REVIEW: Matador BetaLock - Every Photographer needs one!
Every now and then, I stumble across a product that stops me in my tracks and the Matador BetaLock is exactly one of those products! It’s an incredibly simple idea, a lockable carabiner but it solves a huge problem that terrifies me and something that I am sure will concern countless other photographers and videographers, let me explain.
I was in a recent YouTube rabbit hole, searching for bikepacking related gear in preparation for some trips in 2024 and as always, I seemed to find myself in one of the obligatory ‘top ten accessory’ videos. These are Kryptonite to me and I can waste hours digging through lists and watching videos on things that I really know that I do not need. However, buried deep in one of those videos, I stumbled across the Matador BetaLock.
PLEASE NOTE: I WAS SENT THIS ITEM FOR REVIEW BUT NO OTHER PAYMENT OR CONTROL WAS EXCHANGED FOR PUBLISHING THIS UNBIASED REVIEW
As soon as I saw the BetaLock, I knew exactly what problem it would solve for me and instantly knew that this product would be of high-value to other professionals in this sector. The product is simple, it’s a large carabiner but what makes it unique (well, as far as I can see from a very quick online search!) is that it actually locks using a key! I know, it doesn’t seem earth-shattering but this simple addition is a complete game-changer!
I own plenty of carabiners and that includes many with ‘locking’ clasps. Usually, this involves a simple screw that means that the clasp can not be easily pushed open. Where the BetaLock rises above is the addition of that small key (two supplied) that means the carabiner actually locks! You need the key to open it! Better yet, it is so beautifully integrated that you really can’t tell it’s locked by glancing at it, it’s only on close inspection that you realise it’s genius.
The aircraft grade Aluminium is beautifully finished in a range of colours and the deadlock feels solid and for those that travel, it’s also TSA approved so no worries there. As an item of ‘Everyday Carry’ it works perfectly as a normal carabiner and is just as rugged and as useful as any other larger carabiner that I have used.
So why am I so excited about it? Being a Photographer & Videographer in Birmingham (United Kingdom) I understand that it’s a large, modern city and unfortunately, not every single residents moral compass is pointing in the right direction. Therefore, I always have to keep a close eye on my gear as all professionals should be doing, no matter where they live. One of my biggest fears is the simple opportunist thief who basically snatches the bag whilst I am unaware.
When I saw the BetaLock, I instantly knew that I wanted one on every single camera bag I own with the simple plan of leaving them attached. I travel a lot on trains and have been known to spend a little time in coffee shops (or even pubs!). Having a locking carabiner allows me to attach my precious camera gear to rails, tables or whatever I can find that is reassuringly secure. Trains are a constant cause for concern as they are often busy and you usually end up standing away from your bags which should really be on racks!
Using the BetaLock, the opportunity for someone to simply snatch your bag and walk off with it is significantly diminished! Having grown up on a Council Estate, I’m sure with a screw drive, a hammer and a few minutes I could ‘open it’ without a key. However, it would certainly take some effort and you certainly wouldn’t be able to do it discreetly! Like I mentioned, such a simple idea but it certainly solves a problem that I have faced for many years.
Even better, Matador also offers an accessory cable that allows you to lock the carabiner (and your precious gear) to even larger items or locking up multiple items. The stainless steel braided cable is certainly tough and would not easily be removed. I don’t think it would stand up to a decent pair of bolt cutters or an angle grinder (and yes, as a cyclist I can confirm that thieves do go to that extreme!) but as previously mentioned, the cable is plenty tough enough to deter most would-be pilferers.
It’s a shame that we live in a world where we have to go to such extremes to protect our camera gear and it certainly doesn’t solve every security issue, but it is such a neat and elegant solution that it really should be something we all consider. I have even considered locking the carabiner to my jeans whilst out to allay the fear of the moped snatchers - if they want my gear so badly that they are prepared to pull my jeans down then they really are desperate!
The key is small and discreet and with the different colour options for the carabiner, the BetaLock will match even the most expensive of camera bags. I was initially a bit put off by the Gold of the lock that I received but I must admit, once I put it on my bag I really liked the way it looked and would seriously consider buying more in that colour! But the other options also look great!
Matador has a fantastic range of products that I really think are well worth checking out but with the BetaLock, I think they have really hit gold. As I mentioned, it’s such a shame that we have to protect our gear like this but if it happens to deter an opportunist thief then the $30.00 plus shipping will instantly pay for itself! It may seem expansive on first look but seriously, it only needs to save your gear once to be well worth the investment!
On a side note, the BetaLock can’t solve all of the ways that thieves can relieve you of your gear so please do make sure you insure your camera gear. With knife crime a constant issue in the UK, it’s certainly not worth getting into an altercation to protect your gear and that camera insurance will mean that you will have the option to walk away from what is a horrendous situation.
I started by saying how much I love a simple product that solves an issue and I really believe BetaLock does that so well. I wish I could stumble across more products like this that I truly believe in so I guess I will find myself down yet more YouTube rabbit holes. However, I will be able to do so on the train without the fear of someone running away with my bag without noticing!
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.
Disclaimer: All links to Amazon UK/US are affiliated links - you will still pay the same price but I will receive a small commission. All information provided in this blog is intended either for educational or entertainment purposes and is accurate to the best knowledge of the author. However, further research/professional advice should be sort before making purchases/implementing any advice given and no responsibility is taken by the author or parties mentioned here within.