Which monopod to buy for a smartphone. Possible problems with filming: their causes and solutions. Stylish and compact monopod
The ability to take a photo of yourself against the backdrop of some landmark, while traveling or just at a family dinner, without the help of strangers - this is exactly what a monopod allows you to do. Of course, selfies can also be taken at arm's length. But in this case, you won’t get such a wide view as in the photo from a selfie stick. Let's figure out what a monopod is, what they are and how to use them.
Device Description
A tripod, monopod for cameras or smartphones have become an integral part of modern life: everywhere you can see people taking pictures of themselves on a device that resembles a stick. By and large, the answer to the question of what a monopod is is quite simple: this is the very stick on which the phone is mounted.
That is, a monopod is a kind of usual tripod for a camera that allows you to take a photograph by pressing a button installed on it or using a Bluetooth headset, but not on the photographic device itself. A monopod for a camera or smartphone is usually made of plastic or metal.
There are several types of selfie sticks, so everyone can choose the option that is most convenient for them. By the way, the big advantage of this invention is the wide price range and wide variety of choices on the market. A monopod is a telescopic device that allows the owner to effortlessly take photographs from a distance to which its handle, which can be plastic, metal or rubberized, extends. The latter is especially comfortable to hold; it fits well in the hand and does not slip out.
On the back of the monopod there is a special “socket” in which the smartphone is clamped. By the way, selfie sticks can be not only classic black, but also all kinds of bright shades.
Monopod for smartphone with button
Having figured out what a monopod is and decided whether you need one, you need to decide on its type. There are four of them in total. Let's start listing them in descending order of their convenience and popularity. The first is a selfie monopod with a Bluetooth button. It is considered the most convenient; it will be discussed in more detail below.
The next option is a selfie stick with a button and a wire. There is a button on its handle, and at the top, on the reverse side, there is a small wire through which the monopod connects to the smartphone, through which it works without activating the Bluetooth mode. This selfie stick does not require recharging, which is its undoubted advantage; there is no need for a remote control, which is often lost.
But this wire is most often made in white, due to which it does not look very stylish and beautiful. In addition, it is quite thin, so it can easily be damaged. By the way, when recording video on such a selfie stick, be sure to remove the wire from the connector (inserted into the headphone jack), otherwise it will not have sound.
Tripod: monopod without button
Another type of selfie stick is the simplest and, unfortunately, not very convenient option. This is a monopod for a smartphone without buttons, that is, an ordinary tripod. You can take photographs on it only using a timer installed directly on the photographing device. After the specified time has passed, a photo will be taken, and if you want to retake it, you will have to set the timer again.
Therefore, such devices are not particularly popular due to their inconvenience in use, but they are cheap. Although, if you have already purchased one, don’t worry: you can buy a Bluetooth button for it separately.
Selfie monopod with bluetooth button
A monopod for a smartphone is considered the most convenient and, naturally, the most in demand. Taking photos with such a selfie stick is easy, quick and simple; there is no need to constantly insert the wire into the socket on the phone, which many people often forget to do. Especially when taking photos while running. Its main advantage is the Bluetooth button located on the tripod itself. This monopod runs on a battery that needs to be charged regularly, just like any smartphone or camera. If you forget to do this, it will not work. This is perhaps the only disadvantage of this type of selfie stick.
Selfie sticks with Bluetooth button on the remote control
Another option for a monopod working via Bluetooth. But unlike the previous one, the button is not on the tripod itself, but on a special remote control button. The convenience of this device is that it can be installed like an ordinary tripod; a monopod can easily perform its function if it is properly secured.
Having selected the viewing area that you want to capture and firmly established it at the desired distance, take the remote control button with you and click at any time the desired number of times. Such a photo will turn out not just like a selfie, but almost as if it was taken by a photographer or at least another person. Of course, taking a standard selfie will be no less simple: turn on Bluetooth on both the monopod and the smartphone, pull out the tripod, select an angle and pose, and click the button.
