HEIPI 3-in-1 Travel Tripod W28S Review

The team at HEIPI has delivered thoughtful and supportive updates to their popular HEIPI W28S 3-in-1 Travel Tripod.

In this review, we’ll discover why it’s one of the best carbon-fiber travel tripods and how it ticks almost every box for travel-friendly use.

Travel tripods are essential to any landscape, seascape, or astrophotographer’s toolkit. They’re also an excellent addition for any visual creatives wishing to explore portraiture, product photography, and more.

To make carrying a travel tripod worthwhile, it must be compact and lightweight and offer a hassle-free user experience.

Read on to discover if the HEIPI W28S 3-in-1 Travel Tripod is worth the hype. Click here to check out our review of the original HEIPI W28.

What is the HEIPI 3-in-1 Travel Tripod W28S?

 

Height Range: 0.8 to 59.8″ (2 to 151.9cm)
Folded Length: 17.7″ (44.9cm)
Weight: 3lb (1.36kg)
Load Capacity: 44 lb (19.95kg)
Head: 360° Ball Head with 90° Drop Notch
Construction: Carbon Fiber

The HEIPI 3-in-1 Travel Tripod W28S is an updated version of the brand’s original W28 carbon fiber offering.

HEIPI’s updated W28S addresses almost every bit of feedback from reviewers of the first iteration to deliver what I believe to be one of the best travel tripods on the market.

The 3-in-1 W28S is available with two versions of the KF50 ball head. The KF50-Q (the unit I reviewed here) features a quick-release Arca-type mounting mechanism with a simple twist-to-lock-and-unlock plate.

The KF50-S ball head is nearly identical to the first however features a tension knob to lock and unlock the Arca-type mounting plate.

The carbon-fiber tripod offers a unique 3-in-1 system that includes a main tripod, compact sub-tripod, and the FK50 ball head. The platform is incredibly flexible and suitable for multiple applications.

The KF50 ball head can be securely attached to either the main tripod or the sub-tripod, so you can buy the HEIPI 3-in-1 travel tripod with a second KF50 head.

Design and Build Quality

Right up front, I have to say that the HEIPI W28S carbon fiber travel tripod is a slick, stylish, and impressive-looking accessory.

Regardless of the 3-in-1 tripod being open at its full height, closed to its folded length, or even snuggly in its included carry bag, it’s an eye-catching bit of kit!

The all-black carbon-fiber tripod is free of the large and often unsightly leg locks and joints often found on other travel tripods.

What’s most appealing about the HEIPI W28S tripod is its flexibility and 3-in-1 design. It allows you to set up a supportive platform that suits your needs at any given moment.

Do you need a tabletop tripod for product photography in your studio? Simply rotate the main tripod locking ring and slide the sub-tripod up and out with the ball head already attached.

If you need a lightweight, full-height tripod to throw in your landscape kit, the HEIPI has you covered.

And if you decide to set up and record a vlog with your smartphone, the KF50-Q ball head includes a hidden smartphone mount.

Every element of the W28S has benefited from careful design consideration, extensive prototyping, and precision engineering. It has future-gen-tech written all over it!

In terms of build quality, HEIPI hasn’t held back in the use of premium materials. The HEIPI W28S and FK50-Q ball heads feature carbon fiber, durable high-polymer composites, and machined alloy.

The leg sections are made from carbon fiber tubes, offering impressive stability and minimal weight. Each leg joint features an alloy flip-down lock with an ergonomically friendly release lever that’s easy to use even while wearing gloves.

The KF50-Q ball head is made from a combination of machined alloy and high-polymer materials for ultimate durability and positioning control.

I found the HEIPI W28S 3-in-1 Travel Tripod’s overall design imposing – in a good way. I believe the design sets a new standard for lightweight travel tripods.

Height and Adjustability

The HEIPI 3-in-1 Travel Tripod W28S features a unique 3-in-1 design, so the adjustability options are nearly endless.

Starting with the main tripod, with the center column/sub-tripod removed and the ball head mounted again, the maximum height is 50″ (127cm). The minimum working height is 8.85″ (22.5cm).

