Best Phone Mount for Manfrotto BeFree Tripod
The Manfrotto BeFree series is a triumph of travel engineering, but finding a phone mount that matches its premium stability can be frustrating. Most generic plastic clips feel flimsy compared to the BeFree’s rugged aluminum or carbon fiber legs. After testing dozens of rigs on my own BeFree Advanced, I’ve found that the Manfrotto PIXI Clamp is the gold standard for most users. In this guide, I’ll help you bridge the gap between your smartphone and professional-grade support.
Our Top Picks at a Glance
Best Phone Mount for Manfrotto BeFree Tripod: Detailed Reviews
Manfrotto PIXI Clamp View on Amazon
The Manfrotto PIXI Clamp (MCPIXI) is the natural companion for any BeFree tripod. While many mounts feel like afterthoughts, this one shares the same Italian design language and robust build quality. I find the locking lever mechanism far superior to simple spring-loaded designs; it provides a reassuring grip on even the largest phones, like an iPhone 15 Pro Max with a case. It features two 1/4-inch female threads—one on the bottom and one on the side—allowing for easy landscape or portrait orientation when attached to your BeFree’s 200PL-PRO plate. The integrated cold shoe on top is a lifesaver for mounting a Rode VideoMicro or a small LED light without needing extra brackets. My only gripe is that it’s primarily high-quality technopolymer rather than metal, but it has survived years of being tossed into my camera bag without a scratch.
Check Price on Amazon US, UK, CA, DE →
✓ Free Shipping · ✓ Easy Returns · ✓ Secure Checkout
Ulanzi ST-02S View on Amazon
If you prefer the “over-engineered” feel of metal, the Ulanzi ST-02S is a revelation for the price. While it lacks the Manfrotto branding, its CNC-machined aluminum body feels indestructible. It uses a screw-knob tensioner rather than a spring, which I personally prefer for long-exposure photography on the BeFree; it ensures zero movement even in windy conditions. You’ll notice a cold shoe on top for accessories and a thick rubber padding that protects your phone’s edges. The ST-02S doesn’t fold as flat as some competitors, but its sheer rigidity makes it a fantastic value choice. It’s heavy enough to feel premium but light enough not to upset the balance of a BeFree Live head. It’s a “set it and forget it” piece of gear that outperforms mounts costing three times as much, making it an easy recommendation for anyone who values tactile, mechanical reliability over flashy aesthetics.
Check Price on Amazon US, UK, CA, DE →
✓ Free Shipping · ✓ Easy Returns · ✓ Secure Checkout
Manfrotto MCLAMP View on Amazon
The Manfrotto Universal Smartphone Clamp (MCLAMP) is the definition of “essential.” It is the most compact mount in this lineup, designed to fold almost completely flat—perfect for sliding into the side pocket of a BeFree tripod bag. It uses a strong internal spring to hold your device. While it lacks the cold shoe of the PIXI Clamp or the metal build of the Ulanzi, its simplicity is its strength. There’s a small flip-out bracket on the back that allows it to act as a standalone phone stand on a desk, which is a nice bonus. However, be aware that the spring tension is quite high; you’ll need two hands to mount a larger phone safely. It’s an honest, affordable piece of kit that does exactly what it promises without any bells or whistles. For the price of a couple of coffees, it ensures you can always use your BeFree for a quick sunset timelapse.
Check Price on Amazon US, UK, CA, DE →
✓ Free Shipping · ✓ Easy Returns · ✓ Secure Checkout
SmallRig Selection 3845 View on Amazon
SmallRig is legendary for their cages, and this mount brings that same professional utility to your BeFree tripod. What sets this apart is the integrated 360-degree rotation hub, allowing you to switch from landscape to portrait mode instantly without touching your tripod head. It even has an Arca-Swiss compatible base, which fits perfectly into the newer Manfrotto BeFree Advanced plates (the 200PL-PRO). I particularly love the “cold shoe” inclusion and the fact that it has multiple 1/4″ threads for adding articulating arms. It’s built like a tank and uses a secure screw-locking mechanism that feels professional. If you are serious about mobile filmmaking or use your BeFree for TikTok/Instagram Reels content, the ability to flip orientation while keeping your horizons level is worth every extra penny. It’s the most versatile mount on this list by a significant margin.
