3 Legged Thing Alan 2.0 Review

Alan 2.0 is essentially the reimagining of the Alan monopod. A carbon legged monopod support with advanced design features that makes it an elegant solution whenever you want to travel light.

Improvements in the Tri Plate and 3LT leg lock design help enhance the ease of use of this monopod in the field.

As monopods are a great travel companion, the smaller packed down the length of the Alan 2.0 monopod make it even more convenient for stashing in a bag.

Alan 2.0 is also fully compatible with 3LT’s range of feet, including the DOCZ2 and the full AirHeds range, so there’s plenty of customisable options.

From video to sports, wildlife, and even landscapes, Alan 2.0 is the one support you’ll need. Or, at least that’s how it looks on paper, lets put it to the test and see how it performs.

Alan 2.0 is first and foremost a monopod despite its versatility, so I’ll start with the basic function and how it performs before adding the DOCZ2 and then an Airhed Cine.

On the arrival of the Alan 2.0, you get the main monopod, tool, and that’s it. The head you use is up to you; in the first part of this test, I’ve opted for lightweight and older style Airhed.

This screws directly into the 3/8-inch thread, and once in place, Alan 2.0 is set and ready to go.

Slotting it into the PGYTech OneGo side pocket and strapping in, the short pack down length of Alan 2.0 works well at helping keep the kit streamlined.

The lightweight design also adds little additional weight to the backpack, which is good as the OneGo Backpack is heavy for its size.

When the Alan 2.0 is needed, the large twist locks enable a quick extension to full height.

I’m 5 foot 11, and with the camera mounted onto the monopod, the viewfinder comfortably reaches eye level without the need to stoop. In most situations, that level was ideal, but those over 6-foot may find it an inch or two short.

Whether it’s down to the new internal mechanisms or quality of construction, the movement of the leg sections feels smooth and precise.

My one real note over function is that while the large leg locks work well, I do like to grasp all locks at once so they can be released in one smooth action.

While this is just about possible, those with smaller hands will need to release the locks in pairs. This isn’t a big issue unless speed is of the essence, which it rarely is!

Moving on from use as a standard monopod with a rubber foot, the next test sees the addition of the DOCZ2 to the base. Here the small rubber foot (Bootz) is removed, and the DOCZ2 is screwed in place.

While the DOCZ2 adds weight, it also adds support, which is welcome.

Once in place, it’s time to test the abilities with a bit of filming, so couple the DOCZ2 with the Airhed Cine on top.

Usually, I’ll place all cameras on tripods and or gimbals on a shoot, depending on what I’m filming, set-up, brief etc.

One of the benefits of using a monopod is that you can quickly move around set as you need. The DOCZ2 enables smooth rotation and some freedom of movement, with the Airhed Cine enabling the tilt. It all comes together nicely, and you get an instant feel of increased freedom.

The combination of Alan 2.0 and the DOCZ2 foot gives support yet still enables free movement.

Adding the cine head then enhances this movement, with the two complementing each other perfectly.

Using the lock-in and out of the DOCZ2 ball joint gives you plenty of scope for creativity. My only issue is that you obviously can’t leave the camera in place unsupported, so you do need to lay the set-up down or release the camera from the base plate; no biggy.

Using the DOCZ2 with the small stills AirHed or the AirHed Cine, the Alan 2.0 helps provide both support and flexibility.

Alan 2.0 with your head of choice, be that from 3LT or another manufacture, is a solid choice.

It’s extremely well made, and the lengths that 3LT has gone to ensure a premium product with enhanced manufacturing and design is evident.

The large leg locks and smooth movement of the leg sections make for a formidable monopod in use.

If I were to be critical, I would say that a couple of extra inches on the max height would be handy, but even so, the height will suit most people, and there’s always the Trent if you do need that extra.

I’d also like to see the additional option of a levelling base, but that would be an entire additional product.

The overall performance of Alan 2.0 is as good as monopods get, but then Alan 2.0 has more to offer. The compatibility with the 3LT range of accessories means that you can customise the monopod to your exact needs.

Overall, Alan 2.0 is as good as you get when it comes to a monopod, with loads of features, lightweight, robust and with plenty of versatility to customise to your needs.