Peak Design vs Ulanzi. Does PD Still Make the Best Carbon Fiber Travel Tripod?

The Peak Design Carbon Fiber Travel Tripod came out in 2019 with much fanfare, but also with some controversy. It had a unique design and was one of the first compact travel tripods available in carbon fiber. The biggest issue was the price. At $650 USD ($599 during the Kick Starter campaign) many saw it more of a luxury item than a good investment. At the same time, there wasn't much competition... until recently. Ulanzi decided to build their own compact full-height travel tripod in carbon fiber but at almost half the price. Is the Ulanzi tripod just as good as Peak Design's, but half the price, or are there any significant differences? Check out my review and let me know what you think. Personally, I think these two tripods are targeting the same market but at different price points. If you can afford the Peak Design tripod, it's worth paying the extra money. However, there's a huge value proposition with the Ulanzi tripod. Let me know if you have any questions or thoughts.
*On Ulanzi’s website, according to the description the F38 tripod head is compatible with Arca-Swiss type connectors. This is not the case with my model. I will confirm this information, if this is a redesign, or perhaps a misunderstanding in the literature. I can fit Ulanzi’s F38 plate to an Arca-Swiss type tripod head (such as the PD tripod head), but I can’t do the reverse. The PD tripod plate will not fit into the F38 tripod head. Perhaps this has changed. Please comment below or wait for details.
Here is the Peak Design maintenance video on the travel tripod: • Peak Design Travel Tri...
Here is the Peak Design set-up + tips video on the travel tripod: • Peak Design Travel Tri...
Affiliate Links to both tripods:
Peak Design Travel Tripod: bit.ly/3MeCdK2
Also available at Moment: bit.ly/42F8ocv
Ulanzi Zero F38 Carbon Fiber Tripod: bit.ly/3MsRbNw
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[@300dani]

It is not the first review that complains about F38 system not being compatible with Arca Swiss. Why not just get the Zero Y version for comparison in the first place? It was not replaced by the F38, they sell it simultaneously for the same price. F38 is a great mounting system with a plethora of accessories, but you still have the option not to choose it, so mentioning it as a con is user error.

[@abdul11895]

Is the zero y version compatible with peak design plates ?

[@plutonium5156]

​@abdul11895 yes the PD plate is arca Swiss

[@DGworksIvan]

Chose the wrong version and keep bitching about it. Peak youtuber moment. And have you ever heard of something calls patents ?

[@nigelwest3430]

The built quality of the Peak Design tripod is second to none, the design is brilliant and it feels so good to handle, worth every penny

[@icometa1449]

Thank you for trying to slide in the peak design plate, and confirming it does not fit. That was really helpful.

[@TomFlink]

I just bought the Ulanzi and I’m using it on my first trip. So far I like it because it is light and compact. I have the Zero Y which is an arca plate ball head. I’m even using a peak design plate on my camera with it as it has the hole to put a PD strap connector. So the comments about the non-arca compatibility are misleading from my point of view. I guess I’ll see how it performs over time and holds up. But half the price was a big motivator. So far I’m happy with it.

[@bigheadtaco]

Glad you’re enjoying the tripod. In my video I mention that the previous Zero Y head does take Arca-Swiss compatible plates, perhaps you missed it. I was talking specifically about the F38 head and plate system, that it was a proprietary head that only takes F38 plates, but not the other way around. I hope that makes sense.

[@Hahnck750i]

@@bigheadtaco you did mentioned that yes but having this point as a con to me is still a little misleading especially then they still have the zero Y sold alongside this for this reason. aside from that, still a good review

[@thierry1491]

@@Hahnck750iI think on the contrary it’s important to be mentioned because that’s why I won’t purchase the F38 and go with the Zero Y vs. the F38

[@MyNorthAmetican40]

I think for what the PD costs I'd rather go with a Gitzo where I can change heads.

[@bigheadtaco]

Gitzo makes nice tripod legs for sure. You can change heads on the PD, but you need to buy an optional column to do so.

[@tralfmusic]

PD is a much better choice imo. Ulanzi paid a ton of KZbinrs to promote it like crazy - there's way too many QC issues with Ulanzi for me to feel comfortable putting my expensive gear on it. Thanks for the video, really detailed breakdown.

