Hey Alan, I watched your video on the Gitzo GT1545T. I own the same tripod, but with the Gitzo matching ball head. I listened to your concerns about this tripod, but please allow me to share my thoughts as well. Price you paid $708. Is that US Dollars? And since you are using a Giottos ball head, I assume that the $708 price is just for the legs. Right now (Aug/2022) B&H Photo in New York has the tripod listed for $529.88 and with the matching Gitzo ball head, $679.88. Is it really necessary to have the Allen keys strapped to the tripod? I don't think so. I wouldn't want them attached to my tripod, regardless of tripod brand. They're small. Just put them in your camera bag. I tried to unscrew the feet on my Gitzo. I needed to turn them many times to unscrew them. These feet are not going to spontaneously fall off when loosening the leg locks. I don't think it is fair to blame Gitzo for user error. You complained that when folding the legs up, the ball head doesn't allow the legs to completely fold. Hey, you're using a Giottos ball head (not designed for the Gitzo) and complaining that the tripod doesn't fold up properly! Try using the Gitzo ball head. I did and my tripod legs fold up very nicely into a neat package. I don't see the need for set screws on the platform. My Gitzo ball head sits securely onto my Traveler tripod. Maybe the Giottos ball head is not machined very well and therefore lacks a tight enough fit when used on your Gitzo tripod. I believe that Gitzo makes a hook for the center column that cost only $15 bucks. I'm looking into that now to confirm that that the G--2020 hook will fit on my GT1534T. Look, I own a BMW 330ix and I love the car. Yet for $48K there are still some things that maybe another car manufacturer does better. Certainly any car for half the price will still get you from A to B, right? But if you want a BMW, you get a BMW. If you lust after one of the best tripods that money can buy, you get it, even if there are some small issues - which is subjective because I don't see these faults with my Gitzo GT1545T. One final thought, I have enough products made in China. I no longer wish to support Chinese products and I’m willing to pay more for non-Chinese products whenever I can. By the way, your website has some gorgeous photos! Best regards, Steve (New Rochelle, NY)
Thanks for this comment, I watched this review to help me form an opinion on whether I wanted the Gitzo or a Peak Design tripod to replace a shoddy KF Concept one for hiking with. The point you make are what was going through my mind whilst watching, so good to see one side of the coin in the video and read the other in the comments for a balanced view - thanks :)
@@tomdauben Tom, I'm 68 yrs old and have seen several (Chinese) tripod companies appear on the market and then after a few years they disappear. Gitzo has been around for a while and I suspect they will continue into the future. I know it's a lot to spend on a tripod and the Chinese alternatives do have attractive prices. But consider that this will likely be the last tripod you will ever need and if you should change your mind, you can sell it and get a good portion of your money back. But I doubt you will sell it. Good luck!
@@stevest55 Yes, that's exactly the logic I'm following now, having learnt my lesson the hard way... its important to have a stable platform to take photos on, after all, and buy once buy well is a mantra I really should have followed - thanks Steve :)
When hanging weight on the tripod to stabilize it, there is an attachment point where the legs come together on the tripod "spider". You could also attach the cord to that area so it doesn't get in the way when folding the tripod down. That way it won't tug on the center column. I don't know why they decided not to put a hook on the column, but at least they gave a provision. The feet are way too easy to unscrew, that's for sure. A little bit of loctite would be good for those. The tripods I have from Gitzo all have the set screw, but they also have bigger platforms so there is more room for it. When it comes to Brock wrenches, what I've found is that the Gitzo tripods hold their friction very well on those legs. I only recently had to tighten down one of the legs on my 3 series which is now 4 years old. I throw the wrenches in my shooting bag, but have not needed to use them in the field. The Gitzo head is designed to be on the tripod when fully collapsed. The knobs are designed to tuck within the legs and still fold down to it's smallest possible size. Since all the heads from other manufacturers are designed differently, they really can't design it to fold down with every design. Though it's expensive, you might consider getting the Gitzo head. It'll fold down small, and for whatever reason they don't seem to come loose as easily. My only complaint on their ballheads is that the knobs are not captive. If you keep unscrewing a knob, it will eventually fall off.
Good points Ben. I have the one-series tripod kit including the Gitzo head, for shooting with Mamiya RZ or DSLR. Folds up nicely and is compact but very stable. Yes the feet are irritating, and I also lost the non-captive panning knob on my first walk out with it. Had to buy a replacement, but now do frequent checks to make sure that it's tight - leave it loose and it *will* fall off. So: flawed, certainly, but by no means a dud. Also have a 3-series GT3540LS, now used solely for 5x4. The original feet for those were also prone to unscrewing and falling off. Replaced those with the rubber ones/covered spikes, which don't come undone. Otherwise, been going strong for 10 years now and counting.
Great honest and straightforward review Alan, but, I'd like to point out a few areas where we may disagree. First off, I agree about the feet,,, in this price range, I believe they should supply permanently-mounted spiked feet with pull-off rubber caps, or, the retractable screw-type spiked feet that have rubber surrounds. Second, the reason they don't provide a column hook is most likely due to the design of the folding legs. When fully closed, the bottom of the column is flush with the end of the tripod. Adding a hook would mean that the hook protrudes, and risks being an annoyance that catches on things. You'll notice that the non-folding Mountaineer series, does include a column hook, because the legs don't fold like the Traveller-series, and the hook can't protrude.I believe that hanging weight from the spyder is a far better way to go anyway, and that method works with the short column as well as the main column. Regarding the head diameter/tripod folding issue,, Gitzo has heads that specifically match the different Traveller models, and allow complete folding of the tripod legs without removing the head, and those heads are available separately, or, included when purchasing your tripod in "kit" form. I believe the 1-series Traveller uses the GH-1382TQD head,,, and the 2-series uses the GH-1382QD. (no letter "T" in the name). These are superb heads with excellent friction control and zero "droop", plus, they have a built-in panning base, each with its' own dedicated lock-knob. I have four Gitzo tripods; series 3, 4, and 5 Systematics,,, and for portability, I went with the 2-series Traveller "kit" GT2545T-1382QD with heavier capacity legs than the 1-series. I'd like to see a reasonably priced kit-bag available,, and I'd like to see Gitzo offering a levelling base specifically designed for use with the Traveller series heads.
Regarding your comment about the legs not folding in tight with a head on it. Using the Gitzo 82TQD head is not an issue. It folds in snug & is an outstanding head & can hold 10kg & does not move once locked.
You've made some good points about tripod features, but I think you are missing the intention behind the design of the GT1545T, which is extreme portability. Different tripods are designed for different types of photography. As you tell us what you don't like about this travel tripod, you compare to a heavier tripod with more features, such as the little tool holder. To me, this is like comparing a sub-compact car to a Jeep. (Personally, I'd never want my tools on a leg, as they'd snag and pop off.) As for the feet coming loose, yes, that is annoying if you don't know about it ahead of time, so you've helped viewers by pointing it out! But, once we know that grabbing a foot with the rest of the leg sections can twist the foot loose, it is very easy to just not include the foot when twisting. Furthermore, it takes only a second or two to check the feet. A drop of Loctite would also prevent accidental loosening and still allow removing the feet when necessary. Set-screws? Yes, I can see your worry, but, again, size is everything in this tripod, and increasing the diameter of the base plate would add weight and also limit which ball-heads would fit AND still allow the camera with a macro lens to point straight down. Again, checking tightness is important. Set-screws come lose and get lost too, so they are not something that can be set and forgotten: They also need to be checked, and often. I have another Gitzo, a very large one for using with heavy gear, and I use a little Loctite. I've never, in four years, had a single issue with loosening. And I'm having no issues on the GT1545T without Loctite. The lack of a hook is something to think about, which I did. When traveling, on my own or with family, I've never bothered hanging a bag from my larger tripod--the tripod which really started to become a burden after our kids came along. Could there be some long exposure opportunities along a seawall in the wind that I miss without hanging a bag from my tripod? Maybe, but, wow, this little, sturdy Gitzo is such a pleasure to have walking around cities or hiking up and down mountain trails! As for folding up to store, to minimize how much space it takes, yes, they've designed the legs to meet, which means there must be a very tiny head--or one you take off before putting the tripod in your luggage. That's by design, and one of the reasons I've chosen this model. And I'm glad I don't have to deal with set screws. Again, you've made important points about tripod features, but I think you are complaining that a tripod designed to be as compact and light as possible doesn't have the features of a bigger jack-of-all-trades. I think the tripod does what it was designed for better than any of the other many, many tripods out there. Finally, authorized dealers give us enough time to try a product and decide if its features meet our needs. Your anger expressed at the beginning of your presentation makes me wonder if you knew what you were buying.
