I have to second other comments where I first saw a different review then I came across yours - you were so clear in describing the differences vs. version 2 and your style is succint and detailed. Thank you for this video.
@@FellowFilmmaker I did exactly that; bought the new feet/mini tripod for my iFootage 2 and the original feet actually live on / are perfect for my Hand Held Cage
I'm new to this range of monopod and have watched another reviewer. All the things that reviewer didn't do or show and which frustrated me (and trust me, he is a very well respected one), you did! Loved your review, well done and thank you!
Could you maybe comment on the Kodomo K5s panning? I watched a review video comparing the old K5 to the Manfrotto 500AH and the only issue was the panning on the K5 was not as smooth (when starting the panning motion). Do you feel they improved this aspect in the K5s? Thanks!
I’ve noticed that everyone agrees that the products from iFootage are well made and reliable. That says a lot. Another awesome video. You’re crushing it.
Great video. I love your fast paced, information packed product reviews... at the end of your video I had already order the pedal version and new fluid head. You're a star! Thank you so much.
Your review of older models got me to buy two of them. Since then, I really got into iFootage and now own multiple lights, softbox etc. Such good products.
@@FellowFilmmaker it’s like I jinxed myself - a firmware update appeared for 60DN which seems broken as the light is now stuck at overheat protection as soon as light is turned on. 😞
@@FellowFilmmaker opened a support ticket but no response yet. Hopefully on Monday. It’s all really annoying as they don’t have any page to get older firmware and attempt downgrade. Lumin app now fails to connect to the light over Bluetooth. I planned to make some videos this weekend but failed. In any case - avoid firmware 1.46
I just got an FX3 and was out shooting today with in the cage, the Ninja V and Sony 24-70 GM II and I'm thinking.. I need a monopod! It was heavy on the wrists. The new monopod with the foot lever adjustment looks perfect! Thanks!
Thanks for the review! Very helpful and straightforward. I wasn't sure which one to buy, Cobra 2 or 3. But now I know that I'll be getting the 3. The longer legs are more secure IMO.
Thank you for this great video. It is exactly what I needed as I have been wondering for a while what iFootage monopod I should get. And now that version 3 has come out the decision is easy for me. Thank you also for sharing that there is not a noticeable difference in weight between the aluminium and carbon fiber monopods. Although I would probably opt for the carbon fiber since I live in Canada and aluminium gets real cold on the hands when I am out and about on a winter day. Again, thank you for your awesome, helpful and informative video (just like they always are).
I had to cut the bit I had on the hand grip section on the monopod. It works great in the cold! I was out in the wind and if you have your hands on the grip section, it's not cold and feels comfortable as well. It's super quality as well, no cheap foam stuff. I think you'd love it! You'll have to tell me if you get it and how it does in Canada
Great review! I have the Cobra 2 with the K5 fluid head, and just ordered the K7 fluid head and Cobra 3 base as an upgrade since I'm looking for a more robust fluid head/monopod combo for a semi-rigged FX6. Will report back on the wider base plate and how that figures into the overall setup!
Man I just purchased the Cobra 2 a couple months ago. Sheesh. The good news is they are both so good! The only people who could improve on this monopod is iFootage.
Great review. Definitely helps distinguish between the different options. I use a lot of iFootage stuff as well and really like the build quality/functionality.
The K5 is not a real fluid head, feels like it's more tension based, worst fluid head I've used. I love the monopod/minipod, and the new quick release system looks like a nice improvement.
Thanks for sharing Yeah, the new release system is a game changer for me. I was trying to use the older Cobra 2 while doing testing and I kept expecting it to operate like the new one and it was so annoying that it didn't
I own the Cobra 2 and it’s near the top of most satisfied purchases over the years. The biggest missing feature for me was the lack of a vertical lock and having to reach down for every micro adjustment. I would be more excited if I didn’t have to now decide between the vertical lock foot pedal and having the low angle tilt which I use regularly for vertical movement reveal shots, etc.. Your review was the best I’ve seen on UA-cam and you brought up new small (but much appreciated) features I wasn't aware of like the new one-handed quick release feature. Nice! Fiddling with a 2-handed swap was a bit annoying. The smaller pole diameter is another nice welcomed feature I wasn't aware of which will be great when traveling to remote locations. I may be able to justify a partial upgrade (pole + feet) with the added benefit of a 2x extension for those “no-drone” shots. :-)
for me the COBRA strike MONOPOD is still the best ! I have two other ones 180 carbon flip lock and aluminum ! fiber or aluminum? aluminum is my choice its more sturdy. i am definitely going to buy the pedal base looks like a game changer
I just got the foot pedal base but I can't turn / adjust the rubber tension ring above the foot pedal. Like it was tightened too tight at the factory. I see in the video you have no trouble adjusting the ring. Does anyone else have this issue?
