The U9000 is an economical full-size tripod for lighter loads that's loaded with features. Oversized, single action locks with rubber leg tips give non-skid stability. It is fast to setup and will comfortably hold most light 35mm equipment.
| Maximum Height | 59.0" (149.9 cm) |
| Minimum Height | 21.5" (54.6 cm) |
| Folded Length | 23.2" (58.9 cm) |
| Load Capacity | 4.40 lb (2.00 kg) |
| Leg Sections | 3 |
| Leg Lock Type | Flip levers |
| Independent Leg Spread | No |
| Center Column Sections | 1 |
| Center Column Type | Geared with tension control |
| Center Brace | Yes |
| Spiked Feet | Yes |
| Head Type | 3-Way pan & tilt with quick release |
| Head Mount Thread Size | Head is not interchangeable |
| Weight | 3.50 lb (1.59 kg) |
REVIEW SNAPSHOT®
by PowerReviewsPros
Cons
Best Uses
Most Liked Positive Review
Excellent first tripod!
So far, it has held up well both indoors and out. Took it out into the mountains with me for some light hiking and was not at all burdened by its weight or size....Read complete review
So far, it has held up well both indoors and out. Took it out into the mountains with me for some light hiking and was not at all burdened by its weight or size. Set up quick enough that I was able to snap some bighorn sheep before they scampered off.
Feels solid and stable without being too bulky.
Straightforward to set up and adjust once you know which of the locks releases which axis of movement. Once the legs are in position they stay there, same with all of the other pivot joints.
The only downsides are that the quick release base seems a little bulky, but it really doesnt get in the way of handheld shooting, perhaps it is just the way I hold my camera. I feel like the flat surface could use a little bit more grip, however, as the single screw that attaches the camera to to release does not provide a perfectly secure fit, meaning that it might be possible to slide a little bit in the x axis depending on the positioning and the weight of your gear. So far I havent noticed anything detrimental, but I feel it warrants mentioning.
VS
Most Liked Negative Review
Good tripod
I use it for portraits, low light situations and anytime when I just do not feel like holding the camera or need the stability. It is lighter than the 8000 model and if I ...Read complete review
I use it for portraits, low light situations and anytime when I just do not feel like holding the camera or need the stability. It is lighter than the 8000 model and if I had known that I would have gotten the 8000 (again), since I own one already and am very pleased with it. The 9000 has two advantages:
1. It has a leveling bubble,
2. It have spikes or rubber feet - nice on gravel or loose ground.
What is not so great about it is that it "feels" cheaper than the 8000 and I do not care for that. I would still recommend it but with a qualification.
REVIEWS
Reviewed by 46 customers
Sort by
Displaying reviews 1-20
Previous | Next »
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Slik U9000 Tripod with 3-Way Pan / Tilt Head (Quick Release) - Supports 4.40 lb:
I like the Slik U9000 because it is very lightweight and easy to drop down and close back up. It is a great tripod if you are moving a lot and don't want to lug around a big heavy one. But you sacrifice some stability for the weight. It also is a bit fragile, I had the same tripod before and one of the connectors to one of the legs broke. But, because I like the ease of opening and closing plus the weight, I bought it again.
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Slik U9000 Tripod with 3-Way Pan / Tilt Head (Quick Release) - Supports 4.40 lb:
I've owned two of these U9000 tripods and both have suffered the same basic failure - the height-adjustment handle snapped off.
Yes, this is an inexpensive "value" product, but it would make much more sense if the rotating handle assembly was manufactured from a metal allow rather than plastic. I certainly didn't abuse these products, and I avoided greasing or oiling the stiff height-adjustment assembly so as not to introduce any additional play.
Needless to say, I'm shopping for a new tripod and I won't be considering SLIK products again.
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Slik U9000 Tripod with 3-Way Pan / Tilt Head (Quick Release) - Supports 4.40 lb:
General use in university research lab.
Well made, sturdy and workmanlike. Not a "cheap" piece of goods at all.
Minor nit:
After using it, having the legs twist lock and the plate snap in would be nice but it works great.
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Slik U9000 Tripod with 3-Way Pan / Tilt Head (Quick Release) - Supports 4.40 lb:
This is another solid Tripod from Slik. I have an old Slik U212 which is stable, but also quite heavy. My newer camera's are not at heavy as the older mechanical ones, so the U212 is overkill. This comes close on the stability front to the U212, but is much lighter. The legs slide out quick and lock down firmly.