I have a friend who swears by gitzo for no other reason than they are expensive. I have a gitzo traveler that I dislike, it is way too light for me to feel comfortable with its sturdiness. I have a manfrotto that I use that is a bit heavier that I much prefer. The point about the traveler folding up I could not agree more with, having to remove the head seems backwards, but what do we know, we just use the gear. My head also slips off all the time. Ugh.
I loved my 2543L to pieces - amazingly sturdy, light, super compact for the overall height, and versatile in ways no other tripod was (namely a twist-off center column for low-level shooting, sealed legs so you don't get dirt/salt in them). And then it got stolen. So I bought one used to replace it, but the seller failed to mention it was missing parts (*ahem* that convenient bottom part of the center column) and had some broken anti-twist locks in the legs. And that's when I realized I wouldn't be buying Gitzo again. $200 for a new center column. $30 for o-rings and little plastic pieces. $30 for a HOOK on the bottom of the center column. Plus shipping. Plus a two month wait time for it to be delivered to Italy. If you want the best performance, by all means buy a Ferrari. But when it breaks, don't be surprised when it's hard to find a mechanic who can fix it, and the parts cost you more than a Honda. My next tripod? Probably an Induro or Sirui (the 'waterproof' versions are mighty appealing)
I should've stuck with a smaller Oben. I've had some minor quality control problems with those, but they're one third the price. It's just that this Gitzo is very stable for its weight. Oh well, lesson learned. Hopefully more and more people will start to realize that these stupid expensive tripods are not that much better. The "lesser" brands are making leaps and bounds to catch up without the increase in price.
Thanks for the review Alan. I agree completely & have the same tripod for those same exact reasons. May I ask what model was the disc (I might be wrong, but I think Gitzo calls it a “Power disc”). The one you used to replace the gitzo one with? I’ve been so frustrated that it has no locking mechanism Thanks for all the great content
good review man, you go street to the point, but tell me please, are you using a ZV-E10 camera with "product showcase" turned on ? coz the autofocus is so reactive and accurate, it lock very well on your eyes, and then when you show some details on the tripod, you don't have to hide your face, camera switch automatically ...
It’s nice to find someone talking straight about this tripod and not the usual sponsored reviews talking wonders about it without criticizing its flaws, which for its price are serious ones. Some could say that it still enough to take long exposures but to expect only that on a tripod that expensive I Think is not acceptable.
Excellent review. I've had mine a few years, and came looking to see if I was missing something with the lack of set screws and was relieved to see I wasn't the only one suffering - what a PITA when trying to do panos and the head unscrews itself. Your review was spot on - I wouldn't buy another either... I've also lost a foot, and had to buy the hook, and lost a control knob also (as one of your other commenters also pointed out, they've not got any stop-lock and eventually will just fall off). You might think me careless, but Ive usually had issues with stuff falling off when used in really rough outdoor conditions over many hours.
Didn't even know about these set screws to secure the tripod's platform to the ball head... I don't think they are needed really, specially in a lightweight travel tripod.
Hi, I have the GT1555T with stock head. I love it and was expecting to hate your review. But I think you made some good points. I'm happy with its base config, stock head, but I can see how these things would be annoying for you. Btw you can buy a centre colum hook from Gitzo. They're about 20 bucks.
Thanks for the review. My Gitzo GT1545 arrived today. I was in love when I pulled it out of the box. As I used it, I appreciated the construction, design and materials even more. No more checked baggage if I want to take a tripod. It fits perfect in my small carry on bag (along one side). I don't have to put it in on the diagonal. I am 5'8" and it's a good height. The constructions is solid. I have a plastic coated metal hook with a loop and some nylon strap strapping. I used a sewing machine to create a strap 8.5" long. It has a loop for the hook to slide through. I hang it from the tripod. It works really well and I like it better than the regular hook. For me, the Gitzo was a good purchase even at the steep price. It's all about this fitting into a carry on bag and not having to check luggage. It's so lightweight. I took a chance and ordered this case from B&H for $15. The tripod fits inside perfectly (only when it's fully compact to the smallest size). Seems like it custom made with the right amount of wiggle room. The material is stronger than the cloth one they give you. It has a pocket for the various L-Wrenches. And, it can hold my hook strap. At B&H. Pakpod Tripod Bag with Accessory Storage and Strap (Black) B&H # PATPDBG MFR # 019962654435 Gitzo does sell a small bag for $79.
I lost the foot on my (cheaper) Gitzo tripod the first time I went out. They did kindly send me a free replacement so I can't complain, but I agree it is a design flaw.
I was expecting not to like the review as I have one of these tripods for years and its excellent. Your negative points are valid and well thought out. I still think its a brilliant tripod though. It's served me very well - very robust and travel friendly. It's been through the worst of conditions and still looks good.
Picked up the GT1545TA yesterday. It comes with a strap, a carrying case and hook. The salesperson put locktite on the feet. About to go shoot with it this morning. Oh, and I registered it online to warranty it until 1/28!
The Locktite is a great idea! It's actually a really good tripod if you need a good balance of height, weight, and load capacity. My video was an attempt at slight humor in pointing out a few glaring details that I wasn't expecting on such a high-end tripod. It is still my primary tripod to this day.
@@AlanBrockImages Great to hear! Your video was very helpful. I would not have bothered to ask the salesman about fastening the feet if I hadn’t watched your review. In fact, the floor model was missing one foot! hehe
Arrived at this review years later because there's not a lot of criticism besides all the fanboy raves about the Rolls Royce of tripods. Was aiming to use the sticks for the video head but am convinced that the tiny base without any anti-twist, and the folding problem around any non-Gitzo head, would be a nightmare.
Meanwhile the GK1545T has set screws. However I do not understand for what I need it. For me it seems completely useless. This tripod is for me really the best choice, even there is room for improvements. But it fulfils what it is made for. Best compromise between stability and mobility.
I was watching this thinking there might be something wrong with the tripod, all your complaints are that it isn't like your 200$ tripod. A lot of the weaknesses are strengths. Hanging from the centre column puts it on the same limb as the camera so you get shakes, the feet come undone so you can replace them with specialist feet or when they wear out. High end heads don't play well with those silly grub screws and you don't need them. You may need to swap heads out for Panos, macro or video and you don't want to be messing around with little screws. Finally again use a decent head and it folds just fine. Gitzo are probably objectively too expensve but they don't have gimmicks. They are designed to hold you camera steady.
A lot of the Chinese tripods are making names for themselves at low(er) cost, Sirui (pronounced 'see-ray') in particular. I have a Benro, no complaints except the bubble level had no fluid in it. Punched it out and bought a pack of 10 bullseye levels the same size off eBay. Glued one in and it's fine. It's really hard to justify the extra these days when you will mostly be paying for the brand. Having said that, I pair it with an RRS ballhead.
I agree. The "other" tripod brands have really upped the quality in recent years. In hindsight, I should have just ordered another Oben. I was a little hesitant though because on one of mine I had some quality control issues. On delivery from the store, one of the twist-lock legs wouldn't tighten down. I was able to fix it myself, but I was always a bit leery of that. I shouldn't have let it bother me, because the tripod has been fine ever since.
Oben CAN be one of the better brands, but they may eventually wear out and get finnicky after a few years of tough use. The rubber leg locks in particular can melt off or get slippery, especially if you spend a lot of time in hot weather. their heads are nice though, at least the ones with all metal knobs, the rubber head knobs can do the opposite of the leg rubbers: in hot dry weather, they crack off.
Sure.. But Chinese!. They copy everyone else, don't pay royalties, cheat their workers! if that's what you want, go ahead. I will buy American, Canadian, and European ant day of the week. Our economies in the West are floundering because of Chinese crap products. And btw Alan, the traveler series tripod was not what you needed. Next time when you but high end, then for crying out loud, go to a local store and touch and feel what you are going to buy. I mean really, it's like buying a Bughatti Veyron online!. Don't you think you'd like to test drive it first?.
+Andrew Bogda I would definitely buy a Bugatti online...if I could find it in my price range! Lol The Traveller is EXACTLY what I needed as its weight to payload capacity was the most important feature for how I’m going to use it. I needed the lightest possible tripod that would also be stable enough for a 4x5 camera. In this regard it is unmatched. However, it does have shortcomings that I feel should be addressed. Also, I live in the middle of nowhere Tennessee...visiting a photo store that carries a Gitzo isn’t really a viable option.
It seems to me that the zevenhundred dollar came by the marked of other manufacturers, and the Gitzo-crew did not realy wanted to act on that, like 'Kodak'..?
