If you're looking for a compact yet powerful ball head for your photography or videography gear, the ULANZI H28 is a game-changer. I've been using it for a few weeks now, and it's become an essential part of my kit.

The Good Stuff:

- Built like a tank: The aluminum alloy construction feels premium in hand. I've used it with my mirrorless camera (about 2.5lb with lens) and it holds rock steady - no drooping or slipping.

- Dual hot shoe magic: This feature alone makes it worth buying. I regularly mount my shotgun mic on one side and a small LED light on the other - perfect for vlogging setups.

- Buttery smooth movements: The 360° rotation is silky smooth, and the tilt adjustment has just the right amount of resistance. Shooting panoramas has never been easier.

- Travel-friendly size: At just 100g, I barely notice it in my bag. The small footprint means it doesn't hog space when mounted on my travel tripod.

A Few Caveats:

- While it claims 5.5lb capacity, I'd be cautious with heavy DSLR setups - it works best with mirrorless cameras or smartphones.

- The plastic knobs feel sturdy but don't inspire the same confidence as the metal body parts.

Real-World Use:

Last weekend, I used the H28 for an all-day hiking shoot. It handled quick transitions from landscape to portrait mode effortlessly when capturing both scenery and selfie-style commentary. The cold shoe adapter held my compact light perfectly during golden hour shots.

Final Verdict:

The ULANZI H28 punches way above its weight class (literally). For content creators who need versatility without bulk, this mini ball head delivers professional performance at an affordable price. It's earned a permanent spot in my camera bag!