REVIEW: HEIPI W28 3-in-1 Travel Tripod
A solid, reliable, and versatile tripod will make a world of difference for amateur and professional photographers who have relied for way too long on cheap, flimsy, and typically clunky budget options. While good tripods don't often come cheap (usually a few hundred bucks, at least), it's unusual to ever regret that choice. But, for those seeking maximal value for money, HEIPI's 3-in-1 travel tripod might be a pretty good bet.
It's a truly multi-functional companion for photographers and videographers alike, featuring an awesome amount of durability, flexibility, and a unique integrated design. Plus, it's really great to see, for once, that a Kickstarter project actually delivered in time, and something good came out at the other end. The goal is simple - to be a robust, all-in-one tripod solution for on-the-move shooting scenarios and mobility.
PLEASE NOTE: I WAS SENT THIS ITEM FOR REVIEW BUT NO OTHER PAYMENT OR CONTROL WAS EXCHANGED FOR PUBLISHING THIS UNBIASED REVIEW
With that in mind, HEIPI has integrated a unique sub-tripod design, which doubles as a center column, or even as a standalone table-top tripod. Yet, despite its travel-focused form factor, the HEIPI W28 readily handles a 25kg (~55lbs) camera. Thus, ensuring stability for even professional-grade cameras. Although, for content creators and vloggers that shoot with phones, the ball head has a built-in smartphone holder.
Additionally, with thoughtful additions such as bubble levels, some spike feet, and accessory ports further help to enhance the HEIPI W28's functionality. Granted, it's not entirely perfect, as is evident by the W28's surprising heft that you have to lug around, and the need for hex wrenches to make adjustments. So, with that taken into consideration, should you look at the HEIPI W28 if you're shopping for a new tripod?
What Makes The HEIPI W28 Such A Compelling Package?
So, a bit more about that smartphone mount integration, which is quite unique when looking at other pro-grade camera tripods, it's conveniently located under the camera's mounting plate. This can support most smartphone sizes, so compatibility shouldn't be a problem. Plus, this feature is particularly handy for folks who switch between traditional cameras and smartphones, and this can be done rather speedily, too.
Videographers can benefit from the mounting system and ball head on the HEIPI W28, as well. HEIPI uses a ball head with an integrated pan head with 10-degree clicks, which is ideal for precise adjustments. This can be disabled, if you choose to, for smooth and consistent panning motions. What's more, there's a nice quick release plate with anti-twist pins, and compatibility with numerous popular camera models.
The leg locks and joints are another noteworthy highlight of the HEIPI W28 3-in-1 travel tripod. These are the brand's own, patented lever locks that are engineered for quick adjustments. In practice, I've found its operation to be pleasantly snappy and secure, providing confidence in the tripod's stability. I also like that the joints and the center column are pretty sturdy - not something you often find on budget tripods.
Thus, it allows for super smooth adjustments and a wide range of motion. You'll find that it ought to be a suitable tripod then, for various photography styles, such as macro or wildlife photography. The latter can be a tempting proposition, given that at just under 18 inches, the HEIPI W28 is compact enough that it's a superb tripod for traveling. Or, if you're regularly on the move, shifting around from shoot to shoot.
Where Does The HEIPI W28 Excel At?
Thus far, I've heaped praise for the HEIPI W28 travel tripod, and it's not without merit. So, here's a quick look at all the pros and upsides that HEIPI has built into the W28 that makes it such a brilliant tripod...
Dual Functionality - Being able to leverage the main and sub-tripods adds unmatched versatility. With this distinct design in mind, there are a few ways that you can use your tripod, whether you're crouched on the ground, in prone, or are mounting the tripod onto something secure. Aside from that, the HEIPI W28's sub-tripod is coupled neatly with the main tripods, ensuring that you can remove it within seconds. Better still, when it's tucked away, you won't even notice that it's there. This built-in, mini sub-tripod can offer a bit of extra shooting flexibility, particularly when you're vlogging or if a lighter setup is preferred.
Impressive Versatility - Weighing in at around 1.35kg (~3lbs), the HEIPI W28 is heavier than it appears, but this added mass does contribute a lot to its stability. Yet, it's compact enough when folded that it's handily travel-friendly. The load capacity, as I noted earlier, is quite impressive, allowing it to manage heavier gear with ease. I've seen folks use it with large format film cameras and vintage 120 cameras, with no problems whatsoever. On top of that, with a maximum height of 55.1 inches, the HEIPI W28 offers great reach. It's a good idea to be wary though, given that the minimum height is taller than some competitors, which might be a bit troublesome for storage.
