SmallRig Tribex – Innovative Tripod System with Single-Lock Technology

The tripod market has seen hardly any real innovations in years – apart from fully electric models. The basic structure almost always remains the same: three legs, a base and a tripod head. Most tripods have multiple locks on each leg, often three or more. But why, actually? Apart from tripods with only one leg segment, I haven’t seen any with fewer than three locks – until now.

The SmallRig Tribex gets by with just a single lock per leg and wants to do one thing above all: make setup and adjustment as fast and easy as possible, without compromising on stability and flexibility. I tested the tripod for you to find out if it delivers on its promises.

---

Scope of Delivery & Features

Packaging & Quality

When buying a tripod that should be “ready to go”, the scope of delivery is crucial. With the SmallRig Tribex, it impresses across the board. Right when first opening the packaging, it’s clear how much value has been placed on functionality and details. The set is put together so that everything you need for use is directly at hand – no additional purchases, no improvising.

The included bag is not only well-padded, but also spacious enough that everything really has its place. The screwdriver and Allen key are practical helpers, although the latter doesn’t have the highest quality. Particularly worth highlighting are the floor gliders and spikes, which give the tripod stability on various surfaces. The center column with telescopic function and the arm for the tripod head round off the scope of delivery and show that SmallRig has addressed the needs of photographers and videographers.

Scope of Delivery

---

Build Quality & Ergonomics

Construction & Design

The Tribex is made from carbon, making it lightweight, stiff and robust. The entire tripod kit weighs 3.8 kg and is 79 cm long when folded – ideal for mobility and outdoor use. The legs visually resemble photo tripods, which is rather atypical for a video tripod. Typical elements like floor spreaders or half shells are missing, but cleverly placed single-locks in the handle compensate for this.

Load capacity:

• Tripod: up to 25 kg
• Tripod head: up to 6 kg

This allows even heavy DSLRs, mirrorless cameras or small cine rigs to be used without problems.

---

Single-Lock System: The Core Innovation

---

Height Adjustment & Center Column

The center column can be quickly removed using the integrated hex key. This is particularly practical for ground-level shots or when you want to save weight. The working height is between 27–168 cm. With the center column, the tripod reaches eye level, without the center column about chest height (reference: 179 cm body height). For most applications, this height is sufficient, even if it’s not always ideal. The center column can be used reversibly, enabling creative angles.

---

Tripod Head & Motion Flow

The tripod head looks high-quality and is a fluid motion head with professional drag control. The 4-level balance stages (dynamic counterweight function) make balancing the camera easier and ensure stable, fluid movements with camera setups up to 6 kg. However, the head is not intended for heavy cine rigs – the largest setup should be an FX6 or similar.

Thoughtful design: The arm is extendable and the head offers space for tools and matching screws. In sub-zero temperatures, a weakness shows – the fluid resistance changes noticeably, which can affect the precision of movements. At normal temperatures, however, the head enables very flowing and smooth movements, even with longer focal lengths. Tested up to 600 mm – doable, although it wouldn’t be my first choice for such applications.

---

Comparison to Competition

Compared to classic tripods like Manfrotto or Benro, the single-lock system, compact pack size and lightweight carbon construction save significant time and weight. Anyone who works a lot on the go will notice this difference immediately.

---

Price & Value for Money

The Tribex is in the mid-price segment for prosumer video tripods. Given the thoughtful features, fast handling and mobility, I consider the value for money to be very fair. Anyone looking for an innovative, lightweight and quickly deployable tripod gets a convincing package with the Tribex.

---

Conclusion

The SmallRig Tribex is a real innovation on the tripod market. The clever design solutions, the single-lock system and the extremely fast handling make it a very practical companion for photographers and videographers who value efficiency and mobility.

Minor weaknesses like the minimal locking adjustment period, limited outdoor suitability in sand or dust and the head’s weight limits are more than compensated for by everyday usability, the compact pack size and the well-thought-out accessories.

For anyone looking for a lightweight, fast and flexible tripod that significantly simplifies setup while still working stably, the Tribex is a clear recommendation.

But how the new SmallRig Tribex II performs, I can only say after a thorough test. So SmallRig, if you want to send me a test sample, I’m ready! 😉