The one thing I don't like is the new quick release plate. It is difficult to screw in the Tripod bolt, and unless tightened with a coin, tends to wobble. Since I only have one "plate" I have to keep taking it off to mount anything else. I liked the old style Slik quick release mount where the bolt screwed in to the base of the camera, and it locked when you dropped in, and then when you cranked the lever, it really tightened it down.
Other than that, a very good tripod, and easy to use.
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Slik U9000 Tripod with 3-Way Pan / Tilt Head (Quick Release) - Supports 4.40 lb:
I'm an Amateur Photographer that is just learning this as a hobby and needed a more sturdy tripod. Sets up easily and the bubble level is useful. With the included carrying case, this tripod meets my needs just fine for the immediate future.
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Slik U9000 Tripod with 3-Way Pan / Tilt Head (Quick Release) - Supports 4.40 lb:
good option for a second tripod. light and easy to use, doesn't have a great stability though. good value for money
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Slik U9000 Tripod with 3-Way Pan / Tilt Head (Quick Release) - Supports 4.40 lb:
Ok for the money. But not good for a heavy camera with night shots. There is a lot of play in the head making shots with high power zooms blurry. With a heavy camera / lens the panning is not very smooth. I get better shots of the moon hand held than with this tripod. If you are doing portraits it works fine. I am sure I will end up buying another tripod.
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Slik U9000 Tripod with 3-Way Pan / Tilt Head (Quick Release) - Supports 4.40 lb:
I use this for both still shots and video and it works great. The tilt ability is new to me from my previous tripod and I love it. It works great for recording my daughter's dance recitals where I can zoom in and smoothly follow her across the stage. Smooth motion, lightweight and easy to fold/unfold. Good choice if in the market for a tripod.
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Slik U9000 Tripod with 3-Way Pan / Tilt Head (Quick Release) - Supports 4.40 lb:
I have my own video house and i make hd clips for my customers, now they are really happy for the results.
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Slik U9000 Tripod with 3-Way Pan / Tilt Head (Quick Release) - Supports 4.40 lb:
low light photography and still lifes
the tirpod is easy to setup and use but the quick release plate is a bit cumbersome. You need a coin to tighten/loosen the plate to the camera. The knob should have been knurled, or come with a tool attached to the tripod.
The platform is not completely stable, a little bit too much freeplay in the head assembly (using an EOS7D with 50mm lens). The tripod is inexpensive, and a good buy for the price if you are a casual user.
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Slik U9000 Tripod with 3-Way Pan / Tilt Head (Quick Release) - Supports 4.40 lb:
I tried to get by with an ultraportable tripod for filming a band concert. The panning was not very smooth. The U9000 is much sturdier and smoother. Great deal for the $, especially with the free bag [...]
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Slik U9000 Tripod with 3-Way Pan / Tilt Head (Quick Release) - Supports 4.40 lb:
Although this tripod is not heavy duty enough for us to use at the studio or in the field, we recommend them to our photography students. It is a great tripod for the price and works very well for the average amateur photographers. It is lightweight, tall and sturdy enough for most people. If it had a ball head we would give it a 5 star rating.
Rick, Mike and Laura
Captured Light Photography
Cincinnati, OH
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Slik U9000 Tripod with 3-Way Pan / Tilt Head (Quick Release) - Supports 4.40 lb:
For the price, this tripod is sturdy, easy to use, versatile, allows pretty smooth panning. The bubble level is a bonus. It is a little heavier than I anticipated, but it is more stable than I expected, so I'm okay with it. I doubt I'll need anything more for my usual needs.
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Slik U9000 Tripod with 3-Way Pan / Tilt Head (Quick Release) - Supports 4.40 lb:
This tripod is very good to me, is lightweight, easy and quick to assemble and mount the camera on it. Just something I do not check before buying is a bit low for me, but no big deal.
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Slik U9000 Tripod with 3-Way Pan / Tilt Head (Quick Release) - Supports 4.40 lb:
This is a very good low-priced tripod. All the controls are smooth and the leg locks are large and easy to open and lock.
I am almost 100% satisfied with the tripod.
Another reviewer said the tripod was "plasticy," Yes, it is. Since I don't plan on using it HARD, this is not a problem for me. It seems like good solid plastic!
Another reviewer said the quick release was large and couldn't be attached/removed from the camera by hand. This is true. I have put a quarter in my camera bag for this purpose.
