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Review on πŸ“· Enhanced Videography Control: SmallRig Camera Cage for Fujifilm X-T3 - Durable Aluminum Alloy, Cold Shoe, NATO Rail, Arri-Threaded Holes (2228B) by Jesus Jenkins

Revainrating 5 out of 5

Best cage for Fuji X-T4

I tested a similar third-party cage that looked like a smallrig camera but was about $30 less. In the end I chose Smallrig because of a few small things. Smallrig, in case you don't already know, is a name that has earned a lot of respect over the years for producing very high quality and affordable cages and rig accessories. from your cameras. Especially with the advent of DSLRs and mirrorless videography, they've been busy constantly rolling out inexpensive cages for every new camera that hits the market. Sometimes they make new frames for the same cameras if they can improve them. It was a turning point as more companies followed suit to offer a similar product at these low prices compared to the cost of cinema accessories. a few years ago at least $250 for the most basic (and that's on the low end). There's really no difference between a cage that costs $100 now and one that cost $2,000 a few years ago. I think people who make film equipment just took their place in the market because everything was very expensive. Now back to the frame. Everything is thought out to fit the Fujifilm X-T4 perfectly. The designs are based on all the previous experience in making frames for different cameras. The left side panel is pushed forward so it doesn't block any of the ports and you can even use the full articulating screen. This is just a detail compared to some fakes that have two or three cage parts bolted together. Generally it doesn't matter, but sometimes it does. In this case, when the two pieces meet at other cages, there is a smaller gap, so moving the camera in and out often resulted in the cage being hit. It all fits the X-T4 like a glove, but I did notice movement in the grip area. I don't know why or how as everything is reliable. I've been using it for about 4 months now and haven't noticed any scuffs on the camera, so that's a plus. Some other cells have left marks on my camera in the past after prolonged use and repeated removal. It's all so thoughtfully designed with lots of features. * Arca-Swiss base so you can mount it directly on any Arca-Swiss tripod * with the magnetic screwdriver on the base. This allows you to unscrew and unscrew the camera body from the cage. Stay in place. Haven't lost it yet.* NATO rails are built into the right side of the cage. I have a wooden grip that attaches with a nato bar and no longer need to attach the bar to use the grip.* So many threaded holes I can attach almost anything. It's very versatile, allowing me to use it with other accessories from different manufacturers, although I find the smaller rig to be the best. * Thread holes around the edges for attaching straps if you wish. Accessories such as microphone, flash, receiver/transmitter, etc.* Optional front grip. The X-T4 is known for its small grip. Adding this piece on top of the handle makes holding the entire cage easier, especially when you start adding monitors, microphones, and other accessories. Is it optimal? Nearly. There is a newer version that added another hole near the base with a jig to add a 15mm rod. Personally I could use this if I don't want to add a pole baseplate, but I need a pole for my follow focus. Otherwise I'm very happy with this cage for about $75. It protects my camera and allows me to turn it into a cinema set without compromise.

Pros
  • Electronics
Cons
  • Not sure