Check Price on Amazon US, UK, CA, DE →
✓ Free Shipping · ✓ Easy Returns · ✓ Secure Checkout
Joby GripTight ONE View on Amazon
The Joby GripTight ONE is the mount I usually keep in my pocket when I’m scouting locations with my BeFree tripod. It’s incredibly thin and light, using a spring-loaded mechanism that grips the phone securely with rubber pads. While it doesn’t feel as “bombproof” as the Ulanzi or the SmallRig, its design is genius for the weight-conscious traveler. You’ll find it incredibly easy to screw onto the Manfrotto plate and go. However, be cautious if you use a very thick “rugged” case, as the jaws on the GripTight ONE are somewhat shallow. It’s best suited for standard smartphones and slim cases. For those who find the PIXI Clamp a bit too bulky for their jacket pocket, this is the perfect alternative. It’s a reliable, no-nonsense tool that has been a staple in the mobile photography world for years for good reason.
Check Price on Amazon US, UK, CA, DE →
✓ Free Shipping · ✓ Easy Returns · ✓ Secure Checkout
Buying Guide: How to Choose a Phone Mount for Your BeFree
Comparison Table
| Product | Best For | Rating | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Manfrotto PIXI Clamp | Overall Use | ★★★★★ | Check |
| Ulanzi ST-02S | Durability | ★★★★☆ | Check |
| Manfrotto MCLAMP | Budget | ★★★★☆ | Check |
| SmallRig Selection | Professionals | ★★★★★ | Check |
| Joby GripTight ONE | Minimalism | ★★★★☆ | Check |
Frequently Asked Questions
Will these mounts work with any Manfrotto BeFree model?
Yes, all BeFree tripods—whether the original, Advanced, Live, or GT—use a head with a standard 1/4-inch screw on the quick-release plate. These mounts are designed to screw onto that plate just like a DSLR camera would. If you have the newer 200PL-PRO plate, you can also use mounts that have integrated Arca-Swiss grooves, allowing for even faster setup times without needing the screw.
Can I use a phone mount for vertical video (TikTok/Reels)?
Absolutely. There are two ways to do this. Some mounts, like the SmallRig or PIXI Clamp (using its side thread), allow you to rotate the phone directly. Alternatively, you can use the ball head of your Manfrotto BeFree to tilt the entire mount 90 degrees into the portrait notch. However, having a mount that rotates independently is much faster and helps maintain your tripod’s center of gravity.
Do I need to remove my phone case to use these?
Most modern mounts, including the ones reviewed here, are designed with extra-wide jaws to accommodate cases. The Manfrotto PIXI and Ulanzi ST-02S are particularly good with “Pro Max” or “Ultra” sized phones in protective cases. Only the ultra-compact Joby GripTight ONE might struggle with extremely thick, ruggedized cases like those from OtterBox. Always check the maximum jaw width (usually 60mm to 100mm) against your phone’s dimensions.
Is a metal mount better than a plastic one?
Metal mounts (aluminum) are generally more durable and provide a more rigid grip, which is better for long exposures or windy conditions. However, high-quality plastic (technopolymer) mounts like Manfrotto’s are lighter and won’t scratch your phone if the rubber padding wears down. For most travel photographers using a BeFree, a high-quality polymer mount is perfectly sufficient, but professionals often prefer the “heft” and longevity of CNC-machined aluminum.
How do I mount a microphone to my phone on a BeFree?
You should choose a phone mount that features a “cold shoe” mount on top. The Manfrotto PIXI Clamp and SmallRig Selection both include this feature. It allows you to slide in a microphone or a small LED light directly above the phone. This keeps your setup compact and organized, which is the whole point of using a travel-friendly tripod like the Manfrotto BeFree in the first place.
Final Verdict
If you want the most cohesive experience with your Manfrotto BeFree, the PIXI Clamp is the obvious choice—it’s reliable, stylish, and includes a cold shoe for expansion. For those who demand a rugged, all-metal build, the Ulanzi ST-02S is a fantastic value alternative. Content creators who frequently swap between vertical and horizontal video should invest in the SmallRig Selection for its effortless 360-degree rotation. No matter your choice, these mounts will transform your travel tripod into a mobile studio.