Are these reliable tripods?

[AdrianAnguiano]

Requirements:

1) Stability over weight. Wont use hiking or traveling. Will take on location. Smaller and lighter is better, but need to leave unmanned and not worry. Used inside and outdoor

2) Prefer 1-2-3 sections of legs.. Could possibly do 4, Wont due 5 due to #1

3) 50+ inches tall

4) Prefer Arca Head

5) Will not spend $300. Prefer to spend under $200. Any more and id rather buy a lens, or something else.

6) Want something reliable.

Here are a few options I notice, but don't know much about quality of Vanguard, or Oben.. etc. dont know how stable they are etc, if they will die after a few uses. What you think?

Vanguard ABEO 283AB w SB100 Headad $130 Seems like super Price

Oben AC 2361 w BE117 Head $195 Cheapest with Arca Head

Sirui ET 2004 w E20 Head $200 I hear Sirui is nice and under my 200 mark

Slik 700DX $100 Sirui K10X Head $114 = $214 Seperate build but get better head

Benro A2192TB1 w B1 Head $234 Has Monopod, light, Well known

Vanguard Abeo Plus 283CT $135 Sirui K10X Head $114 = $249 Carbon Fiber & Sirui Head

Induro AT213 $143 Sirui K10X Head $114 = $257 Strong Robust Tripod & Sirui Head


Im sure the more expensive ones are better than the lower priced tripods, but will i really see a big difference with stability and reliability going with my $130 option instead of my $257 option?

 

[puttin]

Requirements:

1) Stability over weight. Wont use hiking or traveling. Will take on location. Smaller and lighter is better, but need to leave unmanned and not worry. Used inside and outdoor

2) Prefer 1-2-3 sections of legs.. Could possibly do 4, Wont due 5 due to #1

3) 50+ inches tall

4) Prefer Arca Head

5) Will not spend $300. Prefer to spend under $200. Any more and id rather buy a lens, or something else.

6) Want something reliable.

Here are a few options I notice, but don't know much about quality of Vanguard, or Oben.. etc. dont know how stable they are etc, if they will die after a few uses. What you think?

Vanguard ABEO 283AB w SB100 Headad $130 Seems like super Price

Oben AC 2361 w BE117 Head $195 Cheapest with Arca Head

Sirui ET 2004 w E20 Head $200 I hear Sirui is nice and under my 200 mark

Sirui is very good quality, I have 2 of their tripods and heads.

Slik 700DX $100 Sirui K10X Head $114 = $214 Seperate build but get better head

Benro A2192TB1 w B1 Head $234 Has Monopod, light, Well known

Vanguard Abeo Plus 283CT $135 Sirui K10X Head $114 = $249 Carbon Fiber & Sirui Head

Induro AT213 $143 Sirui K10X Head $114 = $257 Strong Robust Tripod & Sirui Head

Im sure the more expensive ones are better than the lower priced tripods, but will i really see a big difference with stability and reliability going with my $130 option instead of my $257 option?

 

[Cliff Fujii]

You didn't list Gitzo. Line up two tripods that have the same weight capacity, one being the Gitzo and you will find that the Gitzo will be more stable and have more usable features. I have four Gitzo tripods, each being used for different use cases. The bottom line is that I can put my D810 and a 70-200 f/2.8 Nikkor lens on a Gitzo Traveler Series 1, fully extended, and not have stability issues.

 

[leprechaun1]

I'm in the same boat and after a lot of research I've decided on the Induro at214 and the Sirui k20x. Very similar to your last choice but the 214 packs up smaller and k20 is a little sturdier.

 

[victorian squid]

You didn't list Gitzo. Line up two tripods that have the same weight capacity, one being the Gitzo and you will find that the Gitzo will be more stable and have more usable features. I have four Gitzo tripods, each being used for different use cases. The bottom line is that I can put my D810 and a 70-200 f/2.8 Nikkor lens on a Gitzo Traveler Series 1, fully extended, and not have stability issues.

--
Cliff

tell that to the Gitzo I got rid of. Overrated piece of crap.

 

[victorian squid]

Requirements:

1) Stability over weight. Wont use hiking or traveling. Will take on location. Smaller and lighter is better, but need to leave unmanned and not worry. Used inside and outdoor

2) Prefer 1-2-3 sections of legs.. Could possibly do 4, Wont due 5 due to #1

I think you should figure this part out first. It's pretty important down the line. A good tripod with 4 segments can be just fine, but you've got to spend a bit. One thing that's nice to have is a split center column. That way, you can eliminate it for weight and stability when not needed.