The carbon fiber sub-tripod offers an equally flexible level of adjustability from a minimum height of 5.7″ (14.5cm) to a maximum of 11.41″ (29cm).

One of the disappointing features of the HEIPI W28S is its maximum height, even with the center column/sub-tripod fitted to the central unit.

The maximum working height in this configuration is 59.84″ (152cm), which is a bit short for some photographers.

Granted, most current-generation digital cameras feature a flip-up rear monitor. However, you must bend over to frame and compose using the viewfinder.

An average adult is between 60 and 72″ (152.4 and 182.8cm) tall, so the HEIPI 3-in-1 sits at the low end of ergonomic considerations.

However, achieving a 17.7″ (44.9cm) folded length and a minimal 3lb (1.36kg) weight helps to overlook this compromise.

As for adjustability, while we’ll cover the leg locks in a moment, the updated HEIPI W28S offers effortless leg deployment and the ability to fine-tune individual leg heights and angles to suit your needs.

Once a locking ring is disengaged, the center column/sub-tripod glides smoothly. When altering height, every element offers the right resistance to ensure a smooth glide.

Weight and Portability

Look no further if you’re looking for one of the lightest full-height travel tripods!

The HEIPI W28S  3-in-1 Travel Tripod is the leader in this category due to its compact folded size and weight.

Being a 3-in-1 travel tripod, you have multiple options for packing and carrying the W28S.

The complete unit, including the main tripod, sub tripod, and KF50-Q ball head, folds to 17.7″ (44.9cm).  Even more impressive is that the W28S tripod weighs just 3lb (1.36kg).

As a result, the W28S will fit into almost any suitcase or carry-on bag or be easily attached to a camera backpack.

But wait, there’s more good news! If you wish to travel with the sub-tripod and ball head, the total weight is 1.08lb (490g).

Alternatively, the main tripod and ball head (without the center column) weigh 2.65lb (1.2kg).

The updated HEIPI W28S 3-in-1 Travel Tripod features a slick and minimal design that, when folded, retains a slimline profile. There are no protruding knobs or joints to alter the missile-like design.

It also includes a convenient carry bag with a decent shoulder strap.

Stability and Load Capacity

I tested the HEIPI W28S with smaller Fujifilm X digital mirrorless cameras.

I was impressed with the overall stability of the HEIPI travel tripod. All too often, lightweight tripods suffer from leg flex that reduces stability.

The HEIPI W28S offers an incredibly stable platform to mount camera and lens combos weighing up to 44 lb (19.95kg).

At full height, with the center column/sub-tripod extended to maximum height, there was little to no evidence of camera shake, leg wobbles, or leg-section flex.

Given the maximum load capacity, it’s clear that the tripod will comfortably and securely deliver a stable setup even with larger full-frame and medium-format digital cameras.

It’s also worth pointing out that the tri-split center column design, which also forms the sub-tripod legs, offers exceptional stability to the overall platform.

With my camera and lens mounted, there was hardly any sign of vibration when moving the tripod around.

The leg locks are rigid, with just the right amount of compression to secure each joint confidently without fear of a lock popping or the tripod sinking or toppling.

Another neat feature that further supports stability is the tripod feet. Each foot is a durable, non-slip rubber pad that can be unscrewed and inverted to reveal 3cm spike feet ideal for working on gravel, grass, and ice.

Tripod Head

The standard HEIPI W28S 3-in-1 Travel Tripod includes a precision-engineered KF50-Q ball head.

Removing the ball head from the equation, the main tripod and smaller sub-tripod each feature a strong 3/8″ screw thread to mount any compatible ball head or quickly move the KF50-Q from the main tripod to the sub-tripod.

There’s also an anti-rotation screw that can be adjusted to prevent the whole ball head unit from unscrewing from the tripod body.

The HEIPI KF50-Q ball head is an impressive design. Its 1.97″ (50mm) ball and mount are made from durable, high-polymer materials.

The ball housing features a deep cut-away to rotate your camera from landscape to portrait orientation quickly.

A single lever applies tension to lock the ball, while a rotating knob alters the tension on the fluid 360º panning motion of the head. Each 10º of rotation returns an audible yet non-distracting click.

