Joby GorillaPod 5K
Score: 82/100
SmallRig Heavy Duty Tripod
Score: 83/100Rankings
The SmallRig 73" carbon-fiber tripod provides a lightweight 2.7 kg platform with a fluid head and 10 kg load capacity, folding to a compact 79 cm. Its limited standard height and fixed pan drag may restrict advanced shooting scenarios. Perfect for solo creators needing portability and solid performance.
The Joby GorillaPod 5K is a premium flexible tripod offering a robust 5 kg load capacity and durable aluminum construction. Its higher weight and price make it less ideal for ultra-light travel. Best suited for professionals needing sturdy support on uneven surfaces.
| Attribute | | |
|---|---|---|
| ↓ lower better | 0.392 kgbest | 2.7 kg |
5 kg | 10 kgbest | |
38.5 cm | 185 cmbest | |
| ↓ lower better | 30 cmbest | 79 cm |
| ↓ lower better | — | 73 cmbest |
— | 3best | |
— | 2 yearsbest |
Click an attribute name to sort · Green = best, red = worst (relative to this comparison)
| Attribute | | |
|---|---|---|
Performance(2) | ||
Maximum Height (cm) | 38.5 cm | 185 cm |
Load Capacity (kg) | 5 kg | 10 kg |
Build & Design(3) | ||
Weight (kg) | 0.392 kg | 2.7 kg |
Folded Length (cm) | 30 cm | 79 cm |
Material | Machined aluminum, ABS plastic, stainless steel, TPE | Carbon fiber |
Products in the top-left offer the best value (high score, low price).
Professional reviewers describe the GorillaPod 5K as a classic, versatile tool that delivers robust performance for heavy camera systems. Its flexible leg design and solid aluminum construction allow it to hold full-frame DSLRs with large lenses securely, while its compact size makes it suitable for on-location work.
Everyday users consistently praise the 5K's flexibility, portability, and reliable grip, noting that it enables creative shooting angles on challenging terrain. The main criticisms revolve around its heavier weight, higher price, and the need for precise balancing when loading it to its maximum capacity.
“"an absolute classic" that has "been out for a while" and is "a fantastic GorillaPod if you've got a larger camera"”
“really light”
“hype-worthy stability”
Professional reviewers consider the SmallRig carbon-fiber tripod a workhorse for creators, emphasizing its feather-light legs, smooth fluid head with adjustable damping, and impressive load capacity that feels more expensive than its price. They also point out the limited max height and fixed pan drag as trade-offs for its lightweight design.
Everyday users love how easy it is to carry (under 3 kg) and set up thanks to the quick-lift rope and interchangeable feet, noting reliable stability for solo shoots. Recurring frustrations revolve around the relatively short standard height, occasional foot slippage on uneven ground, and a wish for more pan-drag adjustability.
