Actually really happy they brought out a v3, the feet on the v2 were sometimes too narrow for my taste, not only for letting the camera go but overall stability at weird angles with big lenses. Looks like a safe buy, the QD neck “problem” can probably be solved with an unlocking ziptie…
They should implement an additional twist lock feature for the neck to avoid the pull up issue you experienced. My heart would probably jump out my throat if that happened to me!!
I want to say the fluid head they have is really good for being such a small size. I ended up using that along with a gitzo monopod and benro 3leg base
Seeing it mentioned as a poor man's steadycam, I got curious to see how stable a S5 II-X (best IBIS in the market) paired with the monopod would be, and how would it look compared to an unstabilized camera on a proper gimbal. Any chances we could see a test like that in a future video?
@@scottslotterbeck3796 I’ve actually been using one for twenty years-because the digital cameras were (and still are) so much lighter than SLRs and didn’t have image stabilization. A monopod is quite useful to me, in many respects.
The Cobra2 has one special underrated feature: it‘s a nice mace! Fold the legs up. Good balancing, sturdy, heavy head and a good grip. So if Zombie Apocalypse starts, while i‘m on a photographic assignment, I would reach for my cobra 2.
I've have been practicing with my monopod since the version 2 , I feel much less insane after reading these posts . My overhand cast with quick release of the fluid head - flowing into a finishing move with the folded feet to upper body is a thing of beauty.
After using it for three months, the Cobra3 180PF base I purchased has become stuck and cannot be removed. The manufacturer refuses to repair it. The lock on the monopod frequently loosens and is difficult to secure. Therefore, I believe this is a very poor product from iFootage with many manufacturing issues. The Cobra2, which I have used for many years, is much more reliable.
That would be really good for real estate photography with the right head on it, but one wonders if it would be steady enough for shooting a vertical shot, especially if the camera moves a bit off center, so the weight will shift a bit, i.e., no L bracket.
Did you have any problems with the reduced load capacity of the Cobra 3 pedal version? The Cobra 2 is rated for 22 pounds, while the Cobra 3 is rated for only 13.
I wonder if I should get a monopod. I drag along my tripod, just because I’m since two years back dealing with Parkinson’s desease. I just hate taking photos with the iso at 1000 (or higher) in order to get shutter speeds that will work with my shaking hands. I would get a sort of quick setup with the camera on a monopod.
Can you purchase just the v3 feet to use with the v2? I feel like maybe you said something to that effect but wanted to clarify. Thanks in advance! I love this monopod for weddings! 💒
I own the cobra 2 monopod in aluminum... good low footprint 180cm camera monopod. Should neve got the carbon fiber for weight perhaps if I get the cobra 3 I'll go carbon fiber.
The struggling you're having at 2:49 was what I was getting as well, it just doesn't work that well, too much effort (especially with stuff actually mounted), I had the same issues at times docking it, but then other times it would dock seamlessly and for the life of me I could not figure out if there was a knack I was missing to this thing. Coupled with the broken pedal within a week makes me feel this is not a good monopod and their older design more robust, safer and easier to use.
do you think the pedal version would standup to -30c Canadian winter shooting or the knob version be better. Also how do these compare to SIRUI P-325FL or p424fl
Hi Jordan - have you any plans on trying the new Strike 3. I need a new monopod, but there seems precious little about it online. Its strangely only available in October 2024.
I just purchased and took delivery of my Cobra 3 (pedal version) What I don’t understand is why iFootage doesn’t just standardize on the SeaStars Q1S quick connect system
great review, including many tipps - thank you! As I only work as a photographer , I only bought the pedal to combine it with the more compact bento supadupa PRO with integrated 20 degree level base
I just wonder how long the foot pedal might last on the 3. It's not hard to imagine me stepping on it and breaking it. So I think I will stick with my three Cobra II monopods. With the Komodo K5 and an Induro BHL3S ballhead, I think I am good to go for the foreseeable future for both stills and video.
I like the iFootage Cobra 2 Strike. With one twist, it telescopes out. Same idea of the feet and head that detach, etc. Just the locking mechanism is different. Indeed, I wonder / hope that the various feet that iFootage now makes can be used with all of the old and new monopods.
