As someone who loves capturing moments on the go, I’ve often found myself in situations where my camera setup felt too bulky, or I just couldn’t get the right angle for a stable shot. Whether trying to film a quick piece for social media or set up a time-lapse during a trip, the need for a versatile yet compact camera support was always apparent. Without a reliable way to stabilize or extend my camera, I risked shaky footage, missed opportunities, and the frustration of carrying gear that didn’t quite fit the spontaneous nature of action camera shooting. Solving this problem means ensuring every capture is clear and exactly how I envisioned it, without being weighed down by equipment.
- SUPER VERSATILE --- A very versatile accessory. It is a combination of selfie stick, extension pole and tripod all in one small package.The max extension length of the pole is 4.7 inch.
- RUBBERIZED HANDLE --- There is soft rubber on both grip and feet, which offers comfortable feeling as a handle grip, and is also anti-slip.
- EASY TO CARRY --- The mini compact tripod stand is small enough to fit into your camera bag, backpack or even my pocket,easy to carry around for your trip
Choosing Your Action Camera Support
If you’re in the world of action cameras – whether you’re rocking a GoPro, a DJI OSMO Action, an Insta360, or similar – you know that portability and flexibility are key. These cameras are designed for adventure, travel, and capturing unique perspectives, but handheld footage can often look shaky and unprofessional. That’s where a good mini tripod or selfie stick comes in. It helps eliminate camera shake, allows for stable stationary shots like vlogs or time-lapses, and provides a bit of reach for selfies or getting above obstacles. The ideal customer for this type of gear is someone who values portability above all else, frequently shoots in dynamic environments, and needs a multi-functional tool that won’t take up much space.
However, this category isn’t for everyone. If you primarily shoot with heavier DSLR or mirrorless cameras, need significant height for your tripod, or require precise angle adjustments via a sophisticated head, a mini action camera grip won’t cut it. Heavy cameras can overload these small supports, while the limited extension height makes them unsuitable for standing shots or group photos unless placed on a surface. For those needs, a dedicated travel tripod or a heavier-duty selfie stick with a robust phone mount or camera plate would be a far better investment. Before buying, consider what cameras you’ll be using, how much portability you need, the typical shooting scenarios you face, and whether you need significant height or maximum stability under challenging conditions.
- 100% LIFETIME PROTECTION: Enjoy reliable performance with lifetime coverage, guaranteeing your tripod is always protected against any defects or issues.
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Meeting the Ulanzi MT-09 Grip
Enter the Ulanzi MT-09 Extension Pole Tripod, Mini Selfie Stick Tripod Stand Handle Grip for GoPro8 7 6 5 4 Max DJI OSMO Action Insta360 One X SJCAM Vlogging. This mini tripod aims to be the ultimate compact companion for your action camera setup. It promises to be a versatile 3-in-1 solution, functioning as a short extension pole, a comfortable handle grip, and a stable mini tripod stand. When you purchase it, you get the MT-09 unit itself – it’s designed to be minimalist and ready to go. Compared to the well-known GoPro Shorty, the Ulanzi MT-09 offers a very similar form factor and feature set, often at a more accessible price point, positioning itself as a strong value alternative in the portable action camera accessory market. This specific Ulanzi MT-09 is perfect for the action camera user who wants maximum portability and multi-functionality without breaking the bank. It’s not ideal for anyone needing significant height or rock-solid stability for heavier gear.
Pros:
* Extremely compact and lightweight (50g).
* Highly versatile (3-in-1 functionality).
* Comfortable, non-slip rubberized grip.
* Direct compatibility with most action cameras.
* Excellent value for the price.
Cons:
* Limited extension length (only 4.7 inches).
* Tripod legs don’t spread very wide, potentially impacting stability with heavier action camera setups or accessories.
* Telescopic pole can feel stiff initially.
* Maximum height is very low when used as a tripod.
Putting the Ulanzi MT-09 to the Test: Key Capabilities and Practical Advantages
Having used the Ulanzi MT-09 Extension Pole Tripod extensively over time, I can confidently say it has become an indispensable part of my action camera kit. Its unassuming size hides a remarkable level of utility that genuinely impacts how and where I can shoot. Let’s dive into its key features and the real-world benefits they provide.
First and foremost is its incredible versatility, the core promise of the Ulanzi MT-09. It seamlessly transitions between a handle grip, a short extension pole, and a mini tripod. As a handle grip, it provides a much more comfortable and ergonomic way to hold your action camera compared to just gripping the camera itself, which is often small and awkward. The rubberized surface offers a secure hold, reducing the risk of accidental drops, especially in dynamic shooting scenarios like hiking or biking. This simple grip function immediately improves handheld stability, making footage look smoother and more professional.
Switching to the extension pole mode involves pulling the telescopic sections out. While the maximum extension is a modest 4.7 inches, this slight bit of reach makes a significant difference. It allows you to get a little further away from yourself for selfies or vlogs, providing a more natural perspective than having the camera right in your face. It also helps get the camera over small obstacles or closer to subjects that are just out of comfortable arm’s reach. This short extension capability is perfect for situations where you need just that little bit extra perspective without the bulk of a full-sized selfie stick. It’s not designed for extreme reach, but for quick, subtle adjustments that enhance composition.
Perhaps the most impressive trick of the Ulanzi MT-09 is its ability to transform into a mini tripod stand. By simply spreading the base, the handle splits into three stable legs. This function is invaluable for setting up stationary shots. Need to film a quick interview snippet? Place it on a table. Want to capture a time-lapse of a sunset from a park bench? Set up the MT-09. Its small footprint means it can be placed in discreet locations, and the rubber feet provide good grip on various surfaces. While its overall height is very low (only 4.7 inches when fully extended and used as a tripod, as the extension *is* the tripod leg/handle), this is perfect for tabletop use, setting up on ledges, or low-angle shots. It liberates you from constantly holding the camera, allowing you to be in the shot or attend to other tasks while recording. This multi-functional design means you’re carrying one item that serves three distinct purposes, drastically simplifying your gear setup for travel and casual shooting.
