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VIJIM Ulanzi MT-33 Octopus Tripod with Phone Holder & Cold Shoe
I ordered the VIJIM Ulanzi MT-33 flexible tripod mainly for its 2-in-1 design: it supports both smartphones and DSLR cameras, plus it comes with a side cold shoe mount—perfect for attaching my mic while vlogging. I’ve seen similar setups in US stores, but they’re always $35+ without any accessories. This one was under $20 with everything included.
Shipping took about 12 days to the Midwest—faster than I expected. It arrived well-packaged, no damage, and all the parts felt surprisingly sturdy for the price.
I’ve used it mostly for YouTube content and occasional Zoom calls. The legs are incredibly flexible and grippy—I’ve wrapped it around railings, tree branches, even my bike handle. The phone clamp is secure and adjustable, and the cold shoe on the side holds my Rode mic snugly.
Pros: ✓ Sturdy build and doesn’t feel cheap ✓ Cold shoe mount = major bonus ✓ Universal 1/4″ screw fits most devices ✓ Very versatile — can be used indoors and outdoors
Cons: ✗ Cold shoe is fixed — you can’t adjust its angle ✗ Legs attract lint/dust easily because of the rubber texture
For this price, it far exceeded my expectations. Would’ve paid double in the US for the same quality.
US $18.91
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VIJIM Ulanzi MT-16 Foldable Tripod with Ball Head & Cold Shoe
I needed a compact selfie stick/tripod hybrid, and the MT-16 stood out for its foldable design, ball head, and cold shoe. I use it mainly for short films and TikTok content.
It came in 10 days, no issues. It folds up to fit in my bag and extends just enough for stable table shots. The ball head rotates smoothly and locks well—better than some $40 US versions.
Pros: ✓ Ultra-portable and light ✓ Ball head provides full angle flexibility ✓ Feels premium with a matte black finish
Cons: ✗ Not ideal for heavier DSLRs ✗ No remote included
This tripod felt like a professional piece of gear—at half the cost of Joby or Manfrotto alternatives.
US $19.71
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Flexible Sponge Octopus Mini Tripod
The sponge-style flexible tripod looked fun and retro. I grabbed it for lightweight travel use and casual shots with my iPhone. It’s not high-end, but it does the job.
Delivery took two weeks. The sponge legs are soft and easy to position but definitely not made for heavy devices. My phone fits securely, and I love how quickly I can adjust the angles.
Pros: ✓ Very affordable — around $5 ✓ Fun and easy to shape ✓ Great for casual users
Cons: ✗ Can’t support larger phones with cases ✗ Sponge can tear if you’re rough
For a cheap tripod I throw in my bag, it’s perfect. Wouldn’t use it for pro work though.
US $3.03
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Basic Octopus Phone Tripod with Clip
This basic octopus phone stand is the no-frills version I picked up just to test out against the others. I use it around the house—mainly as a cooking video stand.
Shipping took about 13 days. It’s basic, but stable enough. The clip is tight, and the rubber feet help it stay put on slick surfaces.
Pros: ✓ Dirt cheap — under $4 ✓ Simple and works ✓ Lightweight
Cons: ✗ Legs aren’t super flexible ✗ Clip feels stiff when adjusting angle
Honestly, I wasn’t expecting much, but it’s way better than some $10 Walmart tripods I’ve tried.
US $2.63
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Mini Desktop Selfie Stick Tripod
I wanted something sleek for Zoom calls and FaceTime. This portable retractable selfie stick caught my eye because of its dual function as a desktop tripod.
It arrived in 11 days. Fully retracted, it fits in my jeans pocket. Extended, it’s tall enough for eye-level webcam shots. The metal tube sections feel strong, and the grip is rubberized.
Pros: ✓ Smooth telescopic extension ✓ Works well as a phone stand ✓ Compact and lightweight
Cons: ✗ Doesn’t come with a Bluetooth remote ✗ No cold shoe for accessories
For the $6 price tag, it’s a fantastic desktop solution. I’ve used it more than expected.
US $7.41
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COOL DIER Bluetooth Tripod Selfie Stick
This Bluetooth tripod with wireless shutter is one of the more “all-in-one” options I’ve found. I wanted it for group photos and outdoor content creation.
Shipping was lightning fast—only 9 days. Setup was straightforward, and the Bluetooth remote paired instantly with my iPhone. The legs snap out easily and feel balanced on flat surfaces.
Pros: ✓ Built-in Bluetooth shutter = no app required ✓ Holds phone steady in both vertical and horizontal ✓ Lightweight yet stable
Cons: ✗ Remote feels a little plasticky ✗ Not great on uneven terrain
Overall, it’s a perfect companion for casual photography and worth every penny.
US $11.65
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Lightweight Tripod for Phone with Remote
This lightweight tripod for smartphones and DSLRs was my attempt to find something I could use for both indoor shots and occasional park photography.
Took 2 weeks to arrive. I was amazed by how tall it extends (over 100cm) while still collapsing into a compact form. The remote works fine, and the plastic doesn’t feel as flimsy as expected.
Pros: ✓ Tall height for full-body shots ✓ Comes with a decent Bluetooth remote ✓ Great price-performance ratio
Cons: ✗ Plastic feels light — not ideal for windy conditions ✗ Not suitable for heavy cameras
Compared to similar tripods in Best Buy or Target, this was a steal. Around $12 and gets the job done.
US $3.58
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103cm Portable Bluetooth Camera Tripod
I ordered this 103cm tripod with Bluetooth as a backup, but now I use it as my main one for product photography and livestreams. I liked that it was compact but had a full range of height adjustments.
It arrived in perfect shape within 13 days. It’s surprisingly stable when fully extended, and the Bluetooth remote is very responsive. It also works great as a monopod.
Pros: ✓ Tall, adjustable, and stable ✓ Handy Bluetooth remote included ✓ Portable and light
Cons: ✗ A little wobbly when fully extended ✗ Limited tilt angle without adapter
I’d compare this favorably to $30 tripods I’ve tested locally. It hits a sweet spot of value and versatility.
US $5.25
Final Verdict
I honestly didn’t expect this much quality from AliExpress tripods. While each has its own strengths, none felt like a waste of money. Most were around half the price—or less—compared to similar items in US stores. Shipping was faster than I’m used to, and all items came intact.
I’d definitely recommend these tripods to anyone looking for budget-friendly filming and photography gear. I’m already browsing for my next AliExpress order. If you’re even slightly into content creation or just want better selfies, don’t sleep on these.
