Peak Design Anchor Mount Review

Let’s Talk About Peak Design Anchor Mount

The Peak Design Anchor Mount is a minimalist, yet ingenious solution for attaching your camera strap to the bottom of your camera. Designed by Peak Design, it offers a streamlined alternative to traditional strap lugs, providing a secure and unobtrusive connection point.

I was searching for a more comfortable and stable way to carry my camera, especially when using longer lenses. Traditional side-mounted straps often caused my camera to swing awkwardly, and I wanted a solution that would keep the lens pointed downwards for better balance.

Upon unboxing, the Anchor Mount impressed me with its sleek design and compact size. The machined aluminum construction feels robust and well-made, and the black anodized finish gives it a professional look. Compared to other bottom-mounted strap adapters, the Peak Design Anchor Mount stood out due to its low profile and compatibility with Peak Design‘s versatile Anchor system. I chose this over generic options because of the known quality and integration with my existing Peak Design straps.

My initial impression was one of excitement; the Anchor Mount seemed like the perfect solution to my camera-carrying woes.


Real-World Testing: Putting Peak Design Anchor Mount to the Test

First Use Experience

I first tested the Peak Design Anchor Mount on a hiking trip in the local mountains. The varied terrain and occasional scrambling provided a good test of its stability and comfort.

The Anchor Mount performed admirably in these conditions, keeping the camera secure and close to my body. The downward-facing lens felt much more stable than when using a side-mounted strap. I needed a few minutes to adjust to the slightly different balance point, but quickly found it to be more comfortable, especially when navigating uneven terrain. No issues arose during the initial hike, and the Anchor Mount provided a noticeable improvement in carrying comfort.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of regular use, the Peak Design Anchor Mount has proven to be remarkably durable. The aluminum construction shows no signs of wear, and the screw remains securely fastened in the tripod socket.

The anodized finish has resisted scratches and scuffs, even after being subjected to various outdoor conditions. Maintenance is minimal; a quick wipe with a damp cloth is all that’s needed to keep it clean. Comparing this to my previous experiences with makeshift bottom-mounted solutions, the Peak Design Anchor Mount far surpasses them in terms of durability, security, and overall comfort.

Breaking Down the Features of Peak Design Anchor Mount

Specifications

  • Manufacturer: Peak Design
  • Color: Black
  • Compatibility: Works with all versions of Peak Design Anchors and straps, standard camera neck straps, and wrist straps (up to 11mm wide).
  • Mounting: Screws into any standard 1/4in-20 tripod socket.
  • Security: Ultra-secure 4mm hex drive with anti-twist pad.
  • Material: Rugged, weatherproof machined/anodized aluminum.

These specifications are important because they highlight the Anchor Mount‘s compatibility, security, and durability. Its ability to work with various straps and tripod sockets makes it a versatile accessory.

Performance & Functionality

The Peak Design Anchor Mount excels at providing a low-profile and secure attachment point for camera straps. It allows the camera to hang with the lens facing downwards, which improves stability and comfort, particularly with longer lenses.

The only potential weakness is that it occupies the tripod socket. However, this is a necessary trade-off for the improved carrying experience. It meets and exceeds expectations by offering a simple, effective, and durable solution to a common camera-carrying problem.

Design & Ergonomics

The Anchor Mount boasts a minimalist and unobtrusive design. Its compact size ensures that it doesn’t interfere with access to battery compartments or flip screens.

The machined aluminum construction feels solid and well-made, providing confidence in its durability. There’s virtually no learning curve; simply screw it into the tripod socket and attach your strap.

Durability & Maintenance

The robust aluminum construction and anodized finish ensure the Peak Design Anchor Mount is built to last. It can withstand the rigors of outdoor use without showing signs of wear.

Maintenance is straightforward; a quick wipe with a damp cloth is sufficient to remove dirt and grime. Its simple design ensures that there are no moving parts that could break or require extensive maintenance.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Peak Design Anchor Mount doesn’t come with any specific accessories, as it’s a standalone attachment point. However, it is designed to work seamlessly with Peak Design‘s Anchor system, allowing you to quickly and easily swap between different straps.

It’s also compatible with any standard camera neck strap or wrist strap up to 11mm wide. This compatibility makes it a versatile accessory that can be used with a wide range of camera setups.

Pros and Cons of Peak Design Anchor Mount

Pros

  • Low-profile and unobtrusive design.
  • Improved stability and comfort when carrying cameras with longer lenses.
  • Durable and weatherproof machined aluminum construction.
  • Compatible with Peak Design Anchors and standard camera straps.
  • Easy to install and use.

Cons

  • Occupies the tripod socket.
  • May require a hex key (4mm) for tightening (not included).


Who Should Buy Peak Design Anchor Mount?

The Peak Design Anchor Mount is perfect for photographers who prioritize comfort and stability when carrying their cameras. It’s especially beneficial for those who frequently use longer lenses or travel with their cameras in demanding environments.

Those who rely heavily on tripod use might find the Anchor Mount inconvenient. They may need to remove it frequently. There are some tripod plates that have strap attachment points, which would allow use of a tripod without removing the Anchor Mount.

Must-have accessories include a Peak Design strap for optimal compatibility and a 4mm hex key for secure installation.

Conclusion on Peak Design Anchor Mount

The Peak Design Anchor Mount is a well-designed and highly functional accessory that improves the camera-carrying experience. Its low-profile design, durable construction, and compatibility with various straps make it a valuable addition to any photographer’s kit.

The price of $9.95 is justified by the quality, durability, and convenience it offers. Yes, I would personally recommend it to anyone looking for a more comfortable and stable way to carry their camera.

Upgrade your camera carry today with the Peak Design Anchor Mount!

Leave a Comment

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Scroll to Top