Excellent review, Alan. I have 2 Gitzo Travelers. As you point out, they are light and yet very sturdy for their weight - an important factor for hikers. BUT, I completely agree with your complaints. Luckily, I found the foot that unscrewed on me and since then have (tried to remember to) frequently check those. But... seriously, they could have threaded the feet opposite to the leg threads and eliminated the problem. I don't mind removing the head to make it more compact, but like you I don't get the lack of a ballast hook. The most annoying feature is the lack of a hex-wrench sleeve. A screw on one of the legs is always loosening itself - that's just the nature of these things. Hard to believe that Gitzo doesn't employ any field photographers who have noticed that it would be really handy to have a place to easily keep the appropriate tool with the tripod. I do sometimes fully extend the leg with my Traveler II model - almost unbelievable stability in a tripod this light. So... ultimately, that's why I own a couple of these.
While I can understand your unhappiness in not liking a tripod you just spent $700 for, I think your review is unfair. First, except for the lost feet it seems that your other criticisms were all discoverable before you took the tripod into the field. So you likely had plenty of time to return the tripod to the dealer (or maybe Amazon) for a refund. If you chose not to do so then you haven't helped yourself. As others have pointed out, the removable feet were meant as a feature to enable attaching spiked feet but obviously it is a design fault if they are so easily lost. Gitzo is a "top of the line" name brand and takes advantage of that status by charging top dollar.Perhaps other brands give better value either by providing similar or at least sufficient quality at a lower price, including "extras" such as the tools as part of the tripod, or both. But as you yourself point out, your research did not come up with a better alternative at a better price, and you mention that the tripod is as stable and otherwise performing as expected. I have owned a 3 series Gitzo for almost 25 years and have traveled with it all over the world. It has provided excellent service, not failing even once. My Arca Swiss ballhead (another piece of gear that I've owned for 25 years) has never loosened from the platform and set screws have not been needed. BTW, when packing the tripod away when traveling, I first remove the ballhead. That not only makes the tripod easier to pack but also makes it less likely that one of the knobs on the ballhead will be jammed or bent. Doing so would make your Gitzo more compact. So although I do not own that specific model Gitzo, based on your video the tripod is not "a piece of s**t", even if the too easily detachable feet is a design flaw. That label goes too far and is unfair.
You have to be able to lock and unlock the legs so either way it will be the same in one direction or the other?? This way they are compatible with all accessory feet and spikes.
I've found that the best solution to the tripod strength weight paradox is to join the Marines. After a few weeks your heavy tripod somehow becomes much lighter.
Good review Alan, however if the stability is asked I wouldn't recommend generally a tripod with a middle section. It's make a huge difference, especially if you're using it for heavy stuff like large format camera
Agreed, and on my larger tripod I will probably remove the center column when I receive my 8x10 camera. For this tripod though, in most circumstances I do need to raise the center column a bit so that I'm not hunched over as much when I'm framing the shot. Fortunately, the Intrepid is so light that I don't feel that this compromises stability. I would be much more hesitant with a heavier camera.
I agree also Jacob , and Vince the post above yours also makes a good point, about attaching a hanging bag on a center column, if its windy out you get camera shake because both are mounted on center column. Like Alan, I'm a big guy thats why I only use a XL gitzo with no center column. There seems to be lots of compromises in all facets of photography, the tripod no different. Just recognizing them and excepting or not excepting them requires one's decision.
Ye Old Metal Head All this info is in my video, but I don’t want a Mountaineer. As I said, weight of the tripod was my absolute number one priority. Hence me buying the Traveller. And after using it in for a week in some pretty extreme circumstances, I stand by this video more than ever...it’s just not a great tripod.
+Alan Brock I hear ya, however the Mountaineer doesn't way much more than the Traveler. Although I believe at this price point, every thing you mentioned should be included with this tripod. It is good to hear a non fanboy Gitzo review, that's why I liked your wideo.
Uncle James I’m glad you have had many years of successful use with your tripods. Some of my complaints are user error as I clearly stated. However there are many aspects of this tripod that are not as well designed as on other tripods.
Hi Mate, Good review and you made valid points and I do agree with them all. I own this tripod and also felt that I paid more than what it was worth. Good tripod, but just damn expensive, and for that price, I did expect better. On a practical note, you can actually fold the head (I got the kit version with the Gitzo tripod head) and legs to be compact and proper. before folding the legs into position: I loosen all the locking knobs on the tripod head so it can move freely. I position the head is in Portrait orientation. I turn the arca swiss locking knob facing straight down in the same direction as the centre column. Whilst the head is still loose you can now fold the legs and wriggle the head so it slips snug behind it.
At a certain point you're paying for the beauty of the mechanism - never a NEED for an $800 travel pod. So love for the intangibles - or yeah - get Oben or something and go shooting.
I don't understand how you can blame the tripod for you losing a foot. The removable feet help for cleaning and so you can put spikes, or replace the feet. That's 100% user error, and while it always sucks to lose something and have to spend the $ to get it replaced, that's not an indictment on the product.
I will agree to that to some extent. I will say though that I've had 4 tripods with twist-lock legs and the Gitzo is the only one where I've managed to inadvertently remove a foot. I've had no trouble disassembling and cleaning the other tripods either. It's an annoyance that I didn't have to put up with on my other less-expensive tripods.
IMO it is definitely a valid complaint that these high end tripods have detachable feet so they can sell you aftermarket accessories. For the price they could include either retractable spikes, or free accessory spikes, or at the very least, feet locking screws like I think RRS has.
You should have bought the Gitzo balhead as a kit, then the legs would fold perfectly, I mean this is to be expected when using a aftermarket ball head I wouldn't blame Gitzo for 90% of the things you bring up, some interesting point do, don't get me wrong
I really enjoy your videos and reviews. I'm not far away from the GSMNP, and love that area. Keep up the good work (and I hope RUclips realizes they need to cater their policies to the contributors).
Thanks for watching! I'm hoping that they will make adjustments to their algorithms. Now that it has angered some of the bigger names, perhaps they will listen more!
As the owner of a Ries wooden tripod and Ries head, and of a Gitzo carbon fiber tripod (a G1325 Mk 2, now over ten years old and still my go-to tripod when I don't want to use the Ries) and Manfrotto and Arca Swiss heads, and of a MeFoto Backpacker tripod with integral head, I can only say that this is without doubt the most long-winded and ignorant video on tripods that I have ever seen. Before buying, do some basic research on tripod styles and accessories, which apparently this guy didn't.
And how exactly am I supposed to research how my hand fits across twist lock legs while also hitting the feet? This can only be discovered after you've held the tripod in your hands and used it. The lack of a hooked center column is my fault, as I clearly stated, but it is frustrating that it is something seen on much lower end tripods. Yet on this very expensive tripod it is an accessory I have to buy. I have no clue what researching a tripod style has to do with anything either. However, thanks for using over half of your comment to tell us which tripods you have. Useful information. We were all dying to know.
@Matthew Seville Where did your sense of humour go? It mostly shows that I'm not a tripod snob. As it happens, the MeFoto is great for holding a microphone outdoors (e.g. for mono pass bys or stereo recording), or a very light camera such as a smartphone. Would probably also work extremely well with the new Sony RX0, which I am considering purchasing. Provided that you understand its limitations, it's quite handy if traveling by bike or motorcycle. Buy it on sale for $65, as I did recently, and you've got a handy, inexpensive tool. Besides, it comes with a centre column and a hook, according to Brock important features that my Ries and Gitzo lack :)
GREAT REVIEW! I am so sick of these useless reviews where people just gush about how wonderful a product is. Being that no product is perfect, I LOVE to hear about the minor (and not so minor) things, the idiosyncrasies, pet peeves, and annoyances too. Everybody giving you a hard time about, "It's in the manual...………..blah, blah, blah." Well, unless you were an extremely experienced photographer, who would even know that it's preferable to have set screws to assist in securing the head to the base? I agree with you 587%. It makes no damn sense for a +$700 tripod to have these silly annoyances and omissions. Make the damn diameter of the platform a little larger (to accommodate set screws). Other companies are doing it, so it CAN be done. Equally silly is not having a better way to keep the leg tips (feet) from unscrewing so easily. I'm not an engineer, but commonfuckingsense tells me that (other than the fact that Gitzo, like most companies today, WANT to nickel and dime you to death selling you accessories and replacement parts), Gitzo could have easily deepened the length of the screw threads, so that when the feet become loose, you would KNOW it by feel and could tighten them BEFORE they actually fell off and got lost. As to the Allen wrenches, while I have never really had to use mine (I have a 10 year old, full-size aluminum Giottos tripod, that has given me my money's worth), they did come in a removable pouch attached to the tripod, because...………………….get this people......…….sometimes I get all nutty and walk to a location with NO BAG, just the camera and the tripod. Not to mention, I use a relatively small holster style bag, that while it suits my purposes, does not have a ton of storage room. So, again I agree with your point. Please post more reviews about products you like and do not like, along with your pet peeves. On another semi-related note, one thing I notice about a lot of German made products, is that while they are often expensive, in addition to the German reputation for craftsmanship, I have found that very often, they employ a much more thoughtful design process and design elements to their products. Whereas, the Chinese and damn near everyone else is simply competing on price, and to hell with the consumer. I too was seriously considering a Gitzo carbon fiber travel tripod, however, if I spend a $1,000 on a tripod and head, I do NOT expect to have to be calling the company to request additional parts that have fallen off or constantly be (re)tightening parts within the first year or so of ownership. I just read a Gitzo review on B&H where the customer claims that the controls on Gitzo heads do not have a "stop" on them, and if you unscrew them enough, they just fall out into your hand (or onto the ground, to be lost forever). No thanks Gitzo, I can get those same annoyances with a $200 tripod. I do not own one, and nowadays, 14 out of 11 people want 'lightweight', but I think Berlebach may very well make the best tripods available, however, they're not light or inexpensive.
