SMALLRIG 175cm Carbon Fibre Video Monopod with One-Button Lift & Lock (Compact 4-Section, Fluid Head)
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Product description
What it is and why you’d want a monopod
A monopod is one of those pieces of kit that’s quietly brilliant when a tripod feels like overkill and a handheld grip starts to wobble. This SMALLRIG carbon fibre video monopod is built for that middle ground: steadier framing for video and stills, but with quicker carry and easier setup.
On paper, it leans towards creators who move between locations a lot, where you want support you can deploy fast and adjust without faffing. The headline here is the one-button lift & lock, paired with a compact 4-section design—so you can set height quickly and keep shooting.
Key takeaways (the practical stuff)
You get a 4-section monopod that extends to 175cm / 68.9" and collapses down to 29.9" for transport. That range matters because it makes the monopod useful for different shooting positions (low tableside work vs higher standing angles) without needing awkward body posture.
The one-button lift & lock is also the kind of feature that sounds small until you’re in the middle of a shoot. The idea is simple: press to lock your desired height instantly, and adjust one-handed. In real-world use, that can mean fewer interruptions when you’re also managing a camera, accessories, or a second hand for your stability.
That said, it’s still a monopod. If you’re expecting tripod-level stability on uneven ground or for very long static takes, you may find it’s more about “good support” than “complete immobility”.
Where it stands out in use
Fast changes are where this design should feel right. The quick-release monopod feet are meant to speed up deployment, so you can move from one setup to another without taking your focus off the scene.
There’s also a comfort angle: it’s described as stable & lightweight. The listed weight is 5.51 lb, and the monopod legs support up to 33.07 lb. While payload ratings aren’t the same thing as real-world balance with your exact camera rig, it does suggest the build is intended for serious day-to-day use.
A simple micro-scenario: you’re shooting an event walkthrough. You step from a crowded foreground into a slightly clearer spot, then need to raise the camera quickly to clear heads. With one-button lift & lock, you can raise, lock, and continue without fully stopping to fiddle with a multi-step clamp.
Compatibility and mounting options
This monopod is presented as having versatile mounting options: a 1/4"-20 screw on top, plus dual 1/4"-20 and 3/8"-16 screws at the base. That gives you flexibility for common accessories.
The base compatibility is also framed around fitting for DJI RS and for MFT 501L - 5565 (as stated in the product info). If your setup sits in that ecosystem, it’s more likely to feel like a straightforward add-on rather than a compromise.
It may not suit you if your rig uses unusual thread standards or relies on a specific mounting system that isn’t covered by the listed screw options. In that case, you’ll want to double-check how your head or gimbal will attach.
Tech specs (what to note before buying)
- Length: 175cm / 68.9"
- Collapsed length: 29.9"
- Sections: 4
- Weight: 5.51 lb
- Payload/load (legs): 33.07 lb
- Mounting: 1/4"-20 screw on top, dual 1/4"-20 and 3/8"-16 screws at the base
- One-button lift & lock: for instant height locking and one-handed adjustments
- Carbon fibre/aluminium alloy construction: carbon fibre with aluminium alloy components (as described)
The limits you should keep in mind
It’s a fluid head monopod, but the exact smoothness characteristics aren’t detailed here, so you shouldn’t assume it will behave like higher-end rigs from more expensive line-ups. Also, while the one-button lock is designed for quick operation, very fine height adjustment may still take a bit of practice—especially if you’re chasing exact framing.
Finally, compatibility is described in terms of certain rigs, so if your camera system isn’t in that scope, you might end up spending time working out mounting solutions using the screw threads.
When it makes sense to buy it (and when to skip it)
A solid pick if you want a compact carbon fibre monopod that extends to 175cm, stores down to under 30 inches, and prioritises quick height changes with one-button lift & lock. It suits creators doing active shooting—events, travel, documentary-style filming—where you value speed and portability as much as stability.
It’s not the best choice if you need absolute tripod-level steadiness for long, static shots, or if your setup requires a specific proprietary mounting system that isn’t covered by the stated 1/4"-20 and 3/8"-16 options. If you’re mainly shooting stationary studio scenes, a tripod (or a different support approach) may fit better.
Mini FAQ
Is it quick to set up?
The quick-release monopod feet are specifically aimed at faster deployment, and the one-button lift & lock is meant to let you adjust height instantly.
How tall does it go?
It extends to 175cm / 68.9".
How compact is it for carrying?
The collapsed length is listed as 29.9".
What mounting options does it have?
It includes a 1/4"-20 screw on top, and dual 1/4"-20 and 3/8"-16 screws at the base.
Is it compatible with DJI RS?
The description states it fits for DJI RS (and also for MFT 501L - 5565). Still, it’s worth double-checking your exact head/gimbal arrangement to be safe.
Final verdict
It’s a sensible choice if you’re after a compact, lightweight carbon fibre monopod with one-handed height locking and quick deployment—especially for travel or fast-moving shoots. You may want to skip it if you’re expecting full tripod steadiness or if your mounting needs don’t match the listed 1/4"-20 and 3/8"-16 screw options and the stated fitment scope.