Ulanzi MT-16
Score: 68/100
Amazon Basics Portable Tripod
Score: 67/100Rankings
The ULANZI MT-16 is an ultra-light, pocket-sized 2-in-1 tripod and selfie stick featuring a 360° metal ball head and cold shoe, making it ideal for lightweight cameras up to 1.5 kg. Its short 44 cm maximum height and limited stability on uneven surfaces restrict its use for taller subjects or demanding outdoor shoots. Best suited for beginner vloggers and travel creators needing extreme portability.
The Amazon Basics Portable Tripod is a lightweight aluminum unit with flexible legs, a 3-way pan-tilt head, and a 2.994 kg load capacity, aimed at casual shooters. Its low load limit and stability issues at full height restrict heavier gear use. Perfect for hobbyists and smartphone users seeking an inexpensive, portable solution.
| Attribute | | |
|---|---|---|
| ↓ lower better | 0.17 kg | 0.08 kgbest |
1.5 kg | 2.994 kgbest | |
44 cm | 152.4 cmbest | |
| ↓ lower better | 22 cmbest | 71 cm |
| ↓ lower better | 22 cmbest | 50.8 cm |
4best | 3 | |
— | 1 yearsbest |
Click an attribute name to sort · Green = best, red = worst (relative to this comparison)
| Attribute | | |
|---|---|---|
Performance(3) | ||
Maximum Height (cm) | 44 cm | 152.4 cm |
Minimum Height (cm) | 22 cm | 50.8 cm |
Load Capacity (kg) | 1.5 kg | 2.994 kg |
Build & Design(4) | ||
Weight (kg) | 0.17 kg | 0.08 kg |
Folded Length (cm) | 22 cm | 71.0 cm |
Material | ABS plastic and aluminum | Aluminum |
Leg Sections | 4 | 3 |
Features(1) | ||
Head Type | ball | 3-way pan-tilt-swivel |
General Specs(1) | ||
Compatibility | Action cameras, Sony a6000, Canon G7X, DJI Osmo Pocket 3, GoPro Hero, Insta360 | Smartphones, GoPros, digital cameras, webcams, scopes |
Products in the top-left offer the best value (high score, low price).
Professional reviewers consider the MT-16 a budget-friendly, ultra-compact option that excels in portability and quick setup. They commend its lightweight build, intuitive twist-lock extension, and versatile mounting options, but caution that its short 44 cm reach, limited base stability, and ball-head wobble under near-max loads make it less suitable for heavier gear or demanding outdoor scenarios.
Everyday users love the MT-16 for its pocket-size convenience, easy 360° adjustments, and the ability to add lights or microphones via the cold shoe. Common complaints focus on stability issues on uneven surfaces, the ball head loosening with heavier cameras, and a perception of cheap plastic components, especially given the limited height for eye-level shooting.