[@markkempton4579]

Thanks for the review. I'm more confused than before because I was of the impression that the PD head was not full Arca Swiss compatible, but only took the small, square proprietary heads like PD Capture Clip ones. I have a dozen Arca rails and L brackets. I'm not interested in going into either proprietary system, though the Falcom system is very impressive. I'm also confused about the stability of the center column that you highlight. Wouldn't the more stable legs of the Ulanzi be more important once the legs are fully extended? I'm not sure. Just speculating. Thanks again. You've given me a lot to ponder.

[@photog1529]

I just purchased the Zero Y model of the Ulanzi tripod for when I travel...delivery was fast considering that it was shipped from China. Every camera body that I own, film and digital, is equipped with an L-bracket from either RRS, other aftermarket, or home-made so definitely Arca-Swiss compatibility was a must. I haven't used the tripod yet, but the first thing I did was check the fit of my L-brackets...everything was nice and secure once clamped down. Wanted nothing to do with the F38 system and its proprietary fittings. And want even less to do with the Peak Design tripod. My other tripods are a large RRS Model 33 for my medium format gear, and a Gitzo with RRS head...both were not really set up for travel unless I'm doing a road trip. Hoping to give the Ulanzi a workout soon. First look, its nice to see the bottom leg section is not pencil-thin...nice and stout. Overall quality is very nice...I don't notice anything to be concerned about. I also learned Ulanzi offers a 1/4 center column with a threaded base...allows the user to install a different ballhead if so desired...another nice feature. EDIT: I did notice that it was extremely difficult to pull up the center column...wanted to check ballhead action and ended up having to really exert a lot of force to raise the center column. I resorted to spraying some silicone lube on the column which helped a bit, but ending up having an o-ring fall out. Not sure where it came from, so I guess all I'll have to remove the column and inspect. Anyone else have this issue? This is my only nit so far...all in all it looks to be of good quality. Just with a wonky center column. I may resort to sanding the column with some 600 grit sandpaper.

[@cohoonatube]

I purchased the Ulanzi thinking it was Arca-suisse compatible... found a $200 deal on it making it worth the try. I love PD's Capture system. Curious if you found (or can think of) any workarounds? I'll never justify the price of a lens for a Tripod. Great review, thank you! Edit: Any suggestions for other heads for the Ulanzi?

[@bigheadtaco]

You got a great deal on the tripod, but yes the F38 head is an odd one. I understand why they did it, but universal compatibility would be higher on my priority list. As for optional heads, RRS makes great heads, but they’re more expensive than most tripod sets 😅😅😅

[@markkempton4579]

I know a lot more people who use the Falcom system than the PD capture clips, so that does not seem like a drawback to me. You can always try to buy the Zero Y ball head from Ulanzi so you have the best of both worlds. They sell the F38 head. Hopefully they sell the Zero Y one.

[@benjaminbjacobsen]

I got the peak at launch and it's splay/bounce was a no go for me. The legs slide on the floor with a heavy camera on it. The Ulanzi head looks very interesting if they ever get it to be arca compatible. I ended up with a Leofoto LS-364C Ranger. It's slightly longer overall but I'm 6'4" and chose something that can fit INSIDE carry on luggage but also gets to my eye level w/o needing a center column (it doesn't have one at all). It's got fat legs but the spider being columnless means it's small enough I don't mind bringing it anywhere. I've been through a LOT of travel tripod to finally find this one and it's amazing. It's a better version (fatter leg diameters) of the RRS travel option for less than either of these two cost.

[@bigheadtaco]

Being 6’4” both tripods will hit you in the chest. I’m 5’5” so they’re actually almost perfect for me, while still being super compact and light. With these compact and lightweight tripods, you’ll definitely get a bit of bounce, so you do have to weigh it down, that’s the negative. My old beast Manfrotto from 25-30 years ago has no flex, but it’s 3 times the weight and twice the size when collapsed. That one stays in my studio :-)

[@Coco-ct5ix]

GREAT video Take! Thank you for this comparison - I was having a hard time deciding and this was super helpful.

[@bigheadtaco]

Glad to help. Have you made a decision?

