SmallRig AD-120 is a heavy-duty carbon fibre tripod with a budget price
May 31, 2024
John Aldred
John Aldred is a photographer with over 25 years of experience in the portrait and commercial worlds. He is based in Scotland and has been an early adopter – and occasional beta tester – of almost every digital imaging technology in that time. As well as his creative visual work, John uses 3D printing, electronics and programming to create his own photography and filmmaking tools and consults for a number of brands across the industry.
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SmallRig has announced its new heavy-duty carbon fibre tripod, the AD-120 (buy here). Designed for heavy-duty use, it supports up to 8kg load capacity with durable aluminium and carbon fibre construction.
It’s a video tripod, designed to take a bowl mounted head. It features a 75mm bowl and comes with the SmallRig PH8 professional fluid tripod head. This takes standard Manfrotto 501PL plates, for easy swapping between cameras and other mounts.
SmallRig AD-120 – Heavy Duty, Light Price
As a heavy-duty tripod, it can handle a hefty camera rig. Comparable spec tripods on the market can cost double this, if not more, once you add in a suitable head.
SmallRig is still building its reputation in the tripod space, though. So, it may be wise to take an interest in their tripods while the prices remain lower than the competition.
When it comes to the specs, though, it supports up to 8kg (17.6lb) and has a maximum height of 197cm (77.6″). It drops down to only 58.2cm (22.9″) at its minimum height and when packed up for travel, it measures 98cm (38.6″) long.
It does come in its own carry case, though, which should make life easier. It also comes with a mid-level spreader, a ground-level spreader and a smartphone holder. Of course, you also get the usual Allen key to make sure your bolts stay firm.
The SmallRig PH8 fluid video head features an incremental 6-step counterbalance. Two rosette fixtures allow you to attach the handle to either side of the head. You get a full 360-degrees of pan with a tilt-range from +90 to -60 degrees.
This habit of SmallRig targeting more advanced and heavy-duty tripods and releasing them at lower prices is starting to look like a trend. Of course, there are some exceptions.
Price and Availability
The SmallRig AD-120 tripod and PH8 head kit is available to buy now for $475.15, although this is just a temporary price. Whether it’s just an introductory price and how long it may last is unknown, but it will go up to $599 at some point.
John Aldred
John Aldred is a photographer with over 25 years of experience in the portrait and commercial worlds. He is based in Scotland and has been an early adopter – and occasional beta tester – of almost every digital imaging technology in that time. As well as his creative visual work, John uses 3D printing, electronics and programming to create his own photography and filmmaking tools and consults for a number of brands across the industry.
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