The Platypod eXtreme and Platyball Ergo weight resistance test
Words by Dave Williams
Edited by Eryka Bagwell
Before I start, I’ll just say, don’t try this at home kids! No, really… don’t. It’s a silly idea and it should be left to professional influencers to undertake ridiculous tests for the sake of creating a somewhat interesting blog post, which is precisely what follows. Let’s go.
So, the Platypod eXtreme has been arriving at the addresses of the Kickstarter backers and leaving everyone impressed with its exceptional capabilities as a tripod alternative. I've noticed that there’s no official weight rating so I’ve decided to take matters into my own hands and see what the Platypod eXtreme and the Platyball Ergo can handle.
Why is this important? I hear you. Well although my method of testing may come across as unnecessary and it may appear that I’ve done this for nothing other than clickbait, I’ve actually done it to reassure all my photography colleagues that the Platypod eXtreme is able to do what I’m trusting it to do, which is support my gear. I entrust my precious gear to whatever is holding it, be that a tripod or a Platypod, and with that precious cargo mounted onto it I have to be happy that it can perform perfectly while I’m busy getting creative and making photos. To this end, I have to know that my Platypod and Platyball are up to the task of firmly supporting my camera and lens combo in any situation. With that, cue the ridiculous test.
Looking at the heavier end, the average pro DSLR and lens weighs in at around 5 pounds. Mirrorless cameras obviously weigh less, but looking at this figure we can safely assume that we need to cover double this to get an all-round load rating. At the top end of the scale at about 220 pounds you’ll find me, Dave. If my Platypod eXtreme and Platyball Ergo can support me, they can certainly support my gear. Let’s commence the test.
On a level plane the rig had no issues at all in holding me up. I couldn’t find the screw thread to lock in the Platypod Disc so I had to rely on my gymnastic-like balance skills, but in spite of these barriers the test was a success. On inspection afterwards I noticed no impact on the eXtreme or the Ergo, so I decided to take things up a notch.
When I tested the weight limit over a gap, bridging the divide between two stones, the eXtreme and the Ergo once again did a fantastic job, supporting the full weight of 'the Dave'.
Ok, so this post is ridiculous on the outside, but the meaning behind it is to explain that as a professional photographer I am very happy with the strength and stability of the Platypod and Platyball. I trust this setup to hold my gear in all conditions and situations, and here’s the bottom line:
The actual weight rating of the Platypod eXtreme and Platyball Ergo is 22 pounds (10kg). Not a ‘Dave’. Do not do this!
Dave's test does not reflect any suggestions from our company that either the Platyball Elite/Ergo or Platypod eXtreme should support a human being or anything else greater than 22 pounds. Larry conducted this test with the spikes extended on the Platypod eXtreme and three out of four hinges broke immediately. Again do not try this at home.
To see more of Dave Williams work stop by his website and also be sure to listen to the Epic Photography Podcast which feature Dave's work and many other world renowned photography guests visit epicphotographypodcast.com.