Despite all the advantages, this device still has disadvantages: the remote control is very small, so it is very easy to lose it. If you decide to take a selfie, then one hand will be occupied with the tripod handle, and the other with this very button, which is not very convenient. In addition, the remote control button is not always equipped with the monopod itself, so there is a possibility of purchasing it separately.
Monopod for camera
Many photography enthusiasts can argue that newfangled gadgets are capable of taking pictures whose quality will be no worse, or even better, than many cameras. However, fans of standard photography equipment or those who do not have a smartphone may need a monopod for their camera.
It differs from the similar one for a smartphone in being more durable, because cameras are much heavier. For each of them you need to select a monopod separately, because they come in different sizes and, accordingly, weights. Therefore, they must be especially reliable and properly clamp the photo device in a special socket so as not to damage it.
Connecting and setting up a monopod
Now you know what a selfie stick is and what types it can be. Now you need to assemble it and understand how to connect the monopod. Install the smartphone in a special slot, choosing the correct dimensions. Make sure that the mount does not scratch or damage the screen. Check that the smartphone is not loose in the mount; if necessary, tighten the clamps.
If your monopod doesn't have a button, set a timer and extend the tripod to the desired distance by extending it. If it has a button and a wire, insert it into the headphone jack. Usually the wire is attached to the selfie stick. Open the camera on your smartphone and take a photo by pressing the button. Sometimes the radio volume turns up instead of a photo. Go into the camera settings and change the volume there to the monopod button.
Be sure to pre-charge a selfie stick with a Bluetooth button for at least an hour. Turn on Bluetooth on your smartphone and on the monopod, establish a connection between them, then set the required length of the tripod and press the button - the photo is ready!
Now you see that there is nothing complicated about how to connect a monopod, the rules are the same everywhere. Although sometimes each individual model may have its own nuances.
Why is the device not working?
The very first reason that a monopod does not work is an incorrectly selected device. Before purchasing, be sure to check with the seller whether this model is suitable for your smartphone, and only then make a purchase.
The wire may be poorly inserted into the phone socket or into the wrong connector.
For some monopod models, you need to install a special application, so check this detail before purchasing. When the sound constantly turns on instead of photos and even the settings in the phone’s camera do not help, again, a special program is probably needed. But it’s better to change such a monopod. Your smartphone probably has an outdated operating system that does not support selfie stick functions.
In order to take good selfie pictures, it is not enough just to know what a monopod is and how to use it. Plus, if you want to be on trend, it's worth checking out the latest fashion trends in the field of selfie photography. A photo of yourself requires some tricks to ensure that you do not look distorted, boring or banal.
If you want to take an interesting photo, let not only your face, but also part of your surroundings be included in the frame. To do this, you need to photograph yourself a little from above, so some of your clothes will be visible, and your face will appear thinner. Don’t forget to smile, emotions are always a sign of a good photo, the most important thing is that they are sincere.
Taking photos in natural light is much better, the pictures turn out more natural, and the color rendition is close to the real thing. By the way, it is believed that the best lighting for photography is after 16.00: it is still light, but the sun is no longer blinding and there are no unnecessary shadows.
Filming yourself on your phone is very inconvenient, and special devices, monopods, will help change the situation. This rating is dedicated to the best selfie sticks according to user reviews, all of them are selected based on an analysis of their advantages and disadvantages. We've carefully examined the strengths and weaknesses of each model presented here, which should help make your choice easier.
There are a lot of second-rate products on the market from China, which are cheap knockoffs of well-known brands or are even produced without a name as such. At the same time, you can buy inexpensive products from the following fairly well-known companies with a good reputation:
- KJstar– this brand sells several types of monopods in black, red, blue, and green for iPhones. The manufacturer has an official website where you can order the product; in this case, delivery within Ukraine by the Nova Poshta carrier is free.
- Xiaomi– the history of this company is so rich that there is no point in further presenting its products. We can only say that this is definitely not low-quality “China”. The manufacturer's catalog includes both wired and wireless models. They are durable, stable and functional.
