Why UNIVERSAL Smartphone Cages are a SMART Choice

Universal smartphone cages allow you to keep the same rig even when new phone models change, which is great. In this video I look at four different cages to help figure out if one works for you.
▶︎ FEATURED GEAR:
SmallRig Video Rig geni.us/Bqb5 (Amazon)
Ulanzi U-Rig II (might be sold out) geni.us/BhEkW5 (Amazon)
Ulanzi U-Rig Pro (optional) geni.us/z2HoB (Amazon)
SmallRig Fold P10 geni.us/AAp9A (Amazon)
Ulanzi Lino geni.us/QtMV (Amazon)
SmallRig Side Handle geni.us/xtJWb (Amazon)
SmallRig Side Handle Dual geni.us/bx0E3 (Amazon)
Beastgrip Pro (popular option) geni.us/QdB1 (Amazon)
LEARN MOBILE FILMMAKING!
▶︎ Smartphone Cinematography 101 (SAVE 10%): bit.ly/SmartCineSave10
▶︎ The DIY Short Film Guide geni.us/DIYShortFilmGuide
▶︎ The Complete Guide To FiLMiC Pro V6 (SAVE 10%): bit.ly/FPGuideYT10
▶︎ The Complete Guide To Smartphone Audio: bit.ly/SmartAudioGuide
▶︎ LumaFusion Color Grading 101: bit.ly/LumaFusionColor101
🎥 Making movies with FiLMiC Pro? Check out our LUT Packs!
bit.ly/filmicproluts
CHAPTERS:
0:00 Intro
0:30 My phone
0:58 Cages
1:43 SmallRig Fold P10
3:27 Ulanzi Lino
6:09 Ulanzi U-Rig II
8:09 SmallRig Video Rig
10:48 Wrap-Up
▶︎ MUSIC We Use (get 2 months free): goo.gl/RcMx4N
▶︎ EDITED with Adobe Premiere Pro bit.ly/2P0I7zJ
▶︎ FAVORITE Apps & Gear:
FiLMiC Pro (camera app) apple.co/2LhbG15
LumaFusion (editing app) on iOS: apple.co/2zL3sJW
Smartphone Gimbal geni.us/nApDE
Hybrid Gimbal geni.us/6dkF
Large Gimbal geni.us/Apf3K
Universal Camera Cage/Grip geni.us/QdB1
Tripod Mount geni.us/v3pto
Mini Tripod geni.us/DbUyG
Bendy Tripod geni.us/of3vKAt
Battery Pack geni.us/NSmbd
Small LED Light geni.us/EVZoEA
Camera Mount Mic geni.us/DkD8TAv
Moment Lenses geni.us/ShopMomentLenses
Anamorphic Lens bit.ly/ShopMoondog
Moondog Universal Filter Mount geni.us/4p8aE
Sandmarc ND Filters/Lenses (works with Ultra Wide) bit.ly/ShopSandmarc
Need more smartphone filmmaking gear ideas?
www.iphoneographers.tv/apps-gear
▶︎ JOIN this channel to support it and access cool perks:
/ @iphoneographers
▶︎ CONNECT:
/ ifilmmakers
/ watchifilmmakers
/ iphoneographers
▶︎ SUBSCRIBE & listen to my PODCAST bit.ly/AlmostProPodcast
If you’re new to the channel it's all about taking mobile & DIY filmmaking to the next level. I share tools, tips & techniques to empower indie filmmakers, KZbin creators, mobile journalists and really anyone who wants to create better videos and movies. I primarily use iOS devices - but most of the tips will work with any smartphone - so if you're an Android user there's plenty of good info here for you, too! :)
Disclaimer: Some links used are affiliate links from Amazon, B&H and more. We get a small commission on any sales which helps support our channel - and it costs you nothing extra.
#smartphone #filmmaking
Thanks for watching!
©2022 Splashbox Studios

[@yuurioholland8243]

I choose the smallrig video rig… good thing I watch this video before buying, I was torn between ulanzi Lino or smallrig

[@nekkron99]

If you orient that Small Rig upside down you could use it one handed. Gravity would prevent the handle from collapsing.

