Ethan - Thanks for the prompt reply. A photo store clerk said the twist locks typically fail when users open them up too far and loose the internal plastic shims, or when dirt gets inside and the threads get trashed. As parts are hard to order from Benro, I decided on the flip locks and placed an order for the S4 today. I was lusting for the Manfrotto version, but have read about issues with them and hope the Benro was the right choice. Better price, longer warranty, so I'm optimistic.
Good video. I have the previous model. I was having major issues with the base coming loose, and the cure was to use threadlock to prevent this. Now, it’s a great monopod.
Thank you for answering the "Can it stand on it's own with a camera on it" question. I realize that should only happen with close adult supervision because it is still a monopod, but I saw that the Manfroto model can stand by itself. Other Benro reviewers didn't mention that but you did. Helpful review. Thanks!
There are bolts so I am assuming they can be adjusted. I think the twist might last longer, but if you're shooting weddings, the flip lock will make life easier.
Manfrotto has a rebate going on where the 561 comes out to only $35 more. The issue with the 561 is that it has this little hop and if you're doing video, it completely ruins the shot. You can fix that problem by loosening the bolts on the bottom. Benro squeaks and Manfrotto hops, lol. I do prefer the Benro due to less weight. Hope it works out for you.
Good info here! I had just ordered this mono pod and like practically everyone else, I was juggling between Manfrotto & Benro. For $100. less and the panning head I took the gamble with Benro. It'll be really cool if the Benro head plates mate with Giottos & Manfrotto.
I got it and I love it! The only disappointment is that the plate "doesn't" mate with my Manfrotto/Giottos plates. Not a deal breaker. I just added the Giottos adapter mount. Got to mention the nice case and tools that come with the package too; all for $200.00.
I just purchase the A48FBS4 (Haven't received it yet) but wondering if I should have ordered the A48FDS4. The FDS4 has a locking base which I THINK allows for panning with the head instead of the (Squeaky) ball at the base. Is use a Canon XH-A1s. Any thoughts? Any advantage of one over the other?
Thanks for your review. I'm going to order one of these, but trying to decide between the twist lock or flip lock version. I've had trouble with twist locks, so I'm more inclined to go with flip locks. Are the flip lock clasps adjusting, if they become loose over time?
No it's not carbon fiber, but it is a little lighter than the manfrotto. Both are good, and does the same thing. One thing that I do like better on the manfrotto is the legs extend higher so you can kind of fake an aerial type pan shot when needed.
Hi, I'm looking for a monopod - now that you have been using the Benro for a while are you still happy with it.... I was thinking about buying the Manfrotto which is more expensive.....Thanks
I chose the Benro - it's a fraction of the price of a Monfrotto and has basically the same features. But it also has an added feature of the pan head (not just panning at the foot) and also is slightly lighter than the Monfrotto. I am really happy with my Benro :)
Kazanchev How is your new unit? Another review I read mentioned removing those same three screws and coating the ball with Vaseline or WD40 to eliminate the squeaks.
Kazanchev Still making noise? Try using a dry film lubricant that goes on clear. I use RZ50 from home depot on my manfrotto monopods to combat the skip. It works and last longer than WD40 in my experience.
Ethan - Thanks for the prompt reply.
A photo store clerk said the twist locks typically fail when users open them up too far and loose the internal plastic shims, or when dirt gets inside and the threads get trashed.
As parts are hard to order from Benro, I decided on the flip locks and placed an order for the S4 today. I was lusting for the Manfrotto version, but have read about issues with them and hope the Benro was the right choice. Better price, longer warranty, so I'm optimistic.
Good video. I have the previous model. I was having major issues with the base coming loose, and the cure was to use threadlock to prevent this. Now, it’s a great monopod.
Thank you for answering the "Can it stand on it's own with a camera on it" question. I realize that should only happen with close adult supervision because it is still a monopod, but I saw that the Manfroto model can stand by itself. Other Benro reviewers didn't mention that but you did. Helpful review. Thanks!
I read a bad review about the squeak. Nice to know it isn't a permanent issue. Thanks
There are bolts so I am assuming they can be adjusted. I think the twist might last longer, but if you're shooting weddings, the flip lock will make life easier.
