Ulanzi Claw Clip vs Peak Design Capture
Peak Design Capture Camera Clip:
The Ulanzi Claw Clip Shoulder Strap Quick Release Mount is designed for photographers looking to attach their cameras to shoulder straps or belts easily, supporting up to 5.5 pounds of gear. It’s priced at $49.95, making it an attractive option for those on a budget. The Peak Design Capture Camera Clip V3, at $79.95, is a more robust option, offering compatibility with ARCA-type tripods and fitting straps up to 2.5 inches wide and 0.88 inches thick, with a capacity to withstand forces up to 200 pounds.
Pros and Cons of Ulanzi Mount
The Ulanzi mount’s quick-release system and one-button locking lever make it user-friendly, especially for fast-paced shooting. Its lightweight design at 0.415 pounds and magnetic wrench storage add convenience. However, its compatibility is limited to the Ulanzi Claw system, and the fixed clamp size (2.3 x 0.6 inches) may not fit all straps, potentially restricting its use. The load capacity of 5.5 pounds might also be insufficient for heavier professional gear, and there’s no explicit mention of weatherproofing, which could be a concern for outdoor use.
Comparison with Peak Design
When compared to the Peak Design Capture Camera Clip V3, the Ulanzi mount is more affordable but less versatile. The Peak Design clip supports a wider range of gear, including GoPros with additional plates, and offers a redundant security lock for safety. However, these extras come at an additional cost, and setup might be more complex. The Peak Design’s all-metal build ensures durability, making it better for professional use, while the Ulanzi suits casual photographers prioritizing cost and simplicity.
One thing to note is that upon using the peak design on a trip the release button is very sensitive and one of our videographers lost his plate on the plane due to the release of the main base plate. This is something to to note when looking into which option to get. As the Ulanzi mount has a locking feature to properly secure the base quick release plate in the mount itself. This could be something Peak design changes in the future, but upon writing this article the peak design plate that was tested did not fit with a locking mechanism for the quick release button.
An interesting feature of the Ulanzi mount is the magnetic wrench storage, which keeps the tool handy for adjustments, a small but thoughtful addition for users in the field, especially compared to the Peak Design, which doesn’t mention a similar feature.
Detailed Analysis of Ulanzi Claw Clip Shoulder Strap Quick Release Mount and Comparison with Peak Design Capture Camera Clip V3
The Ulanzi Claw Clip Shoulder Strap Quick Release Mount and the Peak Design Capture Camera Clip V3 are both camera-carrying solutions designed for photographers, particularly those needing quick access and secure attachment during shoots. This analysis delves into the pros and cons of the Ulanzi mount, followed by a detailed comparison with the Peak Design clip, providing a comprehensive overview for potential buyers. The focus is on specifications, features, and user considerations, ensuring a thorough understanding of each product’s strengths and limitations.
Ulanzi Claw Clip Shoulder Strap Quick Release Mount: Detailed Pros and Cons
The Ulanzi Claw Clip Shoulder Strap Quick Release Mount, is priced at $49.95 and available on the official Ulanzi website (Ulanzi Official Website) and with our Amazon or other affiliate links listed below. Its specifications include a load capacity of 5.5 pounds (2.5 kg), a clamp capacity of 2.3 x 0.6 inches (58.42 x 15.24mm), and a lightweight design at 0.415 pounds (188.24 g), with dimensions of 4.4 x 3.2 x 1.5 inches. Key features include a Claw-Locking Quick Release System, a T-Type Cyclone Lock, a Round Notch Lock with a magnetic wrench, and a one-button QR-Plate Locking Lever, ensuring secure and rapid attachment.
Pros:
Ease of Use: The quick-release system, with its spring-loaded mechanism and one-button locking lever, facilitates fast attachment and detachment, ideal for dynamic shooting environments. This feature is particularly beneficial for photographers needing to switch setups quickly.
Affordability: At $49.95(prices may change), it is significantly cheaper than many competitors, making it accessible for hobbyists and budget-conscious users. Payment options like Afterpay and Shop Pay, along with a 2% discount for Ulanzi Membership, enhance its value proposition.
Portability: Weighing just 0.415 pounds and with compact dimensions, it is easy to carry, enhancing its suitability for on-the-go use. The lightweight design does not add significant bulk to camera setups.