3) 50+ inches tall

4) Prefer Arca Head

This is a must - but you only really have to avoid Manfrotto and a couple of other more obscure brands (can't remember what Oben has)

5) Will not spend $300. Prefer to spend under $200. Any more and id rather buy a lens, or something else.

6) Want something reliable.

Here are a few options I notice, but don't know much about quality of Vanguard, or Oben.. etc. dont know how stable they are etc, if they will die after a few uses. What you think?

Vanguard ABEO 283AB w SB100 Headad $130 Seems like super Price

Love Vanguard bags. Hate their tripods. Note the plastic feet. What good is a solid tripod that won't transfer vibration, and then have plastic feet? Generally, too much plastic.

Oben AC 2361 w BE117 Head $195 Cheapest with Arca Head

Oben seems to be pretty decent. They had a fantastic tripod on sale for $175 B&H a couple of weeks ago, about half off. Bryan at The Digital Image had a good review as well. You could also just keep an eye out for when they do go on super-sale, which is frequently.

Sirui ET 2004 w E20 Head $200 I hear Sirui is nice and under my 200 mark

Love Sirui. Brand finally got me to sell my Gitzo to a friend, kept the Manfrottos to whale on. This one is a bit on the small side, but has gotten many good reviews. Don't like the flip locks. Not sure about the ball head. See comments below.

Slik 700DX $100 Sirui K10X Head $114 = $214 Seperate build but get better head

Some people love slik, I don't see it.

Benro A2192TB1 w B1 Head $234 Has Monopod, light, Well known

Benro makes ok stuff. Their Induro line is better, but more expensive.. Anyway, it's well thought out, well engineered and pretty well regarded. They do a bit of corner cutting though - probably not as bad as their MeFoto stuff here.

Vanguard Abeo Plus 283CT $135 Sirui K10X Head $114 = $249 Carbon Fiber & Sirui Head

Same comments as above. The K-10X is a little too small, honestly. The K-20X will hold pretty much anything - including a 6D with a Tamron 150-600. Not well, and certainly not easily adjusted, but hold it.

Induro AT213 $143 Sirui K10X Head $114 = $257 Strong Robust Tripod & Sirui Head

Good stuff. Out of all of the ones on the list - this would be what I would get.

Im sure the more expensive ones are better than the lower priced tripods, but will i really see a big difference with stability and reliability going with my $130 option instead of my $257 option?

Out of what you've listed, I'd put Induro first, the Benro second, Oben third. The Oben might replace the Benro if you found one of their models with the twist locks. I HATE flip locks.Then again, if you can't do twist locks right, flip locks work better when cheaply made.

I really like Sirui, but for your only tripod, the others look more substantial. Especially the Induro. I'd recommend the K-20X ball head though, it's a winner.

Check the DP review of traveler tripods here. It's pretty thorough and should give you an idea of performance and brands.

Unfortunately, you're right at the cusp of "good". I can think of lots of fantastic combos for $300-350. But, I think you've zoned in a at least 3.

 

[Cliff Fujii]

The AT214 is an aluminum tripod with a load rating of 22lbs. Closed it's 21.4" and the legs do not fold over for transport. It weighs 4.4lbs with no head.

The Gitzo GT1544T is not in the same class as it being a traveler tripod made of carbon fiber with a load rating of 17.64lbs. Closed it's 16.73" and the legs do fold over for transport. That's how it gets it's short pack length. It weighs 2.2lbs with no head.

The AT214 is more comparable to the Gitzo GT2542T which has a load rating of 26.46lbs. Closed it's 16.03" and it's legs do fold over. It weighs 2.93lbs

Probably a better comparison is the Gitzo Mountaineer GT1542 which has a load rating of 22.05lbs. Closed, it's 21.26" and the legs do not fold over. It weighs 2.82lbs with no head.

Any of these Gitzo tripods when compared side to side with the AT214 will exhibit more stability and show quicker recovery when the leg is tapped. The last aluminum tripod that I had that could match the stability of any of my Gtzos was the Bogen 3001 (Manfrotto 055) which is no longer made. There is a new version of the 055 but it is not as stable as the old 055. There is a CT214 that retails for about $400 and is not as stable as it's equivalent Gitzo. Right now there is a rebate sale for Gitzo tripods. You can receive a $150 rebate if you purchase one of the tripods that is listed in the offer.

 

[Cliff Fujii]

Sorry you had issues with your Gitzo. I have four different Gitzo tripods for different use cases. I've owned Gitzo carbon fiber tripods since 1994. Before then, I had a Bogen 3001 (which I still have). I had only one issue with my Gitzo tripods a year ago and Gitzo support sent me the part and that fixed the issue.

