screw covers can fall off easily
* Limited angling options beyond basic pan/level
Exploring the Capabilities and Advantages
Multi-Functionality: More Than Just a Tripod
One of the standout aspects of the SALYMECONY ZPG-114 is its sheer versatility. It’s not just a mini tripod; it’s a handle, a tripod base, and specifically designed to facilitate bullet time shots. This multi-functional design is incredibly beneficial because it reduces the amount of gear you need to carry. Instead of separate accessories for each purpose, this single unit can cover several bases. When folded, it serves as a comfortable handle for handholding your camera, offering better grip and keeping your fingers clear of wide-angle or 360 lenses. Deployed, the legs form a stable base for static shots or timelapses. Most uniquely, it’s engineered to connect to a selfie stick (sold separately) at a 90-degree angle, allowing you to spin the camera smoothly around you for that signature bullet time effect. This adaptability means you can transition quickly between different shooting styles without fumbling through a bag for another piece of equipment, streamlining your workflow and ensuring you don’t miss a shot.
Designed for Bullet Time
For anyone interested in capturing bullet time footage with an Insta360 camera (or similar), the ZPG-114 is purpose-built. The crucial feature here is the smooth, 360-degree rotation mechanism, which you can lock or unlock with a simple collar twist. When unlocked and attached to a selfie stick, the handle allows for a fluid spin, which is essential for creating that floating-in-space effect. The matte finish on the handle provides a good grip, crucial when you’re spinning the stick rapidly. The specific design with the side-mounted 1/4″ screw when used in handle mode is perfect for connecting an ‘invisible’ selfie stick, ensuring it gets automatically removed from the final 360 footage. The ability to achieve this dynamic effect so easily with a dedicated tool like this bullet time handle adds a whole new dimension to your videography, letting you create cinematic moments that would otherwise be impossible with standard gear.
Tripod Mode: A Compact and Stable Base
When the moment calls for a static shot – perhaps a quick interview, a stable landscape, or a timelapse – the folding legs deploy to turn the SALYMECONY Mini Tripod into a compact tripod. While the height is fixed (around 23.5 cm when the legs are out), this can be perfect for tabletop use or low-angle shots. The main body, made of aluminum, feels solid and capable of supporting the specified weight limit of 5 kg, which is more than sufficient for action cameras like GoPros or Insta360 models, even with lightweight accessories attached. The 1/4″ screw mount on top allows you to connect your camera directly or, as a workaround for the fixed height, attach a selfie stick between the tripod base and the camera. This provides a surprising amount of flexibility for such a small device, offering a stable platform when handholding isn’t practical or desired.
Solid Construction (Mostly) and Portability
The combination of aluminum for the main body and folding mechanism, along with plastic for the legs, results in a product that feels reasonably sturdy where it counts (the handle and attachment points) while keeping the weight down. At just 119 grams, this multi-functional tabletop fold tripod is incredibly lightweight and portable. When folded, it measures only 17 cm, making it easy to slip into a camera bag, backpack, or even a large pocket. This portability is a major advantage for action camera users who are constantly on the move and need gear that won’t weigh them down. While the plastic legs are a point of minor concern for some, the aluminum handle provides a reassuring feel during use, whether you’re spinning for bullet time or just using it as a grip. The 5 kg weight limit suggests the core structure is quite capable, assuming the load is balanced.
Practical Design Elements
Beyond the core functions, the Bullet Time Handle Tripod includes some thoughtful design features. The presence of 1/4″ screws on both the top and the side offers flexible mounting options – the top screw is standard for connecting cameras or selfie sticks vertically (as a handle or on a tripod), while the side screw is specifically placed for the 90-degree bullet time setup with compatible selfie sticks. The twist-lock collar for controlling the 360-degree spin is easy to operate, allowing you to quickly switch between locked tripod mode and free-spinning handle mode. It also comes with small rubber caps to cover the screws when not in use, a minor but appreciated detail for preventing snags or potential damage, although admittedly, these caps are prone to falling off.
Addressing Limitations: Fixed Height and Leg Feel
It’s important to acknowledge the product’s limitations. As mentioned, the tripod height is static. Unlike many traditional tripods or even some mini tripods with telescoping legs, you cannot adjust how tall it stands on its own. While adding a selfie stick provides a workaround for height, the base unit itself has a fixed stature. Additionally, the tripod legs, being made of lightweight plastic, can sometimes feel a bit less secure or slightly awkward, especially on uneven surfaces or with a taller setup on top (like a long selfie stick). There’s no locking mechanism for the legs themselves once deployed, although the folding action is stiff enough to keep them in place under normal load. These aren’t deal-breakers, but they are points to consider depending on your primary use case. If adjustable height or rock-solid tripod stability for heavier loads is paramount, you might need to supplement this with another tripod.
What Users Are Saying
Having looked through feedback from other users online, the consensus seems largely positive, echoing my own experience. Many reviewers appreciate that this SALYMECONY Mini Tripod performs its main function well, particularly for bullet time shots with Insta360 cameras, noting its similarity in feel and performance to the official brand’s accessory but often at a better price. Users find it sturdy enough for its intended purpose (action/360 cameras) and value its portability and versatility. However, the comments about the non-adjustable height and the feel of the plastic legs being less robust than the aluminum handle are also frequently mentioned, aligning with the product’s inherent design characteristics.
Final Thoughts
Ultimately, needing a compact and versatile way to support a lightweight camera for both stable shots and dynamic effects like bullet time is a common problem for modern creators, and failing to address it means missing out on unique creative possibilities. The SALYMECONY Bullet Time Handle Tripod offers a compelling solution. Its multi-functional design covering handle, tripod, and bullet time use, combined with its sturdy aluminum construction (where it matters most) and impressive portability, makes it a great addition to an action or 360 camera kit. While it has limitations like fixed height and lightweight plastic legs, its core performance for bullet time and general camera support provides significant value. If you’re looking to easily capture those immersive rotating shots or just need a handy, go-anywhere mini tripod and grip for your compatible camera, this product is definitely worth considering. Click here to check it out .
Last update on 2025-07-03 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API