The Ulanzi Falcam F38 Camera Backpack Strap Clip attaches to your backpack strap and allows you to store your camera on the go, giving you fast, one-handed access when you need to capture the perfect shot. But is it really that handy? Enjoy the review!
- Weight: 85,8 grams / 3 oz (Claimed 86 grams)
- Packsize: 75 x 48 x 21.8 mm (Claimed same)
- Price: € 72,99 / $ 59,95 / £ 59.89
I ordered the Ulanzi Falcam F38 Camera Backpack Strap Clip in mid 2024 because I was looking for a smarter and faster way to get quick access to my vlogging Sony ZV-E10 camera. I used to keep it in my Think Tank Backlight 26 – that I reviewed earlier – but it is a hassle to take the backpack off, open it, etc. Most of the time I ended up having the camera in my hand the whole time.
Since I have some positive experience with the Ulanzi brand, I soon discovered that they make what is basically a ‘copy’ of Peak Designs famous Capture camera clip. To some reviewers who were able to review both, the Peak Design does have some drawbacks that the Ulazni does not have. So I went to a shop, had a look at the Peak Design and I got the idea and ordered the Ulanzi.
Design and Build Quality
The Ulanzi Falcam F38 Camera Backpack Strap Clip that I am reviewing here is the second generation (V2) of the strap clip. It has a well-built aluminum body and also the nobs and the release system is made of aluminum. Next to that some ‘plastic’ and rubber components are involved but they are robust also.
Key in the system is a rope/lanyard that is crafted from 18-braid Dyneema, a high-performance ultra-high molecular weight polyethylene fiber widely used in the parachute and aviation industries. I know it from the rigging of sailing boats in a time when I used to work for a water sport magazine. Dyneema is exceptionally lightweight, highly wear-resistant, and incredibly strong and it is the part I would worry the least about in the overall construction.
The clip’s design will fit most backpacks’ shoulders straps. Ulanzi states that it will fit a strap thickness between 2 mm and 20 mm and a width of <75 mm or <80 mm depending on how you position the lanyard. This can be done in a S or M position.
Attaching the clip to your backpack strap is simple and intuitive. Just open the clip, find out in what position the lanyard should be by measuring the width and thickness of the shoulder strap and clip it on. When fitted correctly you feel and hear a CLICK that confirms that the locking mechanism is in place securely.
F38 Quick Release Plate
The other part in the system is of course the F38 Quick Release Plate that goes to the bottom of your camera body. This F38 plate was in the package that I ordered but I already have several since I use the system in the Ulanzi Zero F38 Quick Release Travel Tripod and also on my DJI gimbal. The plate simply screws into the bottom and you will need a flat head screwdriver (it’s on my Leatherman T4) to fix it firmly.
However… I noticed that not all plates are the same and I had one in particular that kept unscrewing itself from the SmallRig cradle that I have around my Sony ZV-E10. Be aware of this and I am curious if I am the only one. Please post your experiences in the comment section.
Ease of Use
Once attached, sliding the camera with the F38 plate in the strap clip is easy and very intuitive. I am right handed so the clip is attached to the left shoulder strap. On the clip right side – or the side facing the right shoulder strap – is a big button. By pressing this button the camera’s locking mechanism is released and the camera can be taken out. The quick-release mechanism is responsive and works with one hand, which is crucial when you’re in the middle of a shoot and need to react quickly. It never happened to me that I accidentally pushed the button and the camera fell out.
For those of you whole are left handed… I don’t really know if the system will work for you too in the same way. I have tried it and by placing the clip on the right shoulder strap the release button is on the outside. Using my left hand to push the button and release the camera is easy and feels also intuitive. What is different is the feel of camera security because of the locking mechanisms button facing outwards. I can’t guarantee that you will not touch or hit it by accident unlocking the camera. That said… you will still need to be ‘standing on your head’ to make the camera fall out due to gravity.
Security
One of the standout features of the F38 Camera Backpack Strap Clip is the security it offers. Once my camera is clipped in, it feels stable and well-supported and it does hardly swing while I am moving. The clip holds the camera tightly but still allows it to be easily removed when I need to take a shot, which is a key feature for fast-paced shoots or outdoor environments. Is the system totally rattle free? No it is not. There is little play between the clip and the F38 mounting plate. According to the Ulazni website this is normal and has to do with creating a little more tolerance to fit other non-F38 mounting plates.
Versatility and Compatibility
The Ulanzi Falcam F38 Quick Release Kit for Camera Backpack Strap Clip V2 is an enhanced version of the Falcam F38 Quick Release Backpack Strap Clip 2271. It supports compatibility with F38, PD, PGY, Tarion, Fotopro, Spiderholster and other Arca Standard Square QR Plates. However the F38 Backpack Clip Base (part number F38B3802) is not compatible with the Falcam F22 & F38 Quick Release Ball Head 2554 and F22/F38 Quick Release Plate 2536.
Verdict
After more than 6 months of use I truly find the Ulanzi Falcam F38 Camera Backpack Strap Clip a super solution for photo- and videographers who need quick access to their camera without the hassle of digging through a bag or worrying about it swinging awkwardly while on the move. The system is solidly built and has an easy-to-use design. Next to that it feels excellent in security. The little play between the base plate and the F38 camera mount plate does not bother me, but I can imagine some people will not like it.
For me as a right hand person the system works fine, if you are left handed this might be different. The system even works fine with not too thick gloves. Overall I find it an ideal companion for those who are often out in the field, traveling, or doing outdoor photography. Whether you’re a seasoned professional or an enthusiast looking for a convenient way to carry your camera, this strap clip offers both practicality and peace of mind. The price? I paid € 72,99 / $ 59,95 / £ 59.89 for the set and that is money well spent!
TIP: Ulanzi does offer discounts from time to time. I got 20% off the list price.
Information
Link to the manufacturer for your convenience: ulanzi.com