Manfrotto has a rebate going on where the 561 comes out to only $35 more. The issue with the 561 is that it has this little hop and if you're doing video, it completely ruins the shot. You can fix that problem by loosening the bolts on the bottom. Benro squeaks and Manfrotto hops, lol. I do prefer the Benro due to less weight. Hope it works out for you.
Good info here! I had just ordered this mono pod and like practically everyone else, I was juggling between Manfrotto & Benro. For $100. less and the panning head I took the gamble with Benro. It'll be really cool if the Benro head plates mate with Giottos & Manfrotto.
I got it and I love it! The only disappointment is that the plate "doesn't" mate with my Manfrotto/Giottos plates. Not a deal breaker. I just added the Giottos adapter mount. Got to mention the nice case and tools that come with the package too; all for $200.00.
just got it from ebay, feels really great to use it
I just purchase the A48FBS4 (Haven't received it yet) but wondering if I should have ordered the A48FDS4. The FDS4 has a locking base which I THINK allows for panning with the head instead of the (Squeaky) ball at the base. Is use a Canon XH-A1s. Any thoughts? Any advantage of one over the other?
577. The 501pl will can be used on the Benro
My counterbalance wont take the head to its original position, is that a given trait with the s4 heads? I think i should of opted for the s6 head!
What are the heads compatible system S 4 - similar Manfrotto 577 or 357? Interested interchangeable removable pads.
Why were you so surprised how well made it is? Benro make excellent products.
great video. glad I found it.
do you know if a manfrotto qr plate would work with the benro heads? they look very similar
thank you '
Are the feet and lower base made from aluminum or plastic? They look like plastic in the video but I can't tell for sure.
Thanks for your review.
I'm going to order one of these, but trying to decide between the twist lock or flip lock version. I've had trouble with twist locks, so I'm more inclined to go with flip locks. Are the flip lock clasps adjusting, if they become loose over time?
The twist lock is better cause the flip lock breaks easily
No it's not carbon fiber, but it is a little lighter than the manfrotto. Both are good, and does the same thing. One thing that I do like better on the manfrotto is the legs extend higher so you can kind of fake an aerial type pan shot when needed.
Where could I buy this? Is this the Carbon Fiber version? Where did you buy with the quick locks? Nice review, Thanks,
so you have to tighten the ball first so the camera can stand by itself or you just leave it with the loosen position
Pang Christian Mine was very tight so I loosened it to avoid the noise. However, if you loosen it too much, it won't stand on it's own, so be careful
Cristian - yes it works with the manfrotto 501pl
0:45 ::fart :: lol
Hi, I'm looking for a monopod - now that you have been using the Benro for a while are you still happy with it.... I was thinking about buying the Manfrotto which is more expensive.....Thanks
I also have the Manfrotto. If I had to choose one, I'd go for the Manfrotto because it can extend taller.
I chose the Benro - it's a fraction of the price of a Monfrotto and has basically the same features. But it also has an added feature of the pan head (not just panning at the foot) and also is slightly lighter than the Monfrotto. I am really happy with my Benro :)
Hi bro how you doing? I was wondering what lens you use to shoot your videos. I'm a beginner. Thanks in advance
Tony, I use Canon 17-55is 24-105is most of the time
Печально при первой съемке слизалась лапка и теперь нет фиксации лапки(( очень нежный метал.!!!
My Benro is squeaking even after I've loosened the screws. Can I do anything else about it?
Edit: They've sent me new unit.
Kazanchev How is your new unit? Another review I read mentioned removing those same three screws and coating the ball with Vaseline or WD40 to eliminate the squeaks.
Steve Hix My new unit doesn't squeak, vaseline eliminates the squeaks only temporarily, I put a coin inside the first unit, the squeaks are gone.
Kazanchev Still making noise? Try using a dry film lubricant that goes on clear. I use RZ50 from home depot on my manfrotto monopods to combat the skip. It works and last longer than WD40 in my experience.
those legs are full metal ?
Yes, the legs are full metal
save your money and buy the manfrotto version!!!! this monopod is not good!
another copy of Manfrotto...
but in some cases, better