[@knoptop]

I haven't had a chance to try these cages, but I've found that one of the best 'add-on's I've ever used with my phone is a simple pop-socket. Thanks for sharing these rigs!

[@KineticAirRgV]

Thank you for those reviews they were perfect!

[@curt300s]

Sweet review. As I was thinking of questions, you were already answering them in your narrative. Well DONE!

[@iphoneographers]

Thanks!

[@rockchalkbach]

Super helpful! Thank you!

[@bazlur-R]

Thanks for the reviews and comparison. I ordered Ulazi Lino. although have 2 gimbals, didn't make yet many, but some test videos(Zhiyun smooth 5 and Powervision s1(for charging if needed and lighter and you can put them inside a pocket). Smooth 5 is heavier than others. Bought Canon M50 with another lens and accessories, but don't like and it is bulky or carry always with you. small rig lighter metal sure Aluminium or with an aluminum alloy like magnesium. It is not titanium, because expensive and not easy to work with that material for most countries.

[@heroicvision]

The best universal cages to me are the ones with optical mounts where you can attach a DOF adapter, filters ,tele, wide and anamorphic lenses. So the top 2 for me is the BeastGrip Pro Cage and the DreamGrip Pro.

[@iphoneographers]

Yeah those are both great and I purposely didn’t include them here because they are different… While they are universal they’re more advanced and they’re also more expensive. But I agree they are nice and good options. I use a Beastgrip Pro pretty often.

[@Team_Daniel_Eva_Belle]

Can’t you add animophic lens and filters to the small rig ?

[@heroicvision]

@@Team_Daniel_Eva_Belle Yes but you'll have to use clip on attachments to the phone to do this.

[@juliaovchinnikova6822]

@@Team_Daniel_Eva_Belle The best choice to use the optics is universal Evolution Rigs and Frames by DREAMGRIP.

[@MASViper]

​@@heroicvisionSmallrig used to have the cage with lens attachment, sucks it's off the shelf now.

[@williamdavid4617]

Very useful review as usual! Thank you 🙂

[@iphoneographers]

Thanks for watching!

[@SequentialSnep]

Thanks for this video! I know exactly what to buy now. Cheers!

[@dialogandointerculturalmente]

Once again: Congratulations on the channel! Very good content!!! I just bought an i14pro and I don't know which accessory(s) to choose; I need to protect it and I want to think about using a variable ND filter... I still have two Mont-M slow ones... What recommendations could you give me?

[@michaelyolch79]

THANK YOU for saving me stupid amounts of research time. It's the big SMALL RIG for me! :)

[@ClarksvilleTN]

I love the beast-cage by beastgrip. It works way better than the others I have.

[@fallingleaveskungfu]

I loved the Ulanzi Lino but was just a few mm too small for my Revvl V+

[@ScottyInVancouver]

So true , 15pro max just came out so I’m glad I got universal cage. Who knows if they gonna change the design

[@foodiesnetwork727]

i been lookn for a rig and a lense for my iphone 13 pro its really exhausting lmfaooooo all the lenses different shapes n sizes along w the rigs then the phone cases its like jesus lmfao thanks ! your video def helped

[@dialogandointerculturalmente]

Very good video!!! like always!! it's a good point of view!!!! but I've been changing cell phones 1 time every 4 years... In my case my priorities are different!!

[@coach_yo]

Great Vid, thanks Blake!. I currently have a Ulanzi URIG but its the plastic one, and Sandmarc lenses and case, it works pretty well, but I often question the plastic build quality and might look into one of these.

[@iphoneographers]

Yeah plastic can work OK because it’s light but durability can be questionable for sure. I do prefer the metal cages myself, but that can be a subjective call. Thanks for watching!

[@ianharper6015]

Thanks for a really useful video. For me, the Smallrig cage looks the best option as filters etc can be easily mounted. I would be interested to know which Moondog filter adapter you use and if it works ok with the ultrawide native camera on the iPhone 13 Pro.

