Best Smartphone Mount for Manfrotto BeFree Tripod
The Manfrotto BeFree is a legendary travel tripod, but pairing it with a flimsy, five-dollar plastic phone holder feels like putting budget tires on a Ferrari. If you are tired of your smartphone drooping during long exposures or fearing a gust of wind might snap a weak spring, you need a mount that matches Manfrotto’s Italian engineering. After testing dozens of rigs on my own BeFree Advanced, I’ve found the Manfrotto TwistGrip is the definitive choice for stability and portability.
Our Top Picks at a Glance
Best Smartphone Mount for Manfrotto BeFree Tripod: Detailed Reviews
Manfrotto TwistGrip View on Amazon View on B&H
If you already own a BeFree, you likely value the balance between portability and build quality. The Manfrotto TwistGrip is the spiritual successor to that philosophy. Crafted from high-quality aluminum in Italy, this mount doesn’t use bulky springs; instead, a clever twisting mechanism allows it to fold completely flat, slipping into a pocket easier than a credit card. When opened, it provides a rock-solid grip on everything from an iPhone 15 Pro Max to smaller Android units. I find the tactile feel of the locking knob much more reassuring than the “snap” of plastic tension mounts. It features a built-in cold shoe for a mic or light, making it a sleek vlogging rig. The only minor drawback is the price—it is an investment—but for a mount that will likely outlast your next three phones, it is worth every penny for the peace of mind.
Check Price on Amazon US, UK, CA, DE → Check Price on B&H
✓ Free Shipping · ✓ Easy Returns · ✓ Secure Checkout
Ulanzi ST-02S View on Amazon View on B&H
The Ulanzi ST-02S is frequently my go-to recommendation for people who want “over-engineered” quality without the Manfrotto price tag. This is a solid hunk of CNC-machined aluminum that feels incredibly dense and durable in the hand. It uses a screw-locking mechanism, which I personally prefer over spring-loaded clips because you can dial in the exact pressure needed to hold your phone without crushing it. You’ll notice the top features a cold shoe mount, which is perfectly positioned for a Rode VideoMicro. It also has a 1/4″-20 thread on the bottom and the side, allowing you to switch to portrait mode easily if your tripod head doesn’t tilt 90 degrees. While it doesn’t fold flat like the TwistGrip, its sheer ruggedness makes it a “buy it once” tool. The rubber pads are thick and won’t peel off after a month of use in the sun.
Check Price on Amazon US, UK, CA, DE → Check Price on B&H
✓ Free Shipping · ✓ Easy Returns · ✓ Secure Checkout
Ailun Tripod Phone Mount View on Amazon View on B&H
Let’s be honest: sometimes you just need something that works for a one-off Zoom call or a quick family photo. The Ailun mount is surprisingly competent for its rock-bottom price. While it is made of plastic and uses a traditional spring-loaded tension system, the spring is remarkably stiff, which keeps the phone from wobbling. It features two 1/4″ screw holes, so you can mount it vertically or horizontally directly onto your Manfrotto plate. You won’t get the premium feel of aluminum, and I wouldn’t recommend using this in high winds or near a cliff edge, as the plastic could theoretically crack under extreme stress. However, for indoor use or as a “just in case” backup tucked into your camera bag, it’s a no-brainer. It fits most standard phones, though you might struggle with very thick “rugged” battery cases. Simple, effective, and cheaper than a latte.
Check Price on Amazon US, UK, CA, DE → Check Price on B&H
✓ Free Shipping · ✓ Easy Returns · ✓ Secure Checkout
Joby GripTight PRO 2 View on Amazon View on B&H
The Joby GripTight PRO 2 is a beast of a mount that turns your Manfrotto BeFree into a full-on production studio. What sets this apart is the sheer adjustability; it features a locking tilt mechanism that allows you to transition from landscape to portrait mode instantly without touching your tripod head. I love using this for TikTok or Instagram Reels where vertical video is mandatory. It also includes a removable “Cold Shoe PRO” mount, allowing you to add a microphone or a small LED light like the Lume Cube. The build is a high-grade composite and stainless steel, providing a very secure grip. It’s significantly bulkier than the Manfrotto TwistGrip, so it won’t fit in your pocket, but the added functionality for video creators is unmatched. If you plan on doing more than just static photos, the Joby system’s versatility makes it the professional’s choice for mobile cinematography.