- UFT is a manufacturer and supplier of accessories for phones and laptops, as well as electric vehicles, chairs for working at a PC, and small portable tables. The company began its work in 2009 and aims to make the use of computers as convenient as possible.
- Yunteng is a manufacturer of monopods and a number of other accessories for action cameras and cameras. Despite the fact that it “comes” from China, it uses high-quality materials and the assembly of the products is quite good.
Rating of the best selfie sticks
When compiling it, we took the opinions of users as a basis, and paid special attention to the ratio of positive and negative reviews. The main criteria that we followed to include a particular model in this rating were:
- Connection type – wireless or wired;
- Dimensions and weight of the stick;
- Design, including color of products;
- Ease of use – wrist strap, remote control, etc.
- Material of manufacture;
- Equipment;
- Charging method and speed.
An important parameter was the cost of the monopod, as well as its compliance with the build quality. The manufacturer's reputation also played a huge role.
The best selfie sticks
KJstar Z06-4 Green
Let's start the review with the fact that this is the most inexpensive wired model in our rating - at the beginning of 2018 it costs only 65 rubles. With it, you can take photos at different distances, from 21 to 106 cm, by adjusting the height of the handle with one movement. At the same time, when assembled, it is small in size and lies comfortably in the hand. Due to this, the monopod can be easily carried in a bag. It is possible to connect any smartphones weighing up to 0.5 kg to it, which makes it universal. 
Advantages:
- The phone can work without installing additional programs;
- Easily adjustable handle height;
- Ease of use;
- Compatible with many models of phones and cameras;
- The holder securely fixes the smart phone.
Flaws:
- Some may not like the bright lime color;
- Sometimes you need to download and install the SelfiShop Camera application from Google Play.
KJstar Z06-4 Green, withstanding considerable weight, is suitable not only for smartphones, but also for cameras.
Selfie Stick Xiaomi Blue
This device was given one of the places in our rating because of its practicality. With it, you can take photos from completely different positions, since the holder can be rotated at an angle of more than 200 degrees. Its wireless connection to your phone via Bluetooth allows you to capture important moments at a considerable distance. Separately, it is necessary to note the small length of the handle when folded - 18 cm, which is less than that of the previous model.
Advantages:
- Convenient lanyard included;
- Beautiful colour;
- Compactness;
- Consists of several sections;
- Easy to fold.
Flaws:
- Does not work with all operating systems;
- Withstands weight only up to 200 g.
One of the best selfie sticks, Selfie Stick Xiaomi Blue, is only compatible with OS versions higher than iOS 6.0 and Andriod 4.2.2, which makes it inaccessible to some users.
UFT SS23 Waterproof with built-in Bluetooth
This handheld selfie tripod will be completely safe even underwater, as it comes with a special case. The soft silicone mount helps keep your phone securely in place. Remote connection with it via Bluetooth facilitates the shooting process and makes it even more comfortable even at a height of 60 cm. At the same time, the monopod can withstand up to 0.5 g of weight, which allows it to accept almost any smartphone. The product is made of metal and plastic.
Advantages:
- Thin handle;
- Classic color;
- Waterproof case.
Flaws:
- High price.
The built-in 2D head provides good viewing angles and expands selfie capabilities.
Yunteng YT-1288
This stick belongs to the professional category, although it is inexpensive. What immediately attracts attention is its robust and reliable design. Control is carried out using a special remote control via Bluetooth. The product works on both Android and iOS. But at the same time, the increase and decrease button is active only in the first OS. A huge advantage of this model is its focus not only on phones, but also on cameras weighing up to 2 kg. The product itself is not heavy, 225 g. Having purchased it, you can take photos from a height of up to 1.25 m.
Advantages:
- Lightweight;
- Comfortable;
- Withstands considerable load;
- Thick strap for attaching to the wrist;
- Large coverage when shooting;
- Does not fail in sea water.
Flaws:
- Takes up a lot of space even when folded.
The ball head provides ample control over the shooting process and excellent tilt angles.