Convenience Features: The magnetic wrench storage is a thoughtful addition, keeping the tool handy for adjustments in the field, reducing the risk of losing it during shoots. This is especially useful for outdoor photography where quick fixes might be necessary.
Cons:
Limited Compatibility: The mount is only compatible with the Ulanzi Claw system, which may restrict its use with other gear, potentially limiting its appeal for users with diverse equipment. This lack of universal compatibility could be a drawback for professionals using multiple brands.
Fixed Clamp Size: With a clamp capacity of 2.3 x 0.6 inches, it may not fit all straps or belts, particularly thicker or wider ones, which could limit its versatility. This fixed size might exclude users with non-standard carrying gear.
Load Capacity Concerns: Supporting only 5.5 pounds, it may not be suitable for heavier professional camera setups, such as those with large lenses or additional accessories, potentially leaving users with heavier gear underserved.
Lack of Explicit Weatherproofing: While not explicitly stated as a con, the absence of detailed weatherproofing information could be a concern for outdoor shoots, especially in adverse conditions, where durability might be tested.
Comparison with Peak Design Capture Camera Clip V3
The Peak Design Capture Camera Clip V3, priced at $79.95 and available on the official Peak Design website (Peak Design Official Site) or Amazon or our other affiliate links listed below, offers a more robust solution. Its specifications include an all-metal build (aluminum alloy chassis, backplate, quick-release button, and stainless steel locking pin), fitting straps up to 2.5 inches wide and 0.88 inches thick, and capable of withstanding forces up to 200 pounds. It includes a Standard Plate quick-release system, compatible with ARCA-type tripods and Manfrotto® RC2 via a Dual Plate (sold separately), and is 30% lighter, 20% narrower, and 20% lower profile than its predecessor.
Comparison Table:
Analysis:
Price and Accessibility: The Ulanzi mount’s lower price point ($49.95 vs. $79.95) makes it more accessible, particularly for casual photographers or those on a budget. However, the Peak Design clip’s higher cost is justified by its broader compatibility and durability, appealing to professionals.
Versatility and Compatibility: The Peak Design clip’s compatibility with ARCA-type tripods and additional gear (via separate plates) offers greater versatility, whereas the Ulanzi’s limitation to its own system may restrict users with diverse setups. This makes Peak Design more adaptable for users with multiple devices.
Durability and Capacity: The Peak Design’s ability to withstand 200 pounds of force far exceeds the Ulanzi’s 5.5-pound load capacity, making it suitable for heavier, professional-grade gear. The all-metal construction and anodized finish suggest better longevity, especially in harsh conditions, compared to the Ulanzi’s unspecified weatherproofing.
Ease of Use and Convenience: Both offer quick-release systems, but the Ulanzi’s magnetic wrench storage is a unique convenience feature not mentioned for Peak Design. However, Peak Design’s redundant security lock provides an extra layer of safety, potentially more reassuring for longer excursions.
Trade-offs: The Peak Design’s additional costs for extras (e.g., plates for GoPros) could add up, while the Ulanzi’s fixed clamp size and limited compatibility might exclude some users. The setup complexity implied by Peak Design’s design video suggests a steeper learning curve, contrasting with Ulanzi’s simpler, more straightforward use.
Conclusion and User Considerations
In conclusion, the Ulanzi Claw Clip Shoulder Strap Quick Release Mount is likely best suited for budget-conscious photographers needing a lightweight, easy-to-use solution for carrying cameras on straps, particularly for casual or hobbyist use. Its pros include affordability, portability, and convenience features like the magnetic wrench, but cons such as limited compatibility and fixed clamp size may limit its appeal for professionals or users with diverse gear. The Peak Design Capture Camera Clip V3, while pricier, offers greater versatility, durability, and capacity, making it ideal for professional photographers or those needing a robust, adaptable system, though additional costs for extras and potential setup complexity are considerations.
For users deciding between the two, the choice hinges on budget, gear compatibility, and intended use. The Ulanzi mount is a cost-effective option for lighter, simpler setups, while the Peak Design clip is a premium investment for heavy-duty, versatile needs. Both products cater to different niches, and the unexpected detail of Ulanzi’s magnetic wrench storage highlights its field-friendly design, a feature not mirrored in the Peak Design’s offerings.
Key Citations
Links:
Ulanzi Claw mount:
Peak Design Capture Camera Clip:
