Tripod reviewers always fail to demonstrate product performance with cameras attached. Consumers need to know how different cameras with different (i.e., heavy) lenses perform. Is the rig steady? Does the head hold firmly when the camera is released by the photographer yet allow smooth and confidant movement when desired? Thank you for your reviews.
Hi Toby! I was just a little surprised you didn't talk about LEG stability. Personally I find 4 section tripods to be much more stable than 5 section, and you only have 9 leg locks versus 12 to unlock or lock. And the overall length isn't much different. Even the 4 section tripods will fit in most carry-on luggage. I worked in a camera store, and found the Gitzo to be MUCH more stable than the units under $350, but of course it costs. I JUST had a set of Gitzo GT1544T legs delivered to my house in California yesterday that I got on Ebay for $344. I've always wanted a Gitzo Traveler, but the price was out of sight. But I've never seen such rock solid stability from such a light tripod. If you press down on the legs and flex them, the Gitzo, at least for me, is rock solid compared to the others.
I was listening while I organized a closet and walked away. I came back and heard "I had a leg fall off while I was in the woods and didn't know about it..."
I've been using the 5-section version of that Gitzo for just over a year now. I love it, it folds up so small. One thing you forgot to mention is that you can also adjust the overall tension of the Gitzo head. You have to take off the ballhead, but there's a screw at the end of the socket that adjusts the tension.
I am big fan of the Mefoto Roadtrip. A little biased, it is my first and only tripod so far. I had the same issue with grabbing the tension knob instead of the pan knob. What I started doing was every time I setup my camera on the ball head. That the main knob is on the left, the pan knob is facing me, and the tension knob is away from me. Out of sight, out of mind. My left hand to loosen the main knob, right hand to adjust the camera, and pan tilt knob if need be. The tension knob is good to have for different camera setups. Thank you very much for your review. Really helpful.
Another benefit to doing it that way is putting it into portrait mode is always the same as well. Loosen the pan - tilt knob, then the main knob, and get your composition. Repeat, repeat, and get that muscle memory down in no time. Anytime! Thank you.
Also my first tripod but in aluminum! Asides a cheap bundle throw in one i got with my 1st camera. i have made many of the same mistakes with the knobs too. Great tips
I've used the non carbon-fiber MeFoto RoadTrip extensively over the last few years and it has done the job perfectly for me. I've looked into the carbon fiber version of it but the weight save really doesn't justify the upgrade in my opinion. Something I absolutely love about the MeFoto RoadTrip is the way the legs and center column fold together: this makes it so small and travel friendly !! As usual great content Toby, all the best !
When I want to travel very light and compact it's still the non carbon fiber RoadTrip that I grab too - weight wise it's about the same but it does fold up so small.
I have the bonfoto aluminium great tripod, it has big spikes under the rubber feet. The rubber feet are pretty hard to get off but it's better than loosing the rubber feet.
Few months ago I was in a terrible dilemma with Mefoto or Amazon Basic and a cheaper alternative. So I ordered Amazon Basic and the cheaper alternative. I returned the Amazon basic for its horrible quantity. I was surprised the cheaper alternative stood out so well for its value. My recommendation to anyone buying tripod of Amazon, they have free return. Try and return the one you dont like.
Great video! I bought a $200 Manfrotto as my first tripod a few years ago, it is stable but man is it heavy. For that reason I usually leave it at home. Now, I totally see a reason for these lighter but maybe not as stable tripods.
I was using my MeFoto tripod on a ocean cliff and had the case blow off the cliff and and disappear into the ocean. I phoned them for a new case. Although I tried to insist that they should not pay for my negligence they would not allow me to pay for a new case but just immediately sent out a new case for free. Their customer service rocks.
Thanks for the comparison. I couldn't justify the difference in price versus weight for the carbon fiber tripods and ended up going for the Vanguard Alta Pro 2+ 264AT with the BH-100 head. Seemed like a good starter tripod well within my price range ($199 for the tripod and $80 for the head on Amazon).
I've bought the Gitzo a year ago. At first I wanted to buy a really good Sirui but after comparing the stiffness my desission was the Gitzo. And this is the point I'm missing here. How is the stability and stiffness from the tripods.
Yeah wouldve loved to have seen that addressed! Its kinda one of the primary functions of a tripod. Personally bought a used gitzo off ebay and i think thats one of the best value propositions out there.
I have a Mefoto, to me one of the most important deals is the safety knob or being able to use different plates with it. And still be sure the camera won't fall off or slip out of the head. It did once and I was lucky the camera didn't get smashed on the asfalt. I often put the camera on there and move the tripod around with it on top, when I have a "tripod-day". The slide in lock is not safe enough in my opinion. I'm getting another brand.
I have the MeFoto and I totally agree with your opinion of the head. Having two knobs just makes no sense... just waste more time when you want to adjust the level
$ 500 bucks TYD from some places. Well worth it for the shooting sports I do. I mount and shoot my 18 lbs rifle off the thing all the time for some match stages. I LOVE IT. Rock solid spotting scope tripod as well. When the wind kicks up, most other tripods wobble. This one does not!!!
Just bought an Ikan with fluid head for my videos. I think I'm taking it back. It's way too heavy (16 pounds). But only $279. I may look at a Manfrotto 500 head with lever lock legs. More expensive but lighter. Any thoughts?
MeFoto does have great customer support. I like mine, and would recommend Mefoto or Vanguard tripods. Really Right Stuff are not worth the insane prices.
Mefoto roadtrip aluminum is what I have had for about 3 years now and it's still in perfect condition. Been to the beach in salt water and up mountains many times and used as a walking stick. I can recommend it highly no issues at all. Thanks for the videos Toby👍
I have the Bonphoto and for the money, it's a great tripod, Holds my Nikon D810 with Nikon 80-200 f2.8 lens easily. No wa would I pay £1000 for a tripod.
Sirui T-005X not on the list? I bought one 4.5 years ago...it was sooo good in terms of weight and functionality that when it kicked the bucket last month....I ordered another one. Costs 130 USD in my country but I think its about 100 USD in the US...it is currently on promotion in Singapore and only costs 70 USD.
good to know, wish I watched this 3 months ago. Bought a manfrotto 055, and it weighs 8lbs. Had to get a cheap travel pod to carry outside, and wish I went with the bonfotto now. Thanks for the info, great review. (could have picked a better day,lol)
Hi, have you tried the 3 legged thing Billy? It is a similar tripod but with 4 section legs and grippier nobs. They’ve partnered with peakdesign and made their tripod heads both Arca swiss and peakdesign compatible. The tripod is great but the plate provided has a couple of drawbacks... it doesn’t have a safety pin and because of the peakdesign compatibility, the plate somehow slips out very easily. I’ve almost dropped an expensive camera so ended up returning it. Great look & feel but way too unsafe. I am now looking at other options including the mefoto roadtrip.
I too had the leg on my MeFoto fall off. Reading through online reviews, it happens with the MeFoto. Fact is...…………..most tripods today have the leg sections attached via plastic bushings. So, your $1500 camera and $900 lens are all being supported by $1.50 worth of plastic. That bushing fails...…………………….and when you go to extend a leg, the entire section comes off in your hands. Would never buy a MeFoto again. I've never used a Gitzo, however, I am pretty sure that they too use plastic bushings to hold the leg sections together, however, somehow they implement it better. Like A LOT of products, Gitzo at one time (maybe 20, 30, 50 years ago), had a great reputation. Now, the company is owned by a hedge fund or holding company that owns Manfrotto as well, so it's not the same company nor the same company values of 20 years ago. In theory, (if I had it like that), I would say that a $900 tripod to hold $2,000 or $3,000 (or more) worth of gear, is not unreasonable, especially if it "should" last a lifetime. However, reading through user comments on B&H's site, do not help Gitzo's image. A couple of posters mentioned that the controls on Gitzo's ball heads do not have a "stop". So, if you unscrew a knob too much, the knob won't stop, it'll just come off and fall on the ground (that must be super fun in the dark). There were also several posts about Gitzo's customer service. So, MY issue is less about paying $900 for a tripod, than it is that a $900 tripod is not particularly thoughtfully designed.
