YC Onion Hot Dog Slider Motorized Slider The Good and the Bad Deep Dive Affordable Honest Review Pros and Cons Filmmaker

Today, I want to share my thoughts on the YC Onion Hot Dog Motorized Slider. As a filmmaker, I've had the chance to explore various tools that can enhance the quality of my work, and this slider is no exception. While it has several appealing features, it also comes with its fair share of drawbacks. Let’s dive into what I like and what I don't like about this motorized slider.

YC Onion Hot Dog Slider Motorized Slider Review

What I Like

1. Affordability and Versatility

One of the first things that caught my attention about the YC Onion Hot Dog Slider is its affordability. It's surprisingly inexpensive for a motorized slider, allowing filmmakers on a budget to access professional-quality equipment. The best part? It functions as both a motorized and manual slider. If you ever need to shoot without the motor, simply detach it and you're good to go!

2. Auto-Pan Functionality

Another standout feature is the auto-pan function. This allows you to effortlessly choose the direction of movement—whether left or right—along with the panning speed, adjustable via two knobs located at the slider's end. This feature is particularly useful when you want to create dynamic shots, like keeping the camera focused on a subject while it moves.

3. Lightweight Design

Weighing in at just around 2 kilograms for a length of 120 centimeters, this slider is incredibly lightweight. In fact, it might be the lightest motorized slider currently on the market. The use of carbon fiber in its construction is a game-changer, especially at this price point, making it easy to transport without sacrificing durability.

4. Convenient Carrying Bag

The slider comes with a spacious carrying bag, allowing you to store the device without disassembling any components. You can simply toss it in the bag and hit the road, making it perfect for on-the-go shoots.

5. Safety Features

The slider is equipped with a low-angle level input that includes a safety design. This thoughtful feature prevents your camera from falling if the knobs aren't tightened adequately, providing peace of mind during shoots.

6. Efficient Motor

The motor is impressively efficient. A single 7-series MPF battery can power the slider for up to 10 hours, making it ideal for long filming days without frequent interruptions for battery changes.

7. Rubber Cushions

I also appreciate the rubber cushions that protect the slider from hard impacts, which can otherwise damage both the slider and your shots. Many sliders lack this feature, which can be frustrating during shoots.

What I Don't Like

1. Noisy Operation

One of the major downsides of the YC Onion slider is its noise level. Whether in motorized or manual mode, it produces a significant amount of sound, making it unsuitable for recording audio. If you're planning to capture dialogue or ambient sounds, you might want to look elsewhere.

2. Torque Issues at Low Speeds

The torque in low-speed settings can be insufficient, particularly when operating below 30% speed. This can lead to unexpected stops in the middle of a shot, ruining the flow and necessitating retakes.

3. Battery Design Flaws

The battery lacks a locking mechanism, which can lead to it accidentally dislodging during use. This design flaw necessitates the use of tape to secure the battery, an inconvenience that detracts from the overall experience.

4. Insecure Locking System

Even when tightened, the locking system feels inadequate. The camera tends to have a little play underneath, which can lead to unwanted vibrations and instability during shooting.

5. Bounce in Manual Mode

The auto-pan bar can bounce a little, especially if you're using a higher drag on your fluid head. This bouncing can disrupt the smoothness of your shots, particularly in manual mode, leading to inconsistent results.

6. Loop Mode Limitations

If you’re considering using loop mode for video, I advise against it. The slider tends to stop abruptly, which can ruin a shot, even when using a good tripod.

7. Poor App Functionality

The app that controls the slider leaves much to be desired. For instance, every time you disconnect the slider, it continues to operate, but reconnecting it causes it to stop immediately. This design flaw can interrupt your workflow and lead to missed shots.

8. Time-Lapse Function Issues

The time-lapse feature is bafflingly inefficient. If you set a high number of photos, the slider often reaches the endpoint before completing the designated number of shots, leaving you frustrated and confused.

9. Insufficient Mounting Holes

The mounting holes for tripods and monopods could be more versatile. Some larger tripod heads may not fit securely after attaching the motor module, compromising stability.

Conclusion

In conclusion, while the YC Onion Hot Dog Slider presents some innovative features and a compelling price point, it does have significant drawbacks. Despite its lightweight design, affordability, and thoughtful functionalities, the noise level, app issues, and battery design flaws make it less than ideal for serious filmmakers.

I sincerely hope that YC Onion continues to improve its products and app, addressing these concerns to create a better experience for users. Despite its shortcomings, the potential is there, and I look forward to seeing how they evolve in the future.

So, would I recommend this slider? For those who prioritize budget and portability over audio quality and app functionality, it might be worth considering. However, if you're looking for something that can seamlessly integrate into a professional workflow, you may want to keep searching.

YC Onion Hot Dog Slider Motorized Slider Review