Which monopod is better for iPhone? 1st place: Vamson monopod. th round. Range of use

Selfie stick (selfie monopod)— the most controversial accessory for iPhones. However, I think users like it for its photography assistance. That's why I selected for you the best selfie sticks sold in Russia.

If you decide to buy a selfie stick, buy only the best one. I recommend buying a monopod for no less than 1,1000 rubles, since inexpensive monopods break quickly and do not hold the iPhone well. I have selected the best selfie sticks, including monopods of various price categories and capabilities.

Update December 2017: Most of these selfie sticks are still the best. Added new models BENRO 33 and Xiaomi Mi Tripod Selfie Stick!

Harper RSB-202

I'll start with the most popular and compact selfie stick for iPhone - Harper RSB-202. Well made, reasonable price and easy to connect to your iPhone via Bluetooth. The monopod extends up to 108 cm, and 22 cm when folded easily fits into a pocket. The Harper RSB-202 stick can hold any iPhone, from the iPhone SE to the iPhone 6s Plus. The smartphone mounting bracket can be rotated 360°, which makes it possible to set the appropriate angle to get a good picture. The price of Mpow iSnap X in Russia is 449 rubles.

BENRO 33

If you are an avid photographer and are looking for a selfie stick combined with a tripod, you should pay attention to the Benro 33. The selfie stick is available in three colors: red, blue and green. Extends up to 85 cm, and the smartphone compartment is wide enough to accommodate any iPhone.

The monopod kit includes: selfie stick, phone mount, GoPro mount

Rekam SelfiPod S600M

I'm sure you've heard of it at least once, and maybe you even have a camera from Rekam. But it produces not only cameras, but also monopods for selfies, which have an excellent design and are made of high-quality materials.

Despite the not very high cost of 1219 rubles, the monopod has fairly compact characteristics: it extends up to 88 cm and 19 cm when folded. Also suitable for all iPhone models and available in white, black, orange, green and blue.

Xiaomi Mi Tripod Selfie Stick

The most stylish selfie stick from this review, the monopod weighs 155 grams. Extends up to 50 cm, and the smartphone mount can be rotated 360°. Supports all existing iPhone and Android smartphone models.

I note that the Xiaomi Mi Tripod selfie monopod can be used as a tripod and has Bluetooth support. The price of the Xiaomi Mi Tripod stick is about 1000 rubles.

Harper RSB-304

The last selfie stick in this review is the Harper RSB-304, a button on the handle with Bluetooth 3.0. The smartphone mount rotates freely 270°, which helps you take unique photos. You can attach any of the existing iPhone models. Price from 1099 rubles.

Conclusion: There are now a huge number of selfie monopods in stores. In this review, I only reviewed the ones I liked. If you share your opinion in the comments, readers will be grateful to you.

Is there anyone you know who doesn’t know what a selfie is? At a time when all social networks are filled with selfie photos! Therefore, we will simply say: a selfie is taking a photograph of yourself.

Typically, selfies on a smartphone are taken either with the front camera on your hand, or you take a photo of your reflection with the main camera. Agree, both methods are not ideal. With the first one, the background is not always visible, and the person is not completely included in the frame. In the second case, the phone is in the frame, the eyes are looking in the wrong direction, and you can’t take such a shot outside.

And here the Japanese appear, recalling their invention of 1995 (by the way, then included in the list of the most useless inventions). As a result, TIME magazine recognizes the selfie stick as one of the best inventions of 2014. If just a year before everyone was making fun of strange people with some short fishing rods, then by 2015 they realized how useful this accessory could be.

After all, really, how can it be even easier to capture yourself or the whole company without outside help, from the most unusual angles?




Essentially, a classic camera monopod is used as a stick, but slightly modified. Let's try to understand the variety of options that currently exist.

What types of selfie sticks are there?

Now you can find a wide variety of selfie monopods, ranging from a simple telescopic stick to sophisticated devices with a built-in battery and connection to a phone via Bluetooth.

Let's look at the most popular of them.

