SmallRig Phone Video Cage Dual Handheld vs ULANZI Smartphone Video Rig with Light

Design and build quality

The SmallRig Phone Video Cage is constructed as a dual handheld kit, featuring a video cage, rotatable side handles, and a TPU soft bumper. It is engineered to facilitate professional-level video shooting and filmmaking on mobile devices. The build includes a phone case specifically tailored for the iPhone 17 Pro. In contrast, the ULANZI Smartphone Video Rig integrates a selfie ring light directly into the structure. The ULANZI design focuses on all-in-one functionality, combining the rig structure with lighting and power components. Both products aim to enhance mobile shooting stability, but SmallRig emphasizes a modular cage approach while ULANZI prioritizes integrated electronics within the rig frame.

Compatibility and fit

Compatibility differs significantly between the two options. The SmallRig kit is specially designed for the iPhone 17 Pro, ensuring a precise fit with included components like the phone case and bumper. This specificity ensures optimal protection and alignment for that particular model. The ULANZI rig is marketed as a smartphone video rig, suggesting broader compatibility across different smartphone models. While SmallRig offers a secure, custom fit for iPhone 17 Pro users, ULANZI provides flexibility for users with various devices. Users with phones other than the iPhone 17 Pro will find the ULANZI rig more accessible, whereas iPhone 17 Pro owners benefit from the tailored design of the SmallRig cage.

Expansion and mounting options

Expansion capabilities are a strong suit for the SmallRig Phone Video Cage. The cage features multiple 1/4''-20 threaded holes, cold shoe mounts, and HawkLock H11 quick-release interfaces. These allow users to expand equipment such as handles, tripods, microphones, and LED lights. The cage also features side-mounted wrist strap and shoulder strap holes compatible with professional straps. The ULANZI product data does not specify equivalent mounting interfaces like 1/4''-20 threads or cold shoes in the provided features. For users requiring extensive accessory attachment, the SmallRig cage offers documented versatility for professional setups, while the ULANZI rig focuses on internal features rather than external expansion.

Lighting and visual aids

Lighting is a key differentiator in this comparison. The ULANZI Smartphone Video Rig includes a new selfie ring light with brightness steplessly adjusted within the range of 20%-100%. The color temperature can be adjusted from 2500K to 9000K with a CRI90+ high display index. This allows adjustment from warm light to cool light for perfect skin tone. The SmallRig cage does not include an integrated light source. Instead, it relies on its cold shoe mounts to attach external LED lights sold separately. For creators needing immediate lighting solutions without extra purchases, the ULANZI rig provides a significant advantage with its built-in, adjustable illumination capabilities.

Power and battery utility

Power management is another area where the ULANZI rig distinguishes itself. It features a built-in 5000mAh high-capacity battery that can be used as a power bank to charge other devices while vlogging. It supports QC/PD fast charging technology and takes only 3 hours to fully charge. It can be used continuously for 1.5 hours at maximum brightness. The SmallRig cage lacks any specified battery or power bank functionality in the provided data. Users relying on the SmallRig cage must depend on their phone's internal battery or external power solutions. The ULANZI rig offers extended shooting time and device charging, adding practical utility for long recording sessions.

Control and connectivity

Both products offer wireless control options, but implementation varies. The SmallRig kit includes a rotatable side handle with wireless control, facilitating operation during shooting. The ULANZI rig features a detachable remote control that connects via Bluetooth to the phone. Users turn on the phone's Bluetooth and connect to "Ulanzi U-Rig Light" to wirelessly control the mobile phone to take pictures and record videos. The ULANZI remote supports up to 20M/65ft wireless remote shooting, which is suitable for outdoor use. While SmallRig offers handle-integrated control, ULANZI provides a detached remote with a specified long-range capability, offering flexibility for distant shooting scenarios.

Price and value

Price is a decisive factor for many buyers. The SmallRig Phone Video Cage Dual Handheld is priced at $83.99. The ULANZI Smartphone Video Rig with Light is priced at $61.09. The ULANZI rig is approximately $23 cheaper than the SmallRig kit. Considering the ULANZI rig includes integrated lighting and a power bank, it offers a high value proposition for the cost. The SmallRig cage justifies its higher price through specialized construction for the iPhone 17 Pro and extensive mounting options for professional accessories. Budget-conscious users or those needing integrated features will find better value in the ULANZI option, while professional users needing specific modular expansion may prefer the SmallRig investment.

Which one should you buy?

Choosing between these two depends on your specific mobile filmmaking needs. If you own an iPhone 17 Pro and require a robust cage with extensive mounting options for microphones and external lights, the SmallRig Phone Video Cage is the suitable choice. Its 17mm T-Mount Lens Backplate and HawkLock interfaces support professional workflows. However, if you need an all-in-one solution with built-in lighting, power banking, and a detachable remote at a lower price, the ULANZI Smartphone Video Rig is the better option. For most general content creators seeking versatility and value without additional accessories, the ULANZI rig provides a more complete package out of the box.