The new Stalman Clamp results from an interesting cooperation between Filmmaker and YouTuber Tyler Stalman and accessory-maker Kondor Blue. Unlike most smartphone clamps, this new product grips the device’s vertical side. This method should provide additional stability while maintaining relative compactness, and more.
As smartphones acquire more and more professional features, smartphone clamps have become a common sight, not to say a necessity among content creators. These devices adapt the mobile, slate-shaped devices to industry-standard mounting solutions such as tripods, gimbals, cold shoes, or magic arms. This adaptation is crucial to the creation of advanced, professional-level content. It may even render cameras obsolete for certain shooting scenarios and projects.
Enter the Stalman Clamp
The vertical design in the new clamp is very dominant. It looks both sturdy, compact, and quite stylish if you like the minimalistic approach. The asymmetric design fits the iPhone 15 camera array, and will probably fit many others.
Build and ergonomics
The Stalman Clamp is made out of stainless steel and aerospace-grade aluminum (have you ever heard of non-aerospace-grade aluminum?). There are two 1/4″ mounting points, on top and in the middle, both with the nice touch of locating pin holes. At the bottom, we’ll find an intricate contraption that surrounds and protects the smartphone’s port. A 90-degree “L-shape” USB-C adapter is included. This specific one is quite impressive, boasting 40Gbps transfer speed and 240W power throughput. Neatly nestled in its little gap, the adapter looks safe and stable. Continuing at the bottom of the device, we’ll also find an ARCA mount and a magnetic piece with another 1/4″ port.
The clamp is designed to be compact enough to remain on your smartphone between shots, without being too cumbersome. The compact size is one feature, but Kondor Blue added some additional design features such as rounded corners and a flush design with no hard edges poking out.
Additional accessories
The Stalman Clamp has no dedicated accessories, and that’s a good thing. Working with industry-standard connections makes the device extremely modular and flexible. Of course, you can work with Kondor Blue attachments, such as the Kondor Blue Mini Lock Quick Release System, or a PRO-BLADE SSD Recording Handle, but any bit of gear with a 1/4″ screw will attach and work the same way. The same goes for the Arca plate, which will readily attach to many tripods, monopods, rigs, and gimbals.
Alternatives
While I couldn’t find a direct vertical competitor, some smartphone cages will offer a viable alternative. The SmallRig Mobile Video Cage is a bit more robust, but will probably fit most pockets. It includes multiple 1/4″ points and two cold shoes. also available as a kit with single or double handles, and an add-on lens mount. As mentioned – it’s not as compact, and will only work with a specific smartphone model due to its outer frame design. It will provide better protection for your precious iPhone though. If the influencer halo is what you’re looking for, there’s also a Brandon Li Special edition available. Another kind of smartphone rig is one that aims to provide a more “camera-like” workflow. While they might not hold the phone as tightly as the Stalman Clamp, and may not be as modular, such grips will up your filming game. A good example is the SANDMARC Creator Grip, and there are many others.
Price and availability
The Stalman Clamp is available for pre-order on the Kondor Blue website. It will set you back $75 and is due to ship on January 31st.
Do you see yourself using the Kondor Blue Stalman Clamp for your content creation? Will it help you incorporate your iPhone (to Android) into a more professional workflow? Will it help you leave the big camera back home for some projects? Let us know in the comments.
