SmallRig 1138B Upgrade Camera Mount Clamp with Double Ball Head Magic Arm (Super Clamp, 1.5kg load)

If you’re setting up a camera, webcam, or light and you don’t want to drill holes, a solid clamp mount is one of those “should-have” purchases. The SmallRig 1138B upgrade is built around the classic super clamp idea, but with a sturdier, anti-twist approach and non-slip threads designed to hold more confidently.

On paper, it’s aimed at creators who want flexibility day to day: repositioning quickly, mounting onto a variety of surfaces, and running small rigs without turning the workspace into a DIY construction project. That said, it’s still a clamp system—so it’s worth thinking about the surface you’ll clamp to and how dynamic your shoot gets.

Key features that matter in real use

The headline here is the 1138B clamp upgrade. It’s described as a more robust version of the classic super clamp design, with improved non-slip threads and an anti-twist structure. The manufacturer also quotes a load capacity of 1.5kg, positioned for setups like a GoPro, webcam, camera, monitor and lights.

The other major practical point is flexibility from the double ball head and the magic arm design. Instead of a single fixed angle, you get a ball-head style adjustability that’s useful when you’re trying to get the camera at the right height and angle for framing—especially when you’re setting up a desk station or changing between portrait-style and landscape-style viewing.

There’s also a “mount without drilling” approach: you attach the clamps to a rod/tube/table/frame/tripod type situation and lock it down with the knob.

What stands out (and where it can fall short)

What stands out most is how multi-purpose the clamp approach is. With the included 1/4"-20 screw, you can mount compatible devices such as cameras, webcams, monitors, lights and microphones (the description mentions microphones and action cameras as well). The double ball head supports that “arrange, tighten, shoot” workflow.

Where you may want to be a bit cautious is dynamic use. The packaging note specifically advises that when used in dynamic scenarios, you should connect a safety cord to reduce the risk of accidental drops. In other words: if you’re using it in situations where things could be bumped, swung, or vibrate, don’t treat it as a set-and-forget solution.

Also, while 1.5kg gives you headroom for a lot of small kit, it’s not meant for heavy-duty rigs beyond that stated capacity. If you’re planning on mounting something significantly heavier, you’ll need to think carefully rather than assuming more mass is automatically fine.

Compatibility and mounting basics

This SmallRig mount is described as coming with clamps and the 1/4"-20 mounting screw. Setup is meant to be straightforward: you fix the clamps to the surface/rod/tube/table/frame/tripod setup you’re using, then tighten with the locking knob—no drilling is required.

There’s also an action-cam angle: the kit includes an adapter support for GoPro, which should make it easier to go from a “camera first” setup to an action-cam setup without having to hunt down additional parts.

One practical limitation to keep in mind: clamp mounts depend heavily on the surface. Softer materials, unusual shapes, or very small clamping areas can reduce stability. If you’re not sure, it’s worth checking whether your intended surface allows a firm, secure hold.

Materials and build feel

The 1138B upgrade is made from aluminium and stainless steel, and the description positions it as a clamp that’s built for long-term use. It’s also framed as a product design with a long sales history and a large user base.

In everyday terms, that matters because clamp mounts live and die by repeatability. If you’re frequently loosening and re-tightening, you want threads that grip consistently. The non-slip threads and anti-torsion structure are clearly aimed at that stability problem.

Tips for day-to-day setup (including a quick example)

A typical desk setup is where this kind of mount shines. Imagine you’re building a simple filming station: you clamp the super clamp to the edge of your desk or to a sturdy frame, attach your 1/4"-20 compatible device, then use the double ball head to adjust the viewing angle.

To get the best results, treat tightening as part of the workflow rather than an afterthought: lock it down firmly, then do a gentle check by slightly moving the camera/arm by hand before you start recording.

And if your setup involves movement—like filming in a vehicle or any situation where the mount could get jolted—the safety note becomes more important. Connecting a safety cord is specifically recommended in dynamic scenarios.

Is it worth it?

It’s a solid pick if you want a clamp-based mounting system for small to medium creator kit—GoPro, webcam, camera, monitor and lights—without drilling. The non-slip threads, anti-twist structure, double ball head adjustability, and the included GoPro adapter all point to a “set up fast, tweak angles quickly” use case.

You may want to skip it if you’re planning a very dynamic environment without using a safety cord, or if your planned equipment is near or beyond the stated 1.5kg load capacity. As with any clamp mount, the surface you attach it to will make or break stability, so it’s worth double-checking clamping suitability before committing.

Quick FAQs

Quick FAQs

Does it require drilling?

No drilling is required, based on the described clamp-and-lock setup.

What mounting thread does it use?

It includes a 1/4"-20 screw.

What devices does it suit?

The description mentions cameras, webcams, monitors, lights, microphones, and action cameras like GoPro.

Is a safety cord needed?

The note says that in dynamic scenarios you should connect a safety cord to help avoid accidental drops.

What’s the maximum load it supports?

The stated load capacity is 1.5kg.