Cullmann Mundo 525M Tripod Review

Features
Handling
Performance
Verdict
Specification

The Mundo 525M from Cullmann is a large tripod that also transforms into a monopod. It can hold a max of 8kg in weight and Cullmann say the option to turn it into a monopod makes it really flexible for lots of different shooting applications. It's available in black, blue, orange and silver. Here, we find out how it performs. 

Cullmann Mundo 525M Tripod Features

The Cullmann Mundo 525M isn't the lightest of tripods, weighing in at 1.65kg, but it's quite compact when folded down, at 45.5cm. It has a max height of 159.5cm and an 8kg max weight. It's suitable for mid-sized DSLRs. It has a 10-year warranty.

The tripod comes in a drawstring bag and to make it as compact as possible, the legs fold 180 degrees upwards. There is a good, long centre column which can be lowered by twisting the blue leg divider (be careful - it can drop quite suddenly!). A ball head is included which is smooth but has a lot of friction, which is good for when it's loaded with heavy kit and you want to adjust the angle safely. There is a chunky knob to tighten and loosen the ball head and there is a smaller one which controls the pivot of the head.

Two spirit levels can be found, one on the knob to loosen the quick release plate and one on the side of the plate mount. On the bottom of the centre column there is a hook to attach ballast to for extra stability.  

The legs have 4 sections, which are lengthened by rubber twist grips. There is a foam grip on the leg that becomes a monopod and a removable velcro neoprene grip too, for moving the rest of the tripod about. The ball head can be unscrewed and attached to the monopod.

To change the angle of the leg, the blue clasp is pulled up to enable the leg to splay out more, and there are three different positions for the tripod in additional to the closed position. Each of the legs has a sturdy rubber foot on the end. To use the monopod, the leg with the foam simply unscrews, and the ball head can be attached to the top of it. 

Key Features

• Aluminium build
• Detachable monopod
• 8kg max load 
• 45.5cm length when compacted
• 4 leg sections
• Ball head
• Spirit levels on quick release plate

Cullmann Mundo 525M Tripod Handling & Performance

The tripod is easy to set up, with the legs smooth and well damped. A short turn of the grippy rubberised rings allows you to adjust the legs to the desired length before tightening them. 

The camera base plate is easily removed and is just as easily refitted and tightened smoothly. The pivot below the ball head gives a smooth movement that will be ideal for capturing panoramas and panning for video. The ball head allows for subtle movements to be made with ease and there's no need to worry about your kit suddenly toppling as you adjust the head thanks to the amount of friction. 

The leg divider / centre column height adjuster is a neat feature that has a cool design, plus the fins make it really easy to turn. You just need to make sure you hold the head while adjusting it as it does go from secured to loose quite quickly and if you're not careful the adjustment knob for the ball head can hit your hand. 

With a minimum height of 17.5cm, there are plenty of options for different angles in shots.

Value For Money

The Cullmann Mundo 525M is available for £179.99. Alternative tripods of a similar size include the Manfrotto BeFree which is also aluminium and available for £139. However, this tripod doesn't have a detachable monopod or a spirit level. Clip lock legs also make it more difficult to set up quickly. 

Overall the Cullmann offers good value, it has a 10-year warranty and has lots of extra features for the money, as well as a clean and stylish design. 

Cullmann Mundo 525M Tripod Verdict

Overall, the Cullmann Mundo 525M is a highly versatile tripod that is easy to set up and is well made. The grippy twist lock legs make setting it up a breeze, and the all aluminium build makes it feel like a premium product. The extra neoprene grip is a good addition for when the monopod is in use, and the built-in spirit levels are a great aid when setting up shot.  

Despite its size, the tripod folds up surprisingly compactly and would be carryable in a large backpack. 

The Cullmann Mundo 525M is a versatile tripod that's easy to use and includes a monopod to boot.