KJSTAR Z07-5
With this selfie stick you can take photos at a height of just over one meter. Despite this, when assembled it is very compact, its length does not exceed 23.5 cm. Smooth and precise adjustment of the tilt of the mount, the head included in the kit, allow you to quickly and easily achieve the desired viewing angle. The battery capacity is 45 mAh, due to which in operating mode it can last for 2-3 days, or even more. One hour is enough to recharge. 
Advantages:
- Many sections;
- Convenient button, well located on the handle;
- Fast synchronization with ;
- Non-removable, durable holder;
- High shooting height.
Flaws:
- You will need an additional screw to install your GoPro camera.
According to reviews, the KJSTAR Z07-5 is often used not only for taking selfies from a phone, but also for capturing a GoPro action camera.
Which selfie stick is better to buy?
It is advisable that it withstand at least 200 g, then any device can be fixed on it. It is also very important that the monopod is made of metal, in extreme cases, with some plastic elements.
Here's what we can recommend for each model presented in this rating:
- Children and adult amateurs who plan to use the device infrequently can limit themselves to the KJstar Z06-4 Green model.
- When traveling, for example, KJSTAR Z07-5 or Selfie Stick Xiaomi Blue are ideal for taking photographs against the backdrop of landmarks.
- For those who plan to fix not only a camera on a stick, you can choose the Yunteng YT-1288.
- For underwater filming, you should buy the UFT SS23 Waterproof with built-in Bluetooth.
This video will help you choose the right selfie stick:
Choosing the best selfie stick will ensure that you don't miss a single moment or place that you want to capture without falling out of the frame.
A monopod has many names - it is a selfie stick, a tripod or an extension cord, and many others. Monopods appeared relatively recently in Russia, but are gradually gaining popularity among those who like to take pictures of themselves. Of course, they are convenient and their price is reasonable. But few people know how to choose this accessory correctly.
Who needs a monopod?
A selfie stick allows you to capture not only your face, but also the surrounding composition in the phone’s camera lens. You can choose the right and interesting angle. And this, you see, is very convenient when there is no one to photograph you.
A monopod will be needed by those people who:
- Loves to travel and take pictures during his trip
- Engages in extreme sports and takes breathtaking shots during his stunts
- Looks for interesting angles and unusual compositions
- Likes to spend time at different parties and holidays
But even for ordinary people who like to take pictures of themselves everywhere, a selfie will be necessary.
This accessory can be ordered online or bought in a store. The price of a monopod varies on average from 290 rubles to 2,200 thousand rubles. The price depends on the characteristics and availability of additional accessories.
Characteristics of selfie sticks
To decide on the choice of a tripod, you need to know what basic characteristics of monopods you should rely on.
- Firstly, the height. There are selfie sticks with long handles that are used for panoramic shots. And there are telescopic devices whose length exceeds one meter. They are perfect for landscapes
- Secondly, weight. It’s good if the selfie is easy
- Thirdly, strength. The stick must be strong, otherwise when taking photographs in any extreme conditions, you risk breaking it
- Fourth, specialization. Selfie extenders are available for both smartphones and photo and video cameras
What should you pay attention to when choosing a selfie?
The very first thing you should pay attention to is the appearance of the device. There should be no seams coming apart or plastic bending. Having assessed this criterion, you should move on to assessing the screw on which the phone is attached. There are two types of screw:
- Metric. Only a phone can be attached to it
- With inch thread. This is suitable for mounting both smartphones and cameras
And one more important point that you should pay attention to is the fixation of the retractable mechanism of the selfie stick. If your phone is heavy, then it is better to choose a device with a rotating locking mechanism, but if it is light, then any one will do.
Which monopod should you choose?
You will find several models of monopods in stores. After reviewing them, you can choose the model that suits you. Next, their main types will be discussed.
Selfie stick
This is the simplest monopod, the price of which is quite low. It works as follows: the phone is attached to a telescopic handle, which extends one meter. It is better to take pictures on such a device using the camera shutter timer. This is very inconvenient because every time you need to take a photo you will have to set a timer.