Hi thanks for the review. Quick question when you turn the red twist lock does the extending telescopic sections also get locked? I wonder if my camera set up is a little heavy if it would hold in place and doesn’t collapse. Thanks
So you can comment on your shirt, but we can't? My question is, why would anyone want to? By the way, ironing is just a big waste of time. If you don't look good in a wrinkled shirt, it isn't the fault of the wrinkles.
Given that hydrostatics is “the branch of physics that deals with the characteristics of fluids at rest,” could someone explain what he means when he talks about the “hydrostatic ball”?
I so wanted to like this monopod but the quick release is very stiff and not easier. You need to use both hands which is impossible if you have a long lens or even a smaller lens and you are holding your camera with the other hand. Why would you leave thousands of dollars worth of camera dangling on the other end while you pulled and pushed the quick release down?!! I returned mine. If I footage redesigns the quick release then its a winner, but not as it is.
I picked up the cobra 3 a couple of months ago and it is amazing, Ifootage always nails it with the build quality, this is not your typical monopod. I love it. I love the color scheme on all of Ifootage product. Big fan of the black and red.
I have the Cobra 2 v2...are the new feet really that much better? I never leave my Sony FX30 unattended on the monopod...I used to have a Sirui monopod with big feet but they were not very steady...big for sure...got in the way sometimes...debating
Nope, because my pedal is broken 1 week in, monopod didn't even leave the house. I also find some of the machined parts questionable. I think their older models and release system was better and more durable. Mind you the telescopic one I had broke as well. I'm just not seeing the quality or longevity here in iFootage products.
For me, it's sticks until I die, but my shooting workflow is way different from yours. I might just try a monopod. You're very convincing. Good to hear that you like the Komodo head. iFootage sticks and Komodo K5S on order. My iPhone 15 Pro Max is gonna love it.
Oddly enogh for me, I can say that the only thing that I dont like about Cobra 2 and 3 is exactly this ball head. In the begining I thought it is nice, but after 1 year, if there is a Cobra 3 with those same locks, but WITHOUT a ball head near the legs, I will 100% choose this one.
Interesting. So how would someone that's mostly a photographer ( hobbbiest ) use this? I don't blog, vlog or . One thing that does come to mind is I will be photographing an older Union Pacific steam engine as it goes back to Cheyenne WY from Nebraska. I could set up my other camera to video it as it goes by so I don't have to choose photos or vid. And that assumes that I have enough knowledge to set up that camera correctly. Ha! Edit Aug 2024. Since Jordan said I needed this I went and ordered it with a K5S fluid head. Now that I see it there's no way I would do what I was thinking above. And I don't think I'd walk away from it at all. But I can see where it could be helpful to help stabilize the camera with people around like on a hiking trail or a walking bridge over a waterfall in a park. Or even an outside car show. I can also see using this and being able to get much more usable video with the fluid head. ( old guy = Shaky McShaky). Oh and if my wife writes you, please just confirm that you did tell me I Needed this. thanks - your friend Tim
Jordan. I'm surprised you did not try the Sirui 204S. I have had mine for several years: it is beautifully made - even the packaging and shoulder bag are first rate. It has longer feet than most, and I have mounted a D500 + 200 - 500mm f5.6 on mine and walked away. It also strips down to allow for a very low camera angle. I have a SIRUI K-30II Ball Head fitted to mine. I do like the clip release on this iFootage Cobra 2, though.
Is this good for insta 360 x3? Im looking for something i can leave and not gonna fall coz of the strong wind here in my place 😅or any reco please i need something that is good for strong wind but small
I've been playing around with the thought of buying a monopod and never new they have these kind of functions these days... Last one i had was back in early 2000 😂😂😂 This looks interesting for sure.
Actually really happy they brought out a v3, the feet on the v2 were sometimes too narrow for my taste, not only for letting the camera go but overall stability at weird angles with big lenses.
Looks like a safe buy, the QD neck “problem” can probably be solved with an unlocking ziptie…
I just found the most interesting thing about the bag. It extends for whatever head you are using. Love this monopod.
They should implement an additional twist lock feature for the neck to avoid the pull up issue you experienced. My heart would probably jump out my throat if that happened to me!!
Yeah unfortunately this is a deal breaker , if it happened to Jordan it’ll happen to me
I agree that this is a deal breaker. Sorry to see such a fail on what looks like an awesome product
I bought both the Monopod and tripod system from iFootage on your old review, and i love it still.
the new feet are tempting, I might just order those and keep my cobra 2. pedal or not is a tough choice.