 

[Craig Gillette]

Requirements:

1) Stability over weight. Wont use hiking or traveling. Will take on location. Smaller and lighter is better, but need to leave unmanned and not worry. Used inside and outdoor

Even if not equipped with a hook, you can add weight to the rig to increase stability/mass. That might be an option worth considering if you are going to leave the tripod unattended. I don't think any particular set up is more or less susceptible to a sudden wind gust although different tripods will react differently to the vibrations that might be caused by wind.

2) Prefer 1-2-3 sections of legs.. Could possibly do 4, Wont due 5 due to #1

3) 50+ inches tall

4) Prefer Arca Head

5) Will not spend $300. Prefer to spend under $200. Any more and id rather buy a lens, or something else.

6) Want something reliable.

Here are a few options I notice, but don't know much about quality of Vanguard, or Oben.. etc. dont know how stable they are etc, if they will die after a few uses. What you think?

I don't know much about Oben or Vanguard, but am familiar with Benro/Induro from earlier hopping efforts and comparisons, Although this was several years ago and they have evolved and improved over time. Not sure on their heads, way back when their heads weren't getting good press.

There is no reason, except perhaps a bundle price advantage, to have to stick to the same brand head as leg sets. In some cases, one might be better off not doing so as some companies make better legs than heads or vice versa.

Vanguard ABEO 283AB w SB100 Headad $130 Seems like super Price

Oben AC 2361 w BE117 Head $195 Cheapest with Arca Head

Sirui ET 2004 w E20 Head $200 I hear Sirui is nice and under my 200 mark

Slik 700DX $100 Sirui K10X Head $114 = $214 Seperate build but get better head

I like the 700 dx. At the time I was buying a general purpose tripod, I anticipated needing somewhat more capacity, so went with a heavier competitor. So although I don't use it as a "travel" tripod, the added weight is noticeable.

Benro A2192TB1 w B1 Head $234 Has Monopod, light, Well known

Not sure on the appeal of the monopod conversions. It seems a bit fussy and you still have to del with the unused portions . Benro is a good brand, though.

Vanguard Abeo Plus 283CT $135 Sirui K10X Head $114 = $249 Carbon Fiber & Sirui Head

Induro AT213 $143 Sirui K10X Head $114 = $257 Strong Robust Tripod & Sirui Head

Im sure the more expensive ones are better than the lower priced tripods, but will i really see a big difference with stability and reliability going with my $130 option instead of my $257 option?

Maybe not stability but perhaps in reliability. Materials can be better, less plastic or cheap metal in the spiders, leg locks, etc. Good quality may be more able to take a drop or a fall, cheap may snap or crack more easily. Also there may be more flex which can add to vibration or at least not damp it as well.

What are you putting on it? Body? Lens/lenses? Subject matter? Do you need to get low to the ground? Are you going to need spikes or will rubber feet suffice?

I might consider the K-20x or even K-30x heads, depending on the body/lenses involved.

 

[AdrianAnguiano]

Thanks for the comments.

Cliff, I will not spend over $300 no matter what. Gitzo is out.

My current camera is a D7100 Nikon, SB600 Nikon Flash, heaviest lens currently is my 18-140 Nikon DX. So all those would be my heaviest setup currently.

Bummer on Vanguard, they were low priced, and I wondered.

its looking like the suggestions are at least in the 200+ range

 

[victorian squid]

Sorry you had issues with your Gitzo. I have four different Gitzo tripods for different use cases. I've owned Gitzo carbon fiber tripods since 1994. Before then, I had a Bogen 3001 (which I still have). I had only one issue with my Gitzo tripods a year ago and Gitzo support sent me the part and that fixed the issue.

--
Cliff

You can certainly say that Manfrotto and Gitzo have parts going back to the 70's and before. I just got tired of replacing the same parts.

The Bogen 3001? I have the same one still. Nothing to break! Mine literally got run over. The handle on the 3030 head bent. I'd get a new one but they discontinued the handle and have a crappy new version (thanks Vitec). It still works, so it just adds character.

 

[victorian squid]

Thanks for the comments.

Cliff, I will not spend over $300 no matter what. Gitzo is out.

My current camera is a D7100 Nikon, SB600 Nikon Flash, heaviest lens currently is my 18-140 Nikon DX. So all those would be my heaviest setup currently.

