We’ve all been there, haven’t we? Trying to capture that perfect shot or record a stable video, only to realize you’re either stuck holding your camera at an awkward angle or constantly asking a friend to help out. For ages, I struggled with inconsistent footage and poorly framed photos, especially when traveling solo or trying to include everyone in a group shot. This problem needed a solution because relying on unsteady hands or finding someone else to hold the camera severely limited creative freedom and the quality of memories I could capture. The frustration was real; missing key moments or getting shaky, unusable video felt like a constant battle. Finding a reliable, portable support system became essential.
- 【7 Stage Heights, Up To 55in】the MT-71 selfie stick tripod has 7 level adjustments, from 34cm/13.38in to 150cm/59in, extremely smooth to extend and strong support after extension, 7 segments...
- 【3 in 1 Tripod】It can not only work as tripod, but also work as handle or selfie stick. Universal 1/4” screw fits all insta360 cams and sony canon nikon compact cameras; includes a go pro...
- 【Stable Tripod Mode】 there is a tripod lock, which gives strong support when it is in tripod mode; and the center column is away to the surface, it can stand on most uneven ground
Important Points to Consider Before Choosing a Camera Support
Before diving into a specific product, it’s wise to think about what a camera support like a tripod or selfie stick is meant to solve. Fundamentally, these tools eliminate camera shake, allow for self-portraits or group photos without needing assistance, and enable creative angles or time-lapses that aren’t possible handheld. The ideal customer for this product category is someone who wants to improve their mobile photography, videography, or vlogging quality, whether using a lightweight compact camera, action camera, or potentially a mirrorless setup within weight limits. It’s perfect for travelers, content creators, families wanting group shots, or anyone who frequently finds themselves wanting an extra ‘hand’ for their camera. Who shouldn’t buy? Someone who primarily shoots heavy DSLRs with large lenses, requires professional-grade stability for long exposures in high wind, or needs a very tall, heavy-duty studio tripod. They would need to invest in much larger, more robust, and significantly more expensive equipment. When considering a purchase, think about compatibility (what devices will you use?), maximum height needed, portability (size and weight when folded), build material (durability vs. weight), stability (especially in tripod mode), and any specific features like ball heads or remote compatibility.
- Smooth Rotation for Work & Play: Rotate the phone stand 180° to capture overhead recipe shots in the kitchen, flip to portrait mode for Instagram Stories at cafes, or angle sideways for bedtime movie...
- 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...
- VERSATILE: Close the legs to use it as a comfortable grip to capture videos that stand out from the crowd
Introducing the ULANZI MT-71
The ULANZI Select 59in Selfie Tripod for Camera Gopro – MT-71 positions itself as a versatile, lightweight, and highly portable solution for capturing content on the go. It promises to be a 3-in-1 tool, functioning as a selfie stick, a handheld grip, and a stable tripod. When you purchase it, you typically receive the MT-71 tripod itself and a GoPro adapter, making it immediately compatible with a wide range of cameras, including action cameras like GoPro Hero models, DJI Action, and others, as well as compact cameras with a standard 1/4″ screw mount. Compared to some older, bulkier travel tripods or less stable selfie sticks on the market, the ULANZI MT-71 aims to strike a better balance between height, stability, and portability. It’s specifically designed for users who prioritize ease of transport and quick setup for vlogging, travel photos, and action camera footage, perhaps less so for heavy camera setups or professional studio work.
Here’s a quick breakdown:
Pros:
* Excellent portability and lightweight design (only 357g).
* Very long maximum extension (up to 59 inches / 150cm).
* Highly versatile 3-in-1 functionality (selfie stick, grip, tripod).
* Good compatibility with action cameras and compact cameras (includes GoPro adapter).
* Easy and smooth extension mechanism with 7 sections.
Cons:
* Made of ABS plastic, which while lightweight, might not feel as premium or be as durable as metal in the long term under heavy stress.
* Maximum weight limit (4.4 lbs / 2 kg) restricts use with larger cameras and lenses.
* Stability in tripod mode, while decent for its size, can be affected by wind or uneven surfaces, especially at full extension.
* The integrated ball head is functional but basic, lacking advanced features found on dedicated tripod heads.
Diving into the Details: Features and How They Help
Having used the ULANZI MT-71 for quite a while now, I can speak to how its features translate into real-world use.
Impressive Extendability: Reaching New Heights (Literally)
One of the standout features of the MT-71 is its incredible reach. With 7 distinct sections, it extends smoothly from a compact 13.38 inches (34cm) when folded down, all the way up to a towering 59 inches (150cm). This range is fantastic. For group photos, you can easily fit everyone in the frame from a distance. For vlogging, extending it allows you to capture a wider field of view or maintain a comfortable distance from the lens. When using it as a tripod, this height means you can position your camera much higher than many mini-tripods, which is great for different perspectives or getting the camera off the ground. The sections lock into place securely enough for most applications, although I’ve found that at maximum extension, there can be a *slight* bit of flex, particularly if you have a heavier camera mounted (though still well within the stated weight limit). You just need to be mindful of this in windy conditions or if trying to make precise adjustments at the very top.
True 3-in-1 Versatility: More Than Just a Stick
The claim of being a 3-in-1 tool is spot on and incredibly valuable.
First, it works seamlessly as a selfie stick. The long extension makes it easy to get great angles, whether you’re holding it out for a wide shot or folding it back for a tighter headshot.
Second, when folded down, it becomes a comfortable handle or grip. This is perfect for action camera use, providing a stable base for handheld vlogging or following dynamic action. The handle section is reasonably thick (about 1.5 inches), which I find comfortable to grip, even for longer periods. This grip mode is vastly superior to just holding the camera directly, reducing small shakes and providing better control.