I like my Cobra 2- i had the old manfrotto and then a nice Sirui after- but this Cobra 2 is a bit nicer for sure. I actually found the feet on the Sirui TOO big -I thought they were great when I first bought it but after I felt they were a bit too big-but stable sure...so the Cobra 2 is a good middle ground...but I may change my mind and go for the 3 some day! A great tool for sure. I use my FX30 on a cobra 2 monopod all the time. Much more than on a tripod. Thanks for the video
Good to know about those other monopods! The new feet are def a happy middle ground. I didn't feel they were too big. You could always get the new feet if you have the older cobra 2
@@FellowFilmmaker I havent tried that...I'm concerned that the weight is just on that fragile screw on the monopod...I could use a small tripod head but the whole set up could be a bit heavy...I may feel daring one of these days! Thanks!
I just ordered the foot pedal base and put a note with my order...I assume all the quick release connectors I have from the Cobra 2 will snap into the new pedal base?
Nice. I love my iFootage mono pods. I use one in studio and one for news coverage. I still wish they would revers the latches to be closer to the top of the monopod and not at the bottom. It would save my back. :)
In addition to my photography/videography, I’m an actor always looking for useful gear for self-tape auditions. Do you feel like this monopod would be stable enough / not wobble at all, when left unattended (3-5 feet away) & attaching a Canon EOS R, a RF 35mm, and a Røde video mic go II to it? I sometimes use a bigger lens but I’d be interested in replacing my tripod with a monopod for my travel setup when I have to tape in small hotel rooms on the road. This feels like it could be a great solution to save space but I am concerned about potential wobble slowing down the taping process…
Did I understand correctly the old couplers will fit the new latching mechanism? so if I would get just the new feet I could re-use my Cobra-2 monopod?
Correct! :D Which is a huge plus in my opinion. It of course won't have the new locking on the top of the monopod but the base will if you get just the feet
@@FellowFilmmaker thanks for confirming! That's great, happy to hear they've kept things compatible. Plenty of brands would have introduced an entirely new system...
I wish there were shock-absorbing monopods. When I pick up a monopod while shooting video, and put it back on the ground, that contact with the ground always comes through in the footage, no matter how gentle I try to be.
I wasn't sure what D meant so I looked it up and it said it means Dick. I know I can be a problem sometimes but never considered myself a Dick. You learn something new everyday.
whoa this is the best review on the cobra 3....for what it is worth I just ordered one online through amazon thanks to you video...would have used your links but did not see any for amazon Canada 😕
Could've stated how much larger the new legs is compared to the old, in inches/centimeters. Also could elaborate more on the new foot pedal. If the pedal is unlock at an angle, is it stable and can locked at that angle also, or do I need to hold it to maintain the angle. This is important and a big difference because in the previous cobra ii, I can lock it at an angle. This helps when the ground/plain is not leveled.
I'd say its about a quarter twist, maybe a speck more. But I honestly always forget which way to twist cuz both directions feel like it could be the lock (course only one is).
@@FellowFilmmaker I actually have the cobra 2 strike A150SII, but it broke! The main shaft just came apart and needed to be sent back to China for repair, but I felt it was not worth the postage and hassle. I noted that all their revamps excluded this particular type of extension so I'm thinking they knew it was a bit dodgy and not easily fixed for future iterations so are just sticking with twist locks and flips. I had a think about it and decided for the new Cobra 3 Pedal version, my old 90 degree tilt feet are just fine so now I have two types of feet to choose from which I think will be quite handy. As always thanks for your hard work and reviews, much appreciated!
Have they told you when the Cobra 3 Pedal version would start shipping? Pre-ordered from B&H for a Yellowstone trip in mid-May. I’m assuming it’ll arrive by then but the details around availability has been surprisingly sparse.
Be nice if they had hydrolic system so you could put your foot on the pedal to adjust height release to lock the height. Im surprised nothing like that appears to exist.
I don't do still that much, so I'm using my video head when doing pictures. If you have a preference you can use any head with a 3/8th's mounting thread on the monopod, or even 1/4 20.
I wanted to take advantage of this beautiful video to thank you for everything you do. Your videos are always very complete, precise, instructive and pleasant to watch. A cuckoo from Paris
Thank you for your review. Could I ask before buying the K5S if it is possible to mount a lens foot to it without an additional purchase? My use case is shooting events and I have a need to switch between vertical and horizontal instantly and likewise between video and photography so I'm wondering if I can replace my current set-up which is monopod and gimbal head with the K5S to get smoother panning. Thank you! :)
Loved this review; convinced me to buy one (it gets here Sunday.). What backpack do you use when you're not in the studio and want to carry the monopod with you? Headed to Alaska in August on a cruisetour of Denali and I really want to take this with me and have it as part of whatever backpack I decide to take.
Thanks for your great videos! I was wondering if you will also make one about the new Zhiyung x100 light that is talked about a lot lately. I'm wondering what your impression would be. A comparison to other lamps such as the Godox ml60 bi would also be very interesting sice they are in the same price range and are designed for simular use.