Bummer on Vanguard, they were low priced, and I wondered.

its looking like the suggestions are at least in the 200+ range

So you've still got some good considerations. Every cent you spend now you'll be glad you did down the road. I'd spend on a tripod before a lot of things. A good set of legs can be upgraded with a better ball head. Put your money there first. Because, you will get more and heavier equipment. Right now, something like a Sirui K-20X ball head would be plenty for what you've got.

Keep your eye peeled for sales. If you can hold on 1-2 months, something is going to come along, promise. I see really good deals about that often. Like I said, you could have had an Oben CT-3431 CF for $180 a month ago. Just check the digital picture and B&H zone deals daily.

 

[Cliff Fujii]

But the Bogen 3001 is quite a bit heavier than my Gitzo Series 3 Mountaineer. I think a lot of people tend to over tighten the legs on Gitzo tripods with G-Lock. Tripods with G-Lock don't need to be wrenched to keep the legs from sliding. This has improved with Ultra-GLock. You just have to tighten the legs enough so that the gravity effect takes place. I have seen broken spiders but this was due to user abuse. My earlier Gitzo carbon fiber from the 90s had leg locks similar to RRS and you had to wrench them down. It was more difficult because those Gitzo tripods had leg sections that rotated. You had to tighten down the leg locks when closed and open the individually from the bottom to the top. Now, you can loosen all of the leg locks at the same time and just pull out the bottom section and the rest will follow, then you just lock the individual leg locks.

I sold my old Gitzo tripods and purchased a couple of Gitzo Travelers with heads. They fold up even smaller than my original series 1 and hold my equipment just as steady as my Bogen 3001. Of course, they weigh a whole lot less so I sometimes anchor the tripod with my camera bag in the event of high winds.

 

[leprechaun1]

Any of these Gitzo tripods when compared side to side with the AT214 will exhibit more stability and show quicker recovery when the leg is tapped. The last aluminum tripod that I had that could match the stability of any of my Gtzos was the Bogen 3001 (Manfrotto 055) which is no longer made. There is a new version of the 055 but it is not as stable as the old 055. There is a CT214 that retails for about $400 and is not as stable as it's equivalent Gitzo. Right now there is a rebate sale for Gitzo tripods. You can receive a $150 rebate if you purchase one of the tripods that is listed in the offer.

 

[Cliff Fujii]

Actually it's not as bad as that. Currently the Induro carbon fiber 214 sells for $400 and weighs 3.3lbs with a load capacity of 26.4lbs. The Gitzo GT2532 carbon fiber sells for $659.88 after rebate and weighs 3.7lbs with a load capacity of 39.7lbs.

 

[Twong]

Have you actually used the CT214 prior to making this comment? I have and I know it is extremely reliable even under challenging conditions. Gitzo is probably good but very pricey; IOW, the value is on the low side. Not attempting to maximize value is throwing money away. And, btw, Induro occasionally also has rebate program.

There is a CT214 that retails for about $400 and is not as stable as it's equivalent Gitzo. Right now there is a rebate sale for Gitzo tripods. You can receive a $150 rebate if you purchase one of the tripods that is listed in the offer.

--
Cliff

 

[Cliff Fujii]

Have you actually used the CT214 prior to making this comment? I have and I know it is extremely reliable even under challenging conditions. Gitzo is probably good but very pricey; IOW, the value is on the low side. Not attempting to maximize value is throwing money away. And, btw, Induro occasionally also has rebate program.

There is a CT214 that retails for about $400 and is not as stable as it's equivalent Gitzo. Right now there is a rebate sale for Gitzo tripods. You can receive a $150 rebate if you purchase one of the tripods that is listed in the offer.

 

[rebel99]

You didn't list Gitzo. Line up two tripods that have the same weight capacity, one being the Gitzo and you will find that the Gitzo will be more stable and have more usable features. I have four Gitzo tripods, each being used for different use cases. The bottom line is that I can put my D810 and a 70-200 f/2.8 Nikkor lens on a Gitzo Traveler Series 1, fully extended, and not have stability issues.

 

[Gerry Siegel]

If you want an honest opinion you won't like, here goes. For the legs I would go for carbon fiber Induro. Sweet spot is about $300.00. For the head, I use a Really Right Stuff model about the same price. Induro model with four sections works just fine. Height with modern camera backs gets to be less important. Induro makes a more affordable Aluminum line worth considering. Ball heads come in great price ranges. Buy the one with the best consumer results for cost effectiveness. And thanks for thinking of a tripod as a vital piece of gear. Most are likely to be reliable. Get one where you can find parts and service if needed.