1. Classic telescopic monopod for phones and action cameras.




Perhaps this monopod was one of the first to appear on the market en masse. This is understandable - what could be simpler than an ordinary steel telescopic pole that expands from 23cm to 109cm? At the end of the monopod, the manufacturer added a mount for the phone, and voila - the selfie stick is ready.

It should be noted that the length of 109 cm is quite enough to take a full-length selfie.

1 x monopod

How does a selfie stick work?

  • secure the smartphone in a special mount

Advantages: low price, low weight, long length.

Flaws: does not have phone control buttons (however, this drawback can be eliminated by purchasing a Bluetooth remote control for the phone); It is possible that the phone may rotate when shaking.

2. Selfie stick connected via audio jack

Smartphone manufacturers have provided the ability to release the camera using a cable connected via an audio connector. The inventors of the next version of the monopod took advantage of this.

This selfie stick connects to your phone via a 3.5mm audio jack and does not require any additional steps to start taking pictures of yourself. When folded, this stick is more compact - its length is 20 cm. It should be noted that the maximum length when unfolded is “only” 90cm, which, however, is quite enough for most situations.

A big advantage is that the monopod has a ball mount at the end. This allows you to fix the phone not only at any angle, but also turn it to the side.




What is included in the selfie stick kit?


1 x Phone Mount

How does a selfie stick work?

  • Insert the wire on the selfie stick into the audio jack of the phone.
  • choose the desired angle
  • press the button on the monopod.

Advantages: low weight; presence of a button; low price.

Flaws: audio jack is busy; to connect to a phone that has a jack other than 3.5mm, an adapter is required; It is possible that the phone may rotate when shaking.

3. Telescopic selfie stick with button

Probably the most popular selfie monopod at the moment. It looks almost the same as the first model, but has a number of advantages.

This monopod has a built-in Bluetooth transmitter, thanks to which a photo on the phone can be taken by pressing a button on the stick itself. Built-in battery charges via USB in less than 1 hour

The selfie monopod is also equipped with a more reliable phone mount that secures it on both sides.

The telescopic stick has the same length when unfolded as the previous version - 90cm.

What is included in the selfie stick kit?

1 x Foldable phone monopod
1 x Phone Mount
1 x USB cable

How does a selfie stick work?

  • secure the smartphone in a special mount on a stick.
  • Open the Camera or Camera 360 app on your phone.
  • choose the desired angle
  • press the button on the monopod.

Advantages: relatively low price, low weight, presence of a button.

Flaws: requires charging, Bluetooth channel is busy.

4. Multifunctional selfie stick (Bluetooth remote control, monopod, tripod)

It would seem that nothing new can be invented, but we came across another very interesting specimen.

This is not just a selfie stick that you can hold in your hands, it can also be installed permanently and controlled remotely.

This selfie monopod consists of 4 parts: a phone mount, a handle with control buttons, a telescopic stick, and a tripod (tripod) for installing the stick on a flat surface.





Despite the large number of sections, the monopod is quite lightweight.

The selfie monopod has a built-in battery and a Bluetooth transmitter. In addition to the standard “photo” button, the handle also has “+” and “-” zoom control buttons. This same handle with control buttons can be used as a separate, independent remote control for your smartphone.

The attachment points for the selfie stick sections are made quite well and did not cause us any fear that the monopod would fall apart

The phone is attached in a standard way, as with most selfie sticks.




In order to install a monopod permanently, it is enough to unfold the tripod included in the kit and attach either one of the sections to it, or just a mount for the phone. You can control your phone mounted on such a tripod from a distance of up to 10 meters.

The length of the selfie stick when unfolded is 80cm.

What is included in the selfie stick kit?

1 x Handle with Bluetooth and buttons
1 x Telescopic monopod
1 x Phone Mount
1 x Tripod
1 x Storage pouch
1 x USB cable

How does a selfie stick work?

  • Turn on the selfie stick using the switch at the bottom.
  • turn on Bluetooth on your phone.
  • Find the selfie monopod in the list of available devices.
  • connect to a selfie monopod.
  • secure the smartphone in a special mount on a stick
  • Open the Camera or Camera 360 app on your phone.
  • choose the desired angle
  • press the button on the monopod.