[@iphoneographers]

Using the Moondog MCFM which connects via a bayonet mount. Works w all built-in iPhone cameras. There’s a link in the description of the video. And the Smallrig is very solid. Thanks for watching’

[@ianharper6015]

@@iphoneographers Thank you.

[@markshirley01]

The small rig has the battery-charger holder as a option

[@Fobes]

This video after I just ordered my smallrig for 13 pro max. 🤣 Gotta say it fits extremely well. And build quality is great.

[@iphoneographers]

Yeah that’s a great cage I have one too! :) But for a lot of people they don’t want to buy a new one every year (or every few years depending on the upgrades) so it’s nice to have options like this.

[@lurkmouse]

I have a galaxy s22 ultra with the power button being right in the middle. Does the phone grip slide from left to right to adjust for that or is it stationary to the middle of the rig?

[@Team_Daniel_Eva_Belle]

Great video! Can you review the Moment Cage rig ? Its got a MagSafe attachment and curious to know how that compares

[@iphoneographers]

Yep! Coming soon. :)

[@TedTalksTech]

The moment you upload your video Moment teases their new MagSafe Cage 😆 Does Beastgrip not make universal cages?

[@iphoneographers]

Haha, yeah I just heard something about that. Could be interesting. And yes, Beastgrip has a universal one but it’s a little more advanced and different because you can mount lenses to it and it’s also more expensive. But, it’s a good option too and I use one myself.

[@jeijubac8106]

i just returned the ulanzi lino coz i couldnt fit my 13 pro max with otterbox defender case in it.. i was wondering what brand and model of phone case are you using?

[@the_bogeyman.]

Nice video. I started to film rc airplanes a while ago, and I am looking for a phone rig with 2 handles, but I am overwelmed for say the least. It seems that all have some pros and cons and I don't know if get a foldable to have in the pocket or a bigger one to keep in the trunk or backpack. The ergonomy filming planes on the sky is quite terrible with bare promax size phone in one hand. I really don't care about buttons and stuff tho, I would use the phone's touch buttons. Did you try film something fast, that requires you to follow the subject? What rig would you chose for that mattr? Thnx.

[@iphoneographers]

I’d probably say the SmallRig Universal with the handles would be a good option. It’s probably the most solid and the handles are great and can be used on really any cage. If you’re looking for a custom cage that fits a precise phone you really can’t beat the SmallRig ones for the 13 Pro Max, etc… amzn.to/3SaCwqc

[@user-xw4dx1tl4r]

Ah Soo true.! I bought the 11 phone SmallRig cage made for exact design but had to take case off everytime 😅 I should've just get the universal cage (because I'm definitely getting 14pro max tomorrow 😂

[@kenyontech]

Which of these you think can handle the thickest case or would have had any "extra" room after you clamped your phone with case in. . I have one phone at the moment with a pretty thick case for its ruggedness. I've been looking at a cage that might be able to work with it. I very rarely ever see any cage advertised with a phone having .. Great review by the way !!!

[@iphoneographers]

Probably the large Smallrig universal one. That clamp is fairly large. Thanks for watching!

[@kenyontech]

@@iphoneographers Thanks

[@jmulchino]

Excellent review video. At around 6:00 min an over text says, “Also, can’t use filters”. I get it, but am not sure exactly why you can’t. I have the Moment filter adaptors (67mm) for various filters. Is it because the rig edge is too close or protrudes? Will my Moment 67mm filters work? Thanks.

[@iphoneographers]

Yes exactly, the edges are very tight and so there’s no real room. You might be able to if adding it to a lens that sticks out from the body though.

[@pavlopr92]

Can I use a lens with Ulanzy Lino and iPhone 15pro? Is it enough space?

[@ozpaul2sb]

In September 2019 I purchased a Ulanzi ST-03 Metal Smart Phone Tripod Mount Stand Bracket Holder w/ HOT SHOE. It is plastic, has three cold shoe mounts, and no hot shoe mount. I still have it and use it mounted on a tripod. Ulanzi promised a discount on my next purchase. I have not been back.