you did your research but you complain about the height. you'd rather have pads that don't screw off. only the cheap tripods had pads that can't be removed. some of use spikes or other feet. everything that you complain about coming loose can be locktited. make sure you don't use red though or else you'll have to do another video :-) It's a great tripod. I own it. the only complaint I have is no set screws on the disc but I changed discs or I would have used blue locktite. you can also get a weight hook but no one I know uses one. it's a 1-series travel tripod but you seem to think it should do everything. that's just nuts.
@@edrader I didn't complain about the height. I have no issues with that. I also said the hooked center column thing was on me. My point was that there are some really good design features on lower end tripods that are not present on the Traveler...and there is no reason not to have them. Why should I pay almost $700 on a Tripod and have to add Loctite just to keep the feet from coming off? Why should I pay that and the center platform not have a locking screw? Why is it that price but not have an Allen wrench holder like every other cheaper tripod has? If you charge a higher price for your product, people are going to have higher expectations. That's completely fair.
do the Really Right Stuff tripods have allen wrench holders? no and they cost more than gitzo! allen wrenches go in the camera bag and if you locktite the screws you'll probably never need them. these are big boy tripods, man. I have owned many Gitzo tripods and while they aren't perfect they are close to it. I am willing to pay a premium for light, compact and dependable. to be fair I went through quite a few tripods before I discovered what works for me, and you appear to be in that process. honestly for your height you obviously picked the wrong tripod unless you shoot from your knees. but that really is on you and isn't a Gitzo "design flaw".
@@edrader I genuinely don't understand your hang up on the height thing. I rewatched the entire video (a feat considering how much I hate my own voice) and word for word I said "it's plenty tall enough." I most certainly did not pick the wrong tripod for my height.
Maybe, but the fact remains that it's not as well-thought-out as many other tripods that cost much less. It's a very disappointing tripod for the money it cost.
There's no excuse for designing a tripod where the foot unscrews when you unlock the legs. Since the beginning of time (well, since mankind invented the screw thread) it's been possible to make a screw thread work in the opposite way to the norm. Commonly known as 'left hand thread' it has its place in the engineering world. It's successfully stopped one of your bicycle pedals unscrewing when you pedal since bicycles were invented. Come on Gitzo, up your game 🙂
1.) Center column hook: Yeah, it's about time for the big high-end brands (Gitzo, RRS) to start including a center column / platform hook on EVERY tripod, period, in order to compete with the abundance of center column hooks on all the junk brands. They're just trying too hard to make $$$ on aftermarket accessories, and that era is over. 2.) Detachable feet: Same thing. It's just a money grab of the big RRS / Gitzo brands; wanting that aftermarket accessory $$$. 3.) Lack of head set screws: Another dumb omission on Gitzo's part. But I'm starting to wonder, 4.) Lack of wrench clip: Okay that's a little silly, and probably in Gitzo's opinion, downright tacky. Do what the rest of us do, and just toss the wrenches in your camera bag's "small random junk" compartment. 5.) Reverse-fold fail: Yeah, this is why I hate hate HATE ballheads with a third knob for tension / fluidity. Such a setting does not belong on a dedicated knob, period. For this reason, I prefer heads like the RRS BH-25 and BH-30. It's possible that your Gitzo would fully compact when used with a head like the RRS BH-25 or BH-30, the latter of which would be more than enough for even your big 8x10, if you're using a cable release / exposure delay. Having said that, I honestly find that reverse-fold isn't really that exciting as a travel trick, anyways. It just doesn't save you very much space. If I'm traveling and trying to cram a tripod into a suitcase or an overhead compartment, I often never bother reverse-folding my tripods that offer that feature. Taking off the ballhead entirely can be helpful, but is only really necessary for airline travel which is something I'm OK with. 6.) Oben tripods: I've owned two or three, and have destroyed at least one of them so far. They started off as total junk, but might be slightly improved quality by now. (I first tried them in 2013/2014) However, as a general rule I hate all tripods that have such small, captive rubber grips on the leg locks, because they inevitably get melt-y and start slipping, making it extremely to use the tripod at all because you never know if the legs are truly fully locked. This has happened on Oben, and literally every other brand that EVER tested that uses a "captive" rubber design, aside from RRS and Gitzo. (As opposed to a fully rubber-ed lock design, such as on Induro tripods) Then there's the ballhead knobs. Living in the American West, with extremely low humidity and high heat much of the year, if any rubber part on a tripod is designed hard enough NOT to get slippery, it's going to suffer the opposite fate: dry, crack, and fall off completely. I have three or four ballheads right now with knobs covered in gaff tape, instead of the original grip rubber, for this exact reason. All in all, instead of Oben, I'd recommend a different course: Slik. They're the one "OG" brand that many people overlook, or completely forget exists. In reality, Slik is roughly as old as Gitzo or Manfrotto. (or Bogen) Also, they have a much, much better selection of height-to-weight-to-strength ratio tripods, from ~2 lb tripods that are still stiff and strong enough to hold a full-frame DSLR and a big lens, up to my 6'2" eye level, ...to slightly bigger and heavier tripods that get even taller, and hold a lot more weight, (maybe an 8x10?) ...for just a marginal total weight increase. I'd check them out. If you need something even sturdier for 8x10, but are still on a serious weight budget, then I would recommend the Feisol Tournament CT-3342, FEISOL CT-3441T Traveler, or similar. Few other tripods can get that tall at such a low weight.
Amazing piece of equipment. Not sure why you whining about it. You did not do the research went and just bought it, and now when you realize its not for you you bash it. Again its great tripod highly recommended
@@AlanBrockImages what would you expect? They cant predict other companies ball head size and design. It will fold nicely with appropriate ball head Am I missing something here. Gitzo legs fold with gitzo head… its like complaining bmw stearing wheel wont fit honda:)
And I pointed out it didn’t with non-Gitzo heads. It’s a good tripod as far as capacity and height versus weight goes, but there are absolutely some areas where it’s lacking. This shouldn’t be the case for a premium tripod.
Hey Alan, I watched your video on the Gitzo GT1545T. I own the same tripod, but with the Gitzo matching ball head. I listened to your concerns about this tripod, but please allow me to share my thoughts as well. Price you paid $708. Is that US Dollars? And since you are using a Giottos ball head, I assume that the $708 price is just for the legs. Right now (Aug/2022) B&H Photo in New York has the tripod listed for $529.88 and with the matching Gitzo ball head, $679.88. Is it really necessary to have the Allen keys strapped to the tripod? I don't think so. I wouldn't want them attached to my tripod, regardless of tripod brand. They're small. Just put them in your camera bag. I tried to unscrew the feet on my Gitzo. I needed to turn them many times to unscrew them. These feet are not going to spontaneously fall off when loosening the leg locks. I don't think it is fair to blame Gitzo for user error. You complained that when folding the legs up, the ball head doesn't allow the legs to completely fold. Hey, you're using a Giottos ball head (not designed for the Gitzo) and complaining that the tripod doesn't fold up properly! Try using the Gitzo ball head. I did and my tripod legs fold up very nicely into a neat package. I don't see the need for set screws on the platform. My Gitzo ball head sits securely onto my Traveler tripod. Maybe the Giottos ball head is not machined very well and therefore lacks a tight enough fit when used on your Gitzo tripod. I believe that Gitzo makes a hook for the center column that cost only $15 bucks. I'm looking into that now to confirm that that the G--2020 hook will fit on my GT1534T. Look, I own a BMW 330ix and I love the car. Yet for $48K there are still some things that maybe another car manufacturer does better. Certainly any car for half the price will still get you from A to B, right? But if you want a BMW, you get a BMW. If you lust after one of the best tripods that money can buy, you get it, even if there are some small issues - which is subjective because I don't see these faults with my Gitzo GT1545T. One final thought, I have enough products made in China. I no longer wish to support Chinese products and I’m willing to pay more for non-Chinese products whenever I can. By the way, your website has some gorgeous photos! Best regards, Steve (New Rochelle, NY)
Thanks for this comment, I watched this review to help me form an opinion on whether I wanted the Gitzo or a Peak Design tripod to replace a shoddy KF Concept one for hiking with. The point you make are what was going through my mind whilst watching, so good to see one side of the coin in the video and read the other in the comments for a balanced view - thanks :)
@@tomdauben Tom, I'm 68 yrs old and have seen several (Chinese) tripod companies appear on the market and then after a few years they disappear. Gitzo has been around for a while and I suspect they will continue into the future. I know it's a lot to spend on a tripod and the Chinese alternatives do have attractive prices. But consider that this will likely be the last tripod you will ever need and if you should change your mind, you can sell it and get a good portion of your money back. But I doubt you will sell it. Good luck!