My only BIG complaint about this tripod was also previously mentioned. The camera baseplate that swings up to allow you to go from landscape to portrait shooting does not swing up a full 90 degrees. It's more like 88 or so. It appears that the mold used to make this component was not properly designed to accommodate this. You have to lower a leg to make a portrait-style shot level, which is a bit of a pain.
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Slik U9000 Tripod with 3-Way Pan / Tilt Head (Quick Release) - Supports 4.40 lb:
For a relatively inexpensive tripod, this model is quite functional and usable. Although the other Slik tripods I have had held up well over many years, the plastic parts are always a concern. [...]The replacement unit has been working flawlessly. I use it mainly for supporting DSLR cameras for portraits and nature photography. It is probably better suited to still images, but with a little practice works OK for video also. I wouldn't call it rock solid, but it does well in terms of cost and weight vs. stability.
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Slik U9000 Tripod with 3-Way Pan / Tilt Head (Quick Release) - Supports 4.40 lb:
This tripod is absolutely the best for the money. I can set it up in less than a minute with the quick release panel already attached to my camcorder. It is perfect for recording debates, with smooth panning, horizontal and vertical. Makes me feel like a professional when I am just a complete newbie.
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Slik U9000 Tripod with 3-Way Pan / Tilt Head (Quick Release) - Supports 4.40 lb:
This tripod is awesome! Stood up to 45km/hr winds. And the carrying case it came with is nice too. Makes it so much easier/lighter to carry. It would be nice if it could be slung across the opposite shoulder though (you can only hold it with one shoulder, not across like you could with something like a canvas bag). Still comfortable though.
But getting back to the tripod, I only wish it had longer spikes. The ones it has on it are incredibly short and I don't feel like they add too much to stability. Knobs are also a bit annoying to adjust, but that's the nature of the head. The knobs themselves operate smoothly. All in all, a great tripod for the price.
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Slik U9000 Tripod with 3-Way Pan / Tilt Head (Quick Release) - Supports 4.40 lb:
Bought this because I really liked the u8000 which I need to replace because the handle snapped off. Unfortunately, in spite of the price bump and better reviews, the u9000 appears to have the same handle. Hopefully the quality of the plastic has been upgraded. Otherwise, the unit is light, strong, and operates smoothly so I'm keeping my fingers crossed.
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Slik U9000 Tripod with 3-Way Pan / Tilt Head (Quick Release) - Supports 4.40 lb:
i am an amateur photographer, however this tripod fits my needs. i use it nearly everyday, and it has not failed the manufacturers promises.
it is small enough to use on the go and lightweight. i was surprised that it came w/ a case; not a cheap case w/ strings for closures. this is a good case w/ a zipper closure. the case is actually a few inches longer than the tripod, so the "tri" fits easily.
REVIEW SNAPSHOT®
by PowerReviewsPros
Cons
Best Uses
Most Liked Positive Review
Excellent first tripod!
So far, it has held up well both indoors and out. Took it out into the mountains with me for some light hiking and was not at all burdened by its weight or size....Read complete review
So far, it has held up well both indoors and out. Took it out into the mountains with me for some light hiking and was not at all burdened by its weight or size. Set up quick enough that I was able to snap some bighorn sheep before they scampered off.
Feels solid and stable without being too bulky.
Straightforward to set up and adjust once you know which of the locks releases which axis of movement. Once the legs are in position they stay there, same with all of the other pivot joints.
The only downsides are that the quick release base seems a little bulky, but it really doesnt get in the way of handheld shooting, perhaps it is just the way I hold my camera. I feel like the flat surface could use a little bit more grip, however, as the single screw that attaches the camera to to release does not provide a perfectly secure fit, meaning that it might be possible to slide a little bit in the x axis depending on the positioning and the weight of your gear. So far I havent noticed anything detrimental, but I feel it warrants mentioning.
VS
Most Liked Negative Review
Good tripod
I use it for portraits, low light situations and anytime when I just do not feel like holding the camera or need the stability. It is lighter than the 8000 model and if I ...Read complete review
I use it for portraits, low light situations and anytime when I just do not feel like holding the camera or need the stability. It is lighter than the 8000 model and if I had known that I would have gotten the 8000 (again), since I own one already and am very pleased with it. The 9000 has two advantages:
1. It has a leveling bubble,
2. It have spikes or rubber feet - nice on gravel or loose ground.
What is not so great about it is that it "feels" cheaper than the 8000 and I do not care for that. I would still recommend it but with a qualification.