I want to say the fluid head they have is really good for being such a small size. I ended up using that along with a gitzo monopod and benro 3leg base
I remember that monopod review. I like mine as well.
The quick release at the top seems like a big design flaw to me. Would definitely put me off if I did shoot video enough to justify it.
Fantastic for large telephotos at sporting events as well. Way better than a tripod.
Hey guys can you please make "The Best Lenses" series again? I want to see what your opinion on the best lenses Micro Four Thirds and Nikon lenses
Funny you mention that, we just shot a new one!
@@PetaPixel eyyy that's good news, Can't wait to watch it! 😁
you would have to be out of your mind to place an expensive pro mirrorless camera + lens on that tooth pick!
I have ifootage 2 and its great! The ifootage 3 looks good too. What is a zed 8?
I think Jordan is referring to the new Nikon Z8.
Nice vid but man camera is too expensive for mono's
Maybe. I use mine with my GH5. Perfect for that camera.
Cobra 3 looks like Sirui monopod
Is it Carpenter Brut? Sadly not. 😞
That's so true. I love a lot of his music.
Is it just me or is Jordan's shirt wrinkled?
😮😮😅
Hey Jordan - your shirt is wrinkled! Just wanted to let you know
your shirt is wrinkled. badly wrinkled. just sayin'
Stop lying..this base stinks. 1 inch longer makes no difference! Its a scam.
Seeing it mentioned as a poor man's steadycam, I got curious to see how stable a S5 II-X (best IBIS in the market) paired with the monopod would be, and how would it look compared to an unstabilized camera on a proper gimbal. Any chances we could see a test like that in a future video?
+1
Shirt wrinkled = report = unsubscribed.
Thanks for this! It seems hard to find practical reviews of monopods by people who actually do make good use of them.
If you get ine, you'll use it more than you think.
I shoot at comic cons and gatherings like that. A monopod is a game changer in confined spaces.
@@scottslotterbeck3796 I’ve actually been using one for twenty years-because the digital cameras were (and still are) so much lighter than SLRs and didn’t have image stabilization. A monopod is quite useful to me, in many respects.
@@scottslotterbeck3796 Its a game changer for sure but not until they fix the quick release!
The Cobra2 has one special underrated feature: it‘s a nice mace! Fold the legs up. Good balancing, sturdy, heavy head and a good grip. So if Zombie Apocalypse starts, while i‘m on a photographic assignment, I would reach for my cobra 2.
+1 that's definitely a handy little feature
I've have been practicing with my monopod since the version 2 , I feel much less insane after reading these posts . My overhand cast with quick release of the fluid head - flowing into a finishing move with the folded feet to upper body is a thing of beauty.
After using it for three months, the Cobra3 180PF base I purchased has become stuck and cannot be removed. The manufacturer refuses to repair it. The lock on the monopod frequently loosens and is difficult to secure. Therefore, I believe this is a very poor product from iFootage with many manufacturing issues. The Cobra2, which I have used for many years, is much more reliable.
Just got mine yesterday. First time monopod user. Went with the aluminum twist lock with the k5 head. Can’t wait to use it.
Since you've switched to the Panasonic S5 II X, could you make a video about that? Why you switched? Do you use ProRes over SSD? etc. 😍
His shirt seems oddly wrinkly..
That would be really good for real estate photography with the right head on it, but one wonders if it would be steady enough for shooting a vertical shot, especially if the camera moves a bit off center, so the weight will shift a bit, i.e., no L bracket.
Oh man, that kneeling on the stones at 4:52 and the noise you made, I could feel the pain in my balls -ouch!
Did you have any problems with the reduced load capacity of the Cobra 3 pedal version? The Cobra 2 is rated for 22 pounds, while the Cobra 3 is rated for only 13.
Glad to see you back on the big screen Jordan! Really enjoyed this review of the Cobra 3; thanks so much for doing this for us :)
Thanks for making a damned fine monopod!
-Jordan
I wonder if I should get a monopod. I drag along my tripod, just because I’m since two years back dealing with Parkinson’s desease. I just hate taking photos with the iso at 1000 (or higher) in order to get shutter speeds that will work with my shaking hands. I would get a sort of quick setup with the camera on a monopod.