Thx for the video ! Just switched my tripod for a smaller and lighter one. I may change my monopod too because of you lol monopod are so useful outdoors and on vacancy . Good work Heather!
Hi! I've watched several of your videos and you are a true professional! Thanks for this channel! The next part of my comment is unrelated to the current video, but I do have a question that I've been looking an answer for all over youtube. Here it is. I want to create some educational biology videos using a whiteboard. The shot would be me and the whiteboard. What would the best light setup be in your opinion? I was thinking Godox ML60W (after your video comparing it with the SL 60W) and a maybe a lantern instead of a softbox? I also thought about led panels, but i have doubts. I'm in a small (but high ceiling) room. An answer would help me so much since the internet is weirdly silent :)) I guess whiteboards and lighting is not such a common topic.
With white boards it get's tricky because you can get glare and overexposure very quickly. You may be better off with a large diffusion technique. So a panel light with a shower curtain basically. If you've watched my free training on my website you'll see exactly what I'm talking about
I like the food pedal design but it doesn't work well with off-axis or uneven loads. Example Wimberly side mounted gimbal. Found a workaround. Attached another ball head on top of the bottom foot pedal. Best of both worlds!
Great review. I am a stills shooter, using Fuji x series, any feedback using the Cobra 3 for stills work, mostly landscape some street and wildlife thanks
I don't do stills much myself, but I did you them ironically this time and I was happy with them. I was out on a windy day and the larger feet were quite helpful. They still have some movement as any monopod will, but it feels more secure. The new quick release lock design was also handy for images.
Question - If I purchase to the Cobra 3 C180FP with foot pedal, will the regular foot fit if I also purchase it, if I decide at times I want greater angle till in the monopod?
Great video! I only do still photography and I am wondering what the best head would be for the Ifootage monopod? I have a ball head from Manfrotto and wonder if that is compatible and/or the best choice?
Many if not all heads are compatible with the monopod since it has both 1/4 inch and 3/8th's mounting on the top of the monopod. I've used a variety of heads, mostly video heads. But I have used a photo head before. If you have one you like they should generally work.
Excellent review. I think the "F" in some model names designates "Flip" locks, just as the "T" designates "Twist" locks. Can you add any brand video head on the monopod or are you limited to using an iFootage video head?
@@FellowFilmmaker hah. Knew it. 😆👌 kinda need a new bag myself and the one in your video caught my eye. Not sure if its a pgytech bag but mine's pretty bangged up and could use an update.
Hello 👋 I'm looking for a sturdy monopod to use with my insta 360 RS 1 inch edition for automotive filming. The one from insta 360 is cheaply made. Thank you in advance.
Well, in that case iFootage makes great monopods as I showed in this video. Not sure which you'd need exactly or why you don't like the insta360 one, but these iFootage ones are great.
Nice monopods, and informative video… Have you ever used a Gitzo or Really Right Stuff tripod or monopod? The twist locks on those are amazing… no slipping, as all. Every latch based tripod/monopod I have ever owned slipped over time, and the twist locks, never have! Overall, great review of the gear!
had mine for 1 week bought march 17 and used it once to mount my gopro and on May 9th i took out of bag in came in and the head was apart . luckily i never mounted my 5k camera on it wouldve been on the floor and damaged. the top part where the strap is and above came apart. it was glued and not threaded . i couldn;t beleive my eyes. i wish i can post photos here to show, beware of this product. i can't trust it anymore with my gear on there. $200 garbage
Not sure I agree on world's best. sirui is really good and can stand on it's own, which is handy. I do like the video head though in the video, can you put a link to the name of the head?
:D I'm sure the world has many great ones to offer For some reason they haven't yet put the link out to it yet, so when it goes up I'll link it! But it's called the Komodo K5s
Thanks for your review. It has swayed me to get the upgrade on the new monopods from ifootage. Thanks for the tip about the twist lock ones. I won't be buying those.
Sad there isn't a new Cobra Strike model. I've loved that thing for years. Being able to run A cam gimbal and easily adjust height single hand for my B cam is great.
Hi, thanks for this interesting review about a brand and gears that I didn't know. Shame on me. it looks very interesting for both photos and videos. I was wondering what would be the lenght of the monopod Cobra 180 F when folded without the video head and the base , thanks a lot for that information. Best regards from Italy.
Twist locks are standard across all manner of tools and I am sure these work perfectly if one uses them correctly. Your footpedal limited "reach" footage is silly, because you are holding the camera level while moving the device forward, when the whole point of leaning the 'pod is to change the angle of view.
Twist locks aren't for everyone I suppose And yes I recognize that about the movement of the monopod pedal, I was messing around doing alot of things and happened to use a clip of me not doing it the normal way.
bro I wish I could just buy the feel the only thing about the monopod is the feet could be a bit longer.. oh snap you can lol sorry I wrote this before I watched it all
@@FellowFilmmaker There was only one monopod left on amazon so I just bought it lol so now I have 2 of the old versions and a new one coming .. Thinking I'll just upgrade the feet on the other 2. The main concern was always how small the feet were so this is perfect
Another stellar review. You've given MUCH more detailed information on the new Cobra 3 models than I've seen on any other video review online. Bravo!