Third, and perhaps most crucially for me, is the tripod functionality. The legs fold out from the handle section, transforming the grip into a sturdy base. There’s a specific lock mechanism that holds the legs in place, preventing them from collapsing unexpectedly. The base, while small, is surprisingly stable on flat surfaces. Even on slightly uneven ground, because the center column elevates the camera away from the direct base, it has a bit more flexibility to find a stable footing than some ultra-compact tripods. This tripod mode is invaluable for setting up static shots, timelapses, or even just using your camera hands-free for video calls or streaming. It’s not a heavy-duty tripod by any means – you wouldn’t use it with a large, unbalanced load or expect it to withstand significant knocks – but for its size and portability, the stability it offers for lightweight devices is impressive and reliably gets the job done for casual to semi-serious content creation.
Built for Compatibility: Working with What You Have
ULANZI clearly designed this portable stand with versatility in mind. The universal 1/4” screw mount at the top is the industry standard for most cameras, making it compatible out-of-the-box with countless compact digital cameras, mirrorless cameras (provided they are under the 4.4 lbs weight limit), phone holders (sold separately, but essential for phone users), and even some lighting accessories. The included GoPro adapter is a smart addition, instantly making it a perfect companion for GoPro Hero cameras (11, 10, 9, 8 Black mentioned, but works with others too), DJI Osmo Action, DJI Action 3, DJI Osmo Pocket (with the right adapter, though it fits Osmo Pocket 2 well), and Insta360 cameras like the One R, One X2/X3, and the Ace Pro. This wide compatibility is a huge benefit, meaning you likely won’t need multiple support tools for different cameras.
Lightweight and Durable Construction: Ready for Travel
The MT-71 is constructed primarily from Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene (ABS), a common thermoplastic. This choice of material contributes significantly to its low weight of just 357 grams (0.78 lbs). This is light enough that you barely notice it in your backpack or camera bag. Its folded size (13.38 inches) is also very manageable, making it a genuinely portable tool for travel, hiking, skiing, or just everyday outings. While ABS isn’t as rigid or robust as aluminum or carbon fiber, it is surprisingly durable for its weight class and resists impacts reasonably well. After using it for a while, the extensions still slide smoothly, and the tripod legs lock firmly. The main potential point of wear might be the integrated ball head over extensive use, as it’s also plastic, but for light loads and careful handling, it holds up. The overall structure feels solid enough for its intended purpose – providing lightweight, portable support – but if you’re rough with gear or plan to use it in harsh conditions frequently, the plastic construction is something to be aware of as a potential disadvantage compared to metal alternatives.
Integrated Ball Head: Simple Positioning
The ULANZI selfie tripod includes a small integrated ball head at the top. This allows you to angle your camera left, right, up, and down, which is crucial for framing your shots correctly, especially when using it as a tripod. The ball head locks via a simple screw mechanism. It’s not the smoothest or most precise ball head you’ll ever use – fine adjustments can sometimes be a little fiddly, and securing it tightly requires a firm twist – but for quick angle changes and holding a lightweight camera steady once locked, it does the job effectively. It’s adequate for point-and-shoot cameras, action cameras, and phones, offering the necessary flexibility for vlogging or static shots.
Overall, the ULANZI MT-71 excels in providing a very long, versatile support solution in an extremely portable package. The 7-section extension is its main party trick, offering heights rarely seen in such a compact form factor. Its 3-in-1 design makes it genuinely useful in multiple scenarios, reducing the need for separate accessories. While the plastic construction and basic ball head might be potential downsides for users accustomed to more professional gear or those who are particularly hard on equipment, these are necessary trade-offs for achieving its impressive weight and folded size. For casual users, travelers, and action camera enthusiasts needing a lightweight, extended reach, and stable-enough tripod, the ULANZI MT-71 hits a sweet spot.
What Others Are Saying: Real User Experiences
Browsing through online reviews, it’s clear that many users share my positive experience with the ULANZI MT-71. People frequently commend its excellent quality and design, highlighting the high-end feel of the materials despite the focus on being lightweight. Many confirm that the tripod stands sturdy when holding compatible cameras and is incredibly easy to carry around. Users appreciate its compactness and portability, noting how much better it is than bulky alternatives. Several reviews mention its ability to easily support larger cameras (within the weight limit) and its perfect fit with popular action cameras like the DJI Osmo Pocket 3, Osmo Action 3, and Insta360 Ace Pro. The ease of adjustment and the benefit of the long extension are also commonly praised features. Overall, the sentiment is overwhelmingly positive, with users feeling they got excellent value for their money and strongly recommending the product.
Final Thoughts: Is This the Right Choice for You?
If you’re tired of shaky videos and poorly framed photos, or constantly relying on others to hold your camera, the problem is clear: you need a reliable and portable camera support. Without one, you’ll continue to miss those perfect shots and struggle to create stable content, limiting your creativity and the quality of your captured memories. The ULANZI MT-71 is a great fit to solve this because, firstly, its impressive 59-inch extension gives you incredible reach for unique perspectives and group shots. Secondly, its 3-in-1 functionality means you get a versatile tool for selfie stick use, stable handheld shooting, and a functional tripod, all in one lightweight package. Lastly, its broad compatibility with popular action cameras and compact cameras makes it a practical choice for many users. If this sounds like the solution you need, Click here to check out the ULANZI MT-71 and see if it’s right for your adventures.
Last update on 2025-10-06 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API