SMALLRIG Clamp Review: A No-Nonsense Tool for Your Filming Needs

The SMALLRIG Clamp with its articulating magic arm is one of those tools I didn’t realize I needed until I tried it. If you’re like me and dabble in photography or videography, you might have found yourself needing an extra hand or a better way to mount equipment. I gave the SMALLRIG clamp a go for a couple of weeks to see how it fit into my setup.

At first glance, it seemed like a solid piece of equipment. The combination of aluminum alloy and stainless steel suggested durability, but I had to see if it held up in real-world use. I tested it mostly with my camera and LED light setup to see if it truly brings that versatility it promises.

After using it in various shooting conditions, I noticed its strengths and a few weaknesses, which I’ll get into. But overall, it seemed to be a handy tool that might just deserve a spot in your gear bag.

Let me take you through my experience with the SMALLRIG clamp and see if it’s worth adding to your collection.

Price-wise, the SMALLRIG clamp sits in a reasonable range, especially considering the quality and versatility it offers. At first, I was a bit skeptical about whether it would be a good investment for someone who isn’t shooting full-time, but after using it, I’d say it’s definitely good value for money. The build quality alone makes it worth the price, and the added functionality of the articulating arm is a bonus.

In comparison to similar products in the market, the SMALLRIG clamp holds its own. It might not be the cheapest option, but the durability and range of motion you get might justify the extra bucks spent. It’s particularly useful for anyone who often finds themselves in need of an extra hand when setting up shots. For hobbyists and professionals alike, it’s a tool that can enhance your setup without breaking the bank.

That said, if your work involves exposure to magnetic surfaces or corrosive environments, you might find this product lacking. But for typical use, it’s a solid choice that gets the job done without any frills.

The design of the SMALLRIG clamp is pretty straightforward, which I appreciated. It's made from lightweight aluminum alloy, and it feels quite sturdy in hand. The black color gives it a professional look, and it doesn’t stand out too much, which is a plus when you’re trying to keep things subtle on set. One thing I liked about the design is the incorporation of rubber cushions both on the clamp and the magic arm. This feature helps prevent scratches on your gear. Plus, it aids in keeping everything locked tight, which is critical when you’ve got expensive equipment on deck.

I found the double 360-degree ball head articulating design to be quite useful. It allowed me to adjust the arm to pretty much any angle I needed. This flexibility is a lifesaver, especially when you’re trying to get creative with your shots. I used it with a variety of devices like my camera, microphone, and even an LED light. Each time, the SMALLRIG clamp delivered in terms of holding things steady.

The clamp itself can open from 15mm to 54mm, so it’s versatile enough to attach to various surfaces, whether it’s a tripod leg or a shelf. It’s not perfect, though. The non-magnetic feature might be a downside if you're hoping to stick it on a metal surface. Another thing is, it’s not corrosion-resistant, so using it near seawater is a no-go. For typical indoor or controlled environment shooting, it works just fine.

When it comes to performance, the SMALLRIG clamp does what it’s supposed to. During my testing, I primarily used it to mount a monitor and a microphone. The grip was solid, and there was no slippage, which is crucial when you’re dealing with heavy or fragile gear. The articulating arm can hold its position well under the weight, which speaks to the build quality and design precision.

One of the standout features is the friction power of the articulating magic arm. It’s strong enough to hold a monitor steady without any sagging. I used it extensively for longer sessions, and it maintained its position throughout. Installation was pretty straightforward too, thanks to the 1/4" and 3/8" threaded ends. This makes it compatible with a wide range of accessories like camera cages, lights, and other mounts. I swapped out different equipment multiple times, and each change was hassle-free.

However, the performance is somewhat limited by its incompatibility with magnetic surfaces and non-resistance to corrosion. This might not be a dealbreaker for everyone, but it’s something to keep in mind based on your shooting environment. Overall, for what it’s designed to do, the SMALLRIG clamp performs reliably and effectively.