I had the same thing happen to my Sirui tripod. It was only an issue, albeit a very annoying one, when extending or collapsing the tripod though. Then indeed it can come off very easily. When you tighten the legs through the locking mechanism, it is just as sturdy as ever though. So I don't think it's really an issue when the tripod is setup. I tried to move the leg when the mechanism was locked (while the plastic bushing was missing) and it didn't move at all. And I'm pretty sure that's a lot more force than my camera could generate.
Lighter is relative. I am 5'9" tall and weigh 175. Not big -- not small. But when traveling and hiking up hills, 3 lbs extra hurts tons when added to the camera/lenses and other stuff I am carrying an entire day. I got the Gitzo Traveler 3 years ago and never use it because I dread hauling it so I never use a tripod and give up on the entire experience of long exposure although i take tons of handheld images. I'm off to Nepal in a couple of months and want to revisit. Not sure if I should take the Gitzo or find a 1.5 pound kit if a good one existed? Any help is appreciated. Maybe my best solution is the Gitzo that I already own, but alternatives are welcome.
Hi I found the Jusino brand of tripods... looks feels and handles like the mefoto.... picked mine up in Singapore holds the 80D and 6D with a 24-105 L lens and is very stable... you should try it out ... it’s the one up from the smallest I guess the size of the mefoto road trip
I’m disappointed after purchasing a 200€ vanguard tripod instead of a 80€ neewer or kf concept tripod. The ball of the headball came with scratches and when I put my lightweight sony sel55210 on it, ir tilts down a few degrees after fastening it in the tripod head. I wonder if this is normal in travel tripods or if I’ve been scammed...
I should have mentioned that I found them all to be equally stable and legs moved as smoothly with each so it then came down to the use of the head and the grip of the rubber on the leg extensions.
Nice video. I would have liked to seen a fit in a carry on suitcase demonstration. I’m trying to find a new travel tripod. I feel so burned by the Mefoto Air that I will never buy anything from them again (legs don’t work, head crashes down). There are so many choices online but none locally. Tripod shopping is hard!
I am not a big fan of the air - it's ok if you REALLY value weight/size but several sacrifices. All of these fold down small enough to fit in a carry on suitcase.
I've definitely grown more fond of mefoto and it actually holds a lot of gear. I tried the cheap garbage before like that bonfoto and other amazon ones and they are terrible.
I had a Sirui CF travel pod that I won, but sold it as my 3 Legged Thing Eddie Evo II CF was superior to it. The MeFoto looks to be a knockoff of the 3 Legged line at a lesser price point.
I didn't like the mefoto tripod, just collecting dust. I love my benro carbon fiber. Got it for about $200, only thing is it doesn't reverse fold so not too travel friendly.
Very interesting. Is their any difference in the load each of them can carry? Or have you found any difference in stability. E.g. having a Full Frame Dslr with a 70-200 (or so) attached; fully extended on a windy day doing long exposure... Does one of them fold down to a significant smaller size? If that is not the case I don’t see the point of the gitzo. Other then bragging... between the bon and mefoto I would have to decide if I want the extra height... otherwise the bonfoto with a nicer head would be my choice
Load specs are listed below the video. The gitzo can hold 5 more lbs. I found no differences in stability and they all fold down to the same size give or take an inch :)
I respect you but this was the weirdest review ever, let me tell you why >>> MeFoto in general is re-branded cheap Chinese tripod, pretty sure it is made in the same factories as Zomei, K&F concept and other similar tripods. Since November I am using Bonfoto B674C (by the way it is not 671, but 674) and the tripod is simply amazing. You mentioned that the pano knob had a plastic feel, however it is CNC machined aluminum knob. Every part of the ball head is CNC machined and there is not a single plastic part on the tripod apart from the rubber pads on the legs and the knobs.
Mal empezamos. Pone que el primer trípode es el Bonfoto B 671C, y es en realidad el B 674C, un modelo un poco más grande (cambia también el color y el cabezal, muy distinto.).
i bought the same bonfoto head for about 50€ under the name zecti, I think that design aside, it just doesn't lock right, it creeps with minimal weight
Thank you, I have a full size Manfrotto and needed something lightweight for those occasional trips. Utilizing a spare ball head I have the Bonfoto should do the trick. Great video
I had the 265CB and one of the leg felt out after I used it a dozen times. It was replaced with the VEO2 265CB under warranty and the legs are falling off again. No more Vanguard for me.
