The ATUMTEK 51″ Selfie Stick Tripod is one of those accessories that tries to do a lot at once, and for the most part, it succeeds. It combines a selfie stick, a desktop tripod, and a full-size floor tripod into a single package, which makes it an appealing option for anyone who wants to streamline their gear without sacrificing too much in any one area. I spent a few weeks using it for phone photography, video calls, and casual vlogging, and it held up reasonably well in most scenarios.
The build quality is a mix of good and average. The phone clamp feels sturdy and has soft rubber pads that protect your device, and the Bluetooth remote is a nice touch—it pairs instantly and works from a surprising distance. The legs are made of aluminum, which keeps the weight down, but the plastic locking mechanisms feel a bit less durable. They work fine, but I wouldn’t be surprised if they wear out after heavy use over a year or two. The twist-lock extension system is smooth and holds position well, even when extended to the full 51 inches. At that height, there is some wobble if you bump it, but that’s expected for a lightweight tripod.
One of the standout features is the 360-degree rotation head. It uses a ball joint that lets you tilt and rotate the phone in almost any direction, and the adjustment knob tightens securely. This is particularly useful for switching between portrait and landscape orientation or for getting a low-angle shot without having to reposition the whole tripod. The Bluetooth remote is a simple button that clips onto the tripod leg or can be held in your hand. It has a range of about 30 feet, which is more than enough for group shots or solo vlogging. The remote is also rechargeable via USB-C, which is convenient, though the battery life is average—expect to charge it every couple of weeks if you use it daily.
In real-world use, this tripod shines as a desktop companion for video calls and live streams. The legs fold out to a wide stance, and the height adjusts down to about 12 inches, which is perfect for sitting on a desk or table. I used it for a Zoom meeting and a quick Instagram Live, and the stability was solid. The phone clamp holds even a large phone like an iPhone Pro Max with a case, which is something cheaper tripods often struggle with. For outdoor use, the extended height is helpful for getting a higher perspective, but you’ll want to avoid windy conditions—the tripod is light enough that a gust can tip it over if it’s fully extended.
Compared to a dedicated phone tripod like the Joby GorillaPod or a traditional floor tripod, the ATUMTEK is a compromise. It’s more versatile than a GorillaPod because it offers real height and a proper tripod base, but it’s not as flexible for wrapping around railings or tree branches. It’s also not as stable as a full-size aluminum tripod, but it’s significantly cheaper and more portable. If you’re someone who wants one tool for both desk work and outdoor shooting, this is a good middle ground. But if you’re a professional or someone who needs rock-solid stability for long shoots, you’ll likely outgrow it quickly.
There are a few limitations worth noting. The leg locks are plastic, and while they haven’t failed during my testing, they don’t inspire a lot of confidence for heavy-duty use. The included remote is small and easy to lose, and there’s no wrist strap or holder for it, so you’ll need to keep track of it. Also, the phone holder’s grip is so strong that it can be a bit difficult to remove your phone if you’re in a hurry. These are minor annoyances, but they add up over time.
Who is this tripod for? It’s ideal for casual content creators, students, or anyone who needs a versatile, affordable tripod for video calls, travel photos, and occasional vlogging. It’s also a great gift for a teen or young adult who’s just getting into content creation. It’s less suitable for professional videographers or anyone who needs to support a camera or a heavier setup—this is strictly for phones. If you’re shooting in harsh conditions or need a tripod that can take a beating, you’d be better off with a more rugged option from a brand like Manfrotto or Ulanzi, though you’ll pay significantly more.
Overall, the ATUMTEK 51″ Selfie Stick Tripod delivers on its promise of being an all-in-one solution. It’s not perfect, but it’s a well-rounded product that offers good value for its price. If you have realistic expectations and don’t plan on abusing it, it’ll serve you well for everyday content creation.