Advantages: versatility; the presence of additional buttons; stylish design; real distance.

Flaws: requires recharging; price is above average; volume of the entire set; The Bluetooth channel is busy.

5. Large telescopic monopod for phones and action cameras.

Finally, we would like to consider another monopod model, which is not equipped with either a wire or a Bluetooth module. This is because it was originally created for action cameras. However, this model has several significant advantages for use as a selfie stick with a smartphone.

Firstly, its length when unfolded is 123 cm, which allows you to capture a significantly larger scene in the frame.

Secondly, each other segment is fixed with a clamp, which prevents arbitrary folding/unfolding

Thirdly, the strength of its elements allows you to mount not only a phone on a stick, but even a mirrorless camera, which makes this monopod the most versatile of the ones we reviewed.

And the problem of the lack of a button can be solved quite simply by purchasing a Bluetooth remote control.

What is included in the selfie stick kit?

1 x monopod
1 x Phone or GoPro mount

How does a selfie stick work?

In order to take a selfie using this monopod you need:

  • secure the smartphone in a special mount
  • enable photo timer mode on your phone
  • choose the best angle for a selfie and wait for the phone to take a photo of you

If you purchased a special Bluetooth remote control for your phone, then the steps will be as follows:

  • secure the smartphone in a special mount
  • connect your phone to a wireless remote control for your smartphone
  • choose the best angle for a selfie
  • press a button on the remote to capture yourself

Advantages: very long length; strong fixation; versatility.

Flaws: does not have phone control buttons (however, this drawback can be eliminated by purchasing a Bluetooth remote control for the phone); tangible weight; price.

Selfie sticks, also known as selfie sticks, are not the invention of the sick mind of an Instagrammer. These devices have migrated to the masses from accessories for professional photography, where a selfie stick is called a monopod. And one is needed not only to pound selfies at every convenient opportunity: the stick will help you get the right angle, it’s easier and better to shoot video with it, and you can also fit your entire large family in one photo without the need to trust your smartphone to a stranger. That is, yes, we are still stunned by people walking around the city with a monopod, smiling stupidly at the camera and talking to a double on a smartphone. Selfie sticks are also used by adequate people - so let’s find you the right selfie-monopod!

5 main criteria: how to choose a selfie stick for your phone or action camera

  1. Connection method and supported devices.
  2. Design.
  3. Assembly.
  4. Control.
  5. Additional accessories and features.

Deciding which selfie stick to choose always depends on these five points. Dig into the characteristics and do not take the first cheap monopod that comes to hand. This is a one-time purchase due to poor build quality or lack of connection to your smartphone. Principleno matter what stick you take, any one will do we exclude it immediately. This is wrong.

Connection method and supported devices

There are two ways to connect a selfie stick to a smartphone - wired and wireless. Wired - uses a 3.5 mm headphone jack; wireless - via Bluetooth.

Pros of a wired connection:The simplest and fastest way to connect, the price is lower than that of BT monopods, the operation of such a stick does not depend on the charge of the built-in battery - use it as much as you want.

Minuses: Your smartphone recognizes the selfie stick as a connected headset, which means if the stick does not have a built-in microphone, you will not be able to record video with sound. In 30% of cases - this applies to Chinese products - even the “microphone” stated in the characteristics does not guarantee sound recording, so it is better to check the option when purchasing. The simplest model of selfie stick may not have a shutter button on the handle - you will have to set the delayed shooting/countdown timer on your smartphone. And this is inconvenient. And if there is a button, then it is connected to the smartphone with a wire stretched the entire length of the telescopic stick - cheap wires are short-lived.

Yes, yes, we write a lot of banal things. Just keep in mind that there is no free cheese - everything cheap will sooner or later lead to compromises.

Popular sticks with a wired connection are the iStabilizer Selfie Stick Smartphone Monopod, KJStar Z07-7, Revo Adjustable Selfie Stick and EXOGEAR ExoPod, although there are many more new sticks in this category.