I have had one of their ball heads and I didn't like it very much and actually needed to have it repaired - their tech support didn't impress me either. This was several years ago - I think they are much better now but I haven't tried again.
good, long review in German: www.traumflieger.de/reports/DSLR-Zubehoer/Stativ-Tipps/Video-6-ultraleichte-Reisestative-im-Test::1102.html If your camera is not too heavy, the sirui T-024x is a very good option. I use it with a Sony A7 Series camera and would buy it again. The only thing I would change is the ring locker, would much prefer clips
You didn't mention how much the replacement leg was. If it was $100 then the Chinese brand is the same if you loose a leg because you just get another whole tripod 🤔
A product gives you 95% of the functionality for 10% of the price and you call it 'decent' value. Your main conclusion is that the rubber knobs aren't as 'grippy' on the cheaper models. Is this real life? Maybe you're just used to being sent stuff for free, but that cost-to-performance ratio is absolutely unreal - if what you're saying is true.
Excellent presentation. To my opinion Gitzo tripod is a stupidity. You pay for the name or logo. I do agree that it's a fantastic product but prices are ridiculous. I own a Mefoto RoadTrip carbon fiber version. It's support my full size Nikon or my D500 with a 200-500mm Nikon F5.6 without any problem. It hold also a 300mm f2.8 prime lens cause Mefoto can support up to 17 pounds. Don't have any combination of camera/lens who reach that weight. Cost me about 399 $ CDN. So happy with this. I let the Gitzo brand to peoples who don't like money.
Why would anybody buy these super expensive , over advertised, brand-name tripods? Most of them are not even sturdy enough. . Just buy a cheap ,locally made one. The heaviest you can get. No need to overcomplicate it. You can even make one.
If something went wrong with the $100 unit, throw it away and buy a new one and you will still be money ahead. The Gitzo are for people that have more money than sense, and most of those don't know how to shoot anyway.
Yep, and it will break when your on a trip to Iceland and now your stuck without a tripod because your to cheap to really see the value in a better built product.
Kayshrk nope, they will pay 900 for one time and it will use it for 30 years. You on the other will keep buying these 100 cheap tripod, cut your hands on the sharp egdes, and buy a new one every 3 years.
Or they spend this level of money because A. They can and B. They just want a high quality tri-pod to match their equal high quality camera & lenses, which they also can buy.
Tripod reviewers always fail to demonstrate product performance with cameras attached. Consumers need to know how different cameras with different (i.e., heavy) lenses perform. Is the rig steady? Does the head hold firmly when the camera is released by the photographer yet allow smooth and confidant movement when desired? Thank you for your reviews.
I found all three to be equally stable. The heads - Gitzo and MeFoto best, the Bonfoto I struggled to use that little lever lock. Thanks
@@photorectoby Did you actually try using a big lens (say 100-400 or 200-600)? ... that is where the difference comes into play
@@photorectoby
Noway they are equally stable. I checked them. The Gitzo is way ahead.
0:34 "Three legs, as most tripods do" I like that. 😄
Novoflex offers a quadropod! :-)))
ruclips.net/video/QkvK5lIBRpI/видео.html
Hi Toby! I was just a little surprised you didn't talk about LEG stability. Personally I find 4 section tripods to be much more stable than 5 section, and you only have 9 leg locks versus 12 to unlock or lock. And the overall length isn't much different. Even the 4 section tripods will fit in most carry-on luggage. I worked in a camera store, and found the Gitzo to be MUCH more stable than the units under $350, but of course it costs. I JUST had a set of Gitzo GT1544T legs delivered to my house in California yesterday that I got on Ebay for $344. I've always wanted a Gitzo Traveler, but the price was out of sight. But I've never seen such rock solid stability from such a light tripod. If you press down on the legs and flex them, the Gitzo, at least for me, is rock solid compared to the others.
Got to give respect to a guy going out in the cold and making a video. Subscribed!
I was listening while I organized a closet and walked away. I came back and heard "I had a leg fall off while I was in the woods and didn't know about it..."
I've been using the 5-section version of that Gitzo for just over a year now. I love it, it folds up so small. One thing you forgot to mention is that you can also adjust the overall tension of the Gitzo head. You have to take off the ballhead, but there's a screw at the end of the socket that adjusts the tension.
