Testing 5 'Budget' Alternatives to Overpriced Film Gear

We all want pro filmmaking gear for cheap, but which of the “budget” options are worth your money, and which are a waste? Well I had the same questions, so I reached out to 5 of the brands behind some of the internet’s favourite budget brands and asked if I could test some of their most popular products. I’ll just say I finished this video feeling optimistic about the future of affordable filmmaking!

#filmmaking #gear #budget #musicforvideo

🔗 *LINKS FROM THIS VIDEO*

(🚨👆🚨 None of the above are affiliate links 🚨👆🚨)

CHAPTERS

0:00 - Intro
1:26 - The Alternative to overpriced CineSaddles
5:55 - An option to overpriced v-mount batteries
10:17 - An alternative to overpriced lights
13:04 - Audiio, the sponsor of today’s video
14:26 - An alternative to Think Tank production manager case
16:38 - An alternative to expensive video transmitters
19:21 - Final thoughts

🎥 🔥 📷 GEAR I USE

*Some of the above are affiliate links, but all are personally vetted and recommended*

✋ SAY HI

IG: @lucforsyth (BTS content, but I’m TERRIBLE at DMs - sorry!)

[EpicCinematicAdventures]

Luc posted another great video! I don’t know about you guys, but he is on my daily watch list! He is great with advice and the most reliable human on YouTube. One day, I hope to have a live podcast with the guy! One day, you think he is insane, but the next day, you think he is a genius. That’s called Luc!

[MobileFilmmaking]

The word “budget” definitely has different meanings to different people 😂

[eggydrums]

Luc, this is probably the first and only video I've seen from your channel and I'm subscribing immediately. Your presentation style is not only straight to the point, but also relatable and down to earth. It feels like you're just another filmmaker like us who's sharing his experience in a genuine manner.


Regarding the content of the video, Impact makes a very similar bag to the Neewer and it was definitely one of the best purchases I made last year. It's such a good time to be an independent filmmaker with so much useful and low cost gear available.

[WhySteve]

I'll start with my budget kit:

CineSaddles = Camera Strap
V-mount Batteries = NP-F to V-Mount Adapter
Tube lights = Florescent Tubes
Roller = Old gym bag
Video Transmitter = Long cable to cheap monitor

😅 For real though, the NP-F to V-Mount Adapter was a great way to get 10, 000mAh battery power for less than half the price of one V-Mount battery. I can use the NP-F's with my LED lights too, so win win.

[archwaytech]

I recently bought the Think Tank manager 50 v2 from B&H and am blown away with how nice this bag is! It looks super professional when I’m with a client and it’s easy to set everything out how you like it. I’d been looking at getting one for years and finally pulled the trigger after being sick of doing multiple trips onto set. So glad I did. It’ll last me decades!

[MickySarge]

I really appreciate how straightforward and practical your videos are. No fake hype or fluff.

[JoshSchaidt]

Watch the zippers on that Neewer case. 2 broken zips in 4 months meant laying down the cash for the Think Tank. (No regrets with the ThinkTank)

[alloriginaltone]

You're good! Full disclaimer given and authentic valuable content provided! I have a semi-pro-ish tip for another economy option for the light stand/tripod big bag....a golf travel bag. They tend to be a little longer, are pretty cavernous, ruggedly built, have padding, have wheels, often have outside pockets for odds and ends, and when an airline sees them they don't really think twice. They often fold up for storage which is also could be con since the Neewer "solid" box design might help in some ways. And the bonus is that they are even less expensive than the Neewer rolling case.

[magicmitch]

I was literally just checking Newer Case. I’m so glad to hear that it held up well. Awesome video, thank you!

[Bernatchly]

Man.. I really like your vids!
They're not the over the top super flashy type vids we see so much, but rather well put together and well thought out videos about things we want to know about from someone that's doing work with it all on a regular basis. Honestly makes me miss my days working in the documentary world!
Been subbed for a while now and much enjoy the vids I get to catch!

[adamtaylor]

Luc, Thank you for making this video. It's always nice to see how actual filmmakers (not just "YouTubers") use and abuse gear, what works, and what doesn't.

[DVSStudios]

Great video, Luc! The Pavo Tubes are great but we actually settled on the Amaran tubes made by Aputure. They are extremely durable, full spectrum RGB, and the app interface is fantastic. Plus they have several 1/4-20 and 3/8" mounting points and an extremely long-lasting battery. They come in a 2ft and 4ft version. I highly suggest checking them out!

[DamienFinn]

Bro, your delivery has gotten so much better on camera! Holy crap man! Keep up the GREAT work! Obviously the lighting is top notch always has been, camera work, impeccable...

[YoungBlaze]

This reminds me of the term "Military Grade protection" anybody that's been in the military knows that word means something totally different

[iDigresstimes]

It's wild that you traded comforts for your career, and I admire that. I worked a blue-collar job and retired. I have health insurance, a house, and a pension, but I would trade it for your youth and current career.

[JedDobre]

My top budget items I’ve bought would have to be k&F 99 V mount. $199 Australian. I normally use coreswx v mounts that are $580ish AUD & I bought the K&F as an extra back up. & it’s now my first choice.. dual dtap. USB A & C + LCD screen showing exact timing.

Neweer for anything like green screens/reflectors.. but definitely not for a stands etc.


Also love the Pavo tubes.. I’ve got 6 :)

[flycatchercreations]

As a heads up on the Neewer rolling bag...I've gone through 2 of them on maybe 6 flying trips. The pad on the bottom to allow it to stand up snapped off and the handle to be able to pull it also snapped off. I have the Production Manager 40 bag arriving today, actually. The Neewer bag has worked really well when it held together! Just watch those other parts.

[ArtherreroDoP]

Been getting the SAKK ads too and almost pulled the trigger till I saw this haha thank you!

[Oddernod]

Genuinely one of the best videos of this type. Thanks for all of these!

[jaymesagency]

I have recently bought 3 neewer v mount 99s for right at $100 a piece. They're great so far, & compare really well to the Smallrig versions. I have to say the ability to charge via USB-C is so great. Not having to have a special charger for the cost of another battery is fantastic.

Great video as always! Thanks Luc

PS I really enjoyed your E-book. A ton of valuable insights & wisdom.