iFootage Cobra 3 Review: Did the BEST MONOPOD Just Get Better-er?

Jordan adored his iFootage Cobra 2 monopod, so he was skeptical that they could be improved with the new Cobra 3 series. Are these the new best monopods, and if so, which model should you get? Jordan went out in a wrinkled shirt and unfashionable socks to find the answers to these questions.
Rental equipment provided by The Camera Store
www.thecamerastore.com
0:00 - Intro
1:15 - The feet
1:48 - Locks
2:32 - Low angle shooting
3:39 - Base options
5:19 - Which should you get?

[@kesagatame]

They should implement an additional twist lock feature for the neck to avoid the pull up issue you experienced. My heart would probably jump out my throat if that happened to me!!

[@sable6599]

Yeah unfortunately this is a deal breaker , if it happened to Jordan it’ll happen to me

[@carlwingard8241]

I agree that this is a deal breaker. Sorry to see such a fail on what looks like an awesome product

[@yajt6651]

Thanks for this! It seems hard to find practical reviews of monopods by people who actually do make good use of them.

[@scottslotterbeck3796]

If you get ine, you'll use it more than you think. I shoot at comic cons and gatherings like that. A monopod is a game changer in confined spaces.

[@yajt6651]

@@scottslotterbeck3796 I’ve actually been using one for twenty years-because the digital cameras were (and still are) so much lighter than SLRs and didn’t have image stabilization. A monopod is quite useful to me, in many respects.

[@mickeyjetpur7998]

@@scottslotterbeck3796 Its a game changer for sure but not until they fix the quick release!

[@simonosterloh1800]

The Cobra2 has one special underrated feature: it‘s a nice mace! Fold the legs up. Good balancing, sturdy, heavy head and a good grip. So if Zombie Apocalypse starts, while i‘m on a photographic assignment, I would reach for my cobra 2.

[@jlu]

+1 that's definitely a handy little feature

[@johnthered0]

I've have been practicing with my monopod since the version 2 , I feel much less insane after reading these posts . My overhand cast with quick release of the fluid head - flowing into a finishing move with the folded feet to upper body is a thing of beauty.

[@draughonc]

Just got mine yesterday. First time monopod user. Went with the aluminum twist lock with the k5 head. Can’t wait to use it.

[@sondirobianto1548]

I love the 3d structure in your shirt, it looks magical

[@gabrielmachadobsb]

Seeing it mentioned as a poor man's steadycam, I got curious to see how stable a S5 II-X (best IBIS in the market) paired with the monopod would be, and how would it look compared to an unstabilized camera on a proper gimbal. Any chances we could see a test like that in a future video?

[@mertcan6280]

+1

[@DavidPogue]

Now THAT is how a review is done. All meat, with some humor, and clear illustrations of the points. Thank you!

[@markwoll]

Great monopod. Glad to see I'm not the only one that has trouble putting the shaft into the base quick release.

[@vervedonk]

I bought both the Monopod and tripod system from iFootage on your old review, and i love it still.

[@arhanschulze6245]

Thank you for the reveiw it answer all of my questions nice one!

[@iFootageInternational]

Glad to see you back on the big screen Jordan! Really enjoyed this review of the Cobra 3; thanks so much for doing this for us :)

[@PetaPixel]

Thanks for making a damned fine monopod! -Jordan

[@DeltaMartian]

I just found the most interesting thing about the bag. It extends for whatever head you are using. Love this monopod.

[@netsurfer1960]

Just got my first monopod and looking to get another and your video popped up. 😄

[@Michael_Anthony05]

I picked up the cobra 3 a couple of months ago and it is amazing, Ifootage always nails it with the build quality, this is not your typical monopod. I love it. I love the color scheme on all of Ifootage product. Big fan of the black and red.

[@johnjon1823]

That would be really good for real estate photography with the right head on it, but one wonders if it would be steady enough for shooting a vertical shot, especially if the camera moves a bit off center, so the weight will shift a bit, i.e., no L bracket.

[@chrisvalleqatsi]

I have a Cobra II, and it was the gateway into a full iFootage addiction. Magic arms, tripods, I'm hooked.

[@OdiumTV]

Actually really happy they brought out a v3, the feet on the v2 were sometimes too narrow for my taste, not only for letting the camera go but overall stability at weird angles with big lenses. Looks like a safe buy, the QD neck “problem” can probably be solved with an unlocking ziptie…

[@eoslove2022]

,,,got the 3 in carbon with the foot lever and love it! Still shooters.