Pros of wireless connection:There are no requirements for the microphone in your smartphone to work - there will always be sound on the video! A wireless connection is an advantage in itself. There are models with a remote control - and sometimes this is a plus: the remote control works without a selfie stick, so we place the smartphone on a tree/pebble, move away, strike a pose - and take a photo by pressing a button on the remote control. We'll talk about controlling the selfie stick below.

Minuses:Selfie sticks with Bluetooth connectivity have their own batteries. They need to be charged on time. Set a reminder so you don't go for a walk with a useless stick. It happens that a smartphone cannot synchronize with a stick via Bluetooth - the devices are different, and so are the BT modules. Saves Sometimes updating the firmware on your smartphone, installing additional software and dancing with a tambourine around the monopod.

Popular models: Polaroid Selfie Stick Bluetooth, REKAM SelfiPod S-600M, GoTech Stealth Bluetooth Selfie Stick, iBower Wireless Smartphone Selfie Pod and others.

A wired connection also does not always work perfectly and it is not always possible to get reciprocity from the selfie stick the first time. We’ll probably write about connection and configuration problems in a separate article.


If the characteristics of the stick indicate which smartphones it connects to - for example, the supported Bluetooth modules, operating system version, and even smartphone manufacturers are indicated - consider yourself lucky, and you can quickly and accurately figure out whether this is suitable for your phoneextension. But more often you only have to guess about compatibility or scour forums in search of an answer - will it connect or not?!

For example, the REKAM SelfiPod S-450W monopod connects to devices with Bluetooth 3.0 and higher (therefore, with a high degree of probability: you will be able to connect). The model is compatible with Android and iOS devices.

By the way, for iOS devices you don’t need any special monopod. How to choose a selfie stick for iPhone? Yes, just like a regular one - the main thing is that support for the operating system is listed in the model description.

Design

Length.To take normal selfies, the minimum length of the monopod should be 1 meter. Typical characteristics: working length up to 130 cm, folded length - 25-30 cm (for example, UFT SS1 - 106 and 23 cm, and Qub SS-960 - 132 and 33 cm).

Record-breaking monopod - FastCap Tech Stealth iPole - XL, extendable up to 275 cm. Truefoldit can only be up to 105 cm. Pocket XShot is its opposite, the model fits on the palm with a length of 16.5 cm (the maximum length of the stick is 77.5 cm).

Weight.Some models weigh a wretched 78 grams, others more than 300 grams. In the first case, one can only guess about the quality of the build and the materials used...

A heavy monopod is a strong monopod. But you have to walk around with it all day, carrying a 200-gram smartphone at arm's length. Can you take this walk?

The average weight of monopods is 150-170 grams, this is enough so that the stick does not break in half under the weight of the smartphone, and so that your hand does not break, moving the 0.5-kilogram structure to the side all day for taking selfies.

Number of sections.The fewer links, the better - our subjective opinion. Monopods are often produced with 4-6 telescopic sections. But what is important is not even the number of sections, but how they are fixed relative to each other.

The worst option is no fixation at all. Found in the cheapest selfie sticks. Stick will notit will work out, but the links will rotate under the weight of the smartphone (especially if you have a 6-inch camera phone like Xiaomi Mi Max). That is, we fix the smartphone, move our hand, and it “falls” down due to scrolling, even though you were holding the monopod handle tightly. It's a shame.

The minimum for fixation is the presence of grooves on the links, or better yet, special clips; they make it easier to adjust the length of the stick, and even if you attach the camera to a monopod, it won’t spin.

Smartphone mount.This has its limitations. For example, will the same 6-inch phablet fit into the holder? Most monopods work without problems with smartphones with a screen diagonal of 4-5.5 inches, but before purchasing it is better to check what the minimum and maximum opening of the holder is (for example, 5.5 and 8.5 cm, respectively, for the UFT SS1 model and 48/89 mm for the iOttie MiGo Selfie Stick model).

A nice bonus is that the platform with the smartphone holder is removable, and the model has a standard mount for cameras and action camera platforms. Such fasteners are available with metric and inch threads. All photo and video equipment is adapted for inch. You can screw anything onto a metric one only with an adapter, and even then the design does not inspire confidence.

