Today we are reviewing a compact video tripod from Ulanzi, the Ulanzi TT09 VideoGo Carbon fiber travel tripod to see just how well this affordable compact tripod actually works.
Concept
Travel tripods are lightweight and portable, but a lot of times their small size is a limitation, and manufacturers end up stripping these units of some important features. Ulanzi’s approach is very different, and the result is a solid travel-sized tripod with an integrated miniature head and some surprising additions.
The Ulanzi TT09 VideoGo Carbon Fiber Travel Video Tripod
In the box
Ulanzi ships the tripod in a nice presentation box. It comes with a padded carrying bag and includes a set of spikes.
Build and design
The TT09 is only 17’’ long and weighs 3 lbs. The legs are made of carbon fiber and extend to a maximum height of 142cm. The section locks feature a clasp design with 4 quick deployment aluminum latches.
The metal stoppers at the top of the legs allow 3 width settings. The rubber inserts on these stoppers make operation easier, but they are only glue-on pads, so I doubt they’ll stay on for a long time.
For added quick height adjustment, Ulanzi’s design includes a center column, operated by a metal knob. The base of the tripod is very low profile, but Ulanzi managed to add a ¼’’ mount with locating pins. Ulanzi offers 3 quick-release options. Ours is the simpler Arca release plate.
The attached head is tiny and very fitting to the travel concept of this tripod. The head’s tilt is dampened and feels pretty smooth. Panning is friction-controlled, so there is no damping, but it’s smooth enough for such a tiny head.
Features
One of the limitations of tripods in general is not being able to level the camera when placing the tripod on uneven terrain. Ulanzi added a very important element to this tripod, which is a leveling base operated by a metal clasp. There is also a bubble level in the head, but it’s tiny and hard to see.
The leveling mechanism sits on a ballhead. It’s surprisingly sturdy and offers quick and easy adjustments. There is also an option to rotate the head to 90 degrees for vertical shooting. We tried putting some heavy setups on top of this head, and it held up with no problems.
This is a very compact but versatile design, and it comes with a little hidden add-on. The handle comes off and becomes a screwdriver with a set of 7 tips tucked away in the bottom. It’s a great idea. Even though you might not use the screw set that often, I’m sure you’ll be happy it’s there in an emergency.
The head and handle design of the Ulanzi TT09 tripod
Another feature very important to a travel tripod is low-angle setups. For static low-angle shots, the TT09 offers an inverted low angle by reversing the central column. In case you need to pan or tilt from a low angle, the central column can be separated into two sections that allow opening the tripod into a wide stance.
It’s a great idea, but the implementation is a bit clumsy. This could’ve easily been a latch of some sort for quick deployment. We also suggest Ulanzi add some kind of a clamp to the tripod to keep the central column handy. These kinds of operations in the field often lead to losing parts.
The Ulanzi TT09 VideoGo tripod with a built-in tool
Use cases
As for travel tripods, the TT09 is a great example of a compact design without many of the common limitations. And it’s not just for travel photographers. All the useful features that Ulanzi added make it a great addition to our interview kit, for example.
It is small enough that it fits into our bag and just stays there in case we need it. It’s quick to deploy and can hold a pretty beefy setup.
The Ulanzi TT09 buble level
Conclusion
In conclusion, the TT09 is a very compelling product. It’s light and compact but offers plenty of features. The integrated head and versatility of use make it a great tripod for a variety of shooting scenarios.
Ulanzi’s TT09 tilting head design
Pricing
As for pricing, Ulanzi’s TT09 sells on the company website for $260.
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