Insta360 Multi Mount Review: Versatile Yet Conditional Buy
The phrase that keeps resurfacing in feedback is that the Insta360 Multi Mount is “one handy product” — and for many, it scores an impressive 9/10. Its fusion of tripod, selfie stick, and magic arm functions seems to strike a chord with content creators, travelers, and hobbyists alike, though the praise isn’t entirely without caveats.
Quick Verdict: Conditional buy
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Versatile tripod, selfie stick & magic arm in one | Limited maximum extension compared to dedicated monopods |
| “Mantis mode” offers unique overhead angles | Hanging limitations (objects ≤90mm thick) |
| Solid build with no gaps as found in some rivals | Ball joint requires manual tightening, not quick-lock |
| Stable for time-lapse/live streaming setups | Some competitors offer faster quick-release mechanisms |
| Compatible with multiple cameras & smartphones | Slightly heavier than ultralight selfie sticks |
| Maintains aesthetic with invisible hardware in 360° shots | Not compatible with Ulanzi quick release plates |
| Low return rate suggests reliability | Price is higher than basic mounts |
Claims vs Reality
One of the boldest marketing claims is its “combined tripod, selfie stick and magic arm” nature, promising three tools in a single device. Digging deeper into user reports, the multifunctionality does hold true for everyday shooting scenarios. A verified buyer on Amazon noted: “Switching from tripod to extension stick is seamless, and it feels sturdy in both setups.” However, for professional videographers using heavier rigs, that “magic arm” is best suited for compact action cameras, not DSLRs.
The “Mantis mode” — hanging your camera for overhead views — is another headline feature. Official messaging suggests it can replicate vantage points normally “only a huge arm” could achieve. While Reddit user u/alber33 praised its ingenuity, they cautioned: “Avoid hanging on moving objects. It’s stable on a shelf, but I wouldn’t risk it on a swinging door.” This points to practical constraints absent from marketing copy.
Insta360 also touts “manual tightening mechanisms to keep your gear stable.” On paper, this sounds definitive, but firsthand accounts reveal trade-offs. The solid lock prevents wobble, yet lacks the speed of lever-based competitors like SmallRig. “The front lever of SmallRig is faster, but it shows up in my 360 videos — with the Insta360 mount, I get a clean shot every time,” said u/alber33, highlighting a quality vs convenience dilemma.
Cross-Platform Consensus
Universally Praised
Versatility is where the Multi Mount shines. For travel vloggers, being able to replace multiple tools cuts down on baggage weight. “I didn’t bring a separate tripod to my hikes anymore,” a verified Amazon buyer remarked, noting they could set up for group shots, time-lapses, and vlogs without changing gear. The ball joint’s adjustability proves invaluable for desk-based creators — overhead unboxings and craft videos become significantly easier in “Mantis mode.”
Outdoor adventurers appreciate its robust construction. Reddit user u/alber33 compared it to Ulanzi and SmallRig, finding no gaps or looseness: “Insta360 and SmallRig feel completely solid — the Ulanzi had a half-millimeter gap and chipped paint after a few uses.” This kind of structural integrity matters in unpredictable environments, from windy beaches to mountain bike trails.
Compatibility also earns universal nods. Across Trustpilot and Quora discussions, users confirmed successful mounting with Insta360 Ace, GO, X series, DJI Osmo Action, GoPro Hero models, and smartphones (with an additional mount). This broad device range makes it attractive to multi-device households.
Common Complaints
One recurring gripe is extension length. At a maximum of 51cm, it can’t compete with dedicated long selfie sticks for dramatic aerial shots. “Great for tabletop and chest-height angles, but I still carry a long pole for the drone-style shots,” an Amazon buyer admitted. This limits appeal for extreme sports shooters wanting expansive perspective.