[@iphoneographers]

So you’re saying it was advertised to have a hot shoe? That’s definitely weird. That would only be on a camera. I think I have that mount or a similar one (all metal) and it’s held up pretty well though.

[@setodanu]

Darn .. i love that ulanzi lino... But my A72 with 165 mm will be tight and planing to upgrade to S23 will surelly not fit into lino. .... Seems smallrig the proper one to accommodate larger phone

[@iphoneographers]

Yeah, I think that’s the right way to go for bigger phones.

[@gellbell8866]

The button on the smallrig fold p10 works with third party apps. If you're doing an overshoot, it was worth trying, and not jumping to the wrong conclusions!

[@MarioScott]

I am on team big phone so I live by universal cages. But that second one might be tight for the new Galaxy S 22 ultra

[@nidiaponte4378]

I've try it with the S21 Ultra, and it's tight, because you need to push to one side to not cover the bottons.

[@Fid0TV]

I am looking for one of these for dental photo shooting and i am wondering if i can "rotate" the LED lightining attached to any of these cages in order to create a twin flash effect, if you know what i mean. Can u rotate them?

[@iphoneographers]

They all have cold shoe mounts etc. so that would really depend more on the lights than the actual mount. So if you got the right light then sure you could do that. Like maybe one of these that rotates… amzn.to/38Qhz2s

[@DeanWThomas]

I have the iPhone 12 Pro Max with the regular Moment case. It will not fit into the Ulanzi Lino. I'm surprised you were able to get the 13 Pro Max in there. Are you using the moment thin case? Thanks for the video!

[@iphoneographers]

Yes Moment Thin case. It was a tight squeeze, but it fit.

[@DeanWThomas]

@@iphoneographers - Unfortunately I had to Return the Ulanzi Lino. I went with the new Moment Filmmaking Cage with MagSafe. It’s more expensive but it’s solving a lot of problems for me!

[@iphoneographers]

Good deal, I’ll be checking that one out soon too.

[@heroicvision]

I don't like the Smallrig Fold P10. You cannot use an Anamorphic or Ultra Wide lens without cropping in the video. Because the phone is set behind the handles you can see the handle or your hand holding the handle in wide shots.

[@iphoneographers]

Haven’t tested the anamorphic but I have used the Ultra Wide and in my experience I simply slid the phone to the right and it seemed to work fine. But if the phone is centered up you can see the edge of the rig or your hand.

[@dydy8377]

How could i buy it? I live in cambodia.

[@iKasibuTV-ij3ty]

Where can we buy

[@alessandrocavaliere2417]

For mount circular filter 67 mm on iphone 13 pro max i need case and adatper moment?

[@iphoneographers]

Yes, probably a dedicated cage is best for that like from Beastgrip or SmallRig. Or you could try a universal clip-on one.

[@JULESoso]

Any problem with attaching lenses or filters to the Ulanzi U-Rig II ?

[@iphoneographers]

A little, depends on the setup.

[@penningtonsm]

I was planning on getting the small rig iPhone 13 pro max version with a few accessories like the hand grip and tripod. Now you have me thinking if that’s wise. Hmmmmm

[@iphoneographers]

That’s actually a very solid cage I have that one as well. The good thing about it is it’s not super expensive. However, if you change your phone often I still hate to have to replace it. But if you keep your phone for several years it’s (probably) a good investment.

[@cheburashkadude2189]

Do you know if Smallrig Universal Cage will work with Smallrig quick disconnect handles?

[@iphoneographers]

Haven’t used those handles, but I think they’re designed for the 15 series cage.

[@WHITELIONNYC]

I purchased the SmallRig Universal cage and it's too big for my S23 and especially for my Flip5. I'm looking for a smaller more mobile solution that is still aluminum. I want to do a combination of both selfie vlogging and traditional recording of events. Any recommendations? 🤔😊

[@iphoneographers]

One of the better universal cages is the Beastgrip Pro. Didn’t cover it in this video as it’s been around a while, but it works very well with pretty much any phone… amzn.to/477h4dH

[@WHITELIONNYC]

@iphoneographers wow thanks! I love the modularity of it. When I'm vlogging I don't need an entire universal cage like the SmallRig. That is pretty much perfect that I can use just half of it. I'll buy it thanks! If you have affiliate link let me know so you get your cut. 😊

[@iphoneographers]

I have most links in the video description. :) Here’s a direct link if you haven’t already bought one… amzn.to/3G6idq1 Thanks!