HEIPI’s KF50-Q ball head has plenty more tricks, including a bubble level (less relevant to modern cameras) and an Arca-type clamping system with a simple rotating lock mechanism.

The Arca-type clamp locks and unlocks the included camera base plate or any other compatible Arca-type bracket or mount with a single twist of a machined collar.

Another neat addition is the hidden spring-loaded smartphone mount. It pulls out from the center of the top plate and features a pair of telescopic, spring-loaded arms that snugly clamp your smartphone in place.

It’s ingenious but a little fragile and could be bent out of shape if you were clumsy with the setup.

The HEIPI KF50-Q ball head is an impressive component of the W28S travel tripod.

Leg Locks & Joints

In my experience, one of the most critical elements of any travel tripod is the ability to unlock the individual leg sections quickly, adjust the height, and securely lock the legs in place.

These locks are impressively rigid, durable, and won’t accidentally be knocked or released.

A dodgy leg lock can lead to a collapsed leg and your tripod, camera, and lens toppling to the ground or, worse, into a ravine.

Fortunately, the latest update of the HEIPI W28S 3-in-1 has improved the ergonomics and structural integrity of each leg lock.

Each lock is a machined alloy clamp with excellent tension yet ease of use. Unlike other systems, the HEIPI clamps embrace the whole circumference of the leg tube to provide an even distribution of pressure and greater stability.

The levers offer good ergonomics, and the ability to safely remove each lock for cleaning and maintenance ensures optimal performance even in freezing conditions.

With the leg collapsed, the locks on each of the four clamps line up, allowing you to unlock all five leg sections quickly.

It’s a satisfying and fast way to deploy the HEIPI W28S when you see a shot and need to set up the composition quickly.

The carbon fiber telescopic leg sections offer a smooth glide for shortening and extending the leg without jarring or stuttering.

What’s most impressive is the engineering involved in marrying the main tripod legs and the shorter sub-tripod legs into a folded form.

The sub-tripod legs are shaped in a way that fits precisely into the negative space created by the curvature of the legs. As a result, even with the HEIPI travel tripod folded down, it’s effortless to unlock and slide the sub-tripod out.

To alter the individual angle of each leg, you must pull out a small lock at the top of the leg joint.

While it’s an upgrade over the original W28, it’s a bit small and fiddly, and it would be tricky to activate when wearing winter gloves or if your fingers are frozen.

Features and Accessories

As mentioned, the HEIPI W28S’s standout feature is its 3-in-1 design, which offers two unique tripod systems and a companion ball head.

The W28S is one of the most flexible travel tripod systems available. It also retains excellent durability and stability in any weather.

In addition to the key features listed above, the HEIPI W28S carbon fiber tripod includes a built-in smartphone clamp, three 1/4″ accessory threads, and a carry bag with an excellent shoulder strap.

It’s also possible to collapse the sub-tripod legs and use it as a selfie stick for photos and vlogging on the go.

The same tri-pillar center column can be inserted upside down into the main tripod to offer a low working height.

A nylon cord protrudes from the base of the tripod collar, which can be used to hang bags or weights. I believe that a durable polymer hook would have been a better choice.

The HEIPI carbon fiber travel tripod includes a set of simple Allen keys to adjust the tension of the leg locks, head panning motion, and other elements. The keys are small and easy to lose, so keep a spare set in your camera bag.

Ease of Use and Setup

The HEIPI W28S 3-in-1 Travel Tripod with a K50-Q ball head is sublime in use and setup.

The engineering and precision machining of the carbon fiber travel tripod allows for smooth and satisfying operation and assures stability and support.

Unlocking all four leg clamps simultaneously takes a little EGTP (Elbow Grease Torque Power), so it’s not unmanageable and can be adjusted with the included tools.

Every moving part of the W28S delivers fluid motion and user feedback that builds upon the confidence in such an accessory.

The K50-Q ball head delivers exceptional stability, flexibility, and finely controlled pan, tilt, and pitch motion, even with an impressively large camera and lens combo.

Carrying the HEIPI W28S in the included travel bag or attached to a camera backpack is easy and has little impact on the kit’s overall weight.

