Let’s get a few things out of the way before I get to the review.

  1. I’ve bought five Platypod Pros and three Platypod Max units for myself in the past.
  2. I’ve stashed a Platypod in every camera bag and even my car’s glovebox.
  3. I’ve loved the original Platypod Pro (review) and the Platypod Max (review).
  4. I can call the inventor and offer feedback.
  5. I appear on the Kickstarter page and offer a testimonial because I believe in the products so much.

What is it?

The Platypod Ultra is a tripod alternative. It combines with virtually any ball head and creates a stable shooting platform. It’s named after a platypus for its shape (which has a duckbill). It features a variety of ways to balance or mount the camera for different shooting styles. I like to use it for low angle shots or where tripods aren’t allowed (which seems to be a growing list).

This is the next generation of the original Platypod Pro. The Ultra is designed for mirrorless and compact bodies, but I find it works for any DSLR or mirrorless camera. It incorporates several new features which I’ll describe below and picks up a lot of the improvements that were added to the Platypod Max (which is designed for heavier gear and longer lenses).

What comes in the box?

The Platypod Ultra Includes:

  • The Platypod Ultra (3.46 inches wide x 5.08 inches long)
  • 4 heavy-duty spike feet that also have rubber feet on opposite end
  • A wallet pouch to hold spikes
  • A 20-inch cinch strap to attach to small railings or poles
  • A Carabiner to attach to a belt loop or bag

What’s new?

If you’re coming from an original Platypod Pro, a lot’s been improved based on photographer feedback and.good ol’ innovation.

  • The unit is now .6mm thicker and 10% wider and longer which makes it event more stable
  • There are now 2 more threaded holes (5 total) to use with the spiked feet. This means you can easily shoot with 3 or 4 feet depending upon preferred shooting style.
  • A carabiner (and hole) for easier to transport
  • Belt Slots which let you strap to trees/poles with a 20” Cinch Strap included
  • Countersunk screw holes to permanently attach to walls.
  • Removal of the ¼ inch bolt to make more ball heads fit (although you can add it back with the accessory kit).
  • 1/4”-20 and 3/8”-16 holes to easily attach to Tripod/Monopod/quick release plates
  • How it works

    A 15-second exposure at night from the Platypod Ultra

    I took the Platypod Ultra on the road for over a month. I shot with it under all sorts of conditions. I took it camping, to Disney World, on a car trip and just around town. Like previous generations, it completely met my expectations. I found it rock solid and easy to shoot from.

    The addition of the cinch strap is a welcome change that makes the unit incredibly flexible. Find a pole, bench or railing and you’re in business. I also shot with longer lenses just fine, all the was needed was to point the bill forward so it’s under the long lens.

    A classic low-angle Platypod shot

    The optional accessory kit was a welcome addition too. These accessories work with both the Ultra and the Max.

    • 3-inch long 3/8-1/4-inch female to female spigot adapter. This works very well to attach a flash or monolight.
    • Anodized aluminum riser with a 1/4-20 male bolt. If you need to attach smaller devices (like a GoPro camera) or use smartphone tripods, this adapter works well. It can also be used to lift a ball head who’s lever is bumping into the plate.
    • 4 x 6-inch, 2mm-thick silicone pad. This is great to avoid scratching any surfaces or for extra grip.
    • A 36-inch long, 1.5-inch wide tension strap. This works great for larger poles like lampposts. Just slip it through the notches in the plate.
    • A drawstring pouch. To keep all your Platypod accessories organized.

    The bottom line

    The Platypod Ultra is a must have accessory. We all know that a stable camera means sharper pictures. This useful tool is highly adaptable for many shooting styles and can also be used for lighting, time-lapse work, HDR and more. If you want the benefits of a tripod, but none of the weight and bulk, don’t miss this great addition to your camera bag.

    A 5-shot HDR from the Platypod Ultra and a trash can

    While I own two already, I’ve already ordered more. The Platypod Ultra was invented by a photographer and is a small family-owned business. The inventor is passionate about his products and keeps making them better.

    Highly recommended, and you can save 20% on select kits through the end of 2021! Just use the code PF20 at platypod.com.