Love to hear that! :) Hope it was super helpful
I have to second other comments where I first saw a different review then I came across yours - you were so clear in describing the differences vs. version 2 and your style is succint and detailed. Thank you for this video.
Glad it was helpful! :D
I literally just bought the Cobra 2 a couple months ago! These companies! GEEEEEZZZZZUUUUUSSSSSS!
Aw dang! Well at least you can buy just the feet if you want that part of the upgrade, haha
Me, too!😢
@@FellowFilmmaker I did exactly that; bought the new feet/mini tripod for my iFootage 2 and the original feet actually live on / are perfect for my Hand Held Cage
You can purchase just the new feet with the quick release system.
I'm new to this range of monopod and have watched another reviewer. All the things that reviewer didn't do or show and which frustrated me (and trust me, he is a very well respected one), you did! Loved your review, well done and thank you!
Could you maybe comment on the Kodomo K5s panning? I watched a review video comparing the old K5 to the Manfrotto 500AH and the only issue was the panning on the K5 was not as smooth (when starting the panning motion). Do you feel they improved this aspect in the K5s?
Thanks!
I’ve noticed that everyone agrees that the products from iFootage are well made and reliable. That says a lot. Another awesome video. You’re crushing it.
I have one of their monopods and one of their tripods. They're both built exceptionally well.
It does say alot! I've always enjoyed their stuff, awesome quality and holds up so well.
Thanks for watching as always
Took the words outta my mouth :D
Been meaning to get a mono pod! Great video! Keep on grinding you're crushing it!
These are some of the best I've ever found :D
And thank you very much :D
I bought the C120 for my gimbal and I absolutely love it. If you use it by itself I would suggest the C150 or the C180.
Yes the c180 is great :D
Great video. I love your fast paced, information packed product reviews... at the end of your video I had already order the pedal version and new fluid head. You're a star! Thank you so much.
Glad it was helpful! :) The pedal version really is a killer
Out of all the Cobra 3 review yours is the most informative and comprehensive. Still unsure about the foot pedal design. Seems nice but limiting.
Thanks :D
And yeah it's not as much leaning as the regular feet, but it's a handy feature for sure
@@FellowFilmmaker Just got my CB3 and worked great for a quick birding session.
Do they sell replacement red rubber foot?
I'm not sure if they do, I imagine you might be able to email them and they might let you know
Your review of older models got me to buy two of them. Since then, I really got into iFootage and now own multiple lights, softbox etc. Such good products.
That's awesome! Haha, the skit in the old video was something else...
@@FellowFilmmaker it’s like I jinxed myself - a firmware update appeared for 60DN which seems broken as the light is now stuck at overheat protection as soon as light is turned on. 😞
Aw dang! Have you reached out to them about it?
@@FellowFilmmaker opened a support ticket but no response yet. Hopefully on Monday.
It’s all really annoying as they don’t have any page to get older firmware and attempt downgrade. Lumin app now fails to connect to the light over Bluetooth.
I planned to make some videos this weekend but failed.
In any case - avoid firmware 1.46
That is good to know! Thanks for sharing
This is exactly the video I was looking for! Now I know what monopod I’m going to get next!
Awesome, glad I could help
I just got an FX3 and was out shooting today with in the cage, the Ninja V and Sony 24-70 GM II and I'm thinking.. I need a monopod! It was heavy on the wrists. The new monopod with the foot lever adjustment looks perfect! Thanks!
Yeah, it's a great reason to have the monopod. Even to just give your wrists a break here and there
Thanks for the review! Very helpful and straightforward. I wasn't sure which one to buy, Cobra 2 or 3. But now I know that I'll be getting the 3. The longer legs are more secure IMO.
Glad I could help :)
Thank you for this great video. It is exactly what I needed as I have been wondering for a while what iFootage monopod I should get. And now that version 3 has come out the decision is easy for me.
Thank you also for sharing that there is not a noticeable difference in weight between the aluminium and carbon fiber monopods. Although I would probably opt for the carbon fiber since I live in Canada and aluminium gets real cold on the hands when I am out and about on a winter day.
Again, thank you for your awesome, helpful and informative video (just like they always are).
I had to cut the bit I had on the hand grip section on the monopod. It works great in the cold! I was out in the wind and if you have your hands on the grip section, it's not cold and feels comfortable as well. It's super quality as well, no cheap foam stuff. I think you'd love it! You'll have to tell me if you get it and how it does in Canada
Thanks for the review, just got my Cobra 3 after watching this vid and love it 🎉
Great review! I have the Cobra 2 with the K5 fluid head, and just ordered the K7 fluid head and Cobra 3 base as an upgrade since I'm looking for a more robust fluid head/monopod combo for a semi-rigged FX6. Will report back on the wider base plate and how that figures into the overall setup!
Awesome!
