Let’s Talk About JOBY Suction Cup & Gorillapod Arm
Capturing that perfect action shot or time-lapse can be a real pain, especially when you’re on the move and don’t have a solid surface to work with. That’s where the JOBY Suction Cup & Gorillapod Arm comes in, offering a portable and versatile solution for mounting your camera or action cam just about anywhere. JOBY, known for its innovative Gorillapod designs, aims to solve the age-old problem of shaky footage with this combo.
I needed a reliable way to mount my GoPro to my kayak for fishing trips and to my truck’s hood for off-road adventures. I was tired of relying on flimsy mounts that vibrated excessively or, even worse, fell off mid-shoot. This seemed like the perfect blend of flexibility and secure attachment.
Out of the box, the JOBY Suction Cup & Gorillapod Arm feels surprisingly robust. The suction cup is significantly larger than I anticipated, lending an immediate sense of confidence. The Gorillapod arm is classic JOBY, offering that familiar blend of flexible joints and sturdy construction.
I considered the RAM Mounts suction cup system, but it seemed overkill for my needs, and the generic suction cup mounts on Amazon had terrible reviews. The JOBY offered a balance of quality and portability that appealed to me. I was excited to see if it could live up to its promise.
Real-World Testing: Putting JOBY Suction Cup & Gorillapod Arm to the Test
First Use Experience
My first test was mounting my GoPro to the windshield of my truck during a cross-country road trip. I needed a secure and stable platform for capturing time-lapses of the changing landscapes. The JOBY Suction Cup & Gorillapod Arm performed admirably, holding firm even on bumpy stretches of highway.
In wet conditions, the suction cup initially seemed less reliable, but a quick wipe down of both the cup and the mounting surface solved the issue. I found that taking the time to ensure a clean, smooth surface was crucial for optimal performance. I didn’t need much time to get used to it; the locking mechanism is intuitive and the arm is easy to adjust.
The only minor issue was a slight vibration at higher speeds, but this was easily remedied by shortening the arm and bringing the camera closer to the suction cup.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of use, the JOBY Suction Cup & Gorillapod Arm has become an indispensable part of my gear. I’ve used it on everything from my kayak to metal poles, to the side of my motorcycle. There are no signs of significant wear and tear.
The suction cup remains strong and the Gorillapod arm is still as flexible and sturdy as the day I bought it. Cleaning is a breeze; a simple wipe down with a damp cloth is all it takes. Compared to previous suction cup mounts I’ve used, this one is far superior in terms of both stability and longevity.
Breaking Down the Features of JOBY Suction Cup & Gorillapod Arm
Specifications
- The JOBY Suction Cup & Gorillapod Arm features a specialized locking mechanism for secure attachment. This ensures that the camera stays firmly in place, even during intense activity.
- The Gorillapod arm is constructed from durable plastic and rubber, offering exceptional flexibility. This allows for precise camera positioning in a wide range of shooting scenarios.
- The suction cup itself is made from high-quality rubber. It is designed to create a strong, airtight seal on smooth, non-porous surfaces.
- The entire unit is lightweight and compact, making it easy to pack and transport. This is ideal for outdoor adventures and travel.
- It is compatible with most action cameras and cameras with a standard 1/4″-20 tripod mount. This provides versatility and makes it suitable for a wide range of equipment.
The locking mechanism and durable materials contribute to the overall stability and reliability of the mount. The flexibility of the Gorillapod arm allows for creative camera angles that would be impossible with a traditional tripod.
Performance & Functionality
The JOBY Suction Cup & Gorillapod Arm excels at providing a secure and stable platform for cameras in challenging environments. It minimizes vibration and allows for smooth, professional-looking footage.
Its main strength is its ability to adhere to a wide range of surfaces and to maintain its grip even under stress. A slight weakness is the potential for vibration at high speeds or in extremely bumpy conditions. Overall, it far exceeds my expectations for a portable suction cup mount.
Design & Ergonomics
The build quality is excellent, with the suction cup feeling solid and the Gorillapod arm exhibiting the classic JOBY design. The materials used feel durable and capable of withstanding regular use in demanding environments.
The JOBY Suction Cup & Gorillapod Arm is very user-friendly. There is no significant learning curve.
Durability & Maintenance
With proper care, the JOBY Suction Cup & Gorillapod Arm should last for years. The simple design minimizes the risk of mechanical failure.
Maintenance is straightforward. Regular cleaning with a damp cloth will keep the suction cup in optimal condition.
Accessories and Customization Options
The JOBY Suction Cup & Gorillapod Arm comes with the suction cup and the Gorillapod arm itself. There are no other included accessories.
It is compatible with a wide range of action camera accessories that utilize a standard tripod mount. This opens up possibilities for attaching lights, microphones, and other accessories.
Pros and Cons of JOBY Suction Cup & Gorillapod Arm
Pros
- Provides exceptional stability for cameras and action cams.
- The Gorillapod arm offers incredible flexibility in positioning the camera.
- Durable construction ensures long-lasting performance.
- Easy to use and requires minimal setup.
- Lightweight and portable, perfect for travel and outdoor adventures.
Cons
- May experience slight vibration at high speeds or on very rough surfaces.
- Requires a smooth, non-porous surface for optimal suction.
Who Should Buy JOBY Suction Cup & Gorillapod Arm?
The JOBY Suction Cup & Gorillapod Arm is perfect for videographers, outdoor enthusiasts, travelers, and anyone who needs a portable and reliable camera mounting solution. Kayakers, motorcyclists, off-roaders, and anyone who wants to capture unique angles will find this to be an invaluable tool.
Anyone who primarily shoots in a studio setting or who needs a super-heavy-duty mounting system might find this to be insufficient. A cleaning cloth for the suction cup is a must-have accessory for maintaining optimal performance.
Conclusion on JOBY Suction Cup & Gorillapod Arm
The JOBY Suction Cup & Gorillapod Arm is an excellent product that delivers on its promise of providing a secure and versatile camera mounting solution. At $35.49, the price is justified considering the build quality and functionality.
I would definitely recommend this product to anyone looking for a portable and reliable way to mount their camera in challenging environments. If you want to capture stunning action shots or time-lapses without the hassle of a bulky tripod, the JOBY Suction Cup & Gorillapod Arm is the perfect choice. Go ahead and grab one – you won’t be disappointed!