The second major feature is its remarkable compactness and portability. Weighing in at a mere 50 grams and folding down to an incredibly small size (roughly 0.4×1.2×1.2 inches when completely collapsed), the Ulanzi MT-09 truly lives up to its “mini” designation. It’s small enough to comfortably fit into a pocket, a small camera bag compartment, or even be left attached to the camera and slipped into a jacket pocket. This level of portability means you’re far more likely to have it with you when inspiration strikes. No more missing a stable shot because your tripod is back in the hotel room or too cumbersome to pull out. This ease of transport encourages more spontaneous shooting and ensures you’re always ready to get a better angle or a steady frame.
Despite its lightweight nature, the Ulanzi MT-09 feels surprisingly sturdy for its size. The construction uses quality plastic and rubber components. While it’s light enough not to be a burden, it doesn’t feel flimsy. When holding it as a grip or with the legs folded, the unit feels solid in the hand. The telescopic extension, though sometimes stiff initially, locks securely when extended, preventing unwanted collapse during use. This balance between being lightweight for portability and feeling robust enough for typical action camera use is a key benefit. You don’t want a heavy accessory weighing down your action camera setup, but you also need confidence that it won’t snap or fail when you need it most. The MT-09 strikes this balance well for its intended use case.
The rubberized handle is a simple but highly effective feature. The entire grip area and the feet of the tripod are covered in a soft-touch rubber material. This provides excellent grip, making it very comfortable to hold for extended periods as a handle. More importantly, when used as a tripod, the rubber feet prevent slipping and add stability on smooth or uneven surfaces. This anti-slip property is crucial for tabletop shots or placing the tripod on ledges or rocks outdoors. A stable base is fundamental to getting sharp, steady footage, and the rubberized feet contribute significantly to this, especially given the MT-09‘s small size.
Compatibility is another major advantage. The Ulanzi MT-09 uses the standard action camera mount, which means it works directly with a wide range of popular cameras like GoPro models (Hero 8, 7, 6, 5, 4, etc.), DJI OSMO Action, Insta360 One X (with its frame/adapter), and SJCAMs. This universal compatibility within the action camera ecosystem means you can switch cameras or use it with multiple devices without needing extra adapters or mounts. It’s designed specifically for this type of camera, ensuring a secure and snug fit every time. This focus on the action camera standard simplifies setup and guarantees it will work with your existing gear.
However, it’s important to be realistic about the limitations, which stem mainly from its emphasis on compactness. The 4.7-inch maximum extension is quite short. While useful for slight adjustments, it doesn’t offer the reach of a typical selfie stick for wide group shots or overhead perspectives. Similarly, when used as a tripod, its maximum height is inherently limited to this short length. This means you’ll often be looking down at your camera if it’s placed on a standard surface like a desk or the ground. For shots requiring eye-level height or more elevation, you’ll need to place the Ulanzi MT-09 on a higher surface.
Furthermore, while the construction feels sturdy for its size, the stability of the tripod mode can be tested by heavier action camera setups or adding accessories like external mics or lights via adapter mounts (which aren’t included but can be attached via the standard mount). The legs don’t spread out extremely wide, and a top-heavy setup, especially with a slight nudge, could potentially tip it over. It’s stable for a bare action camera on a flat, still surface, but exercise caution on uneven ground or in windy conditions, or when loading it down with accessories.
The telescopic pole mechanism, while functional and secure when locked, can sometimes feel a bit stiff or sticky when extending or retracting, particularly when new. It’s not a buttery-smooth glide like some higher-end poles, requiring a firm pull or push. This is a minor quibble but worth noting for those expecting effortless operation.
Despite these minor drawbacks, the features and benefits heavily outweigh the limitations for anyone prioritizing portability and versatility for their action camera. The ability to quickly switch between modes, the tiny size, comfortable grip, and broad compatibility make the Ulanzi MT-09 an excellent tool for everyday use, travel, and vlogging where keeping your gear minimal is essential.
What Real Users Are Saying
Having scoured feedback from other customers, it’s clear that my positive experience with this mini action camera grip isn’t unique. Many users highlight its exceptional portability, noting that the camera attached to the grip can easily slip into a pocket, making it perfect for travel where minimizing bulk is critical. The quality is often praised, with people commenting that it feels well-built and doesn’t seem cheap despite its affordable price point, offering great value compared to more expensive brand-name alternatives like the GoPro Shorty. Simplicity and ease of use are frequently mentioned, with the push-pull extension and spreading legs being intuitive. While some acknowledge its small stature limits tripod height and overall stability for heavier loads, they generally find it perfectly adequate for a standard action camera setup and appreciate its discreet size.
Final Thoughts and Recommendation
Ultimately, the problem the Ulanzi MT-09 solves is providing action camera users with a genuinely portable, multi-functional support system. Without it, you’re often stuck with shaky handheld shots or forced to carry larger, less convenient gear, potentially missing opportunities or simply getting frustrated with the setup process. This mini tripod/selfie stick is a great fit because it’s incredibly compact, versatile enough to be a handle, extender, and tripod, and offers solid build quality for its size and price. If you need a lightweight, go-anywhere solution for your action camera vlogging, travel, or casual shooting, the Ulanzi MT-09 is definitely worth considering. To learn more or purchase this handy accessory, click here!
Last update on 2025-09-16 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API