[@Coco-ct5ix]

@@bigheadtaco I only want to purchase this one time, so despite its price tag I’m gonna go with door number 1: Peak Design. But your video illustrated both are fantastic choices. I really appreciate what you do for the film community by putting out these videos. Thank you! 🙏🏼

[@bigheadtaco]

@@Coco-ct5ix awesome, once you spend the extra money, a year later you won't even care what you spent. My PD is my primary tripod. The Ulanzi is my backup.

[@khainguyen9887]

Well, you did a great job when found out some tiny things seem simple but very importance. I agree that PD is more better with a quality and stability

[@mixeddrinks8100]

if size and weight is an issue, the PEAK DESIGN is better, if not... neither, a cheap one made of stone works just as good if you never move it. I actually bought it from kickstarter too, and if you are already in their system with the capture clip etc it is pretty good. I use their strap and carry it when I need it to hike to a place.

[@bigheadtaco]

Yes, ecosystem is a good reason to get into PD, but also Ulanzi. They have their own F38 capture clip system. PD’s design is more universal, but you can definitely make each system more modular.

[@mixeddrinks8100]

@@bigheadtaco I been buying Peak Design using the REI member discount coupon, so it is pretty much always 20% off. Wish they sell more of the PD stuff, but still good deals.

[@ryt-is]

Man, this is exactly the video I was looking for. I was eyeing Ulanzi for a while, but I have PD Capture already, so I need arca compatible mount, but $650 is hard to justify. My wife is already mad enough about me buying PD stuff.

[@JustinJonsson]

So buy the same Ulanzi legs with the Arca-Swiss head

[@hardtrailrider]

the major point is neither of these provide a horzonal position (centre column pulled out fully and kept parallel to the ground) which could be crucial position as far a full tripod is concerned. Here the clear winner could be classic Manfrotto.

[@kawika802]

Still rocking my carbon fiber Gitzo 1541T with Markins Ballhead and RRS Lever clamp from 2009.

[@Photojouralist123]

Ah now your talking, this is the correct set up not these hipster PD junk

[@bigheadtaco]

@@Photojouralist123 ha ha, hey John!

[@bigheadtaco]

Nice tripod. Expensive, but definitely it’s the way to go if you know exactly what you want. I’m looking to upgrade to RRS head for my Manfrotto tripod.

[@DezSantana]

You can order a separate center column for Ulanzi as well.

[@808dms]

Awesome video! I’ve had my CF Peak Design tripod for about 4 months now and knew about all the details you mentioned in your video. That’s why I ended up getting it. 👍🏼👍🏼

[@donkurts1805]

I have the Ulazi F38 tripod. The quick release plate on top of the ball head will not turn, even with the set screw totally open-end or loosened. Any suggestions?

[@marcosv8426]

No idea how I missed this video when you posted it nearly a year ago. But, it definitely answers the question about stability --- or lack there of --- for the Ulanzi tripod. I wonder if modern cameras with IBIS would compensate; but, when doing long exposures i want as stable a tripod as possible given the constraints of folded length and weight for a travel tripod. I'll stick with the Peak Design. If price was an issue, I'd strongly consider the aluminum version over the carbon fiber.

[@Sky_Pixelz]

Thinking PD is better proves few have had both and used them extensively. The fact it’s half the price is mental🙄

[@bikecommuter24]

To be honest I wouldn't use either one of these enough to justify the cost, if I were a more active photographer ie working as a photographer then yes I would probably go with the PD, one thing in my view it has over the Ulanzi is the smoother shape looks like it would slide in and out of a tripod pouch on a camera backpack a lot easier or water bottle pocket if you prefer. LOL I still have my old MeFoto Roadtrip I bought years ago, it has a dent on one of the legs, but it still works and it was one of those where you could remove one of the legs and the column and use it as a monopod and it came with the spikes. Nice review.

[@bigheadtaco]

The Manfrotto MeFoto series are great. I’ve suggested it to many who wanted a compact and lightweight travel tripod. I also like the reverse leg design for keeping it compact when travelling. Thanks for watching!

[@ItzSlushie]

I bought the F38 with a deal they had. Got the normal f38 tripod with a extra center column so I can add my own head and a Falcam F38 Camera Quick release kit that they claim is arca compatible for $300. This will be my first tripod that ill pair with my a6400.