Man I just purchased the Cobra 2 a couple months ago. Sheesh. The good news is they are both so good! The only people who could improve on this monopod is iFootage.
Aww dang, well you're right they are all great monopods. These new ones tho truly are an improvement
Amazingly informative and succinct video that closed the deal for me. Got the K5S too and subscribed. Thanks!
Awesome! Thank you! :) Hope you enjoy the rest of the channel
You can connect the old monopod Cobra 2 in the new foot pedal of Cobra 3?
Hi, well, I guess as you can buy the foot unit on its own ......
Yes you can!
:D good point haha
Cool to see you in the iFootage marketing for this release!
Hey, thanks! It was fun to be a part of it, haha :)
Great review. Definitely helps distinguish between the different options. I use a lot of iFootage stuff as well and really like the build quality/functionality.
Glad it was helpful! :) IFootage makes great products for sure
The K5 is not a real fluid head, feels like it's more tension based, worst fluid head I've used. I love the monopod/minipod, and the new quick release system looks like a nice improvement.
Thanks for sharing
Yeah, the new release system is a game changer for me. I was trying to use the older Cobra 2 while doing testing and I kept expecting it to operate like the new one and it was so annoying that it didn't
Another fantastic video - - informative and focused! Thank you!
Glad you enjoyed it!
I am for sure getting that pedal base! Thanks for the video!
Any time!
I own the Cobra 2 and it’s near the top of most satisfied purchases over the years.
The biggest missing feature for me was the lack of a vertical lock and having to reach down for every micro adjustment. I would be more excited if I didn’t have to now decide between the vertical lock foot pedal and having the low angle tilt which I use regularly for vertical movement reveal shots, etc..
Your review was the best I’ve seen on UA-cam and you brought up new small (but much appreciated) features I wasn't aware of like the new one-handed quick release feature. Nice! Fiddling with a 2-handed swap was a bit annoying. The smaller pole diameter is another nice welcomed feature I wasn't aware of which will be great when traveling to remote locations.
I may be able to justify a partial upgrade (pole + feet) with the added benefit of a 2x extension for those “no-drone” shots. :-)
Glad the video was helpful for you! The upgrades are definitely worth it :D
I appreciate your review. As a Cobra 2 owner, I find that the foot pedal base is quite useful for setting up the monopod in a vertical position.
Glad it was helpful!
for me the COBRA strike MONOPOD is still the best ! I have two other ones 180 carbon flip lock and aluminum ! fiber or aluminum? aluminum is my choice its more sturdy. i am definitely going to buy the pedal base looks like a game changer
Thanks for sharing :)
I just got the foot pedal base but I can't turn / adjust the rubber tension ring above the foot pedal. Like it was tightened too tight at the factory. I see in the video you have no trouble adjusting the ring. Does anyone else have this issue?
Dang. Sorry to hear that. It twists both ways, if that's any help. But if it seems to be an issue outta the box, maybe get it replaced?
Really great monopod, I love mine, great updates and a really on-point video, thank you!
Glad you like it! :D
I ordered one with the regular foot as I didn't know if the pedal would stand up yo -30c shooting
I like my Cobra 2- i had the old manfrotto and then a nice Sirui after- but this Cobra 2 is a bit nicer for sure. I actually found the feet on the Sirui TOO big -I thought they were great when I first bought it but after I felt they were a bit too big-but stable sure...so the Cobra 2 is a good middle ground...but I may change my mind and go for the 3 some day! A great tool for sure. I use my FX30 on a cobra 2 monopod all the time. Much more than on a tripod. Thanks for the video
Good to know about those other monopods!
The new feet are def a happy middle ground. I didn't feel they were too big. You could always get the new feet if you have the older cobra 2
@@FellowFilmmaker ok then...I find that I use monopods more than my gimbal and tripod...I will look at the new offerings. Thanks
You can even use the monopod with the gimbal too, which is neat
@@FellowFilmmaker I havent tried that...I'm concerned that the weight is just on that fragile screw on the monopod...I could use a small tripod head but the whole set up could be a bit heavy...I may feel daring one of these days! Thanks!
The second you said "foot pedal" I was sold.
I know right? Best thing ever, so helpful!
Would you know if the cobra 3 would be sturdy for a motorised gimbal and have trackiing enamelled??
I just ordered the foot pedal base and put a note with my order...I assume all the quick release connectors I have from the Cobra 2 will snap into the new pedal base?
Yes you can :D
@@FellowFilmmaker TY!
Nice. I love my iFootage mono pods. I use one in studio and one for news coverage. I still wish they would revers the latches to be closer to the top of the monopod and not at the bottom. It would save my back. :)
Ah yes, that's a good point
That would be so clutch!