@@stevest55 Yes, that's exactly the logic I'm following now, having learnt my lesson the hard way... its important to have a stable platform to take photos on, after all, and buy once buy well is a mantra I really should have followed - thanks Steve :)
When hanging weight on the tripod to stabilize it, there is an attachment point where the legs come together on the tripod "spider". You could also attach the cord to that area so it doesn't get in the way when folding the tripod down. That way it won't tug on the center column. I don't know why they decided not to put a hook on the column, but at least they gave a provision. The feet are way too easy to unscrew, that's for sure. A little bit of loctite would be good for those.
The tripods I have from Gitzo all have the set screw, but they also have bigger platforms so there is more room for it. When it comes to Brock wrenches, what I've found is that the Gitzo tripods hold their friction very well on those legs. I only recently had to tighten down one of the legs on my 3 series which is now 4 years old. I throw the wrenches in my shooting bag, but have not needed to use them in the field. The Gitzo head is designed to be on the tripod when fully collapsed. The knobs are designed to tuck within the legs and still fold down to it's smallest possible size. Since all the heads from other manufacturers are designed differently, they really can't design it to fold down with every design. Though it's expensive, you might consider getting the Gitzo head. It'll fold down small, and for whatever reason they don't seem to come loose as easily. My only complaint on their ballheads is that the knobs are not captive. If you keep unscrewing a knob, it will eventually fall off.
Good points Ben. I have the one-series tripod kit including the Gitzo head, for shooting with Mamiya RZ or DSLR. Folds up nicely and is compact but very stable. Yes the feet are irritating, and I also lost the non-captive panning knob on my first walk out with it. Had to buy a replacement, but now do frequent checks to make sure that it's tight - leave it loose and it *will* fall off. So: flawed, certainly, but by no means a dud.
Also have a 3-series GT3540LS, now used solely for 5x4. The original feet for those were also prone to unscrewing and falling off. Replaced those with the rubber ones/covered spikes, which don't come undone. Otherwise, been going strong for 10 years now and counting.
Great honest and straightforward review Alan, but, I'd like to point out a few areas where we may disagree. First off, I agree about the feet,,, in this price range, I believe they should supply permanently-mounted spiked feet with pull-off rubber caps, or, the retractable screw-type spiked feet that have rubber surrounds. Second, the reason they don't provide a column hook is most likely due to the design of the folding legs. When fully closed, the bottom of the column is flush with the end of the tripod. Adding a hook would mean that the hook protrudes, and risks being an annoyance that catches on things. You'll notice that the non-folding Mountaineer series, does include a column hook, because the legs don't fold like the Traveller-series, and the hook can't protrude.I believe that hanging weight from the spyder is a far better way to go anyway, and that method works with the short column as well as the main column. Regarding the head diameter/tripod folding issue,, Gitzo has heads that specifically match the different Traveller models, and allow complete folding of the tripod legs without removing the head, and those heads are available separately, or, included when purchasing your tripod in "kit" form. I believe the 1-series Traveller uses the GH-1382TQD head,,, and the 2-series uses the GH-1382QD. (no letter "T" in the name). These are superb heads with excellent friction control and zero "droop", plus, they have a built-in panning base, each with its' own dedicated lock-knob. I have four Gitzo tripods; series 3, 4, and 5 Systematics,,, and for portability, I went with the 2-series Traveller "kit" GT2545T-1382QD with heavier capacity legs than the 1-series. I'd like to see a reasonably priced kit-bag available,, and I'd like to see Gitzo offering a levelling base specifically designed for use with the Traveller series heads.
Regarding your comment about the legs not folding in tight with a head on it. Using the Gitzo 82TQD head is not an issue. It folds in snug & is an outstanding head & can hold 10kg & does not move once locked.
You've made some good points about tripod features, but I think you are missing the intention behind the design of the GT1545T, which is extreme portability. Different tripods are designed for different types of photography. As you tell us what you don't like about this travel tripod, you compare to a heavier tripod with more features, such as the little tool holder. To me, this is like comparing a sub-compact car to a Jeep. (Personally, I'd never want my tools on a leg, as they'd snag and pop off.) As for the feet coming loose, yes, that is annoying if you don't know about it ahead of time, so you've helped viewers by pointing it out! But, once we know that grabbing a foot with the rest of the leg sections can twist the foot loose, it is very easy to just not include the foot when twisting. Furthermore, it takes only a second or two to check the feet. A drop of Loctite would also prevent accidental loosening and still allow removing the feet when necessary.
Set-screws? Yes, I can see your worry, but, again, size is everything in this tripod, and increasing the diameter of the base plate would add weight and also limit which ball-heads would fit AND still allow the camera with a macro lens to point straight down. Again, checking tightness is important. Set-screws come lose and get lost too, so they are not something that can be set and forgotten: They also need to be checked, and often. I have another Gitzo, a very large one for using with heavy gear, and I use a little Loctite. I've never, in four years, had a single issue with loosening. And I'm having no issues on the GT1545T without Loctite.
The lack of a hook is something to think about, which I did. When traveling, on my own or with family, I've never bothered hanging a bag from my larger tripod--the tripod which really started to become a burden after our kids came along. Could there be some long exposure opportunities along a seawall in the wind that I miss without hanging a bag from my tripod? Maybe, but, wow, this little, sturdy Gitzo is such a pleasure to have walking around cities or hiking up and down mountain trails!
As for folding up to store, to minimize how much space it takes, yes, they've designed the legs to meet, which means there must be a very tiny head--or one you take off before putting the tripod in your luggage. That's by design, and one of the reasons I've chosen this model. And I'm glad I don't have to deal with set screws.
Again, you've made important points about tripod features, but I think you are complaining that a tripod designed to be as compact and light as possible doesn't have the features of a bigger jack-of-all-trades. I think the tripod does what it was designed for better than any of the other many, many tripods out there. Finally, authorized dealers give us enough time to try a product and decide if its features meet our needs. Your anger expressed at the beginning of your presentation makes me wonder if you knew what you were buying.
Says it al I guess, good to know the feed need some attention, mine is coming tomorrow
I have a friend who swears by gitzo for no other reason than they are expensive. I have a gitzo traveler that I dislike, it is way too light for me to feel comfortable with its sturdiness. I have a manfrotto that I use that is a bit heavier that I much prefer.
The point about the traveler folding up I could not agree more with, having to remove the head seems backwards, but what do we know, we just use the gear. My head also slips off all the time. Ugh.
Can I buy it off you since it seems you don't use it much?
I loved my 2543L to pieces - amazingly sturdy, light, super compact for the overall height, and versatile in ways no other tripod was (namely a twist-off center column for low-level shooting, sealed legs so you don't get dirt/salt in them).
And then it got stolen.
So I bought one used to replace it, but the seller failed to mention it was missing parts (*ahem* that convenient bottom part of the center column) and had some broken anti-twist locks in the legs. And that's when I realized I wouldn't be buying Gitzo again. $200 for a new center column. $30 for o-rings and little plastic pieces. $30 for a HOOK on the bottom of the center column. Plus shipping. Plus a two month wait time for it to be delivered to Italy.
If you want the best performance, by all means buy a Ferrari. But when it breaks, don't be surprised when it's hard to find a mechanic who can fix it, and the parts cost you more than a Honda.
My next tripod? Probably an Induro or Sirui (the 'waterproof' versions are mighty appealing)
I should've stuck with a smaller Oben. I've had some minor quality control problems with those, but they're one third the price. It's just that this Gitzo is very stable for its weight. Oh well, lesson learned. Hopefully more and more people will start to realize that these stupid expensive tripods are not that much better. The "lesser" brands are making leaps and bounds to catch up without the increase in price.