Good to know!
I am big fan of the Mefoto Roadtrip. A little biased, it is my first and only tripod so far. I had the same issue with grabbing the tension knob instead of the pan knob. What I started doing was every time I setup my camera on the ball head. That the main knob is on the left, the pan knob is facing me, and the tension knob is away from me. Out of sight, out of mind. My left hand to loosen the main knob, right hand to adjust the camera, and pan tilt knob if need be. The tension knob is good to have for different camera setups. Thank you very much for your review. Really helpful.
Good suggestion. Thanks!
Another benefit to doing it that way is putting it into portrait mode is always the same as well. Loosen the pan - tilt knob, then the main knob, and get your composition. Repeat, repeat, and get that muscle memory down in no time. Anytime! Thank you.
Also my first tripod but in aluminum! Asides a cheap bundle throw in one i got with my 1st camera. i have made many of the same mistakes with the knobs too. Great tips
I've used the non carbon-fiber MeFoto RoadTrip extensively over the last few years and it has done the job perfectly for me. I've looked into the carbon fiber version of it but the weight save really doesn't justify the upgrade in my opinion.
Something I absolutely love about the MeFoto RoadTrip is the way the legs and center column fold together: this makes it so small and travel friendly !!
As usual great content Toby, all the best !
When I want to travel very light and compact it's still the non carbon fiber RoadTrip that I grab too - weight wise it's about the same but it does fold up so small.
I have the bonfoto aluminium great tripod, it has big spikes under the rubber feet. The rubber feet are pretty hard to get off but it's better than loosing the rubber feet.
Few months ago I was in a terrible dilemma with Mefoto or Amazon Basic and a cheaper alternative. So I ordered Amazon Basic and the cheaper alternative. I returned the Amazon basic for its horrible quantity. I was surprised the cheaper alternative stood out so well for its value. My recommendation to anyone buying tripod of Amazon, they have free return. Try and return the one you dont like.
Great video! I bought a $200 Manfrotto as my first tripod a few years ago, it is stable but man is it heavy. For that reason I usually leave it at home. Now, I totally see a reason for these lighter but maybe not as stable tripods.
I was using my MeFoto tripod on a ocean cliff and had the case blow off the cliff and and disappear into the ocean. I phoned them for a new case. Although I tried to insist that they should not pay for my negligence they would not allow me to pay for a new case but just immediately sent out a new case for free. Their customer service rocks.
Thanks for the comparison. I couldn't justify the difference in price versus weight for the carbon fiber tripods and ended up going for the Vanguard Alta Pro 2+ 264AT with the BH-100 head. Seemed like a good starter tripod well within my price range ($199 for the tripod and $80 for the head on Amazon).
I've bought the Gitzo a year ago. At first I wanted to buy a really good Sirui but after comparing the stiffness my desission was the Gitzo.
And this is the point I'm missing here. How is the stability and stiffness from the tripods.
Yeah wouldve loved to have seen that addressed! Its kinda one of the primary functions of a tripod. Personally bought a used gitzo off ebay and i think thats one of the best value propositions out there.
I am sorry I didn't address this - I found it to be the same across all three tripods. - Equally stiff and stable.
I have a Mefoto, to me one of the most important deals is the safety knob or being able to use different plates with it. And still be sure the camera won't fall off or slip out of the head. It did once and I was lucky the camera didn't get smashed on the asfalt. I often put the camera on there and move the tripod around with it on top, when I have a "tripod-day". The slide in lock is not safe enough in my opinion. I'm getting another brand.
I have the MeFoto and I totally agree with your opinion of the head. Having two knobs just makes no sense... just waste more time when you want to adjust the level
YES!! Annoying.
$ 500 bucks TYD from some places. Well worth it for the shooting sports I do. I mount and shoot my 18 lbs rifle off the thing all the time for some match stages. I LOVE IT. Rock solid spotting scope tripod as well. When the wind kicks up, most other tripods wobble. This one does not!!!
Just bought an Ikan with fluid head for my videos. I think I'm taking it back. It's way too heavy (16 pounds). But only $279. I may look at a Manfrotto 500 head with lever lock legs. More expensive but lighter. Any thoughts?