In addition to my photography/videography, I’m an actor always looking for useful gear for self-tape auditions. Do you feel like this monopod would be stable enough / not wobble at all, when left unattended (3-5 feet away) & attaching a Canon EOS R, a RF 35mm, and a Røde video mic go II to it? I sometimes use a bigger lens but I’d be interested in replacing my tripod with a monopod for my travel setup when I have to tape in small hotel rooms on the road. This feels like it could be a great solution to save space but I am concerned about potential wobble slowing down the taping process…
Did I understand correctly the old couplers will fit the new latching mechanism? so if I would get just the new feet I could re-use my Cobra-2 monopod?
Correct! :D Which is a huge plus in my opinion. It of course won't have the new locking on the top of the monopod but the base will if you get just the feet
@@FellowFilmmaker thanks for confirming! That's great, happy to hear they've kept things compatible. Plenty of brands would have introduced an entirely new system...
I hear ya, that is always so annoying
Just in time for my next purchase ❤
:D yay
I wish there were shock-absorbing monopods. When I pick up a monopod while shooting video, and put it back on the ground, that contact with the ground always comes through in the footage, no matter how gentle I try to be.
Great vide and very informative. i love what iFootage is doing. they make the best Monopods
Yes they do! :D
I wasn't sure what D meant so I looked it up and it said it means Dick. I know I can be a problem sometimes but never considered myself a Dick. You learn something new everyday.
are you referring to what I wrote? it's a smily face kinda like this but with more teeth :)
@@FellowFilmmaker I'm just messing with you. It did say that was the definition but I know you are to nice to have meant that.
Haha oh good! :) Got me worried there for a sec
whoa this is the best review on the cobra 3....for what it is worth I just ordered one online through amazon thanks to you video...would have used your links but did not see any for amazon Canada 😕
Can we attach a video head from other brands? Like the small rig freeblazer head?
Great review, just bought the new one cobra 3 does it come with an Allen key to tighten or loosen the screw on the quick release plate?
Could've stated how much larger the new legs is compared to the old, in inches/centimeters. Also could elaborate more on the new foot pedal. If the pedal is unlock at an angle, is it stable and can locked at that angle also, or do I need to hold it to maintain the angle. This is important and a big difference because in the previous cobra ii, I can lock it at an angle. This helps when the ground/plain is not leveled.
Good point, thanks for the feedback
@@FellowFilmmakerCan you comment if the pedal base can be locked at an angle (not only when straight up)?
Ah, so it can't be locked from what I tested. It either stays in locked center position or unlocked and moving freely.
Quick question. The twist lock ones, how much do you have to twist? Are they like a small quarter twist to lock or much more? Thanks!
I'd say its about a quarter twist, maybe a speck more. But I honestly always forget which way to twist cuz both directions feel like it could be the lock (course only one is).
@@FellowFilmmaker I actually have the cobra 2 strike A150SII, but it broke! The main shaft just came apart and needed to be sent back to China for repair, but I felt it was not worth the postage and hassle. I noted that all their revamps excluded this particular type of extension so I'm thinking they knew it was a bit dodgy and not easily fixed for future iterations so are just sticking with twist locks and flips.
I had a think about it and decided for the new Cobra 3 Pedal version, my old 90 degree tilt feet are just fine so now I have two types of feet to choose from which I think will be quite handy.
As always thanks for your hard work and reviews, much appreciated!
Good to know! Thanks for sharing
Hope you enjoy the new feet :D
In cm how long is it when folded because I'm trying to find a monopod compact enough to put in the nat geo medium camera bag
Have they told you when the Cobra 3 Pedal version would start shipping? Pre-ordered from B&H for a Yellowstone trip in mid-May. I’m assuming it’ll arrive by then but the details around availability has been surprisingly sparse.
Yeah I'm not totally sure, I know it was in a soft launch cycle of sorts as of today
How easy is it to change the height of the monopod? I'm wondering how effective it would be in a home photo studio?
It's pretty straight forward. I've used them for some photos here and there and it does alright. I guess it depends on what you are used to
Be nice if they had hydrolic system so you could put your foot on the pedal to adjust height release to lock the height.
Im surprised nothing like that appears to exist.
That would be super cool!
I think the foot pedal with that head adjustment that ifootage also sells is a perfect combo. I'll be buying some feet from your links soon!
Awesome, thanks!
Great video! Does this monopod have the ability to attach 2 of them together to extend the length and simulate a drone shot?
Yes! I did it actually with my osmo pocket and it worked great
I'm doing that with two Cobra 2's and an Insta360 Extended Selfie Stick with an Insta360 X3 on top. This combination works great.
Awesome!
@@FellowFilmmaker sounds like a great short.
That's true! :D
Hi, yup good just got better. I'll probably get the new foot, I value the improved spread, the release mechanism and the pedal control.
For sure, a good upgrade and great it works with the old system as well
Thanks, excellent video. Which head would you suggest for still photography? Thanks, Stefano
I don't do still that much, so I'm using my video head when doing pictures. If you have a preference you can use any head with a 3/8th's mounting thread on the monopod, or even 1/4 20.
I wanted to take advantage of this beautiful video to thank you for everything you do. Your videos are always very complete, precise, instructive and pleasant to watch. A cuckoo from Paris
0:45 the technical term is 'heaps more better-a'..