Assembly

We have already touched on this point in part above. Each selfie monopod has a limitation - what is the maximum weight of the smartphone the model is designed for. For example, the typical weight of a selfie-on-stick device is 200 grams. Critical - 500 grams. That is, you can mount a smartphone, an action camera, and even your pocket point-and-shoot camera on such a monopod, but to mount compact video cameras and DSLR cameras, you need to look for the appropriate models (they exist, by the way, although they cost like gold).

Control

Monopods come without controls (we set up the smartphone for delayed shooting), with control keys on the handle and with control keys on the remote control. The first group of sticks is from the last century, let's move on to more practical solutions.

The handle may have one or more keys. If there is only one button, hold it down tofindBluetooth smartphone and establish a connection, press a second time to take a photo or record a video. If the smartphone is connected via a headphone jack, everything is the same, but without searching for BT.

Additional buttons control zoom and sometimes focus.

The third option is monopods with remote control. Well, that's the solution. If you don’t decide to shoot by attaching a monopod or smartphone somewhere and moving 10 meters away for the shot, you will hardly find it comfortable. Judge for yourself: hold the selfie stick with one hand, press the button on the remote control with the other, or entrust this task to someone else.

Plus, remember - if the remote control is not attached to the monopod, the remote control tends to get lost.

So it’s easier and more convenient to control shooting from the stick handle.

Oh, there is another way to take pictures - give voice commands to your smartphone. If it supports voice control, of course. Voice control, if it is not in your stock photo application, can be used by installing additional software from the Play Market or App Store.

Additional accessories and features

If the selfie stick has an inch thread and a removable platform for a smartphone, you can even attach a box to it for underwater shooting on an action camera. This mount greatly expands the possibilities of using a monopod, if you need them at all.

Monopods for shooting action videos can have a removable handle and helmet mount, adapters for mounting different cameras, including GoPro, all kinds of holders for changing hand positions, stabilizers, and zooms.

A popular almost everyday accessory is a tripod to use a monopod as a tripod.

There are also models that are completely out of the ordinary - like the FastCap Tech iPole Trekking Pole, for example. It is used as a selfie stick, and when folded, as a trekking pole for hiking and long walks. It’s a strange combination, let’s say right away.

Would you rather save money and buy the cheapest monopod, because “it’s not an accessory at all, but a toy”? Or would you still invest a couple of thousand rubles in the purchase?

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Elizabeth

Without a twinge of conscience, I ask for “phone numbers” from guys and girls I don’t know well. To check whether the lock button fits comfortably under your finger and whether the autofocus works quickly :) I would like to visit MWC and conduct a live blog from the thick of things.

The popularity of selfie sticks has been growing at a rapid pace over the past few years, as these simple and inexpensive devices take selfie photography to a whole new level. The extraordinary popularity of monopods for selfies, as selfie sticks are correctly called, even became the reason that this device was recognized as one of the most ingenious inventions of the beginning of the new century. At the same time, you should choose a selfie stick taking into account several factors, because not all of them are equally easy to use and allow you to easily and effortlessly take great photos in any circumstances. In this short review you will find practical tips on choosing the right selfie stick, as well as information about the best models of these devices today, including costs.

THE CONTENT OF THE ARTICLE (you can click on the link for a quick transition)

Manufacturing materials and dimensions of the selfie stick

Modern selfie sticks belong to the category of things that are convenient to always have on hand, especially if you are not just walking around your hometown, but on a trip. Therefore, high-quality manufacturing materials will guarantee that your selfie monopod will serve you for a long time and will not make you regret the purchase. The cheapest selfie sticks are made of steel and have a small handle with a layer of rubber or plastic. The disadvantage of this design is its fairly high weight, which is especially critical when traveling. And cheap, hard plastic can slip in your hands, especially on a hot day. It is better to choose models that are made of aluminum and high-quality soft plastic, which are not inferior in terms of reliability, but have much less weight. The compactness of the model is also important, which often depends on the design of the rod (more on this below).