Bluetooth keychain
Technology does not stand still, and to take selfies quickly and easily, manufacturers have released a special Bluetooth remote control. The device is a key fob that connects to your phone via Bluetooth. The phone can be placed anywhere and on anything. Of course, this method of taking selfies is only suitable for home use, since you will have nowhere to attach your phone on the street or at some event. To use the Bluetooth keychain, do not forget to install a battery in it; without it, the monopod will not work, and carry a spare one with you. The price of the key fob remote control is about 200 rubles or more.
Monopod with Bluetooth remote control
This model is the most convenient of the previously described options; it is better to opt for this one, and besides, it is a combination of them. The price of such a set will be from 700-800 rubles and more.
Selfie tripod with button and wire. A wire connects the stick and the headphone jack. The advantages of this device are the following: it is convenient to use the button on the key fob to take a photo, and the device does not need to be charged separately. Everything works simply and clearly. The price of the device will be about 900 rubles.
Recently a new product appeared, another wired monopod.
Now let's move on to the review.
1st round. Selfie stick connection speed.
Wired monopod - 2-3 sec. (Connection speed of wired monopod RK-90E) Monopod with bluetooth - 20-30 sec. (first time), 5-7 sec (repeat) - Speed KJStar Obviously, connecting a wired selfie stick is faster. Sometimes this is very important.
2nd round. Operating hours for selfie sticks.
It is impossible to make accurate measurements here, since the operating time of each phone, iPhone and Android smartphone is different. The Selfie Travel wired monopod lasts as long as your phone. The battery is not wasted additionally. The KJStar Bluetooth monopod lasts a long time (usually longer than a phone), but due to the nature of the Bluetooth connection, it slightly reduces the operating time of your phone.
3rd round. Range of use.
The wired monopod Selfie Travel (RK-90E) is capable of working with a phone in a mount. The cord does not allow it to be moved.
The KJStar monopod is limited only by the Bluetooth range (up to 10m). So he is the leader here. Take your phone far away and you can still shoot remotely.
4th round. Charging Selfie sticks.
A wired monopod does not need to be charged. Bluetooth monopod requires recharging. It charges in about 2 hours. If it is impossible to recharge, you should buy a power bank.
5th round. At sea with a selfie stick.
Both monopods do not like to swim. Even a small amount of water that gets under the handle can damage the Selfie stick (electronics). One contains Bluetooth electronics, the other a button with a wire. If you need a monopod that is not afraid of water, then we recommend buying a monopod or.
6th round. Restarting the monopod.
Let me explain. Here we mean "standby" mode. The wired monopod does not hibernate; there is no need to wake it up. He's always ready to go! A Bluetooth monopod, like many modern devices with batteries, is forced to “go to sleep” in order to save battery power. Sometimes you even need to reconnect it to wake it up. It's not difficult, but you might miss a great shot).
7th round. Compatibility of monopods with smartphones.
Wired monopod - unfortunately, there are smartphone models that are not compatible with wired monopods. These are mainly Android models.
Bluetooth monopod KJStar - Unfortunately, there are smartphone models that do not have the required profile in their Bluetooth profiles. These are mostly old smartphones. Modern ones usually have such profiles.
8th round. Versatility.
Selfie Travel wired monopod can only be used with smartphones that fit into the mount.
The KJStar wireless monopod can be used as a control panel for any device (phone, tablet), the main thing is to connect it via Bluetooth.
We looked at all the pros and cons of monopods. Choice
Owners of smartphones and phones on the Windows Phone platform, wait. Selfishop camera is coming SOON for your gadgets.
A selfie stick (monopod) is a modern accessory that can be universal or created for a specific gadget manufacturer. However, owners of smartphones with the Android operating system very often have problems - in standard mode the Bluetooth button does not function, the volume is added instead of taking photographs, there is photo sound, but there is no photograph. For every problem that arises, there is a solution.
Selfie stick and its types
A selfie stick is a modified monopod for a camera, a device for a smartphone that allows you to take a selfie at a distance beyond arm's length. What types of this invention exist at the moment?