Check Price on Amazon US, UK, CA, DE → Check Price on B&H
✓ Free Shipping · ✓ Easy Returns · ✓ Secure Checkout
SmallRig Smartphone Clamp 3591 View on Amazon View on B&H
SmallRig is famous in the cinema world, and their 3591 clamp brings that “tank-like” quality to your phone. The killer feature here for Manfrotto BeFree users (especially those with the BeFree Advanced or GT) is the Arca-Swiss compatible base. If your BeFree head uses an Arca plate, you can slide this clamp directly into the head without needing an extra quick-release plate. This lowers the center of gravity and increases stability. It also features multiple 1/4″ threaded holes on the back and sides, allowing you to attach “magic arms” for monitors or extra batteries. The spring mechanism is very smooth and features a locking screw for double security. It’s a bit industrial-looking, but for those who treat their smartphone like a “real” camera, the ability to build a rig around this mount is a huge advantage. It feels professional, looks professional, and performs flawlessly in the field.
Check Price on Amazon US, UK, CA, DE → Check Price on B&H
✓ Free Shipping · ✓ Easy Returns · ✓ Secure Checkout
Buying Guide: How to Choose a Smartphone Mount
Comparison Table
| Product | Best For | Rating | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Manfrotto TwistGrip | Travel Professionals | ★★★★★ | Check |
| Ulanzi ST-02S | Enthusiasts | ★★★★☆ | Check |
| Ailun Mount | Casual/Backup | ★★★★☆ | Check |
| Joby PRO 2 | Video Creators | ★★★★★ | Check |
| SmallRig 3591 | Arca-Swiss Users | ★★★★☆ | Check |
Frequently Asked Questions
Will these mounts fit my Manfrotto BeFree quick-release plate?
Yes, all the mounts reviewed here feature a standard 1/4″-20 threaded hole on the bottom. This is the universal size for camera equipment. You simply screw your Manfrotto 200PL-Pro (or standard RC2) plate into the bottom of the mount, then click the plate into your BeFree tripod head just like you would with a DSLR or mirrorless camera. It is a seamless transition that takes seconds.
Can I use these mounts for vertical (portrait) video?
Most of them can! The Joby GripTight PRO 2 has a built-in rotation mechanism. The Ulanzi and SmallRig models have extra screw holes on the sides, allowing you to mount them sideways. For the Manfrotto TwistGrip, you would typically use the ball head on your BeFree tripod to tilt the entire mount 90 degrees into portrait orientation. All these methods are very stable.
Do I need to take my phone case off to use these mounts?
Generally, no. Most modern mounts are designed to accommodate “plus” sized phones even with a protective case like an Otterbox or a leather folio. However, if you use an exceptionally thick battery case, you should check the maximum width spec (usually around 90-100mm). The Joby and Ulanzi models are particularly generous with their jaw opening width for larger setups.
Are metal mounts better than plastic ones?
In my professional opinion, absolutely. Metal mounts (aluminum) are more rigid, which reduces micro-vibrations during long exposures or windy conditions. They also handle temperature changes better; plastic can become brittle in extreme cold or soft in high heat. If you are using a premium tripod like the BeFree, a metal mount ensures that your phone is the most secure part of your kit.
What is a “Cold Shoe” on a phone mount?
A cold shoe is a bracket, usually on top of the mount, that mimics the flash mount on top of a DSLR. It doesn’t provide power, but it allows you to slide in accessories like a shotgun microphone (e.g., Rode VideoMic) or a small LED panel. This is essential for vloggers who want to improve their audio and lighting while keeping their setup compact and organized.
Final Verdict
For the dedicated travel photographer, the Manfrotto TwistGrip is the perfect companion to your BeFree tripod—it’s slim, tough, and professional. If you’re more focused on vlogging and need to attach mics or lights, the Joby GripTight PRO 2 offers the best versatility. Regardless of which you choose, upgrading from a cheap plastic clip to a dedicated metal mount will immediately improve your mobile photography and provide the security your expensive smartphone deserves.