Thanks for the review Alan. I agree completely & have the same tripod for those same exact reasons. May I ask what model was the disc (I might be wrong, but I think Gitzo calls it a “Power disc”). The one you used to replace the gitzo one with? I’ve been so frustrated that it has no locking mechanism
Thanks for all the great content
good review man, you go street to the point, but tell me please, are you using a ZV-E10 camera with "product showcase" turned on ? coz the autofocus is so reactive and accurate, it lock very well on your eyes, and then when you show some details on the tripod, you don't have to hide your face, camera switch automatically ...
It’s nice to find someone talking straight about this tripod and not the usual sponsored reviews talking wonders about it without criticizing its flaws, which for its price are serious ones. Some could say that it still enough to take long exposures but to expect only that on a tripod that expensive I Think is not acceptable.
Excellent review. I've had mine a few years, and came looking to see if I was missing something with the lack of set screws and was relieved to see I wasn't the only one suffering - what a PITA when trying to do panos and the head unscrews itself. Your review was spot on - I wouldn't buy another either... I've also lost a foot, and had to buy the hook, and lost a control knob also (as one of your other commenters also pointed out, they've not got any stop-lock and eventually will just fall off). You might think me careless, but Ive usually had issues with stuff falling off when used in really rough outdoor conditions over many hours.
Didn't even know about these set screws to secure the tripod's platform to the ball head... I don't think they are needed really, specially in a lightweight travel tripod.
Cheap fix would be to add some red Loctite to the threads on the feet.
Yup, already done now that I have a new foot on it!
use blue. red is permanent. once you get your issues sorted out you'll know how to set up your tripod next time
For the same reasons, I sold the same tripod after a month! Wonderful video highlighting the shortcomings
Hi, I have the GT1555T with stock head. I love it and was expecting to hate your review. But I think you made some good points. I'm happy with its base config, stock head, but I can see how these things would be annoying for you. Btw you can buy a centre colum hook from Gitzo. They're about 20 bucks.
Thanks for the review. My Gitzo GT1545 arrived today. I was in love when I pulled it out of the box. As I used it, I appreciated the construction, design and materials even more.
No more checked baggage if I want to take a tripod. It fits perfect in my small carry on bag (along one side). I don't have to put it in on the diagonal. I am 5'8" and it's a good height. The constructions is solid.
I have a plastic coated metal hook with a loop and some nylon strap strapping. I used a sewing machine to create a strap 8.5" long. It has a loop for the hook to slide through. I hang it from the tripod. It works really well and I like it better than the regular hook.
For me, the Gitzo was a good purchase even at the steep price. It's all about this fitting into a carry on bag and not having to check luggage. It's so lightweight.
I took a chance and ordered this case from B&H for $15. The tripod fits inside perfectly (only when it's fully compact to the smallest size). Seems like it custom made with the right amount of wiggle room.
The material is stronger than the cloth one they give you. It has a pocket for the various L-Wrenches. And, it can hold my hook strap.
At B&H.
Pakpod Tripod Bag with Accessory Storage and Strap (Black)
B&H # PATPDBG MFR # 019962654435
Gitzo does sell a small bag for $79.
I lost the foot on my (cheaper) Gitzo tripod the first time I went out. They did kindly send me a free replacement so I can't complain, but I agree it is a design flaw.
Did you use a gitzo ballhead ? Mine never got loose.
I was expecting not to like the review as I have one of these tripods for years and its excellent. Your negative points are valid and well thought out. I still think its a brilliant tripod though. It's served me very well - very robust and travel friendly. It's been through the worst of conditions and still looks good.
Picked up the GT1545TA yesterday. It comes with a strap, a carrying case and hook. The salesperson put locktite on the feet. About to go shoot with it this morning. Oh, and I registered it online to warranty it until 1/28!
The Locktite is a great idea! It's actually a really good tripod if you need a good balance of height, weight, and load capacity. My video was an attempt at slight humor in pointing out a few glaring details that I wasn't expecting on such a high-end tripod. It is still my primary tripod to this day.
@@AlanBrockImages Great to hear! Your video was very helpful. I would not have bothered to ask the salesman about fastening the feet if I hadn’t watched your review. In fact, the floor model was missing one foot! hehe
Arrived at this review years later because there's not a lot of criticism besides all the fanboy raves about the Rolls Royce of tripods. Was aiming to use the sticks for the video head but am convinced that the tiny base without any anti-twist, and the folding problem around any non-Gitzo head, would be a nightmare.
Meanwhile the GK1545T has set screws. However I do not understand for what I need it. For me it seems completely useless. This tripod is for me really the best choice, even there is room for improvements. But it fulfils what it is made for. Best compromise between stability and mobility.
I was watching this thinking there might be something wrong with the tripod, all your complaints are that it isn't like your 200$ tripod. A lot of the weaknesses are strengths.
Hanging from the centre column puts it on the same limb as the camera so you get shakes, the feet come undone so you can replace them with specialist feet or when they wear out. High end heads don't play well with those silly grub screws and you don't need them. You may need to swap heads out for Panos, macro or video and you don't want to be messing around with little screws. Finally again use a decent head and it folds just fine.
Gitzo are probably objectively too expensve but they don't have gimmicks. They are designed to hold you camera steady.
So which tripod would you recommend for ultralight?
A lot of the Chinese tripods are making names for themselves at low(er) cost, Sirui (pronounced 'see-ray') in particular. I have a Benro, no complaints except the bubble level had no fluid in it. Punched it out and bought a pack of 10 bullseye levels the same size off eBay. Glued one in and it's fine. It's really hard to justify the extra these days when you will mostly be paying for the brand. Having said that, I pair it with an RRS ballhead.
I agree. The "other" tripod brands have really upped the quality in recent years. In hindsight, I should have just ordered another Oben. I was a little hesitant though because on one of mine I had some quality control issues. On delivery from the store, one of the twist-lock legs wouldn't tighten down. I was able to fix it myself, but I was always a bit leery of that. I shouldn't have let it bother me, because the tripod has been fine ever since.
Oben CAN be one of the better brands, but they may eventually wear out and get finnicky after a few years of tough use. The rubber leg locks in particular can melt off or get slippery, especially if you spend a lot of time in hot weather. their heads are nice though, at least the ones with all metal knobs, the rubber head knobs can do the opposite of the leg rubbers: in hot dry weather, they crack off.
Sure.. But Chinese!. They copy everyone else, don't pay royalties, cheat their workers! if that's what you want, go ahead. I will buy American, Canadian, and European ant day of the week. Our economies in the West are floundering because of Chinese crap products.
And btw Alan, the traveler series tripod was not what you needed. Next time when you but high end, then for crying out loud, go to a local store and touch and feel what you are going to buy. I mean really, it's like buying a Bughatti Veyron online!. Don't you think you'd like to test drive it first?.
+Andrew Bogda I would definitely buy a Bugatti online...if I could find it in my price range! Lol The Traveller is EXACTLY what I needed as its weight to payload capacity was the most important feature for how I’m going to use it. I needed the lightest possible tripod that would also be stable enough for a 4x5 camera. In this regard it is unmatched. However, it does have shortcomings that I feel should be addressed. Also, I live in the middle of nowhere Tennessee...visiting a photo store that carries a Gitzo isn’t really a viable option.
Your Oben looks pretty good. Can you talk about it?
the folding head thing was really useful!
It seems to me that the zevenhundred dollar came by the marked of other manufacturers, and the Gitzo-crew did not realy wanted to act on that, like 'Kodak'..?
Excellent review, Alan. I have 2 Gitzo Travelers. As you point out, they are light and yet very sturdy for their weight - an important factor for hikers. BUT, I completely agree with your complaints. Luckily, I found the foot that unscrewed on me and since then have (tried to remember to) frequently check those. But... seriously, they could have threaded the feet opposite to the leg threads and eliminated the problem. I don't mind removing the head to make it more compact, but like you I don't get the lack of a ballast hook. The most annoying feature is the lack of a hex-wrench sleeve. A screw on one of the legs is always loosening itself - that's just the nature of these things. Hard to believe that Gitzo doesn't employ any field photographers who have noticed that it would be really handy to have a place to easily keep the appropriate tool with the tripod. I do sometimes fully extend the leg with my Traveler II model - almost unbelievable stability in a tripod this light. So... ultimately, that's why I own a couple of these.
Thanks! I enjoy your rants... fun to watch. I look forward to the fall season photos!
While I can understand your unhappiness in not liking a tripod you just spent $700 for, I think your review is unfair. First, except for the lost feet it seems that your other criticisms were all discoverable before you took the tripod into the field. So you likely had plenty of time to return the tripod to the dealer (or maybe Amazon) for a refund. If you chose not to do so then you haven't helped yourself.
