Customer Reviews

Slik Tripod with 3-Way Panhead

5 star:		(20)
4 star:		(12)
3 star:		(5)
2 star:		(1)
1 star:		(0)

 

 

When searching for a tripod, I wasn't looking for an expensive professional broadcast grade product but, on the other hand, I didn't want something so cheap it would fall apart at the seams, collapse and destroy camcorder or camera. I was hesitant about purchasing this unit for that very reason, I mean come on, $15, how much faith can I put in that? Ultimately my bugdet prevailed and I opted for the SLIK SDV-20. I was impressed by its solid construction for a tripod of that price. It's relatively lightweight and can only support up to 4 lbs, but that's all I needed. I use it with a Canon Powershot A95 digital camera and a Samsung SCD27 MiniDV camcorder, the latter only weighting a couple of pounds with battery. That being said, I wouldn't consider leaving this tripod unattended in windy or other adverse conditions as it is lightweight and can be top heavy when fully extended. All in all, it's one of the best $15 I ever spent.

Pros: Cheap, Lightweight, Easy storage(fits in a small to medium size duffle), Durable, Excellent height(almost 60 inches, 10 inches higher than like priced tripods)

Cons: Lightweight(can be top heavy), Pan and tilt adjustments not very smooth(when used with a heavier camera or camcorder), Only 1 quick-release attachment plate(could've used 2 for both my cameras), Quick-release attachment plate needs a flat head screwdriver to attach to camera(have to carry around the flat head screwdriver with the tripod to switch between cameras)

I received this product for free as part of a camera promotion. I wouldn't dream of using it for my camera, but I use it to hold my off-camera flash, and it works fine for that, though the head is poorly-built and wearing out quickly. I expect before long I'll have to replace the head because it will no longer lock (I'll probably just get a new tripod like this).

If you want to support a very light point and shoot camera occasionally, this might be okay. If you want to support any type of single-lens reflex (interchangeable-lens) camera, or even to use a heavier point and shoot, I'd get a better tripod. The Velbon Maxi tripods or the Bogen 3001 would be much more satisfactory (and cost more, of course).

As with all things in life, you get what you pay for. In this case, for less than $20 you can buy a tripod that might work for small point and shoot cameras in an indoor (wind-free) environment.

However, don't even consider this tripod for even the lightest SLR's. You'll be incredibly disappointed with the results. I should additionally mention that the maximum height of the tripod is quite short, so be careful if you are a taller person.

The construction is mostly aluminum and plastic. There is a quick release plate (something I wouldn't expect at this price range), but it requires the use of a screwdriver to attach to the camera.

If you are going to be in photography for the long haul, save yourself some money in the long term by buying a sturdier taller tripod now, instead of upgrading later.

Are there tripods out there with more features? Yes.

Are there tripods out there that are a bit sturdier and will support more weight? Yes.

Do those tripods cost at least 2 or 3 times the amount of this one? YES.

Some great features of the SDV-20 are the quick release camera mounting plate, 3-way adjustable head, 6' max height, quick release leg locks, sturdy construction and a nice, light weight. Sure, there are tripods out there with fancy bubble levels, thicker legs, hand cranked center columns, etc...but they cost a significant amount more and weight more too.

If you're fairly new to photography, are a little confused about all the features of these tripods and just want something reliable that won't break the bank...look no further.

Simply put...if you're looking for something compact, lightweight and fairly sturdy for a small camera...you cannot beat the SDV-20. ESPECIALLY considering how inexpensive it is.

I sought for a tripod that would not 'endanger' my camera because it was so flimsy, yet I was on a budget. I am VERY pleased with my purchase of the SLIK Tripod. This tripod is great for travel, can fit in a 22inch carry-on if you take the panhead off. I've brought it with me across the country filming with both a Panasonic Lumix FZ3 and a Panasonic GS35 DV Cam. It is light, easy to fold up and has a tall enough stance when I need to get a little height on shots. It pans smoothly, rotates 180 degrees for vertical shots and is pretty rugged to boot. Some other tripods in retail stores of lesser quality are so ridiculously priced-this one is a gem for the money. I'm always up for a good value and this is definitely one.

Its lightweight, cheap. You have to develop the habit of not turning the camera when mounted as it unscrews it from the tripod.

It's much more than I expected. Strong but light, very helpful. I used this tripod with my Handycam and with my Casio Exlim with no problem at all.

Comes up a little bit above the waist when fully extended. The build is sturdy. Have not tried it in windy conditions but looks solid. For the price serves the purpose more than adequately. Fully satisfied with the purchase.

Pleasantly surprised by the quality and functionality, particularly by the removable camera mount. Although a light-weight, the tripod is solid and easy to use.

I can't believe that they can make a tripod this sturdy and well built for the price. I have a new Canon SD550, and this is the perfect tripod for this camera. It is very well built, lightweight, sturdy, and very, very adjustable. It also comes with a 3 year warranty from the manuf. You WILL NOT find a better price for this quality!!