I am wanting to purchase a tripod but am a little overwhelmed with all of the options . I am limited on budget (under $200 for tripod and head) I know that this is not a bunch for a tripod but thats what I have to work with. I am basically looking for the most stability and height combined with the lightest weight for the money. The heaviest set up I will be supporting is a Canon 40D and 70-200 f2.8 IS USM L. Although most of the time it will be a lighter lens for shooting night sky shots. Any experience and input would be greatly appreciated! Thanks in advance.
Posted by bill meikle on October 10, 2008 at 3:47 PM
Kenny, this is a tough question, most here have spent $700 on a tripod and head. You better read this. http://bythom.com/support.htm
Posted by Brent Murphy on October 10, 2008 at 4:00 PM
I would probably disagree that "most here have spent $700 on a tripod and head". That's definitely out of reach of many of the people on this forum.
I personally have been using a Bogen 3021PRO tripod and Bogen 488 head for years, and my only complaint is the weight. That setup will cost more than $200, but is pretty reasonable for a tripod/head combo.
If weight is a concern, you can go with a less-expensive carbon fiber tripod. I know a number of people on this forum swear by of the various Velbon tripods (like the Velbon 640, for example).
Posted by Rick Dunn on October 10, 2008 at 4:09 PM
It will help to decide what's most important - budget or weight. If you can tolerate a couple of extra pounds, a bogen/manfrotto 3021 or similar can be found on ebay for under a $100. You could add a decent ball head for maybe $30-50 more.
If weight is most important, try looking for a used carbon fiber tripod on ebay - most likely a Slik or Velbon. That will take you close to $200 though, and you'll still need a tripod head.
Try taking a look at this new tripod/head system at B&H for $197: 055XDB Tripod + compact ball head. The 055 replaces the very popular 3021. I used a similar setup for many years before splurging for carbon fiber. 5.5 lbs combined.
Posted by John Mumaw on October 10, 2008 at 5:18 PM
That looks like a pretty decent setup for the price, Rick.
Gets some pretty good user reviews, as well.
I doubt you'll find much better for the price, Ken.
Posted by Brent Murphy on October 10, 2008 at 5:26 PM
I agree with Rick. The 486RC2 ballhead is a little smaller than the 488RC2 I use, but should be plenty for a DSLR and typical lenses (don't try putting a 600mm f4 on it!). Keep in mind that this has a Bogen quick-release system on the ballhead, and you'll need to pick up a few quick-release plates for various cameras you use (or lenses, if your lenses have tripod mounts).
Posted by Nick Moore on October 10, 2008 at 6:55 PM
I would agree with everyone's advice. I used a Bogen 3021 for many years before switching to CF. The aluminum tripods are a little on the heavy side, but are sturdy, and are fine for day hikes etc. I still break mine out if I'm shooting close to the car/trail head.
The 055XDB seems like a pretty good deal!!.
Boy, thanks a lot for all of the advice. That was great info guys. I will look closely at that kit Rick, I had not seen them before. I don't know anything about the brands other than or course Bogen/Manfrotto but I was not sure if Slik was a good brand or not. Thanks again guys for the info. I will take it and look around a bit.
What do you guys think about the wingnut system on the legs of these tripods? I have seen the little lever lock things and they seem to work pretty well but I have not used the wing nuts. I like the looks of this system for the price it may be the one!
Sorry for all of the questions... one more. What is everyone's opinion on the ball head vs. the three way tilt jobbies? Does the ball head snug down pretty secure? Thanks again for all of the simple questions.
Posted by Phillip Noll on October 11, 2008 at 12:01 AM
They can have my ball head when they pry it from my cold dead hands!
Posted by John Mumaw on October 11, 2008 at 12:18 AM
Phillip put many photographers' feelings towards ballheads so elegantly that it's hard to improve upon. Pan and tilt heads were originally created for movie cameras.
You'll be impressed with how snug these heads can get, and how much more control you have over them compared with those old pan and tilt heads.
Posted by Phillip Noll on October 11, 2008 at 12:24 AM
Not sure it was all that elegant but the fact is that there really is no comparison. They are simple to use and as John said, you have much more control. Get a ball head and don't look back! You will be glad you did.
Discussion
13 repliesI am wanting to purchase a tripod but am a little overwhelmed with all of the options
I personally have been using a Bogen 3021PRO tripod and Bogen 488 head for years, and my only complaint is the weight. That setup will cost more than $200, but is pretty reasonable for a tripod/head combo.
If weight is a concern, you can go with a less-expensive carbon fiber tripod. I know a number of people on this forum swear by of the various Velbon tripods (like the Velbon 640, for example).
If weight is most important, try looking for a used carbon fiber tripod on ebay - most likely a Slik or Velbon. That will take you close to $200 though, and you'll still need a tripod head.
Try taking a look at this new tripod/head system at B&H for $197: 055XDB Tripod + compact ball head. The 055 replaces the very popular 3021. I used a similar setup for many years before splurging for carbon fiber. 5.5 lbs combined.
Gets some pretty good user reviews, as well.
I doubt you'll find much better for the price, Ken.
The 055XDB seems like a pretty good deal!!.
You'll be impressed with how snug these heads can get, and how much more control you have over them compared with those old pan and tilt heads.