[@scarcesense6449]

My cobra 2 was stolen along with my camera about a month ago. I thought about replacing it but have just stuck with a tripod instead. I used mine as a hiking pole and machined up a knob and strap to go in the quick release socket. It worked very well. Super study but just a little too heavy for hiking long distances. This new model looks interesting!

[@RealDaveTheFreak]

Since you've switched to the Panasonic S5 II X, could you make a video about that? Why you switched? Do you use ProRes over SSD? etc. 😍

[@scottslotterbeck3796]

I remember that monopod review. I like mine as well.

[@markshirley01]

I'd love to hear your thoughts on the new version

[@pedzsan]

I like the iFootage Cobra 2 Strike. With one twist, it telescopes out. Same idea of the feet and head that detach, etc. Just the locking mechanism is different. Indeed, I wonder / hope that the various feet that iFootage now makes can be used with all of the old and new monopods.

[@GGMEHD]

I want to say the fluid head they have is really good for being such a small size. I ended up using that along with a gitzo monopod and benro 3leg base

[@klackon1]

Jordan. I'm surprised you did not try the Sirui 204S. I have had mine for several years: it is beautifully made - even the packaging and shoulder bag are first rate. It has longer feet than most, and I have mounted a D500 + 200 - 500mm f5.6 on mine and walked away. It also strips down to allow for a very low camera angle. I have a SIRUI K-30II Ball Head fitted to mine. I do like the clip release on this iFootage Cobra 2, though.

[@avx111]

the new feet are tempting, I might just order those and keep my cobra 2. pedal or not is a tough choice.

[@Richard_Bumblebee]

I have their telescoping monopod and I like it a lot.

[@mattroelsgard]

Can you purchase just the v3 feet to use with the v2? I feel like maybe you said something to that effect but wanted to clarify. Thanks in advance! I love this monopod for weddings! 💒

[@redman-uc4ps]

Hi thanks for the review. Quick question when you turn the red twist lock does the extending telescopic sections also get locked? I wonder if my camera set up is a little heavy if it would hold in place and doesn’t collapse. Thanks

[@MrTmiket0007]

Thanks for sharing another wonderful video like always 👍🤗

[@klastorps]

Love the shirt!

[@harryvlogs7833]

Could you guys make a review on the K&F s210 tripod

[@SummersSnaps]

The struggling you're having at 2:49 was what I was getting as well, it just doesn't work that well, too much effort (especially with stuff actually mounted), I had the same issues at times docking it, but then other times it would dock seamlessly and for the life of me I could not figure out if there was a knack I was missing to this thing. Coupled with the broken pedal within a week makes me feel this is not a good monopod and their older design more robust, safer and easier to use.

[@dccoletrain]

Wishing I would have had one with me when I was taking pictures of eagles. Got some good shots but probably could have gotten a lot more

[@petermclennan6781]

For me, it's sticks until I die, but my shooting workflow is way different from yours. I might just try a monopod. You're very convincing. Good to hear that you like the Komodo head. iFootage sticks and Komodo K5S on order. My iPhone 15 Pro Max is gonna love it.

[@cascolan]

Did you have any problems with the reduced load capacity of the Cobra 3 pedal version? The Cobra 2 is rated for 22 pounds, while the Cobra 3 is rated for only 13.

[@glenjo0]

Looks nice!

[@marklaurendet1861]

I presume the new feet fit the cobra 2? If they do I will just get a set of those for the upgrade.

[@johnjon1823]

Oh man, that kneeling on the stones at 4:52 and the noise you made, I could feel the pain in my balls -ouch!

[@spidersj12]

I own the cobra 2 monopod in aluminum... good low footprint 180cm camera monopod. Should neve got the carbon fiber for weight perhaps if I get the cobra 3 I'll go carbon fiber.

[@TheFandangovideoguy]

I have the Cobra 2 v2...are the new feet really that much better? I never leave my Sony FX30 unattended on the monopod...I used to have a Sirui monopod with big feet but they were not very steady...big for sure...got in the way sometimes...debating

[@crashalot63]

I wonder if I should get a monopod. I drag along my tripod, just because I’m since two years back dealing with Parkinson’s desease. I just hate taking photos with the iso at 1000 (or higher) in order to get shutter speeds that will work with my shaking hands. I would get a sort of quick setup with the camera on a monopod.