I use mine all the time. So much more handy than a tripod.
Now THAT is how a review is done. All meat, with some humor, and clear illustrations of the points. Thank you!
Can you purchase just the v3 feet to use with the v2? I feel like maybe you said something to that effect but wanted to clarify. Thanks in advance! I love this monopod for weddings! 💒
Technically, they are tripods with short legs! 😅
this guy did more advertisement for iFootage monopod than their entire marketing department
what's with the wrinkly shirt?
I own the cobra 2 monopod in aluminum... good low footprint 180cm camera monopod. Should neve got the carbon fiber for weight perhaps if I get the cobra 3 I'll go carbon fiber.
I'd buy a Jordan Drake signature model with all the doodads featured in the vid included as a kit. Whatsay iFootage peeps?
man id get hurt seeing you drop that. scraped aluminum and cf parts ouch
Jordan, the shirt is wrinkled.
I presume the new feet fit the cobra 2?
If they do I will just get a set of those for the upgrade.
The struggling you're having at 2:49 was what I was getting as well, it just doesn't work that well, too much effort (especially with stuff actually mounted), I had the same issues at times docking it, but then other times it would dock seamlessly and for the life of me I could not figure out if there was a knack I was missing to this thing. Coupled with the broken pedal within a week makes me feel this is not a good monopod and their older design more robust, safer and easier to use.
Cobra Kai
LOL
Nice video Jordan but your shirt is wrinkled 😄
do you think the pedal version would standup to -30c Canadian winter shooting or the knob version be better. Also how do these compare to SIRUI P-325FL or p424fl
Hi Jordan - have you any plans on trying the new Strike 3. I need a new monopod, but there seems precious little about it online. Its strangely only available in October 2024.
I’ve owned three video monopods and sold them all. They’re as heavy as a light tripod and the un stabilised footage has quirky movement.
I just purchased and took delivery of my Cobra 3 (pedal version) What I don’t understand is why iFootage doesn’t just standardize on the SeaStars Q1S quick connect system
great review, including many tipps - thank you! As I only work as a photographer , I only bought the pedal to combine it with the more compact bento supadupa PRO with integrated 20 degree level base
I just wonder how long the foot pedal might last on the 3. It's not hard to imagine me stepping on it and breaking it.
So I think I will stick with my three Cobra II monopods. With the Komodo K5 and an Induro BHL3S ballhead, I think I am good to go for the foreseeable future for both stills and video.
Is this monopod compatible with iPhones?
iFootage does not make iPhone mounts, but you can buy an iPhone holder that screws into the ¼"-20 screw on the head of the monopod.
I like the iFootage Cobra 2 Strike. With one twist, it telescopes out. Same idea of the feet and head that detach, etc. Just the locking mechanism is different. Indeed, I wonder / hope that the various feet that iFootage now makes can be used with all of the old and new monopods.
Nice video Jordan. Why no affiliate links?
Hi thanks for the review. Quick question when you turn the red twist lock does the extending telescopic sections also get locked? I wonder if my camera set up is a little heavy if it would hold in place and doesn’t collapse. Thanks
I have a Cobra II, and it was the gateway into a full iFootage addiction. Magic arms, tripods, I'm hooked.
So you can comment on your shirt, but we can't? My question is, why would anyone want to?
By the way, ironing is just a big waste of time. If you don't look good in a wrinkled shirt, it isn't the fault of the wrinkles.
Or just buy a Yungteng VCT-288 for $25 and put a better video head on it....
Wishing I would have had one with me when I was taking pictures of eagles. Got some good shots but probably could have gotten a lot more
I’m not the only one who has difficulties with the “quick release”.
Given that hydrostatics is “the branch of physics that deals with the characteristics of fluids at rest,” could someone explain what he means when he talks about the “hydrostatic ball”?
It's a dance held in deep, still water.
I love the 3d structure in your shirt, it looks magical
I so wanted to like this monopod but the quick release is very stiff and not easier. You need to use both hands which is impossible if you have a long lens or even a smaller lens and you are holding your camera with the other hand. Why would you leave thousands of dollars worth of camera dangling on the other end while you pulled and pushed the quick release down?!! I returned mine. If I footage redesigns the quick release then its a winner, but not as it is.