That foot pedal base ❤🎉
right?! It's great, I love it alot
@@FellowFilmmaker it's super cool!
What is the iPhone cage on top of the iFootage in some of the B-roll takes? Thank you.
That is a cage made by Sandmarc, some iphone accessory company that sent it to me once and I've used it a few times since
Hi, great review, however, does the monopod allow for setting your camera up vertically for full body images?
If you installed a ballhead at the top or some l bracket, I imagine you could yes. But it's not built in at the top of the monopot
@@FellowFilmmaker Thank you
Thank you for your review. Could I ask before buying the K5S if it is possible to mount a lens foot to it without an additional purchase? My use case is shooting events and I have a need to switch between vertical and horizontal instantly and likewise between video and photography so I'm wondering if I can replace my current set-up which is monopod and gimbal head with the K5S to get smoother panning. Thank you! :)
thx for advice for problems of twist locks. I decided other model after watching this video 👍
Glad I could help
Will the COBRA 3 - PEDAL only, fit on a COBRA 2 STRIKE MONOPOD A150S II ?
The pedal works on all cobra 2's I believe, at least the ones I owned
Loved this review; convinced me to buy one (it gets here Sunday.). What backpack do you use when you're not in the studio and want to carry the monopod with you? Headed to Alaska in August on a cruisetour of Denali and I really want to take this with me and have it as part of whatever backpack I decide to take.
Nice ! hope you enjoy it :D
Great video! Is there an attachment for a phone?
If you have a phone mount with 1/4 20 mount or 3/8ths then yes
The top of the monopod has both
Subscribed! Nice work.
Thank you very much
Can it fit any monopod?
Great video 📹👍🏻
Thanks for the review. Any idea what is the shortest the monopod can go? Thanks
Around 2.5ft is the shortest on the stick. If you're on just the feet then you can get it right around a foot or less
@@FellowFilmmaker Thank you.
Do any of these monopods work with mirrorless cameras?
You could mount any camera you want to the monopod
I feel like this review is missing some ninja skills 😛 great review Heather 😊 I need me a solid monopod at some point
True, I left the ninjas in the closet on this one :)
Thanks for your great videos!
I was wondering if you will also make one about the new Zhiyung x100 light that is talked about a lot lately. I'm wondering what your impression would be. A comparison to other lamps such as the Godox ml60 bi would also be very interesting sice they are in the same price range and are designed for simular use.
I'm working on it! :D
Thx for the video ! Just switched my tripod for a smaller and lighter one. I may change my monopod too because of you lol monopod are so useful outdoors and on vacancy . Good work Heather!
Glad I could help! thanks Dave
Hi! I've watched several of your videos and you are a true professional! Thanks for this channel!
The next part of my comment is unrelated to the current video, but I do have a question that I've been looking an answer for all over youtube.
Here it is. I want to create some educational biology videos using a whiteboard. The shot would be me and the whiteboard. What would the best light setup be in your opinion? I was thinking Godox ML60W (after your video comparing it with the SL 60W) and a maybe a lantern instead of a softbox? I also thought about led panels, but i have doubts. I'm in a small (but high ceiling) room.
An answer would help me so much since the internet is weirdly silent :)) I guess whiteboards and lighting is not such a common topic.
With white boards it get's tricky because you can get glare and overexposure very quickly. You may be better off with a large diffusion technique. So a panel light with a shower curtain basically. If you've watched my free training on my website you'll see exactly what I'm talking about
@@FellowFilmmaker Thank you so much for your answer! Very valuable
I like the food pedal design but it doesn't work well with off-axis or uneven loads. Example Wimberly side mounted gimbal.
Found a workaround. Attached another ball head on top of the bottom foot pedal. Best of both worlds!
Cool workaround :D
Is the K5s out now?
I heard it was supposed to, maybe it got pushed back a week... oops! :D
Great review. I am a stills shooter, using Fuji x series, any feedback using the Cobra 3 for stills work, mostly landscape some street and wildlife thanks
I don't do stills much myself, but I did you them ironically this time and I was happy with them. I was out on a windy day and the larger feet were quite helpful.
They still have some movement as any monopod will, but it feels more secure. The new quick release lock design was also handy for images.
Thanks for the video Heather. Unfortunately I don't get buying Cobra 3 monopod cause they don't ship to Brazil, yet.
Ah that is no fun :/
Nice, I just got my Cobra 2!
Aw dang!
Question - If I purchase to the Cobra 3 C180FP with foot pedal, will the regular foot fit if I also purchase it, if I decide at times I want greater angle till in the monopod?
Yes it will :)
@@FellowFilmmaker THANK YOU and thanks for the discount code!
You are most welcome! Glad it could help out
Great video! I only do still photography and I am wondering what the best head would be for the Ifootage monopod? I have a ball head from Manfrotto and wonder if that is compatible and/or the best choice?
