Opticron Universal Smartphone Mount II
Introduction
The Opticron Universal Smartphone Mount II is a versatile smartphone accessory designed for photography enthusiasts and nature lovers. Manufactured by Opticron, a reputable brand known for its high-quality optics and accessories, this mount allows users to connect their smartphones to various optical devices, such as telescopes and binoculars. With a sleek design and user-friendly features, it promises to enhance your photography experience, especially in outdoor settings.
Product Overview
The Opticron Universal Smartphone Mount II (model number 50218) is crafted for compatibility with mobile phones that have a single front-facing camera lens and a screen size of up to 6 inches. It is particularly useful for capturing images through ocular lenses, making it ideal for birdwatching, stargazing, and nature observation. The product comes with a 2-year guarantee, ensuring peace of mind for the users.
Appearance and Design
This smartphone mount features a modern aesthetic with a predominantly black finish. Constructed with high-quality materials, it exhibits a robust and durable feel while remaining lightweight enough for portability. A standout feature of the mount is its adjustable clamps, which securely hold the smartphone in place. The design includes a self-centering 3-pin adjustable clamp that allows for easy alignment of the phone’s camera with the eyepiece, enhancing stability during use.
Key Features and Specifications
- Compatible with smartphones fitted with a single front-facing camera lens.
- Screen size compatibility: Up to 6 inches.
- 4 adjustable clamps for secure smartphone attachment.
- Self-centering 3-pin adjustable clamp for easy positioning.
- Includes foam pad strips for added stability and protection.
- Comes with a 2-year guarantee.
Experience Using the Product
Using the Opticron Universal Smartphone Mount II has been a pleasant experience across various scenarios. In birdwatching, the mount easily attached to my binoculars, allowing for seamless photography of distant birds. The adjustable clamps provided a secure fit, and aligning my phone’s camera with the binocular eyepiece was straightforward thanks to the self-centering feature.
During a recent stargazing session, the mount performed exceptionally well. It held my phone steady while capturing images of the night sky through my telescope. The lightweight construction made it easy to set up and adjust, even in low-light conditions. However, it required some patience to find the optimal camera alignment initially.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Easy to use with adjustable clamps for various smartphone sizes.
- Lightweight and portable design, perfect for outdoor activities.
- Durable construction with a sleek aesthetic.
- Effective for both terrestrial and astronomical photography.
- Includes foam pads for extra stability and protection.
Cons:
- Initial alignment of the camera with the eyepiece can be tricky.
- May not be compatible with smartphones having dual or multiple camera lenses.
- Price may be a consideration for budget-conscious users, retailing at $95.99.
Conclusion
Overall, the Opticron Universal Smartphone Mount II is a reliable and effective tool for anyone looking to combine their smartphone photography with optical devices. Its thoughtful design, ease of use, and robust build quality make it a valuable accessory for nature enthusiasts. While it may have minor drawbacks regarding initial setup and compatibility with certain smartphones, the benefits it offers far outweigh these concerns. For serious birdwatchers, stargazers, and photographers on the go, this mount is certainly worth the investment.