MeFoto does have great customer support. I like mine, and would recommend Mefoto or Vanguard tripods. Really Right Stuff are not worth the insane prices.
Mefoto roadtrip aluminum is what I have had for about 3 years now and it's still in perfect condition. Been to the beach in salt water and up mountains many times and used as a walking stick. I can recommend it highly no issues at all. Thanks for the videos Toby👍
it's a great and portable tripod!
I have the Bonphoto and for the money, it's a great tripod, Holds my Nikon D810 with Nikon 80-200 f2.8 lens easily. No wa would I pay £1000 for a tripod.
I’ve got an Oben. Decent carbon fiber tripod. I take good care of it. The head works. I’d like the arca grip to be a bit better.
Sirui T-005X not on the list? I bought one 4.5 years ago...it was sooo good in terms of weight and functionality that when it kicked the bucket last month....I ordered another one. Costs 130 USD in my country but I think its about 100 USD in the US...it is currently on promotion in Singapore and only costs 70 USD.
good to know, wish I watched this 3 months ago. Bought a manfrotto 055, and it weighs 8lbs. Had to get a cheap travel pod to carry outside, and wish I went with the bonfotto now. Thanks for the info, great review. (could have picked a better day,lol)
Hi, have you tried the 3 legged thing Billy? It is a similar tripod but with 4 section legs and grippier nobs. They’ve partnered with peakdesign and made their tripod heads both Arca swiss and peakdesign compatible. The tripod is great but the plate provided has a couple of drawbacks... it doesn’t have a safety pin and because of the peakdesign compatibility, the plate somehow slips out very easily. I’ve almost dropped an expensive camera so ended up returning it. Great look & feel but way too unsafe.
I am now looking at other options including the mefoto roadtrip.
I too had the leg on my MeFoto fall off. Reading through online reviews, it happens with the MeFoto.
Fact is...…………..most tripods today have the leg sections attached via plastic bushings. So, your $1500 camera and $900 lens are all being supported by $1.50 worth of plastic. That bushing fails...…………………….and when you go to extend a leg, the entire section comes off in your hands. Would never buy a MeFoto again.
I've never used a Gitzo, however, I am pretty sure that they too use plastic bushings to hold the leg sections together, however, somehow they implement it better. Like A LOT of products, Gitzo at one time (maybe 20, 30, 50 years ago), had a great reputation. Now, the company is owned by a hedge fund or holding company that owns Manfrotto as well, so it's not the same company nor the same company values of 20 years ago.
In theory, (if I had it like that), I would say that a $900 tripod to hold $2,000 or $3,000 (or more) worth of gear, is not unreasonable, especially if it "should" last a lifetime. However, reading through user comments on B&H's site, do not help Gitzo's image. A couple of posters mentioned that the controls on Gitzo's ball heads do not have a "stop". So, if you unscrew a knob too much, the knob won't stop, it'll just come off and fall on the ground (that must be super fun in the dark). There were also several posts about Gitzo's customer service. So, MY issue is less about paying $900 for a tripod, than it is that a $900 tripod is not particularly thoughtfully designed.
I had the same thing happen to my Sirui tripod. It was only an issue, albeit a very annoying one, when extending or collapsing the tripod though. Then indeed it can come off very easily. When you tighten the legs through the locking mechanism, it is just as sturdy as ever though. So I don't think it's really an issue when the tripod is setup. I tried to move the leg when the mechanism was locked (while the plastic bushing was missing) and it didn't move at all. And I'm pretty sure that's a lot more force than my camera could generate.
Good video on usability but what about the stability? Does the extra money buy a more stable tripod?
I found them all to be equally stable.
Even in windy conditions?
Depends on the force of the wind. If you make shots in a hurricane, use heavy sandsack. :-))
Lighter is relative. I am 5'9" tall and weigh 175. Not big -- not small. But when traveling and hiking up hills, 3 lbs extra hurts tons when added to the camera/lenses and other stuff I am carrying an entire day. I got the Gitzo Traveler 3 years ago and never use it because I dread hauling it so I never use a tripod and give up on the entire experience of long exposure although i take tons of handheld images. I'm off to Nepal in a couple of months and want to revisit. Not sure if I should take the Gitzo or find a 1.5 pound kit if a good one existed? Any help is appreciated. Maybe my best solution is the Gitzo that I already own, but alternatives are welcome.
