How to Mount the NiSi Explorer MX-MAG on a MagSafe Tripod
By NiSi Filters Australia | Published: 2026-11-04
Category: Guide pratiche
A step-by-step guide to attaching the NiSi Explorer MX-MAG magnetic tripod phone mount to MagSafe phones and standard tripods, with checkpoints for a secure, level setup.
Quick answer
Attach the Explorer MX-MAG to your tripod using either the 1/4-inch-20 thread or the Arca-compatible mount, then bring a compatible MagSafe phone or case close to the magnetic plate and let it snap into place in portrait or landscape. Check the cold shoe arm is tightened before you let go.
Why the mount choice affects stability
The Explorer MX-MAG gives you two ways to attach to support: a standard 1/4-inch-20 thread that fits most tripod heads and plates, and an Arca-compatible mount that drops straight into an Arca ball head or clamp. The Arca route is faster to reposition because you can slide and lock the mount without unscrewing anything, while the 1/4-inch-20 route is the fallback for tripods without an Arca receiver.
Neither method compensates for a weak magnetic grip. If your phone case is not MagSafe-compatible or is unusually thick, the magnetic connection may be less secure, so test the hold before tilting the tripod.
When the cold shoe arm helps, and when it does not
The adjustable cold shoe arm is designed to suit different shooting orientations, phone sizes and case sizes. It adds a second point of contact for the phone, which is useful when you shoot in landscape and want to reduce flex at the magnet. In portrait orientation, set the arm so it does not block the phone's screen edge or buttons.
The arm is not a clamp replacement: it is an adjustable support, so tighten it only enough to steady the phone without pressing hard on the case.
Step-by-step setup
- Attach the mount to your tripod: Choose the Arca-compatible mount for an Arca ball head or clamp, or screw the 1/4-inch-20 thread onto a standard tripod plate or head. Tighten until the mount is firm but not over-tightened. Checkpoint: the mount should not rotate or wobble when you press down on it.
- Set portrait or landscape before adding the phone: Rotate the magnetic plate to the orientation you want to shoot in. The mount supports both landscape and portrait, so decide before the phone is attached. Common mistake: rotating the plate after the phone is attached can break the magnetic hold.
- Bring the phone or case to the magnet: Hold a compatible MagSafe phone or case close to the magnetic plate and let it snap into place. Do not slide it on from the side. Checkpoint: give the phone a gentle tug to confirm the magnetic connection is holding.
- Adjust the cold shoe arm: Position the adjustable cold shoe arm to support the phone for its size and orientation. Tighten the arm so it steadies the phone without pressing on buttons or the screen edge. Common mistake: over-tightening the arm can flex the case and weaken the magnet's grip.
- Test the setup before shooting: With the phone mounted, gently tilt the tripod head through its range and check that the phone stays level and secure. If it shifts, re-seat the phone on the magnet and re-check the arm. Checkpoint: make this test part of every setup, especially with a new case.
Product facts
- Explorer MX-MAG Magnetic Tripod Phone Mount for MagSafe®: Rapid mount for any compatible MagSafe phone or case in a fraction of a second. You can switch between handheld and tripod shooting without removing your case.
Explorer MX-MAG Magnetic Tripod Phone Mount for MagSafe® - Explorer MX-MAG Magnetic Tripod Phone Mount for MagSafe®: Mounts to any standard 1/4-inch-20 tripod or tripod plate and has an Arca-compatible mount. It works with common tripod heads and lets you choose between threaded and quick-release attachment.
- Explorer MX-MAG Magnetic Tripod Phone Mount for MagSafe®: Adjustable cold shoe arm for different shooting orientations, phone sizes and case sizes. You can steady the phone in landscape or portrait without changing mounts.