[@scottslotterbeck3796]

I use mine all the time. So much more handy than a tripod.

[@wongkesiang2287]

Is it stable enough for long exposure photographies under moderate winds?

[@ksawaf19]

dose it work well with Nodal Ninja 6 panoramic head with a nikon d850? or it will be too heavy for it ?

[@BrianTheCameraGuy]

Nice video Jordan. Why no affiliate links?

[@lykaaytz]

Is this good for insta 360 x3? Im looking for something i can leave and not gonna fall coz of the strong wind here in my place 😅or any reco please i need something that is good for strong wind but small

[@jGRite]

So, I'll get the v3 feet for my v2.

[@mcandelacom]

Is it possible to use the Cobra2 with the new legs?

[@HellBatDC]

Where can you buy these in Canada? Just their Amazon store?

[@TMM6900]

I like your shirt

[@mirshahnawaz1391]

Nice

[@larrywhite8590]

Fantastic for large telephotos at sporting events as well. Way better than a tripod.

[@ryantebbutt270]

Is the base backwards compatible with the cobra 2?

[@safemode8598]

"Low angle shots" best drumer quote ever.

[@LittleBurchie]

I just wonder how long the foot pedal might last on the 3. It's not hard to imagine me stepping on it and breaking it. So I think I will stick with my three Cobra II monopods. With the Komodo K5 and an Induro BHL3S ballhead, I think I am good to go for the foreseeable future for both stills and video.

[@ellisvener5337]

Jordan, Listening between the lines it sounds like you are saying that because they have same quick disconnect fittings for base and head, the best configuration is the new base with the Cobra 2 column. Am I wrong in thinking that?

[@PetaPixel]

That would be a great solution, though I do like the new narrower center column. Might have to go build that right now!

[@Sam-mc2dk]

I have ifootage 2 and its great! The ifootage 3 looks good too. What is a zed 8?

[@chrisburnard5157]

I think Jordan is referring to the new Nikon Z8.

[@GetSkillStudio]

Impressive

[@jresin_photo]

I've been playing around with the thought of buying a monopod and never new they have these kind of functions these days... Last one i had was back in early 2000 😂😂😂 This looks interesting for sure.

[@improbablehandle]

I'd buy a Jordan Drake signature model with all the doodads featured in the vid included as a kit. Whatsay iFootage peeps?

[@mixeddrinks8100]

this guy did more advertisement for iFootage monopod than their entire marketing department

[@ellisvener5337]

I just purchased and took delivery of my Cobra 3 (pedal version) What I don’t understand is why iFootage doesn’t just standardize on the SeaStars Q1S quick connect system

[@jlwilliams]

Given that hydrostatics is “the branch of physics that deals with the characteristics of fluids at rest,” could someone explain what he means when he talks about the “hydrostatic ball”?

[@scottslotterbeck3796]

It's a dance held in deep, still water.

[@extremelydave]

That's actually an interesting monopod! Now if I could only sell some of my tripods and get some cash out of them to BUY this one.....

[@m1kel]

man id get hurt seeing you drop that. scraped aluminum and cf parts ouch

[@christill]

The quick release at the top seems like a big design flaw to me. Would definitely put me off if I did shoot video enough to justify it.

[@oh_heeeyyy]

what's with the wrinkly shirt?

[@Freed0703]

This guy is actually hilarious

[@JEmmertz]

Not watched it all yet, but will be extremely interesting to see what has improved over the Cobra 2 I have. For all I care you can do these kind of videos in any shirt: As long as you have an iFootage - you are dressed!

[@vispolonia2670]

Bettered

[@OLDMANTEA]

Maybe it’s just me but why have a monopod with a little tripod at the base?

[@shinonomenano9043]

Hey guys can you please make "The Best Lenses" series again? I want to see what your opinion on the best lenses Micro Four Thirds and Nikon lenses

[@PetaPixel]

Funny you mention that, we just shot a new one!

[@shinonomenano9043]

@@PetaPixel eyyy that's good news, Can't wait to watch it! 😁

[@dillonencinia2729]

I love mine!

[@josephasghar]

I’ve owned three video monopods and sold them all. They’re as heavy as a light tripod and the un stabilised footage has quirky movement.