As others have pointed out, the removable feet were meant as a feature to enable attaching spiked feet but obviously it is a design fault if they are so easily lost. Gitzo is a "top of the line" name brand and takes advantage of that status by charging top dollar.Perhaps other brands give better value either by providing similar or at least sufficient quality at a lower price, including "extras" such as the tools as part of the tripod, or both. But as you yourself point out, your research did not come up with a better alternative at a better price, and you mention that the tripod is as stable and otherwise performing as expected.
I have owned a 3 series Gitzo for almost 25 years and have traveled with it all over the world. It has provided excellent service, not failing even once. My Arca Swiss ballhead (another piece of gear that I've owned for 25 years) has never loosened from the platform and set screws have not been needed. BTW, when packing the tripod away when traveling, I first remove the ballhead. That not only makes the tripod easier to pack but also makes it less likely that one of the knobs on the ballhead will be jammed or bent. Doing so would make your Gitzo more compact.
So although I do not own that specific model Gitzo, based on your video the tripod is not "a piece of s**t", even if the too easily detachable feet is a design flaw. That label goes too far and is unfair.
For $700 I would expect them to thread the feet opposite to the legs.
You have to be able to lock and unlock the legs so either way it will be the same in one direction or the other?? This way they are compatible with all accessory feet and spikes.
Vince Vinnyp that's true, it would limit what accessories fit.
@@vincevinnyp9224 .... SO your point is that you risk loosing the feet (due to being attached via threading) no matter what.
thank you for a honest, thorough review.
I've found that the best solution to the tripod strength weight paradox is to join the Marines. After a few weeks your heavy tripod somehow becomes much lighter.
Potentially getting shot at one day is a downside to this method I'm imagining...
Alan, you look fit enough, at least in that shirt. Do "leg day" enough and a 3.2 lb tripod will be just fine instead of a 2.3 lb tripod.
What is a leg day? Is that some sort of arm exercise??
can you not take off a leg foot and throw the allen wrenches in the leg? Honestly don't know.
Really good review, refreshing to hear some unbiased constructive criticism. Keep it up
Good review Alan, however if the stability is asked I wouldn't recommend generally a tripod with a middle section. It's make a huge difference, especially if you're using it for heavy stuff like large format camera
Agreed, and on my larger tripod I will probably remove the center column when I receive my 8x10 camera. For this tripod though, in most circumstances I do need to raise the center column a bit so that I'm not hunched over as much when I'm framing the shot. Fortunately, the Intrepid is so light that I don't feel that this compromises stability. I would be much more hesitant with a heavier camera.
I agree also Jacob , and Vince the post above yours also makes a good point, about attaching a hanging bag on a center column, if its windy out you get camera shake because both are mounted on center column. Like Alan, I'm a big guy thats why I only use a XL gitzo with no center column. There seems to be lots of compromises in all facets of photography, the tripod no different. Just recognizing them and excepting or not excepting them requires one's decision.
Dang you got so fired up! Talked me out burning my money on a Gitzo so thanks for sharing!
Excellent points! Thank you
Mountaineer series 2 and 3 have all the features that you're whining about. All this info is in their catalogue.
Ye Old Metal Head All this info is in my video, but I don’t want a Mountaineer. As I said, weight of the tripod was my absolute number one priority. Hence me buying the Traveller. And after using it in for a week in some pretty extreme circumstances, I stand by this video more than ever...it’s just not a great tripod.
+Alan Brock I hear ya, however the Mountaineer doesn't way much more than the Traveler. Although I believe at this price point, every thing you mentioned should be included with this tripod. It is good to hear a non fanboy Gitzo review, that's why I liked your wideo.
All your complaints are down to user error. I have used gitzos for over 25 years and never had these ‘issues’
Uncle James I’m glad you have had many years of successful use with your tripods. Some of my complaints are user error as I clearly stated. However there are many aspects of this tripod that are not as well designed as on other tripods.
Hi Mate, Good review and you made valid points and I do agree with them all.
I own this tripod and also felt that I paid more than what it was worth. Good tripod, but just damn expensive, and for that price, I did expect better.
On a practical note, you can actually fold the head (I got the kit version with the Gitzo tripod head) and legs to be compact and proper.
before folding the legs into position:
I loosen all the locking knobs on the tripod head so it can move freely.
I position the head is in Portrait orientation.
I turn the arca swiss locking knob facing straight down in the same direction as the centre column.
Whilst the head is still loose you can now fold the legs and wriggle the head so it slips snug behind it.
i was about to click Buy Now on this...but damn you right...
At a certain point you're paying for the beauty of the mechanism - never a NEED for an $800 travel pod. So love for the intangibles - or yeah - get Oben or something and go shooting.
I don't understand how you can blame the tripod for you losing a foot. The removable feet help for cleaning and so you can put spikes, or replace the feet. That's 100% user error, and while it always sucks to lose something and have to spend the $ to get it replaced, that's not an indictment on the product.
I will agree to that to some extent. I will say though that I've had 4 tripods with twist-lock legs and the Gitzo is the only one where I've managed to inadvertently remove a foot. I've had no trouble disassembling and cleaning the other tripods either. It's an annoyance that I didn't have to put up with on my other less-expensive tripods.
IMO it is definitely a valid complaint that these high end tripods have detachable feet so they can sell you aftermarket accessories. For the price they could include either retractable spikes, or free accessory spikes, or at the very least, feet locking screws like I think RRS has.
You should have bought the Gitzo balhead as a kit, then the legs would fold perfectly, I mean this is to be expected when using a aftermarket ball head I wouldn't blame Gitzo for 90% of the things you bring up, some interesting point do, don't get me wrong
I really enjoy your videos and reviews. I'm not far away from the GSMNP, and love that area. Keep up the good work (and I hope RUclips realizes they need to cater their policies to the contributors).
Thanks for watching! I'm hoping that they will make adjustments to their algorithms. Now that it has angered some of the bigger names, perhaps they will listen more!
It doesn’t do windows either. 😕
Thanks for the review man! I was thinking of getting a Gitzo until this :)
wish have watched this earlyier, I have just ordered this tripod....as a second tripod. I own the Gitzo mountain and it has a hook...:)
Feet fell off mine too.
Just saved me $1000 bucks.. Thanks for the honest review.
HI
As the owner of a Ries wooden tripod and Ries head, and of a Gitzo carbon fiber tripod (a G1325 Mk 2, now over ten years old and still my go-to tripod when I don't want to use the Ries) and Manfrotto and Arca Swiss heads, and of a MeFoto Backpacker tripod with integral head, I can only say that this is without doubt the most long-winded and ignorant video on tripods that I have ever seen. Before buying, do some basic research on tripod styles and accessories, which apparently this guy didn't.
And how exactly am I supposed to research how my hand fits across twist lock legs while also hitting the feet? This can only be discovered after you've held the tripod in your hands and used it. The lack of a hooked center column is my fault, as I clearly stated, but it is frustrating that it is something seen on much lower end tripods. Yet on this very expensive tripod it is an accessory I have to buy. I have no clue what researching a tripod style has to do with anything either. However, thanks for using over half of your comment to tell us which tripods you have. Useful information. We were all dying to know.
The minute you mention owning a MeFoto tripod, you lose all credibility, period.
@Matthew Seville Where did your sense of humour go? It mostly shows that I'm not a tripod snob. As it happens, the MeFoto is great for holding a microphone outdoors (e.g. for mono pass bys or stereo recording), or a very light camera such as a smartphone. Would probably also work extremely well with the new Sony RX0, which I am considering purchasing. Provided that you understand its limitations, it's quite handy if traveling by bike or motorcycle. Buy it on sale for $65, as I did recently, and you've got a handy, inexpensive tool. Besides, it comes with a centre column and a hook, according to Brock important features that my Ries and Gitzo lack :)
Sorry Bruh. Seems like there is nothing wrong with the tripod, or it's design. You just don't seem to like it. Because of things other tripods have.
Gitzo legende has lifetime warranty👍
Yo I'm wearing the exact same shirt right now!
GREAT REVIEW!
I am so sick of these useless reviews where people just gush about how wonderful a product is. Being that no product is perfect, I LOVE to hear about the minor (and not so minor) things, the idiosyncrasies, pet peeves, and annoyances too.
Everybody giving you a hard time about, "It's in the manual...………..blah, blah, blah." Well, unless you were an extremely experienced photographer, who would even know that it's preferable to have set screws to assist in securing the head to the base?
I agree with you 587%. It makes no damn sense for a +$700 tripod to have these silly annoyances and omissions. Make the damn diameter of the platform a little larger (to accommodate set screws). Other companies are doing it, so it CAN be done. Equally silly is not having a better way to keep the leg tips (feet) from unscrewing so easily. I'm not an engineer, but commonfuckingsense tells me that (other than the fact that Gitzo, like most companies today, WANT to nickel and dime you to death selling you accessories and replacement parts), Gitzo could have easily deepened the length of the screw threads, so that when the feet become loose, you would KNOW it by feel and could tighten them BEFORE they actually fell off and got lost.
