
Benro
Benro A38TDS2 Aluminum Video Monopod Kit S2 Head
★★★★★
Lightweight, freestanding stability for event and documentary videographers — the Benro A38TDS2 keeps you mobile without sacrificing solid footing.
$148.94*
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*Price sourced from Amazon.com. Last updated:Jun 27, 2026.Price and availability are subject to change.
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Overview
Key Features
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Specifications
Brand
Benro
Model
A38TDS2
Leg Lock Type
Twist-Lock
Payload Capacity
5.5 lbs
Base
3-leg locking base with ball joint
Base Leg Design
Reverse folding
Head
S2 Video Head
Head Features
Independent pan lock, tilt lock, foam hand grip, built-in bubble level
Leg Lock
Twist-Lock
Color
Black
Includes
Carrying case
Pros & Cons
👍 Pros
- The ball-joint 3-leg locking base provides genuine freestanding stability, letting you step away from the camera between shots — an edge over bare monopods at fast-paced events.
- At 2.1 lbs for the full kit, it carries easily all day at weddings, conferences, or location shoots without accumulating fatigue.
- Reverse-folding legs on the base pack the kit down compactly, and the included case makes transport organized and snag-free.
- The S2 head's independent pan and tilt locks give you reliable axis control when precision repositioning between setups is needed.
- Reversible 1/4"-20 and 3/8"-16 mounting thread accommodates a broad range of camera and accessory mounting configurations.
👎 Cons
- The 5.5 lb payload ceiling limits this kit to lighter camera builds — a rigged mirrorless with a heavy zoom pushes the safe working load threshold.
- No fluid drag adjustment on the S2 head means pan and tilt resistance cannot be tuned, which is a noticeable limitation compared to dedicated fluid heads at higher price points.
- Four-section twist-lock design requires more collar adjustments than a flip-lock or 3-section monopod when frequently changing height throughout a shoot.
- Aluminum tube transmits more handling vibration than carbon fiber, which can show up in footage during handheld-style monopod movements at slower shutter speeds.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the actual payload capacity of this monopod kit and what camera configurations does it support?
The S2 head is rated at 5.5 lbs, which handles mirrorless and entry-level DSLR bodies with standard zoom or prime lenses. Once you add a larger lens or accessories, you're approaching the limit — this kit is optimized for lean, mobile camera setups rather than fully rigged cinema builds.
How does the 3-leg locking base differ from a standard monopod foot in practice?
The ball-joint 3-leg base lets the monopod stand independently without you holding it, which is a meaningful workflow advantage on documentary or event shoots. You can compose a shot, lock the legs, and step back to direct a subject or adjust lighting without the monopod toppling. Standard rubber feet don't offer this.
Does the twist-lock mechanism feel secure on all four sections, or is there any leg creep under weight?
Twist-locks are secure when properly tightened. The key habit is snugging each collar firmly before shooting rather than hand-tightening casually. Under normal loads within the 5.5 lb payload rating, sections hold reliably without creeping.
Can the legs on the base be folded back for compact storage and transport?
Yes — the legs feature reverse folding for compact travel, which keeps the base profile small when the kit is packed in the included carrying case. Setup and breakdown is quick enough for fast-paced event work.
Is the S2 head detachable — can I use my own video head on this monopod body?
The 3-leg base includes a 3/8"-16 female threaded connection that accepts the S2 head or any compatible video head with the same thread specification, giving you the flexibility to swap heads if your workflow demands it.