Hi I found the Jusino brand of tripods... looks feels and handles like the mefoto.... picked mine up in Singapore holds the 80D and 6D with a 24-105 L lens and is very stable... you should try it out ... it’s the one up from the smallest I guess the size of the mefoto road trip
I’m disappointed after purchasing a 200€ vanguard tripod instead of a 80€ neewer or kf concept tripod. The ball of the headball came with scratches and when I put my lightweight sony sel55210 on it, ir tilts down a few degrees after fastening it in the tripod head. I wonder if this is normal in travel tripods or if I’ve been scammed...
Love my Sirui tripod
I have the MePhoto as well. Same issues with the knobs too. Very annoying
The carbon Manfrotto BeFree Compact Travel Carbon Fiber Tripod how does this compare to these as I would like a travel tripod.
It would have been more helpful if you went over how the tripods handle /perform - instead of going over how they look and the cost.
I should have mentioned that I found them all to be equally stable and legs moved as smoothly with each so it then came down to the use of the head and the grip of the rubber on the leg extensions.
Nice video. I would have liked to seen a fit in a carry on suitcase demonstration. I’m trying to find a new travel tripod. I feel so burned by the Mefoto Air that I will never buy anything from them again (legs don’t work, head crashes down). There are so many choices online but none locally. Tripod shopping is hard!
I am not a big fan of the air - it's ok if you REALLY value weight/size but several sacrifices. All of these fold down small enough to fit in a carry on suitcase.
I've definitely grown more fond of mefoto and it actually holds a lot of gear. I tried the cheap garbage before like that bonfoto and other amazon ones and they are terrible.
Wish they made the tension knob an index allen screw.
That would be nice!
I had a Sirui CF travel pod that I won, but sold it as my 3 Legged Thing Eddie Evo II CF was superior to it. The MeFoto looks to be a knockoff of the 3 Legged line at a lesser price point.
I didn't like the mefoto tripod, just collecting dust. I love my benro carbon fiber. Got it for about $200, only thing is it doesn't reverse fold so not too travel friendly.
Very interesting. Is their any difference in the load each of them can carry? Or have you found any difference in stability. E.g. having a Full Frame Dslr with a 70-200 (or so) attached; fully extended on a windy day doing long exposure...
Does one of them fold down to a significant smaller size?
If that is not the case I don’t see the point of the gitzo. Other then bragging...
between the bon and mefoto I would have to decide if I want the extra height... otherwise the bonfoto with a nicer head would be my choice
Load specs are listed below the video. The gitzo can hold 5 more lbs. I found no differences in stability and they all fold down to the same size give or take an inch :)
I respect you but this was the weirdest review ever, let me tell you why >>> MeFoto in general is re-branded cheap Chinese tripod, pretty sure it is made in the same factories as Zomei, K&F concept and other similar tripods. Since November I am using Bonfoto B674C (by the way it is not 671, but 674) and the tripod is simply amazing. You mentioned that the pano knob had a plastic feel, however it is CNC machined aluminum knob. Every part of the ball head is CNC machined and there is not a single plastic part on the tripod apart from the rubber pads on the legs and the knobs.
Mal empezamos. Pone que el primer trípode es el Bonfoto B 671C, y es en realidad el B 674C, un modelo un poco más grande (cambia también el color y el cabezal, muy distinto.).
i bought the same bonfoto head for about 50€ under the name zecti, I think that design aside, it just doesn't lock right, it creeps with minimal weight
Mine doesn't and I use a heavy full frame camera with telephoto lenses. You can adjust the tension on the ball head though.
i prefer my davis & sanford traverse carbon fiber tripod
Well presented, Keep it up!
Thanks!!
If one was to replace the head on the BonFoto, are we looking at a suitable travel tripod for the occasional user ?
Very much so.
Thank you, I have a full size Manfrotto and needed something lightweight for those occasional trips. Utilizing a spare ball head I have the Bonfoto should do the trick. Great video
Plz compare Monfrotto travel tripod with these
I bought the vanguard 265CB and so far its good great. Better than Mefrotto and almost equal to Gitzo.
