Cam and Cheese

Another Joby GorillaPod copier sold at Black's, the Optex Flexpod also copies the styling of the GorillaPod but offers more colors. But does it match up against the origial GorillaPod. The price is about $5-10 less at $15.

The Optex Flexpod looks more like the Joby GorillaPod Original because its main color is black, and offers different trim colors. However like the VersaPod, it can't stand up to the Joby GorillaPod Original. However, it also has many other colors, such as the one shown below.

The Flexpod of course, offers the same features, 3 bendable legs, a bendable head, and a quick-release mount to quickly attach and remove your compact digital camera. It states that it can support the same amount of weight, and the unit itself weighs less than 2 ounces.

The problem with this rip-off is that the legs don't move smoothly. With every bend, it will click. It gets annoying when you are trying to bend a leg, and all you hear are dozens and dozens of clicks. Since it is notchy, you can't bend the legs smoothly, and to the exact location you want, since it has to lie between the notches. Also, the strength and stability is not on par with the Joby GorillaPod Original, especially in the head of the unit, which is used to balance and straighten out your shit. The strength however is better than the VersaPod.

Pros

• Many colors to choose from

Cons

• Still can't come close to the original GorillaPod
• Notchy joints in the legs
• Weak head will not support the camera well, especially if angled down
• Rubber grips aren't that grippy

Again, another cheap rip off can't stand up to the original. Just go by the Joby GorillaPod. I hope I can return this tripod, since I ordered the GorillaPod from Joby directly.