Many if not all heads are compatible with the monopod since it has both 1/4 inch and 3/8th's mounting on the top of the monopod. I've used a variety of heads, mostly video heads. But I have used a photo head before. If you have one you like they should generally work.
Thanks for your insight.
My pleasure!
Excellent review. I think the "F" in some model names designates "Flip" locks, just as the "T" designates "Twist" locks. Can you add any brand video head on the monopod or are you limited to using an iFootage video head?
Ahhh you know that makes sense haha :D
You can put any video head you want on it. It has it's usual 1/4 20 and 3/8th spring action mounting points
is it compatible to cobra2 system？
Yes it is
Is the new fluid head more "fluid" or do you still prefer the one from manfrotto? :)
Personally like Manfrotto, but this one is pretty good and def better than the older ifootage one :D
I’m sold. Thank you.
Any time!
@@FellowFilmmaker received it already and it’s excellent.
What bag are you using?
I'm using one that hasn't been released yet... so I can't exactly say yet. But I'm sharing about it on the channel in a few weeks!
@@FellowFilmmaker hah. Knew it. 😆👌 kinda need a new bag myself and the one in your video caught my eye. Not sure if its a pgytech bag but mine's pretty bangged up and could use an update.
:) I have been enjoying these new ones, pretty good quality and neat features
Hello 👋 I'm looking for a sturdy monopod to use with my insta 360 RS 1 inch edition for automotive filming. The one from insta 360 is cheaply made. Thank you in advance.
Well, in that case iFootage makes great monopods as I showed in this video. Not sure which you'd need exactly or why you don't like the insta360 one, but these iFootage ones are great.
Nice monopods, and informative video… Have you ever used a Gitzo or Really Right Stuff tripod or monopod? The twist locks on those are amazing… no slipping, as all. Every latch based tripod/monopod I have ever owned slipped over time, and the twist locks, never have! Overall, great review of the gear!
I have not used those brands not
But good to know they've been great for you
Thank you for this review
Glad it was helpful!
had mine for 1 week bought march 17 and used it once to mount my gopro and on May 9th i took out of bag in came in and the head was apart . luckily i never mounted my 5k camera on it wouldve been on the floor and damaged. the top part where the strap is and above came apart. it was glued and not threaded . i couldn;t beleive my eyes. i wish i can post photos here to show, beware of this product. i can't trust it anymore with my gear on there. $200 garbage
Not sure I agree on world's best. sirui is really good and can stand on it's own, which is handy. I do like the video head though in the video, can you put a link to the name of the head?
:D I'm sure the world has many great ones to offer
For some reason they haven't yet put the link out to it yet, so when it goes up I'll link it! But it's called the Komodo K5s
Thanks for your review. It has swayed me to get the upgrade on the new monopods from ifootage. Thanks for the tip about the twist lock ones. I won't be buying those.
Very glad I could help
Sad there isn't a new Cobra Strike model. I've loved that thing for years. Being able to run A cam gimbal and easily adjust height single hand for my B cam is great.
I haven't gotten to use that one before, how often are you using it?
@@FellowFilmmaker Daily. I swear by it. It doesn't collapse as low, but it is sturdy and the single, solid twist lock has never failed me.
Well that's great to know :D
I use the Strike regularly and think it's great. I also have the 180 Model 2, but I prefer the Strike.
Hi, thanks for this interesting review about a brand and gears that I didn't know. Shame on me. it looks very interesting for both photos and videos. I was wondering what would be the lenght of the monopod Cobra 180 F when folded without the video head and the base , thanks a lot for that information. Best regards from Italy.
Nice video!
thank you
You're welcome
Twist locks are standard across all manner of tools and I am sure these work perfectly if one uses them correctly. Your footpedal limited "reach" footage is silly, because you are holding the camera level while moving the device forward, when the whole point of leaning the 'pod is to change the angle of view.
Twist locks aren't for everyone I suppose
And yes I recognize that about the movement of the monopod pedal, I was messing around doing alot of things and happened to use a clip of me not doing it the normal way.
Thanks!
Welcome! Thanks for watching
Good info.
Glad it was helpful!
F Stands for flip and T Stands for Twist
thanks!
Ok, for fools like me: Which one is the one with the wide feet? Got confused a bit. :D Very nice video though.
All the new ones (cobra 3) are wide feet! It's just the old model cobra 2's that are smaller
@@FellowFilmmaker So if I only get the bottom part I'm cool?😊
Yep! The top part of the old model will remain the same, but the bottom would be the new locking quick release style.
bro I wish I could just buy the feel the only thing about the monopod is the feet could be a bit longer.. oh snap you can lol sorry I wrote this before I watched it all
Haha, well then I guess you can buy the feet then
@@FellowFilmmaker There was only one monopod left on amazon so I just bought it lol so now I have 2 of the old versions and a new one coming .. Thinking I'll just upgrade the feet on the other 2. The main concern was always how small the feet were so this is perfect
Nice ! Glad you got the last one haha :)