I am annoyed that Vanguard uses proprietary plates.
I had the 265CB and one of the leg felt out after I used it a dozen times. It was replaced with the VEO2 265CB under warranty and the legs are falling off again. No more Vanguard for me.
I've been eyeing off a sirui T-024x or one of their other ultralight tripods for hiking. Between 800g and 1.2 kg, not alot of reviews on them though.
I have had one of their ball heads and I didn't like it very much and actually needed to have it repaired - their tech support didn't impress me either. This was several years ago - I think they are much better now but I haven't tried again.
good, long review in German: www.traumflieger.de/reports/DSLR-Zubehoer/Stativ-Tipps/Video-6-ultraleichte-Reisestative-im-Test::1102.html
If your camera is not too heavy, the sirui T-024x is a very good option.
I use it with a Sony A7 Series camera and would buy it again.
The only thing I would change is the ring locker, would much prefer clips
please suggest
Good review
Great video, thank you
You didn't mention how much the replacement leg was. If it was $100 then the Chinese brand is the same if you loose a leg because you just get another whole tripod 🤔
it was $17 :)
Hi can you please tell me what is the red tripod that you've used in your Laowa 15mm video?
Yes
A product gives you 95% of the functionality for 10% of the price and you call it 'decent' value. Your main conclusion is that the rubber knobs aren't as 'grippy' on the cheaper models. Is this real life?
Maybe you're just used to being sent stuff for free, but that cost-to-performance ratio is absolutely unreal - if what you're saying is true.
Excellent presentation. To my opinion Gitzo tripod is a stupidity. You pay for the name or logo. I do agree that it's a fantastic product but prices are ridiculous. I own a Mefoto RoadTrip carbon fiber version. It's support my full size Nikon or my D500 with a 200-500mm Nikon F5.6 without any problem. It hold also a 300mm f2.8 prime lens cause Mefoto can support up to 17 pounds. Don't have any combination of camera/lens who reach that weight. Cost me about 399 $ CDN. So happy with this. I let the Gitzo brand to peoples who don't like money.
as a 1,000 USD tripod its expected to decent. and what you can expect to a 100USD :)
Grabbing the wrong knob can be terribly embarrassing.
;)
How Vanguard veo2 264 CB?
Why would anybody buy these super expensive , over advertised, brand-name tripods? Most of them are not even sturdy enough. . Just buy a cheap ,locally made one. The heaviest you can get. No need to overcomplicate it. You can even make one.
I've stopped using tripods. It's as invigorating as not wearing underwear.
nice video as always
Velbon ultra 655 is the best
I thought this was a tripod comparison, not a ball head comparison.
WOW AMAZING....
Oh to be tall and looking for an affordable tripod.
Fyi for anyone who cares... For the next 5 hours, the Bonfoto is $87.00 on Amazon.
Sweet - Thanks for sharing!
If something went wrong with the $100 unit, throw it away and buy a new one and you will still be money ahead. The Gitzo are for people that have more money than sense, and most of those don't know how to shoot anyway.
or you know... just able to afford a $1,000 purchase without breaking a sweat and complain about it on RUclips comment sections
Most pro’s seem to use Gitzo, Manfrotto & RRS tri-pods...must be for a reason
If something goes wrong with it, it could be at the cost of your camera and lens
Yep, and it will break when your on a trip to Iceland and now your stuck without a tripod because your to cheap to really see the value in a better built product.
My dear man, you simply have no clue what you are talking about. But that’s all right.
Bonfoto!! Lol! The Chinese can’t even come up with an original name! Poor Monfrotto. :(
The tripod is great, but from what I've heard the Manfrotto/Gitzo customer service is a joke.
I've "heard" the exact opposite!
$900 tripods would be perfect for pretentious pricks who don't know what to do with their money!
squawkIDK what a nasty comment....bitter?
Barry Carr yeah... Got any sweet? And what exactly triggered you?
Or for people who really use their gear hard.
Kayshrk nope, they will pay 900 for one time and it will use it for 30 years. You on the other will keep buying these 100 cheap tripod, cut your hands on the sharp egdes, and buy a new one every 3 years.
Or they spend this level of money because A. They can and B. They just want a high quality tri-pod to match their equal high quality camera & lenses, which they also can buy.