[@marcorecinos8629]

I was wondering if moment is going to do a case for samsung 22 ultra

[@iphoneographers]

Not sure, but they do support a lot of Samsungs.

[@JamieHines]

I had the Ulanzi and the Samsung S21 Ultra and after getting in good luck accessing your buttons to turn on your phone. They are blocked no way to unluck your phone

[@rockztah911]

just turn off auto screenlock feature

[@stanleyschubert8933]

Beastgrip is best

[@user-rr7ln7ic4f]

Are there any problems with lenses on the ulanzi lino?

[@iphoneographers]

It’s a pretty tight fit, although for smaller phones it might be ok. I haven’t used it a lot in that way though.

[@user-rr7ln7ic4f]

@@iphoneographers Thank you, I wanted to buy, now I have doubts because I use a case and Ulanzi lenses

[@sunme820]

Number 2 for me better 😂❤

[@marcusknoedt]

Hi, does DJI mic fit on this cages?

[@iphoneographers]

I don’t have that mic, but it should no problem. The RODE mics do.

[@mellowmel2012]

How do I find your podcast?

[@iphoneographers]

It’s been on a little hiatus, but will kick back up soon, but there’s 50 episodes… podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/almostprofessional Or it’s also on YT here… kzbin.info/aero/PLaBQSCD9bNJKcYmqLuukh-XKsMELq4C06 Thanks!

[@dffilm1223]

Anyone use beastgrip pro? Is the handheld plastic?

[@iphoneographers]

Yeah it’s good. It’s made of very hard plastic and metal. It’s very solid. Have used one for years… amzn.to/3HezgXc

[@Touseef]

Need a generic cage so I can attach filters to vivo x100 pro

[@hartonofurniture1137]

Mantap keren 👍👍

[@TerryManitoba]

Have you seen the Moment's New MagSafe Filmmaking Cage❓

[@iphoneographers]

Yes I should be testing one of those in the near future as well.

[@TonyBabarino]

⭐️

[@kaistudio8229]

i love ulanzi brand but with smallrig design.. uughh

[@bangdingow1414]

SmallRig reminds me of TRON. 🤣

[@GrumpyOldMan9]

None of the rigs has a lens mount.

[@iphoneographers]

The only universal mount cage that I can think of that has a lens mount is the Beastgrip Pro. Otherwise, they’re all custom cages designed for a specific phone model. amzn.to/3NhnUo5

[@divisionoflabor3070]

They all need to have optical mounts. Otherwise it's not helping much.

[@sunme820]

Send me one

[@lumjacky5945]

hahahaha ginormous hahahaha

[@TonyBabarino]

2nd. Darn it.

[@NotUwU-_-]

I kinda late in this hobby

[@Gabb2k9]

Not sure why u deleted my comment

[@iphoneographers]

What comment? I don’t delete any comments. KZbin bots do sometimes though for who knows why. Let me know if you have a question…

[@Gabb2k9]

@@iphoneographers thanks. Sorry about that, and I really like your content. Idk, i think YT deleted my comment since I had a link to a phone rig gear from B & H

[@Gabb2k9]

@@iphoneographers I use a universal rig from SmallRig as well and I think its probably the best since its made for all phone, Android and iOS and it its Moment mounts and 35 mm screw mounts (Moondog labs). The entire lens mount is movable and you can place it in different places so its future proof. I will post a link but YT may delete it. Thanks again for the great video

[@iphoneographers]

Yeah KZbin doesn’t like links from commenters only the original poster can do that I think.

[@iphoneographers]

Sounds like a good setup! I definitely like Smallrig gear. Thanks for watching!