[@a.g.7466]

Movie looks like: despite Ulanzi is better we have to find something to make PD better 😉

[@jimfielder]

I own the Ulanzi and love it. As far as product - it the plastic piece wears, replace the head, or for the price you could buy the second. As a photographer with a Fujifilm and not a Leica budget, the Ulanzi does it for me. I usually toss my packaging anyway so I don't care about the fonts or the plastic. Ulanzi does come with the spikes for free, at least they were in my package. The things that are going to talk to PD about fixing are already on my Ulanzi. I not sure why the panning thing doesn't list higher on your list of pluses - for me it's a big negative for the PD. Great video! I will stick to omy Ulanzi and see how it lasts over the years. Yes, PD may send you a free part, but you've paid for that up front with the higher cost. Thanks for being BHT! Love your stuff!

[@bigheadtaco]

Thanks for your thoughts. Yes the Ulanzi is a great price for a carbon fibre tripod. I think being half the price, the value is definitely there.

[@mlwadester87]

Do you have any feelings about Ulanzi (and others) apparently knocking off the PD design? I’m all for making products accessible to the masses but the aluminum version of the PD is pretty comparable and seems to offer the benefit of supporting the proper intellectual property.

[@pblogic007]

Not to mention the aluminium will be more durable.

[@charliejg]

While the head seems kind of cool, these are way too expensive for most people. I got a nice Promaster XC-M tripod on sale at my local camera shot for less than half the cost and it's fantastic.

[@bigheadtaco]

Thanks for your thoughts. For many casual photographers, a carbon fibre tripod might not be that important, especially if you don’t use a tripod often. However, if it’s something you use all the time and you want it to last decades, typically you will invest in something nicer. To be honest, for carbon fibre, these are on the lower end of the market. Because these are travel tripods, the legs and head are packaged for you. I hope this makes sense.

[@DavidKfilmmaker]

Two watches?

[@mtbboy1993]

Superb review. just what I was looking for. Thank you for showing the whole thing, how it works, pros and cons. You seem to be the first to have went in depth comparing these two. I won't switch from Peak Design Travel Tripod. I got it on sale got a great bargain. But might get a proper head eventually. some installed that. The construction is great. But the phone holder is junk, it has plastic mount and top, the mount snapped when I put my phone in it. I agree with your about the tools, put them inside the center column.

[@lesgregory4469]

lol..gotta say..the peak design at double the cost wouldn't out do two or the Ulanzi I dont figure. Also depending on the type of plastic used in the centre it may wear longer than aluminium. I own neither, yet but being looking at them both,,,I think it's not justified for PD to be double the cost. Once the engineering has gone into it that don't justify this price. Also the amount of materials used ain't that much difference. That said the legs may be a little wider on PD giving it more stability, but the lower legs are far more flexible taking away that added stability. Therefor when comparing its alway good to link those things together to show realistically that in the long run the PD is probably not more stable,,just saying,,coming from a engineer here

[@peterbernhard6087]

I can't really understand the hype for these Tripods. I got a Rollei Compact Traveller No. 1 Carbon. It is way lighter (under 1kg), much smaller (33cm packed), can take up to 8kg and can do nearly the same height (142cm). I got it for 70€.

[@randomname931]

why are you wearing 2 watches?

[@4Kandlez]

Great comparison video, out of these two I would go with the Ulanzi but they'd have to make an arca swiss compatible head first. The PD pricing is a joke and I wouldn't pay that out of principle, their carbon fibre legs are made in China so why is it twice the price of the Ulanzi. I wouldnt buy either though as I'm happy with my Manfrotto three section aluminium Befree advanced which is sturdier than either of these

[@Ginshaker22]

I have only one word to say on those two tripods, "EXPENSIVE"

[@bigheadtaco]

Is there a cheaper carbon fibre travel tripod you've found?

[@paddington2063]

@@bigheadtaco I feel like “travel” is loosely defined. I’ve travelled with my Carbon Sibre Sirui tripods many times and they company down just fine. I’d definitely get one of these for the same price, but the amount that they shrink down to is arguably diminishing returns to save a few inches.

