Manufacturer: Velbon
Model: Ultra Stick 40
Price: £24.99
www.intro2020.co.uk

The Ultra Stick 40 is made of titanium and is one of the lightest monopods we’ve tested. It is aimed at the compact/bridge camera market or entry-level DSLR user. It doesn’t come with a head attached, which means you’ll need to purhase one to go with it, which will probably cost you more than the monopod itself. There is a comfortable black foam grip and the barrel is a dull-gold colour.

Unfortunately, the Ultra Stick 40 suffers from poor build quality – the locking pins actually disappeared during our test. Its opening mechanism is tricky too and it does not have locks, but tightens against a thread. Several people we gave the monopod to failed to open it to its full extent and if you were in a hurry it wouldn’t prove to be the most functional design. The thread at the top has a cap to it, but unfortunately the other points mentioned bring the score down.

Max. height: 142cm
Folded length: 42cm
Leg sections: 4
Head: No
Weight: 220g

Verdict:
Very light, but not particularly functional or solid.

Pros:
One of the ligthest monopods we’ve tested

Cons:
Poor build quality, tricky opening mechanism

What Digital Camera Score: 78%