Original Ulanzi MT85 Magsafe Automatic Phone Tripod Review: Is It Worth the Hype?
We’ve all been there: you’re on a beautiful hike or standing in front of a landmark, and you want a group photo or a steady video. You end up awkwardly propping your phone against a water bottle, hoping it doesn’t slide, or you’re stuck asking a stranger to take a shaky photo that ends up blurry anyway.
Carrying a bulky tripod is a hassle, and most selfie sticks feel cheap or flimsy. That’s where the Original Ulanzi MT85 Magsafe Automatic Phone Tripod Dual Side Magnet 10m Wireless Control for Outdoor Travel Selfie Stick comes in. I’ve been testing this gadget for a few weeks to see if it’s actually a travel essential or just another piece of plastic destined for the junk drawer.
What is the Ulanzi MT85 Magsafe Tripod?
At its core, the Ulanzi MT85 is a 2-in-1 tool: a portable selfie stick and a stable tripod. The big draw here is the MagSafe compatibility. If you have an iPhone 12 or newer (or a case with a magnetic ring), you don’t need to fiddle with those annoying spring-loaded clamps that pinch your fingers or press your side buttons. You just snap it on, and you’re ready to go.
It’s marketed as a budget-friendly option for content creators and travelers. Many retailers even offer free shipping on this model, which makes the price point even more attractive compared to high-end, name-brand stabilizers.
Key Features of the Ulanzi MT85 Magsafe Tripod
When you pick this up, the first thing you notice is the build quality. It doesn’t feel like a toy, but it’s not a heavy-duty professional rig either. It’s designed for convenience. Here is how the features actually hold up in the real world:
The Magnetic Connection The dual-side magnet is the star of the show. It’s strong enough to hold your phone securely even if you’re walking around. Because it’s magnetic, you can rotate your phone from portrait to landscape in a split second. This is a massive improvement over traditional tripods that require you to unscrew a knob, turn the phone, and tighten it back up.
The Wireless Remote The 10m wireless remote is tucked into the handle. It’s small, so be careful not to lose it. It pairs quickly via Bluetooth, and I haven't had any issues with it dropping the connection. It’s perfect for those "set it and forget it" shots where you want to be in the frame without sprinting back to the phone after hitting the timer.
Portability for Travel It collapses down to a size that fits easily into a jacket pocket or the side pocket of a backpack. If you hate carrying heavy gear, this is a breath of fresh air. It feels sturdy enough for a light breeze, but I wouldn’t trust it in a heavy storm.
Pros and Cons: An Honest Assessment
Writing an Original Ulanzi MT85 Magsafe Automatic Phone Tripod Dual Side Magnet 10m Wireless Control for Outdoor Travel Selfie Stick review wouldn't be fair without looking at the downsides. Here is the breakdown:
Pros: Fast Setup: The magnetic snap-on feature saves so much time compared to traditional clips. Compact: It’s genuinely pocket-sized, making it great for day trips. Versatile: It works as both a tripod and a selfie stick, so you don't have to carry two separate items. Value: It’s a budget-friendly solution that doesn't feel overly cheap. Remote: The Bluetooth remote is responsive and easy to use.
Cons: Magnet Dependency: If you don’t have a MagSafe phone or a magnetic case, this is useless to you. Tripod Stability: Because it’s so lightweight, the tripod legs can feel a bit wobbly on uneven ground or in high winds. Plastic Feel: While the magnets are strong, the plastic on the legs could feel a bit more premium. Remote Battery: It’s a small coin-cell battery. If you forget to turn it off, you might find it dead when you need it most.
Who is this for (and who should skip it)?
You should buy this if: You own a MagSafe-compatible phone and want a hassle-free way to take photos. You are a casual traveler or vlogger who wants something lightweight. You are tired of fiddling with phone clamps every time you want a shot. You want a reliable setup that offers free shipping and won't break the bank.
You should skip this if: You use a very heavy phone with a thick, non-magnetic case. You are a professional filmmaker who needs a heavy, wind-resistant tripod for outdoor shoots. You prefer a "set it and forget it" mechanical clamp (some people just don't trust magnets!).
Real-World User Experiences
I asked a couple of friends who travel often to try it out for a weekend. Here is what they had to say:
“I’m usually the one who never gets in the group photos because I’m the designated photographer. The MT85 made it so easy to just set the tripod down on a park bench and use the remote. The magnet was surprisingly strong; I wasn't worried about my phone falling off.” — Sarah, Travel Blogger.
“It’s a great little tool for the price. I bought mine with free shipping online, and it arrived in a few days. My only gripe is that the legs are a bit narrow, so if you extend it all the way, you need to make sure the ground is flat, or it might tip over.” — Mark, Hiking Enthusiast.
Final Verdict: Is it worth your money?
After putting the Original Ulanzi MT85 Magsafe Automatic Phone Tripod Dual Side Magnet 10m Wireless Control for Outdoor Travel Selfie Stick through its paces, I think it’s a solid purchase for 90% of users.
It’s not perfect—the tripod legs are a bit light, and you definitely need a magnetic case if you want the best experience. However, for the price, you are getting a massive upgrade in convenience. It turns a chore into a quick, simple process. If you’re looking for a budget-friendly way to up your photography game without carrying a bag full of gear, this is a fantastic choice.
It hits that "sweet spot" of being functional enough to be useful, but cheap enough that you won't be heartbroken if you accidentally leave it behind at a cafe. Just remember to keep an eye on that small Bluetooth remote!
