The world’s fastest monopod – YC Onion Pineta Pro Monopod

Three months ago, I reviewed the best “fast” tripod I ever had the pleasure to use: the YC Onion Pineta Peak Tripod. I really enjoyed using it, thanks to its many time-and-hassle-saving features. Later, I also got to use the monopod alternative, which I enjoyed just as much. That’s why I’m excited about the YC Onion’s latest addition to this lineup: an upgraded version of the Pineta Monopod, the appropriately named Pineta Pro Monopod.

YC Onion Pineta Pro Monopod mounting

The top of the Pineta Pro Monopod has a quick-release plate with a 2-in-1 screw which fits both 1/4″ and 3/8″ mounts. The quick-release plate also has a small M4 screw to prevent deflection. Unlike previous models, the Pineta Pro uses quick-release buttons to detach the plate faster than before. To reattach the plate, all you need to do is just insert it back; There is no need to screw it in. There is also a 1/4″ ARRI-style mount on the back of the monopod, which allows you to attach additional gear.

YC Onion Pineta Pro Monopod feet base

The longer the feet, the larger the support area, and the more stable the monopod is, and the feet on the bottom of the Pineta Pro Monopod are longer than those of its predecessors. Near the feet, you will also find the damping adjustment lever and swivel lock pedal. The dampening adjustment lever can make the monopod sway looser or tighter, with the maximum setting temporarily setting the monopod in place. The swivel lock pedal, as its name suggests, is what unlocks the swiveling base. Stepping on the pedal once unlocks the swiveling base. Stepping on it again will automatically rebound the monopod to the initial position.

YC Onion Pineta Pro Monopod height lever

Whenever I’m using the YC Onion Pineta tripod, it’s the height adjustment locks that I appreciate the most. They are especially convenient, as they are easy to find with just the feel of my fingers, and a flick of my thumb is all it takes to lock or unlock them. Because each leg can be fully adjusted from one height lock, setting up or adjusting the Pineta Peak tripod was really quick and simple. YC Onion used the same levers in their previous Pineta monopod, which worked well, but they have managed to make it better than it already was. The height lever on the Pineta Pro looks like a motorcycle lever and is even easier to use than before. It’s larger and uses a push-to-unlock design instead of the pull-up-to-unlock design. To avoid accidentally pressing the lever, YC Onion also implemented a safety lock.

YC Onion Pineta Pro Monopod specs

Specifications	Pineta Pro Monopod
Model	MQP162
Section	3
Tube Diameter	39, 34, 29 mm
Net Weight	1.78kg/3.92lbs
Payload	10kg/22lbs
Folded Length	78cm/30.7in
Max Height	162cm/63.8in
Material	Aluminum & carbon fiber
Tripod Feet Angle	2 Angles: 40°& 76°
Swiveling Base Angle	±18°
Base Damping Adjustment	Yes
Base Locking Method	Pedal
Rebound to 90°	Yes
Tripod Feet Length	212mm/8.35in
Double Quick-release	Top & bottom

Price and availability

The YC Onion Pineta Pro Monopod is available for $

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