Smooth Ball Head - The ball head on the HEIPI W28 is extremely smooth. Given that it's a tightly designed ball with pan head features, I reckon this will be highly appreciated by videographers on the go. Or, if and when you need to, the ball head itself is compatible with different plates for some extra convenience. You could further bet that it's an overall stable platform to lean and rely on, given the inclusion of a reversible spiked feet. There's a good level of stability on loose soil and sand, with those spiked feet providing a nice and secure grip on various terrains.
What Does The HEIPI W28 Do Poorly At?
Alas, it's not all sunshine and rainbows, since the HEIPI W28 does have its fair share of flaws that might be worth accounting for if you're considering adding it to your shopping cart...
Heavyweight Contender - While it might appear tiny at first glance, the HEIPI W28 has a good heft to it. It is a bit of a double-edged sword though, as I mentioned earlier. Thus, for all you traveling photographers and videographers, it might be a bit of a concern for those seeking ultra-lightweight options. This is partly due to the fact that the HEIPI W28's mini sub-tripod's legs are made of aluminum alloy, which in hindsight, could've been made out of carbon fiber. The latter would no doubt contribute massively to at least a bit of additional weight reduction.
Leg-Locking Levers' Ease Of Use - Though I do like HEIPI's clever leg lever locks on the W28, there's a bit of a learning curve associated with them. Therefore, for first-time users, it may not be easy to use right off the bat. Additionally, the leg locks are quite stiff when you're trying to use them for the first few times, but they will get looser and easier to use over time. Speaking of design flaws, the accessory ports on the HEIPI W28 also have some alignment issues on some units. Specifically, when the sub-tripod is re-inserted back into the main tripod, which could be a minor inconvenience for some.
Hex Wrench Requirement - The HEIPI W28 comes with four different hex key wrenches that are necessary for adjustments. This can be quite cumbersome to carry and keep track of, particularly for photographers who prefer a more streamlined and minimalist setup. So, make sure you don't lose any of them! Another thing to mention is how you stow away those hex wrenches. Hex key wrenches for adjusting tripods aren't a new concept, but some brands allow you to store the key wrenches within a compartment on the tripod itself. Meanwhile, with the HEIPI W28, you'll have to store it separately in your camera bag.
Is The HEIPI W28 Really Worth It?
For around $399, the HEIPI W28 3-in-1 travel tripod is positioned as a relatively more budget-friendly option than some of its competitors, such as the carbon fiber models from Peak Design. With that price point, this is a really competitive offering, providing good value considering its features and build quality. Compared to other travel tripods, the HEIPI W28 offers truly innovative features, such as that mini sub-tripod.
It further stands out in load capacity, stability, and smooth operation, which helps to justify that price. On top of that, the HEIPI W28 continues to impress with its robust build quality and supreme versatility. That alone could help sway buyers from more established brands. The natural competitor for this HEIPI W28 is undoubtedly Peak Design and their line-up of great tripods. So, how do these two brands compare?
I actually swapped my Arca-Swiss Leveller 60 head onto these legs for a killer travel combo!
Well, the HEIPI W28 is lighter, taller, and has a higher maximum load capacity, even when you compare it to the aluminum and carbon fiber tripods from Peak Design. However, those Peak Design tripods are more compact when folded down, which might be a crucial factor for some photographers. Overall, HEIPI's W28 offers a compelling blend of versatility, durability, and smooth operation for traveling photographers.
While it has its quirks, it's still a worthy investment for serious photogs on the move. The HEIPI W28 offers significant value for money, particularly compared to its closest competitors and other tripods at this price point. It's a really strong contender for those of you who are looking for a versatile, (relatively) lightweight travel tripod that doesn't compromise on features and usability, and everything you need a tripod to be.
Specs And Details
About the Author - Ross Jukes is a professional Photographer and Videographer with over a decade of experience. Working in both Digital and Analogue formats, Ross has worked with international clients, had his worked published numerous times and exhibited his work extensively. With a passion for all things photographic, Ross combines his experience, enthusiasm and dedication to his art form to create engaging and educational content for the photographic community.