The design of the rod when choosing a selfie stick

Currently, the most common monopods for selfies are those with a telescopic rod that works on the principle of a folding fishing rod. The convenience of such selfie sticks is that you can adjust the length of the entire structure and, accordingly, the distance of the smartphone or camera from you in the process of taking photographs or shooting videos. This is one of the most important parameters, so you should pay close attention to it. The cheapest monopods are equipped with steel telescopic rods, which quickly become loose and rotate under the weight of the phone. It is impossible to operate even a new device of this type together with a smartphone. The size and weight of which is above average.

Therefore, the choice of selfie stick should be made among models whose rod does not bend like a fishing rod when attaching the phone and will not rotate at the knees. For reliable fixation, three popular methods are used today: special grooves along the entire length, fixation by turning in a certain direction, and fixation used in professional tripods. Please note that the latter option implies a much longer monopod length when folded (inoperative), which can lead to some inconvenience while traveling. There are also folding monopods, which are extended not like a telescopic fishing rod, but by extension at the “elbows” (see photo).

Folding monopod for action camera - doesn't look very nice

Choosing a selfie stick based on the shutter release principle

All selfie monopods can be divided into wired and wireless. In wired models, the shutter button is located on the handle, and to connect the selfie stick directly to the monopod, a short wire is used, which is usually inserted into the headphone jack. Such models are somewhat cheaper than cordless ones, but a thin wire can get caught on something, break during use, and the stick will become practically useless. In addition, wired selfie monopods do not have their own battery and use the charge of the smartphone, reducing the battery life of the latter.

Wireless selfie sticks are much more convenient to use and are divided into two types. The shutter release button can be located on the grip or on a separate control panel. The first option is in many cases more convenient, because you don’t have to worry about losing a separate tiny remote control, the handle has its own rechargeable battery with a very long service life, and control can be done with one hand. In addition, modern selfie sticks are equipped not with one button, but with several at once, including taking photos and videos, as well as zoom buttons (zooming in and out of objects), because with the help of a selfie monopod it is convenient to take pictures not only of yourself, but also to simply take photos and video with the main camera of your smartphone from your exciting journey.

Monopod with a separate remote control and reliable fixation of segments, but with very large dimensions

A separate remote control requires two-handed operation (if there is no mount for it on the handle), requires periodic replacement of a flat battery and can easily get lost, turning your selfie stick into a regular one. To be fair, we are happy to note that the wireless remote control also has an advantage: you can attach the selfie stick like a tripod a few meters away from you and take a photo. When using a selfie stick with a built-in remote control, you will then have to set the time on your smartphone or camera. Usually there are two buttons on a separate remote control, but only one functions - to control the shutter on smartphones running Android or iOS (depending on which one is currently connected via Bluetooth).

Smartphone and camera mount + selfie stick versatility

If possible, it is better to choose monopod models that have a universal mount for smartphones of any size (including a protective bumper). In this case, it is better to refuse a product where the smartphone is fixed with a thin metal frame. It is better to choose a selfie stick with a reliable mount made of high-quality plastic that does not scratch the edges of your smartphone and has rubberized parts. This will guarantee that your expensive smartphone will not fall onto concrete, into the water, or from an observation deck on a high cliff where you climbed for a stunning selfie photo. There are selfie sticks for specific smartphone models (for example, for the iPhone 7), but when you change the device, you will have to buy a selfie monopod for another model, too, or (if possible) change the mount.

If you prefer to shoot video while traveling using an action camera, it is better to choose a selfie stick with a universal mount. Typically this is a standard GoPro mount (fits most other action cameras) or a standard ¼" thread (fits other action cameras, digital cameras, camcorders and DSLRs). In case you like a certain monopod, but the mount is not quite suitable, you can always buy a special adapter or a full-fledged additional mount for a smartphone or action camera on AliExpress for $1. When choosing a mount, you should make sure that you can not only securely mount your smartphone or camera in it, but also fix the angle you need by loosening and tightening one screw).

