I've been using a super cheap tripod that's starting to break on me. I got it for free from my aunt and uncle and it's worked....... I'll say that. I really appreciate them giving it to me, but it's not standing the test of time. I decided to get this ball-mount tripod and got super excited at the size and being able to invert the pole to get nice landscape shots close to ground (focus-stacking and all) I havenb't been able to experiment with this simply because the lowest my tripod could go was well.... too high. and I didn't have a stable hand to hold it still for three shots. Super excited! I was a little disappointed at first when I got it, however, because it feels very cheap. I expected something a little more rugged, or at least something that had weight. In a way it is a good thing that it's so light, especially if you have to hike to your spot. Overall I love the piece and it's perfect for my needs, be aware it is very light, but that's a benefit. It has the phone holder (I don't think I'll ever use that) the remote (probably never use that since I can just use my phone) and nicely enough, two mounting plates! I only have one camera currently, but I appreciate that they thought I was rich enough to have two!