Benro A38FD
Score: 88/100
Sirui AM-MDP01
Score: 88/100Rankings
The Benro Aluminum Flip-Lock Monopod with a detachable 3-leg base offers professional-grade load capacity and fast deployment while remaining portable, though its base lock and overall weight can be drawbacks for extended handheld use.
The SIRUI AM-MDP01 is a 5-section carbon-fiber monopod weighing just 0.41 kg, offering a 165 cm maximum height and a 22 lb load capacity. It folds to 18.5 in for travel and includes a 360° phone holder plus useful outdoor accessories. Its main trade-offs are the lack of built-in feet and a stiff twist-lock mechanism.
| Attribute | | |
|---|---|---|
20 kgbest | 10 kg | |
164.1 cm | 165 cmbest | |
| ↓ lower better | — | 47 cmbest |
| ↓ lower better | 0.77 kg | 0.41 kgbest |
4 | 6best | |
25.9best | 24.4 |
Click an attribute name to sort · Green = best, red = worst (relative to this comparison)
| Attribute | | |
|---|---|---|
Performance(3) | ||
Maximum Load Capacity (kg) | 20 kg | 10 kg |
Maximum Extended Height (cm) | 164.1 cm | 165 cm |
Load‑to‑Weight Ratio | 25.9 | 24.4 |
Accessories(1) | ||
Included Accessories | Quick‑release plate, foam grip, hand strap, rubber foot, carrying case | 360° rotatable phone holder, cold protection foam grip, safety wrist strap, carabiner clip, mini compass |
Build & Design(4) | ||
Weight (kg) | 0.77 kg | 0.4097 kg |
Primary Material | Aluminum | Carbon fiber |
Leg Lock Type | Flip-Lock | Twist lock |
Number of Leg Sections | 4 | 6 |
Products in the top-left offer the best value (high score, low price).
Professional reviewers praise the versatile flip-lock system, solid aluminum build, and advanced head features, while noting the base's ball joint lacks precision for critical video panning.
Users love the sturdiness and high load capacity, but complain about the base lock reliability and the weight when fully assembled.
Professional reviewers highlight the AM-MDP01's exceptional strength-to-weight ratio thanks to its carbon-fiber build, noting its durability in cold or hot environments and its suitability for fast, low-profile shooting in crowded or tourist-heavy locations. They commend its compactness and accessory bundle, while pointing out the lack of modular feet as a trade-off for pure portability.
Everyday users rave about the monopod's feather-light feel, solid load capacity, and the handy phone holder, often calling it perfect for hiking and travel. Recurring complaints focus on the twist-lock's stiffness, the absence of a ground spike, and concerns about the long-term durability of the phone clamp.
“Sturdy and reliable - holds my 150-600mm lens with no wobble”
“Perfect for hiking - lightweight and collapses small”
“Great alternative to a tripod when space is tight”
Choose Benro for higher load capacity and advanced head features; choose Sirui if you prioritize lighter weight and more dependable base lock.