Hey Jordan, your shirt is wrinkled 😂🤣😂🤣😂
Well, pineta peak review now? It's better in alot of ways.....
Do you guys have an affiliate page where I can buy this and support you guys a little.
you'd have thought that in camera software could have ironed out those creases FFS !
can you help I have a cobra 3 and the quick release for the camera on the actual monopod has stuck in down position so wont lock onto the camera piece
Where the wrinkle at?
Hey Jordan, I think you could iron out your shirt a bit before presenting a video 😉
OMG that's an expensive piece of plastic and metal.
Maybe it’s just me but why have a monopod with a little tripod at the base?
Have you ever tried 3 Legged Thing monopods?
waiting to see every comment just be what nd filter were they using lol
,,,got the 3 in carbon with the foot lever and love it! Still shooters.
I picked up the cobra 3 a couple of months ago and it is amazing, Ifootage always nails it with the build quality, this is not your typical monopod. I love it. I love the color scheme on all of Ifootage product. Big fan of the black and red.
never seen before jump it so on the nacked floor [3:00]
I'd love to hear your thoughts on the new version
😅 no estoy ganando lo suficiente 😂
hearing metal clink on cement is painful
So many wrinkles! 😂😂
Great monopod. Glad to see I'm not the only one that has trouble putting the shaft into the base quick release.
Thanks for the ironing tips
Your shirt is … wrinkled 😂
This guy is actually hilarious
I have the Cobra 2 v2...are the new feet really that much better? I never leave my Sony FX30 unattended on the monopod...I used to have a Sirui monopod with big feet but they were not very steady...big for sure...got in the way sometimes...debating
Nope, because my pedal is broken 1 week in, monopod didn't even leave the house. I also find some of the machined parts questionable. I think their older models and release system was better and more durable. Mind you the telescopic one I had broke as well. I'm just not seeing the quality or longevity here in iFootage products.
Love the shirt!
For me, it's sticks until I die, but my shooting workflow is way different from yours. I might just try a monopod. You're very convincing.
Good to hear that you like the Komodo head. iFootage sticks and Komodo K5S on order. My iPhone 15 Pro Max is gonna love it.
Hey fellow North American brothers, when yall gonna simply start your own channel? Odd how old DP review video's are still up, 💚it
Impressive
On wiki-what now 👀
Oddly enogh for me, I can say that the only thing that I dont like about Cobra 2 and 3 is exactly this ball head. In the begining I thought it is nice, but after 1 year, if there is a Cobra 3 with those same locks, but WITHOUT a ball head near the legs, I will 100% choose this one.
Interesting. So how would someone that's mostly a photographer ( hobbbiest ) use this? I don't blog, vlog or . One thing that does come to mind is I will be photographing an older Union Pacific steam engine as it goes back to Cheyenne WY from Nebraska. I could set up my other camera to video it as it goes by so I don't have to choose photos or vid. And that assumes that I have enough knowledge to set up that camera correctly. Ha!
Edit Aug 2024. Since Jordan said I needed this I went and ordered it with a K5S fluid head. Now that I see it there's no way I would do what I was thinking above. And I don't think I'd walk away from it at all. But I can see where it could be helpful to help stabilize the camera with people around like on a hiking trail or a walking bridge over a waterfall in a park. Or even an outside car show. I can also see using this and being able to get much more usable video with the fluid head. ( old guy = Shaky McShaky). Oh and if my wife writes you, please just confirm that you did tell me I Needed this. thanks - your friend Tim
Jordan. I'm surprised you did not try the Sirui 204S. I have had mine for several years: it is beautifully made - even the packaging and shoulder bag are first rate. It has longer feet than most, and I have mounted a D500 + 200 - 500mm f5.6 on mine and walked away. It also strips down to allow for a very low camera angle. I have a SIRUI K-30II Ball Head fitted to mine. I do like the clip release on this iFootage Cobra 2, though.
Is this good for insta 360 x3? Im looking for something i can leave and not gonna fall coz of the strong wind here in my place 😅or any reco please i need something that is good for strong wind but small
Imagine getting in front of the camera with a shirt that wrinkled.
I wouldn't have said anything, but you brought it up.
Could you guys make a review on the K&F s210 tripod
I've been playing around with the thought of buying a monopod and never new they have these kind of functions these days... Last one i had was back in early 2000 😂😂😂 This looks interesting for sure.