Furthermore, the reduced weight allows you to travel with the tripod and camera bag as carry-on luggage instead of stowage.

Price and Value for Money

Carbon fiber travel tripods can range in price from around US$100 to an eye-watering US$1,000.

Given the engineering and quality of materials involved, it’s no wonder that a high-quality travel tripod can reach such a price.

The HEIPI W28S 3-in-1 Travel Tripod with the K50-Q ball head retails for around US$350, making it the Goldilocks of price points.

However, at that price, the HEIPI W28S delivers far above its retail value and offers photographers and videographers one of the most impressive tripod platforms on the market.

What’s also worth considering is that HEIPI updated the original W28 based on user feedback to make it the best travel tripod possible. That says a lot about a brand’s investment in user experience.

Almost every element of the HEIPI W28S shouts precision engineering, ergonomic consideration, and quality of materials.

How I Tested the HEIPI 3-in-1 Travel Tripod W28S

I tested the HEIPI 3-in-1 Travel Tripod W28S and KF50-Q ball head with my lightweight Fujifilm X Series kit.

My kit consists of a Fujifilm X-E4, XF 16mm f/2.8 for landscape, XF 23mm f/2 for street, and XF 50mm f/2 for portraits and products.

It’s my go-to kit for most of my photography and is lightweight yet flexible, making it ideal for traveling.

While the HEIPI W28S can support up to 44 lb (19.95kg), my camera and lens combo weighs a mere 18.3oz (519g), not including the Arca-type L-bracket and grip.

Regardless, I wanted to see how the HEIPI W28S would handle such a lightweight kit. Often, the lighter the camera and lens combo, the more prone a tripod is to movement, as there is limited downward gravitational force.

However, the HEIPI proved to be just as stable with a Fujifilm travel kit and makes a compelling argument for this to be an excellent APS-C mirrorless camera travel tripod.

For reference, I’m 5′ 10″ (178cm) and found the extended height of the HEIPI comfortable to work with – I stooped a little to use the camera EVF.

The smaller sub-trip also proved helpful when photographing tabletop products with the same kit.

While I love the included slimline carry case, the HEIPI W28S slid securely into the side pocket of my WANDRD PRVKE 21 camera backpack with the cinch strap to tie it down.

I know looks aren’t everything, but I must say, the WANDRD PRVKE and HEIPI W28S look amazing together. They both have futuristic design qualities.

Alternatives

Traditionally, I would list an alternative travel tripod that competes with or offers specifications, features, and performance similar to the HEIPI W28S.

While the HEIPI 3-in-1 carbon fiber travel tripod shares many similarities with the Peak Design carbon fiber travel tripod, there is more than enough here for the HEIPI to stand alone.

Besides, the HEIPI option is close to half the price of the Peak Design, and I feel that the unique 3-in-1 system and KF50 ball head deliver a better user experience.

The Peak Design travel tripod is a great product worth considering.

However, what’s most impressive is that HEIPI doesn’t have the marketing muscle of a brand like Peak and is still a relatively unknown contender.

I think it’s worth supporting the “little guy” in this case.

HEIPI 3-in-1 Travel Tripod W28S Review | Conclusion

I’ve been sitting on the fence about upgrading my “travel tripod” for years. I’m currently rocking an older and heavier Manfrotto aluminum travel tripod that’s heavy and bulky.

In recent years, it has accumulated dust sitting unused in my office. I prefer to leave it at home rather than attach it to my bag, as it won’t comfortably fit in my WANDRD PRVKE 21.

However, the HEIPI W28S 3-in-1 Travel Tripod has illuminated the benefits and ease of use of such a high-tech, thoughtfully designed product.

When design, engineering, and the best materials combine to tick all the right boxes, the attraction to make the most of a tripod is undeniable.

My desire to get out and experience new approaches to different genres grew through simply having access to the HEIPI W28S. Putting it to use was just as appealing while out testing the platform.

If a piece of kit like the HEIPI 3-in-1 Travel Tripod W28S streamlines your workflow, elevates your creative output, and inspires you to get out and chase the light, then you’ve found a winner.