Classic folding selfie stick
The classic type of monopod was the very first to enter the consumer market. This is explained by the simplicity and accessibility of the device, which expands from 20 centimeters to a meter in length. At the top of the monopod there is a mount for a smartphone.
The classic monopod is easy to use and minimal in its functionality To take a selfie using this device, you need to install the phone in a special mount, turn on the timer shooting mode, choose a good angle and wait for the shutter button to automatically release. That's it, the selfie is ready! If you purchase a remote control for your phone, you can take a photo using a special button on it.
Monopod connected via headphone jack
The developers of modern phones have provided a camera release function using a cord connected through an audio jack - it was this nuance that was used when creating the next type of monopod.
Wired monopod connects to smartphone via headphone jack
The monopod connects to the phone via a 3.5 mm jack, and no additional steps are required to start using the device. When folded, its length is 20 cm, and when unfolded it is 90 cm. The main advantage of the monopod is the ball mount on the top, which allows you to install the smartphone at any angle or tilt it to the side.
Wireless monopod with button
A wireless device is the most common; it looks like the very first type of monopod, but has several features:
To start a photo shoot, you need to turn on the monopod, establish a connection via Bluetooth, secure the phone, activate the Camera application, select a frame and press a special button on the selfie stick.
The presence of a Bluetooth sensor on the wireless monopod allows you to take selfies without any extra effort The monopod was invented by the Japanese in 1995, who also considered it the most useless invention. However, in 2014, the selfie stick was recognized as one of the best gadgets.
Multifunctional monopod
It would seem that nothing new can be found, but a multifunctional monopod has appeared that can be installed permanently and also controlled remotely. This device consists of four parts:
The gadget has a Bluetooth transmitter and a built-in battery; on the handle, in addition to the usual “Take a photo” button, there is the ability to control proximity (+/-). The handle with buttons can be used as a telephone remote control. The smartphone is installed as standard, as on other monopods.
Using the tripod included in the kit, you can install the selfie stick permanently. And you need to control the phone, which is installed on a tripod, with a remote control (handle) at a distance of up to ten meters.
Using the included tripod, you can install the selfie stick permanently To start photographing yourself using a monopod, you need to turn on Bluetooth on your phone, connect the devices wirelessly, install the phone on a special mount, and launch the Camera application. And you can start taking selfies.
Connecting a selfie stick to an Android phone
Connecting a selfie stick to your phone varies depending on its type. Wired and wireless monopods have their own connection nuances.
How to connect a wired monopod
To connect a wired selfie stick on Android, you need to change the functionality of the volume buttons:
If the standard photography program does not allow you to change the functionality of the shooting keys, then you need to replace it with others. For example, Camera FV-5 - the application has a large number of settings. But to install the monopod you need to do the following:
As an option, you can also offer SelfiShop Camera - a regular application that will take up a small amount of internal memory. A big plus is the ease of use, you just need to install the application, by default all the keys are configured to take selfies.
Video: how to connect a wired monopod
How to connect a wireless selfie stick
Setting up a wireless monopod is much easier:
It is better to rename the monopod on your phone so that it can be easier to identify later.
Video: how to connect a wireless monopod
Problems during the operation of a monopod and ways to solve them
During the process of connecting and setting up the monopod, as well as during its operation, problems or errors may occur. They are quite easy to eliminate.
Table: possible problems when working with a selfie stick and their solutions
It is worth considering that if, when pairing devices, the message “Invalid PIN code or password entered” is displayed, then the monopod is not suitable for use on your smartphone. The problem rarely occurs, but it is recommended to check the monopod for compatibility with the phone, as the problem can cause OS malfunctions.
Video: what to do if the selfie stick doesn’t work
Using a selfie stick is fashionable and practical, and solves many problems related to photography. This is a new trend of our time - social networks are filled with all kinds of selfies. A monopod can be chosen to suit every taste, color and budget. And connection problems are completely solvable even on the Android operating system.