REVIEWS
Reviewed by 46 customers
Sort by
Displaying reviews 1-20
Previous | Next »
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Slik U9000 Tripod with 3-Way Pan / Tilt Head (Quick Release) - Supports 4.40 lb:
I like the Slik U9000 because it is very lightweight and easy to drop down and close back up. It is a great tripod if you are moving a lot and don't want to lug around a big heavy one. But you sacrifice some stability for the weight. It also is a bit fragile, I had the same tripod before and one of the connectors to one of the legs broke. But, because I like the ease of opening and closing plus the weight, I bought it again.
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Slik U9000 Tripod with 3-Way Pan / Tilt Head (Quick Release) - Supports 4.40 lb:
I've owned two of these U9000 tripods and both have suffered the same basic failure - the height-adjustment handle snapped off.
Yes, this is an inexpensive "value" product, but it would make much more sense if the rotating handle assembly was manufactured from a metal allow rather than plastic. I certainly didn't abuse these products, and I avoided greasing or oiling the stiff height-adjustment assembly so as not to introduce any additional play.
Needless to say, I'm shopping for a new tripod and I won't be considering SLIK products again.
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Slik U9000 Tripod with 3-Way Pan / Tilt Head (Quick Release) - Supports 4.40 lb:
General use in university research lab.
Well made, sturdy and workmanlike. Not a "cheap" piece of goods at all.
Minor nit:
After using it, having the legs twist lock and the plate snap in would be nice but it works great.
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Slik U9000 Tripod with 3-Way Pan / Tilt Head (Quick Release) - Supports 4.40 lb:
This is another solid Tripod from Slik. I have an old Slik U212 which is stable, but also quite heavy. My newer camera's are not at heavy as the older mechanical ones, so the U212 is overkill. This comes close on the stability front to the U212, but is much lighter. The legs slide out quick and lock down firmly.
The one thing I don't like is the new quick release plate. It is difficult to screw in the Tripod bolt, and unless tightened with a coin, tends to wobble. Since I only have one "plate" I have to keep taking it off to mount anything else. I liked the old style Slik quick release mount where the bolt screwed in to the base of the camera, and it locked when you dropped in, and then when you cranked the lever, it really tightened it down.
Other than that, a very good tripod, and easy to use.
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Slik U9000 Tripod with 3-Way Pan / Tilt Head (Quick Release) - Supports 4.40 lb:
I'm an Amateur Photographer that is just learning this as a hobby and needed a more sturdy tripod. Sets up easily and the bubble level is useful. With the included carrying case, this tripod meets my needs just fine for the immediate future.
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Slik U9000 Tripod with 3-Way Pan / Tilt Head (Quick Release) - Supports 4.40 lb:
good option for a second tripod. light and easy to use, doesn't have a great stability though. good value for money
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Slik U9000 Tripod with 3-Way Pan / Tilt Head (Quick Release) - Supports 4.40 lb:
Ok for the money. But not good for a heavy camera with night shots. There is a lot of play in the head making shots with high power zooms blurry. With a heavy camera / lens the panning is not very smooth. I get better shots of the moon hand held than with this tripod. If you are doing portraits it works fine. I am sure I will end up buying another tripod.
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Slik U9000 Tripod with 3-Way Pan / Tilt Head (Quick Release) - Supports 4.40 lb:
I use this for both still shots and video and it works great. The tilt ability is new to me from my previous tripod and I love it. It works great for recording my daughter's dance recitals where I can zoom in and smoothly follow her across the stage. Smooth motion, lightweight and easy to fold/unfold. Good choice if in the market for a tripod.
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Slik U9000 Tripod with 3-Way Pan / Tilt Head (Quick Release) - Supports 4.40 lb:
I have my own video house and i make hd clips for my customers, now they are really happy for the results.
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Slik U9000 Tripod with 3-Way Pan / Tilt Head (Quick Release) - Supports 4.40 lb:
low light photography and still lifes
the tirpod is easy to setup and use but the quick release plate is a bit cumbersome. You need a coin to tighten/loosen the plate to the camera. The knob should have been knurled, or come with a tool attached to the tripod.
The platform is not completely stable, a little bit too much freeplay in the head assembly (using an EOS7D with 50mm lens). The tripod is inexpensive, and a good buy for the price if you are a casual user.
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Slik U9000 Tripod with 3-Way Pan / Tilt Head (Quick Release) - Supports 4.40 lb:
I tried to get by with an ultraportable tripod for filming a band concert. The panning was not very smooth. The U9000 is much sturdier and smoother. Great deal for the $, especially with the free bag [...]