[@illiteratebeef]

Imagine getting in front of the camera with a shirt that wrinkled. I wouldn't have said anything, but you brought it up.

[@electronicbox6990]

Oddly enogh for me, I can say that the only thing that I dont like about Cobra 2 and 3 is exactly this ball head. In the begining I thought it is nice, but after 1 year, if there is a Cobra 3 with those same locks, but WITHOUT a ball head near the legs, I will 100% choose this one.

[@SamoScopom]

When i heard about the paddle I hoped it would unlock the height sections. The fact that I have to bend so much makes me not use my monopod

[@PetaPixel]

You could check out the Steadicam monopod which does exactly that.

[@SamoScopom]

@@PetaPixel Thank you! Do you have any experience with it yourself? Btw what is you current audio setup? Thanks again for the reply

[@tdalton854]

Interesting. So how would someone that's mostly a photographer ( hobbbiest ) use this? I don't blog, vlog or . One thing that does come to mind is I will be photographing an older Union Pacific steam engine as it goes back to Cheyenne WY from Nebraska. I could set up my other camera to video it as it goes by so I don't have to choose photos or vid. And that assumes that I have enough knowledge to set up that camera correctly. Ha! Edit Aug 2024. Since Jordan said I needed this I went and ordered it with a K5S fluid head. Now that I see it there's no way I would do what I was thinking above. And I don't think I'd walk away from it at all. But I can see where it could be helpful to help stabilize the camera with people around like on a hiking trail or a walking bridge over a waterfall in a park. Or even an outside car show. I can also see using this and being able to get much more usable video with the fluid head. ( old guy = Shaky McShaky). Oh and if my wife writes you, please just confirm that you did tell me I Needed this. thanks - your friend Tim

[@AoyagiAichou]

Have you ever tried 3 Legged Thing monopods?

[@andrestrujillo1421]

Is this monopod compatible with iPhones?

[@trekkeruss]

iFootage does not make iPhone mounts, but you can buy an iPhone holder that screws into the ¼"-20 screw on the head of the monopod.

[@Troy_Sent_A_Message]

Image if he had started his own channel all these years ago, how fully independent would he be already?

[@patrickmolloy6994]

you'd have thought that in camera software could have ironed out those creases FFS !

[@petercofrancesco9812]

Cobra Kai

[@scottslotterbeck3796]

LOL

[@EnerGeezerSquirrel]

Thank you so much for *not* pushing Ag-1! (LIKE EVERY OTHER CHANNEL, OR SO IT SEEMS...) ;-)>

[@bmeclipse]

Will a Fujifilm X-S20 work on that monopod?

[@8020Alive]

Yes

[@fritsscholtenhzn6268]

never seen before jump it so on the nacked floor [3:00]

[@GrainyWorld]

Technically, they are tripods with short legs! 😅

[@alfredvitanza2878]

you would have to be out of your mind to place an expensive pro mirrorless camera + lens on that tooth pick!

[@ScottJWaldron]

It does look nice! (edit: maybe they need some type of double lock or lock plus rotate for that head QR... glad the camera survived)

[@BillHundson]

Hey Jordan don't think you noticed but there's some dirt to the left of your shirt. Oh and also I think you forgot to iron it.

😅 no estoy ganando lo suficiente 😂

[@supertaufiqr]

Where the wrinkle at?

[@SummersSnaps]

Nope, because my pedal is broken 1 week in, monopod didn't even leave the house. I also find some of the machined parts questionable. I think their older models and release system was better and more durable. Mind you the telescopic one I had broke as well. I'm just not seeing the quality or longevity here in iFootage products.

[@robtheaccountant]

Nice vid but man camera is too expensive for mono's

[@scottslotterbeck3796]

Maybe. I use mine with my GH5. Perfect for that camera.

[@MickySarge]

Surprised no one had mentioned the great thumbnail or the wiki feet reference lol

[@miheerporadiya]

His shirt seems oddly wrinkly..

[@robtheaccountant]

Hey fellow North American brothers, when yall gonna simply start your own channel? Odd how old DP review video's are still up, 💚it

[@jcblum1507]

😮😮😅

[@MarcAdesso]

I love how self-realized Jordan is- he knows what he likes and he is loyal to it. Seems like his video partner could learn a lot from this gentle giant.

[@niccollsvideo]

I'm sorry. In what way do I need to learn a lesson?

[@m11kan]

Cobra 3 looks like Sirui monopod