The simplest and cheapest selfie sticks do not hold the smartphone well (segments scroll)

Additional conveniences when choosing a selfie stick

Since competition among monopod manufacturers is very high (especially among good ones), many strive to equip their device with additional advantages. Among these, we can highlight the presence of a special hand strap, a small mirror in the area where the smartphone is mounted, a special case, an extendable handle, the presence of a standard thread in the handle for mounting on a tripod, various color options, etc. The presence of such additional “conveniences” is always nice if it does not affect the price too much and does not make the device less reliable. Also, when choosing between several models, it is better to give preference to those that have reliable fastening and good fixation of sections, rather than a maximum of secondary advantages.

Where to buy a selfie stick at the best price

There are many options for purchasing selfie monopods, but the main ones are three. Firstly. You can buy this device in a regular (or specialized) store in your city or on the market. The advantage of this method is the ability to “touch” the product and evaluate it before purchasing. The disadvantage of such a purchase is a significant overpayment, reaching 100% or more. You can also buy a selfie monopod in an online store in your city or country, but in this case you will also overpay a certain amount, depending on the “greed” of the online store and will no longer be able to check the device before purchasing.

Finally, in my opinion, the most convenient way (especially if you don’t need to buy a selfie stick today or in the coming days) is to order this device in the homeland of its manufacture - in China. In this case, you also cannot check the device before purchasing, but the buyer protection on AliExpress is reliable and if a low-quality product is delivered, you can challenge the order and return the entire amount of money spent. The most important advantage of ordering a selfie monopod in China is the minimum price, and the main disadvantage is the need to wait two weeks or more, i.e. It is advisable to order a selfie stick no later than a month before your trip.

A compact universal monopod with a secure fit is my choice (in the photo it is extended halfway)

Which selfie stick model should you buy in 2017?

The wide variety of models and modifications of selfie monopods in China makes it very difficult to choose a specific model and even a specific manufacturer. Before buying a selfie stick for myself, I was also faced with a difficult choice, since most models are offered at similar prices and have similar technical characteristics. As a result of many hours of “natural selection” and viewing dozens of reviews, my choice was made in favor of a wireless one, which compares favorably with my first device, purchased several years ago in Thailand. That device immediately disappointed me with its large weight and the fact that it was simply impossible to use (the steel rod sometimes rotated even under the weight of the mount without a smartphone, although I sometimes use the remote control for remote photos even today).

I had very serious requirements, and the selfie stick of this model fully meets them, so I can confidently recommend this product to my readers.

★ Wireless connection with a smartphone (Bluetooth);

★ Control of shutter release, zoom and camera change using buttons on the handle;

★ Reliable fixation of aluminum sections by turning;

★ Compact and lightweight when folded (only 22cm and 260g);

★ Good length when unfolded (90 cm);

★ Reliable fastening of a smartphone with a large screen in a protective case;

★ Powerful built-in battery (more than 100 hours of operation) and USB charging;

★ The presence of a strap and carabiner for attaching to a backpack or belt;

★ Solid appearance and positive reviews from owners;

★ Possibility of installing an action camera instead of a smartphone;

★ Low price.

When ordering a selfie stick, I considered options up to $20, because... I don't consider it reasonable to pay more for such a product. The recommended model is located both in this price range (from $12.99 for the wired version and $16.99 for the wireless version). As a result, I ordered a wireless model in black (Wireless black version), delivery was fast. Initially, I also considered the option of a selfie stick with a tripod built into the handle, but in the end I abandoned it because... The working length of the monopod in this case would be shorter, and externally the design does not look too reliable. Therefore, I did it simpler: I ordered it for myself for 1.4 USD and now, if necessary, I fix the monopod not only on the ground, but also on the handlebars of a motorbike, in transport, on a backpack, a branch, etc.

A short video review of the best selfie stick of 2017

Above is a short review of my new monopod (initially I wanted to make my own video review, but a professional reviewer did it clearly better and more fun). I hope this article was useful to you and now you know how to choose a selfie stick for your smartphone, what parameters you need to pay attention to when choosing a modern monopod, and that the cheapest models can disappoint you, just as my first monopod disappointed me. I wish you interesting travels and bright photos!

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 contains 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 that it is designed not only for phones, but also for 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.