As to the Allen wrenches, while I have never really had to use mine (I have a 10 year old, full-size aluminum Giottos tripod, that has given me my money's worth), they did come in a removable pouch attached to the tripod, because...………………….get this people......…….sometimes I get all nutty and walk to a location with NO BAG, just the camera and the tripod. Not to mention, I use a relatively small holster style bag, that while it suits my purposes, does not have a ton of storage room. So, again I agree with your point.
Please post more reviews about products you like and do not like, along with your pet peeves.
On another semi-related note, one thing I notice about a lot of German made products, is that while they are often expensive, in addition to the German reputation for craftsmanship, I have found that very often, they employ a much more thoughtful design process and design elements to their products. Whereas, the Chinese and damn near everyone else is simply competing on price, and to hell with the consumer.
I too was seriously considering a Gitzo carbon fiber travel tripod, however, if I spend a $1,000 on a tripod and head, I do NOT expect to have to be calling the company to request additional parts that have fallen off or constantly be (re)tightening parts within the first year or so of ownership. I just read a Gitzo review on B&H where the customer claims that the controls on Gitzo heads do not have a "stop" on them, and if you unscrew them enough, they just fall out into your hand (or onto the ground, to be lost forever). No thanks Gitzo, I can get those same annoyances with a $200 tripod.
I do not own one, and nowadays, 14 out of 11 people want 'lightweight', but I think Berlebach may very well make the best tripods available, however, they're not light or inexpensive.
Honestly, all his grapes are user error.
Gitzo head locks into gitzo tripod no need for screws
Not everyone uses Gitzo heads.
dude blue locktite or plumbers tape. gitzo and markins make a ballhead for this tripod. do your research next time or stick with the Chinese pods
Did my research and it still meets a need for weight payload ratio. It's also severely lacking in several areas.
you did your research but you complain about the height. you'd rather have pads that don't screw off. only the cheap tripods had pads that can't be removed. some of use spikes or other feet. everything that you complain about coming loose can be locktited. make sure you don't use red though or else you'll have to do another video :-) It's a great tripod. I own it. the only complaint I have is no set screws on the disc but I changed discs or I would have used blue locktite. you can also get a weight hook but no one I know uses one. it's a 1-series travel tripod but you seem to think it should do everything. that's just nuts.
@@edrader I didn't complain about the height. I have no issues with that. I also said the hooked center column thing was on me. My point was that there are some really good design features on lower end tripods that are not present on the Traveler...and there is no reason not to have them. Why should I pay almost $700 on a Tripod and have to add Loctite just to keep the feet from coming off? Why should I pay that and the center platform not have a locking screw? Why is it that price but not have an Allen wrench holder like every other cheaper tripod has? If you charge a higher price for your product, people are going to have higher expectations. That's completely fair.
do the Really Right Stuff tripods have allen wrench holders? no and they cost more than gitzo! allen wrenches go in the camera bag and if you locktite the screws you'll probably never need them. these are big boy tripods, man. I have owned many Gitzo tripods and while they aren't perfect they are close to it. I am willing to pay a premium for light, compact and dependable. to be fair I went through quite a few tripods before I discovered what works for me, and you appear to be in that process. honestly for your height you obviously picked the wrong tripod unless you shoot from your knees. but that really is on you and isn't a Gitzo "design flaw".
@@edrader I genuinely don't understand your hang up on the height thing. I rewatched the entire video (a feat considering how much I hate my own voice) and word for word I said "it's plenty tall enough." I most certainly did not pick the wrong tripod for my height.
sorry to say, all 'flaws' you mentioned, are the user problems ...
Maybe, but the fact remains that it's not as well-thought-out as many other tripods that cost much less. It's a very disappointing tripod for the money it cost.
according to this, the more expensive RRS tripods and with less features are generally even worse ...
deviceundertest Ok
There's no excuse for designing a tripod where the foot unscrews when you unlock the legs. Since the beginning of time (well, since mankind invented the screw thread) it's been possible to make a screw thread work in the opposite way to the norm. Commonly known as 'left hand thread' it has its place in the engineering world. It's successfully stopped one of your bicycle pedals unscrewing when you pedal since bicycles were invented. Come on Gitzo, up your game 🙂
Lol it wouldn't make a difference because you have to re-tighten the legs. They need the medicine cap screws lol.
1.) Center column hook:
Yeah, it's about time for the big high-end brands (Gitzo, RRS) to start including a center column / platform hook on EVERY tripod, period, in order to compete with the abundance of center column hooks on all the junk brands. They're just trying too hard to make $$$ on aftermarket accessories, and that era is over.
2.) Detachable feet:
Same thing. It's just a money grab of the big RRS / Gitzo brands; wanting that aftermarket accessory $$$.
3.) Lack of head set screws:
Another dumb omission on Gitzo's part. But I'm starting to wonder,
4.) Lack of wrench clip:
Okay that's a little silly, and probably in Gitzo's opinion, downright tacky. Do what the rest of us do, and just toss the wrenches in your camera bag's "small random junk" compartment.
5.) Reverse-fold fail:
Yeah, this is why I hate hate HATE ballheads with a third knob for tension / fluidity. Such a setting does not belong on a dedicated knob, period. For this reason, I prefer heads like the RRS BH-25 and BH-30. It's possible that your Gitzo would fully compact when used with a head like the RRS BH-25 or BH-30, the latter of which would be more than enough for even your big 8x10, if you're using a cable release / exposure delay.
Having said that, I honestly find that reverse-fold isn't really that exciting as a travel trick, anyways. It just doesn't save you very much space. If I'm traveling and trying to cram a tripod into a suitcase or an overhead compartment, I often never bother reverse-folding my tripods that offer that feature. Taking off the ballhead entirely can be helpful, but is only really necessary for airline travel which is something I'm OK with.
6.) Oben tripods:
I've owned two or three, and have destroyed at least one of them so far. They started off as total junk, but might be slightly improved quality by now. (I first tried them in 2013/2014)
However, as a general rule I hate all tripods that have such small, captive rubber grips on the leg locks, because they inevitably get melt-y and start slipping, making it extremely to use the tripod at all because you never know if the legs are truly fully locked. This has happened on Oben, and literally every other brand that EVER tested that uses a "captive" rubber design, aside from RRS and Gitzo. (As opposed to a fully rubber-ed lock design, such as on Induro tripods)
Then there's the ballhead knobs. Living in the American West, with extremely low humidity and high heat much of the year, if any rubber part on a tripod is designed hard enough NOT to get slippery, it's going to suffer the opposite fate: dry, crack, and fall off completely. I have three or four ballheads right now with knobs covered in gaff tape, instead of the original grip rubber, for this exact reason.
All in all, instead of Oben, I'd recommend a different course: Slik. They're the one "OG" brand that many people overlook, or completely forget exists. In reality, Slik is roughly as old as Gitzo or Manfrotto. (or Bogen) Also, they have a much, much better selection of height-to-weight-to-strength ratio tripods, from ~2 lb tripods that are still stiff and strong enough to hold a full-frame DSLR and a big lens, up to my 6'2" eye level, ...to slightly bigger and heavier tripods that get even taller, and hold a lot more weight, (maybe an 8x10?) ...for just a marginal total weight increase.
I'd check them out. If you need something even sturdier for 8x10, but are still on a serious weight budget, then I would recommend the Feisol Tournament CT-3342, FEISOL CT-3441T Traveler, or similar. Few other tripods can get that tall at such a low weight.
I'll give you $200. for it!!!
Amazing piece of equipment. Not sure why you whining about it.
You did not do the research went and just bought it, and now when you realize its not for you you bash it.
Again its great tripod highly recommended
It might be great for you, but it wasn't great for him, hence the reason for the review.
Agreed… no more gitzos for me. Overpriced and underwhelming.
You can fold it! Bud get off drugs.
Not with the head on it, as I clearly stated in the video. I’m sorry I insulted your tripod; perhaps you should be less attached to material objects.
@@AlanBrockImages what would you expect?
They cant predict other companies ball head size and design.
It will fold nicely with appropriate ball head
Am I missing something here. Gitzo legs fold with gitzo head… its like complaining bmw stearing wheel wont fit honda:)
And I pointed out it didn’t with non-Gitzo heads. It’s a good tripod as far as capacity and height versus weight goes, but there are absolutely some areas where it’s lacking. This shouldn’t be the case for a premium tripod.
@@AlanBrockImages not true Alan, first min of your review and you called “shit”
@@transikk What’s not true?
Never EVER assume..