[@bigheadtaco]

@@paddington2063 thanks for your input. I’ve taken my PD tripod to Europe, Asia, to the US, and it’s always fit into either my larger backpack or into my carry-on. I also have a full size aluminum Manfrotto that I would never travel with, except maybe inside my own car. The travel tripods definitely have compromises, but I’m willing to accept them if I can always have something with me that isn’t too much of a burden.

[@canyonblue737-8]

have you priced any decent quality tripod in the last 10 years? the ulanzi is "cheap" for what it is, and the PD actually isn't unreasonable compared to mainstream tripod brands with carbon fiber travel tripods often which cost 2x of the PD.

[@toulcaz31]

What a big mistake to release a head not compatible with Arca Swiss. Glad I saw that ahead.

[@MrOzphoto]

The tripod looks great however I would imagine the company is in China with no offices or repair facilities in the US or Canada? Please correct me if I am wrong. So am leery about buying something this expensive from a company in China and getting the support we all might need. A lot of times you never hear from companies in China and they wont back up their products?

[@mark211189]

can we talk about why you are wearing 2 watches?

[@marvellis6762]

A watch for each eye?.... I'm with you it's bizarre!

[@rumattso]

Ulanzi is not worth the money. I like the tripod very much, but the quality of the ball head is poor. I bought mine in September 2022, after 4 months the ball head could no longer lock properly. I chose to buy a new one, this time an F38 Quick Release head. And after 5 months this head has started to get bad. I use light equipment, Sony A7 IV with Sony PZ 16-35. In addition, I don't use the tripod much.

[@bigheadtaco]

Thanks for your input. I think for casual tripod users, the Ulanzi would be fine, but if you’re really using it, then spending more would make sense. Thanks again.

[@fidiak]

Thank you

[@short1961]

$650 travel tripod and I have to layout another $25 to $30 for spikes; come on.

[@bigheadtaco]

Understandable, but I know not everyone would want spikes, including myself. Maybe they should have an entry-level kit with no case or any extras, maybe $599, and then a premium kit with all the extras?

[@Photojouralist123]

PD you pay for the hipster look, its junk and by the way if you don't set it up gently the head will bite you literally

[@bigheadtaco]

@@Photojouralist123 I must look like a retired hipster…..

[@newvillagefilms]

$650!?

[@AnaaNis1233]

No they don't... try the Heipi

[@liftsomniac_adunp1346]

What’s up with wearing 2 watches ok both wrist? Lol

[@alienlodejavu9504]

and youre wearing two watches

[@Photojouralist123]

I would never ever get a PD, horrible and over priced! I stay with Gitzo period with a RRS head. 30 years of experience professionally has proved it also Velbon way better than PD. Us pro photographers judge a photographer not by the camera they use but the tri pod they use.

[@bigheadtaco]

Gitzo makes nice tripod legs and RRS are the kings of heads for sure. I think lots of people don’t want to bother building their own tripods, but of course there’s a premium for someone who packages everything up for you. That’s what you’re paying for, the convenience of not having to think 😅😅😅

[@pawelzieminski6717]

your watches are not matching

[@dylandigby1776]

PD is overpriced nonsense lol

[@Photojouralist123]

As you can see what I have written. As professional photographer with years of experience the trip pod is your best friend and the PD is your worst enemy not used right it will bite you.

[@bigheadtaco]

Can you suggest a better carbon fibre tripod option of similar size and weight, including a decent ball head? I’m not being condescending, I do want to offer options for those who want something ‘better’ or custom built. From my own research, a nice Gitzo tripod with RRS head is easily over $1000. Yes it’s better, and the price reflects that.

[@daniellejudd3359]

I can. One of the versions of the benro tortoise. Far more stable.

[@pblogic007]

It is so stupid that ulanzi didn't just use Arca swiss. What a ridiculous choice. Although Peak Design's mobile mount is ridiculous as well. Who is buying a nearly 700$ tripod for an iphone? I just don't see the point of the Ulanzi. You can get the aluminium PD for the same price. It's better quality and has a lifetime warranty, and a universal mount on it's ball head. No one need a carbon fiber tripod. I think the ulanzi is a pointless product.

[@calahad]

People defending a copycat product with major design flaws, and the stupidest brand name to boot just tells me people will do anything to justify their poor choice no matter how bad it is. 😂