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Slik U9000 Tripod with 3-Way Pan / Tilt Head (Quick Release) - Supports 4.40 lb:
Although this tripod is not heavy duty enough for us to use at the studio or in the field, we recommend them to our photography students. It is a great tripod for the price and works very well for the average amateur photographers. It is lightweight, tall and sturdy enough for most people. If it had a ball head we would give it a 5 star rating.
Rick, Mike and Laura
Captured Light Photography
Cincinnati, OH
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Slik U9000 Tripod with 3-Way Pan / Tilt Head (Quick Release) - Supports 4.40 lb:
For the price, this tripod is sturdy, easy to use, versatile, allows pretty smooth panning. The bubble level is a bonus. It is a little heavier than I anticipated, but it is more stable than I expected, so I'm okay with it. I doubt I'll need anything more for my usual needs.
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Slik U9000 Tripod with 3-Way Pan / Tilt Head (Quick Release) - Supports 4.40 lb:
This tripod is very good to me, is lightweight, easy and quick to assemble and mount the camera on it. Just something I do not check before buying is a bit low for me, but no big deal.
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Slik U9000 Tripod with 3-Way Pan / Tilt Head (Quick Release) - Supports 4.40 lb:
This is a very good low-priced tripod. All the controls are smooth and the leg locks are large and easy to open and lock.
I am almost 100% satisfied with the tripod.
Another reviewer said the tripod was "plasticy," Yes, it is. Since I don't plan on using it HARD, this is not a problem for me. It seems like good solid plastic!
Another reviewer said the quick release was large and couldn't be attached/removed from the camera by hand. This is true. I have put a quarter in my camera bag for this purpose.
My only BIG complaint about this tripod was also previously mentioned. The camera baseplate that swings up to allow you to go from landscape to portrait shooting does not swing up a full 90 degrees. It's more like 88 or so. It appears that the mold used to make this component was not properly designed to accommodate this. You have to lower a leg to make a portrait-style shot level, which is a bit of a pain.
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Slik U9000 Tripod with 3-Way Pan / Tilt Head (Quick Release) - Supports 4.40 lb:
For a relatively inexpensive tripod, this model is quite functional and usable. Although the other Slik tripods I have had held up well over many years, the plastic parts are always a concern. [...]The replacement unit has been working flawlessly. I use it mainly for supporting DSLR cameras for portraits and nature photography. It is probably better suited to still images, but with a little practice works OK for video also. I wouldn't call it rock solid, but it does well in terms of cost and weight vs. stability.
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Slik U9000 Tripod with 3-Way Pan / Tilt Head (Quick Release) - Supports 4.40 lb:
This tripod is absolutely the best for the money. I can set it up in less than a minute with the quick release panel already attached to my camcorder. It is perfect for recording debates, with smooth panning, horizontal and vertical. Makes me feel like a professional when I am just a complete newbie.
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Slik U9000 Tripod with 3-Way Pan / Tilt Head (Quick Release) - Supports 4.40 lb:
This tripod is awesome! Stood up to 45km/hr winds. And the carrying case it came with is nice too. Makes it so much easier/lighter to carry. It would be nice if it could be slung across the opposite shoulder though (you can only hold it with one shoulder, not across like you could with something like a canvas bag). Still comfortable though.
But getting back to the tripod, I only wish it had longer spikes. The ones it has on it are incredibly short and I don't feel like they add too much to stability. Knobs are also a bit annoying to adjust, but that's the nature of the head. The knobs themselves operate smoothly. All in all, a great tripod for the price.
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Slik U9000 Tripod with 3-Way Pan / Tilt Head (Quick Release) - Supports 4.40 lb:
Bought this because I really liked the u8000 which I need to replace because the handle snapped off. Unfortunately, in spite of the price bump and better reviews, the u9000 appears to have the same handle. Hopefully the quality of the plastic has been upgraded. Otherwise, the unit is light, strong, and operates smoothly so I'm keeping my fingers crossed.
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Slik U9000 Tripod with 3-Way Pan / Tilt Head (Quick Release) - Supports 4.40 lb:
i am an amateur photographer, however this tripod fits my needs. i use it nearly everyday, and it has not failed the manufacturers promises.
it is small enough to use on the go and lightweight. i was surprised that it came w/ a case; not a cheap case w/ strings for closures. this is a good case w/ a zipper closure. the case is actually a few inches longer than the tripod, so the "tri" fits easily.