Weight, at roughly 349 grams, also comes up. While it’s solid, that solidity comes at a cost for ultralight packers. “After a day of city filming, I felt the weight more than I expected,” said an eBay customer. For backpackers aiming to shed every gram, lighter single-mode options might win.
Finally, incompatibility with certain quick-release systems frustrates mixed-gear users. Reddit threads clarify: “Ulanzi mount is incompatible with the original Insta360 mount — different widths and depths.” This means those invested in rival ecosystems can’t freely swap plates.
Divisive Features
The manual tightening ball joint sits at the heart of divisive commentary. Some applaud the control it offers — no accidental shifts mid-shot. Others miss the speed of lock-lever systems. As u/alber33 summarized, “I prefer Insta360 mounts because I hate any gaps,” signaling a prioritization of stability over speed.
“Mantis mode” itself creates split opinions. Creative users exploiting overhead setups rave about it for cooking tutorials, live streaming desk work, and pet videos. Others find it situational, too niche for daily use. “Fun, but I only use it a couple of times a month,” one Trustpilot reviewer admitted.
Trust & Reliability
Low return rates, as indicated in Amazon’s listing, back up the sentiment that this mount stands the test of time. Several Reddit posts show continued use months later without degradation. “Seven months on, still using my Insta360 mount — no chips, no loosening,” wrote u/alber33, contrasting this with paint wear experienced on Ulanzi models.
Trustpilot mentions don’t raise scam alarms; instead, they underline consistency in build. There are no patterns of faulty shipments or false advertising, reinforcing the brand’s established reputation in action camera accessories.
Alternatives
For users prioritizing ultra-fast mounting/unmounting, SmallRig’s quick-release with front lever wins on speed, especially for studio shoots. However, that silver lever appears in 360° footage, breaking immersion. Ulanzi’s Hummingbird quick release is cheaper but has reported minor gaps and paint chips, which may frustrate those using their gear in rugged conditions.
From feedback, the original Insta360 Multi Mount emerges as the best balance for 360° camera users seeking invisibility in shots plus sturdy grip. SmallRig fits more conventional cameras; Ulanzi appeals to budget-minded shooters willing to trade some quality for affordability.
Price & Value
Market pricing hovers around $27.59–$40.99 depending on sales, with eBay listings slightly higher due to shipping. At under $30 in some promotions, creators see strong value — replacing three tools with one. Resale trends suggest reasonable retention, as open-box units command close to new prices, pointing to slow depreciation.
Value perception increases when considering low failure rates. As one Amazon buyer put it: “I’d rather spend a bit more once and avoid replacements every season.”
FAQ
Q: Does the Insta360 Multi Mount work with non-Insta360 cameras?
A: Yes, it’s compatible with GoPro Hero models, DJI Osmo Action, and smartphones (with an extra smartphone mount). Users on Quora confirm cross-brand compatibility without stability issues.
Q: How long can the Multi Mount extend?
A: Maximum extension is 51cm (20.1 inches). While sufficient for vlogging or tabletop overhead shots, it’s shorter than dedicated long poles for wide aerial angles.
Q: Is “Mantis mode” safe for heavy cameras?
A: It’s designed for lightweight devices like action cams or phones. Hanging thick or moving objects is discouraged to avoid instability, per official usage notes and Reddit advice.
Q: Can I use it with quick-release mounts from other brands?
A: No, plate dimensions differ. Reddit comparisons show incompatibility with Ulanzi quick-release systems, meaning you must stick to the original plate design.
Q: Is it visible in 360° shots?
A: The mount itself is largely invisible. Competing designs like SmallRig’s lever can show up, so users prefer the Insta360 for clean spherical footage.
Final Verdict: Buy if you’re a content creator needing a portable, multifunction rig for stable and creative angles across varied shooting environments. Avoid if your style demands ultra-long extensions or rapid quick-release swaps with non-Insta360 systems. Pro tip from the community: invest in multiple bases to mount on different setups (bike, dive case, desk) for instant versatility.
