One of the coolest tools for creating YouTube content and vlogging is the Joby GorillaPod.
But which one is right for you?
In this post, we’ll break down each of the current models, talking about the features, price points, and more so you can make the right decision when leveling up your kit.
Table of Contents
What is Joby GorilaPod?
Designed to handle a range of weight loads and comes with different configurations, the idea behind GorillaPod was to create a module that could support all types of cameras - While remaining lightweight, easy to use, affordable, and simple.
And yes, they deliver this style, but still remain head and shoulder above the competition. That’s because they can support so many things. Like you can mount a mini LED light, a microphone, Flashlight, and a variety of other stuff.
In short, GorillaPod is designed to be used in places where you can’t bring a traditional tripod. Or, they are budget-friendly gadgets that offer the same level of experience as professional studio videography equipment.
Which Joby GorillaPod is the best?
So, to pick the best GorillaPod for you, keep the following points in mind:
- Budget
How much you can spend on a tripod?
You can always splurge or take the affordable side. A GorillaPod normally starts from $60 all the way to $300.
- Objective
Do you want to create an outdoor shoot or an indoor shot?
For this, you have to check the height and weight of the tripod since you don’t want any equipment that is too heavy. Calculate the weight of your camera/smartphone and match it with the tripod to get the best product.
A taller GorillaPod offers more stability and versatility as compared to short ones. But they are not that much great in terms of mobility.
The same goes for the weight limit. Each GorillaPod can withstand a certain weight limit so your equipment must not exceed that limit.
- Equipment
Do you want to make videos on your smartphone or camera?
GorillaPods are available in a range of sizes and different mounting options. For vlogging on smartphones, you’ll want to look out for products that support smartphone mount.
For action cameras, DSLRs, and compact cameras, you’ll need a ¼” thread.
Some GorillaPod comes with universal support, meaning they can handle different weights and can adjust multiple mounts. But they are a bit on the pricey side.
Our top pick of the Best GorillaPod
1. Joby GorillaPod 5K Kit
The best in the line, the mac daddy of all GorillaPod, the first choice of all the famous YouTubers and vloggers - The GorillaPod 5K vlogging kit is a reliable screencast that can take your videos to the next level.
Equipped with a 1/4″ tripod mount, that can bear the maximum weight of 5KG.
Weighing in at 739g, the sockets are machined aluminum and the ball features a red anodized coating, perfect for ultimate fluidity and strength.
The GorillaPod 5K is the model we would recommend to pro videographers and vloggers, regardless of what gear they have - it’s strong, reliable, secure, and one of the most convenient tripods of the lot.
Specification:
- Weight: 739 g
- Dimensions: 6 x 6.5 x 30.5 cm
- Material: TPE, Aluminum, ABS Plastic, Stainless Steel
- Max Capacity: 5 kg
2. Joby GorillaPod 3K Kit
A great affordable option in the list, probably one of the best-selling GorillaPod one can buy - an excellent all-rounder, perfect for YouTubers, outdoor shoots, photography, and videography.
The 3K kit from GorillaPod supports a maximum weight of 3kg, allowing it to pair easily with a variety of cameras and DSLRs. And the 24cm legs further increase the endurance of your quality, allowing you unlimited flexibility that can be easily used on table-top, tree branches, fence posts, lamp posts, you name it!
It has a 1/4″ thread that is easy to attach and detach. Although there are no extra mounts available in the packaging, they can be easily paired with other options on the market.
Specifications:
- Weight: 391g
- Max Load: 3kg
- Height: 0.30m
- Material: ABS plastic, aluminum, Ball head
3. Joby GorillaPod 1K Kit
The smallest guy in the K-series. The 1K mount from GorillaPod is ideal for small, lightweight cameras and recorders. It has 21cm legs, giving you the freedom to use it as a traditional tripod or wrap it around with different posts.
It features a 1/4″ thread for attaching your main gear and ball head for extra maneuvering. Or you can use the additional mount and pair it with an action camera or your smartphone.
The only thing to look out for is the weight limit. Duly note that 1K Kit supports 1KG of weight, it is ample for smaller devices so make sure your camera is not too heavy or exceeds the weight limit. Apart from this, it is a great affordable option for starters.
Specifications
- Max Load: 1kg
- Weight: 195g
- Max height: 0.26m
- Material: Ball head, ABS plastic, aluminum
4. Joby GripTight GorillaPod Pro 2
A great option for those that want to shoot vlogs and indoor videos with a smartphone.
The GripTight Pro 2 utilizes a screw-lock system that offers more tension in the system - allowing it to pair easily with all types of smartphones.
The grip is sturdy, plus the mount is locked and loaded with a 90-degree rotated tilt - Allowing you to quickly switch from portrait to landscape orientations.
If you’re on a strict budget or looking for a small companion, the GripTight Pro 2 can really shine on top of the competition.
Specifications:
- Weight: 285g
- Supported Width (Max): 91mm
- Supported Width (Min): 56mm
- Max shooting height 0.3m
- Material: Plastic and steel
5. Joby GorillaPod Mobile Vlogging Kit
Another great option for mobile users, but this time with a whole new upgrade. The Joby Mobile GorillaPod Kit combines the features of GripTight Pro 2 and pairs it with sturdy legs, a microphone, and a LED light.
The wave and Beamo attach to the pod give you plenty of control to adjust your positioning and a decent leg view.
Although the pod is mainly pitched for vloggers and outdoor users, the 21cm length makes it ideal to use for indoor and YouTube videography. On top of this, the light and microphone both come with a cold shoe mount, that can be paired with traditional and action cameras as well.
Specification:
- Weight: 540g
- Supported Width (Max): 91mm
- Supported Width (Min): 56mm
- Max load: 1kg
- Material: ABS plastic
6. Joby GorillaPod Action
As the name suggests, this model is for the go-anywhere community. GorillaPod Action is ideal for action cam, perfect to create timelapse, action videos, hyper-lapse, slow-motion, and related videos.
It is built with a GoPro type of camera in mind and can easily withstand a weight of up to 1KG. There are two mounts included in the packaging; a standard 1/4” threaded mount along with a universal camera mount.
The tripod itself is very customizable and can be easily adjusted as per your preference. This tripod can be easily switched to both table-top and rotation view.
Specifications:
- Max Load: 1kg
- Weight: 191g
- Tripod Height: 0.25m
- Material: Plastic and steel
Which Joby GorillaPod - Final Words
Before we close the article, there’s a mix of fake and original GorillaPod lookalikes available in the market. Before you buy any, make sure to research the company profile.
You don’t want any fake replica who suddenly breaks your expensive equipment, won’t you?
The second piece of advice is to always invest in GorillaPod that can support maximum weight capacity.
Our ultimate pick is the GorillaPod 3K and 5K since they both are universally compatible and can easily support most cameras and DSLRs.
With that said, investing in high-quality products always pays off. And since GorillaPod is at top of the game, you can expect some great results.