Manfrotto tripods

Tripods by Manfrotto for high demands

In addition to complete tripods, the Manfrotto range also offers many extras such as the matching tripod heads, alternative brackets, tripod bags, dollies and other accessories for tripods. The individual tripods are assigned to different series, which differ in terms of maximum load capacity, speed, weight and precision. Since the tripods can be combined with the accessories in many different ways, Manfrotto gives you the opportunity to create a tripod entirely according to your own requirements and needs. There is sure to be something suitable for every type of camera and every area of use in the Manfrotto tripod range. And if you are unsure about your choice, simply continue reading in the lower section of our online shop. There we will introduce you to the individual tripod series in more detail, explain the different closures and also go into important points when choosing a tripod head.

Manfrotto tripods - the tripod series and their areas of use at a glance

A tripod belongs in the camera bag of every photographer - no matter whether you call yourself a hobby or a professional photographer. As soon as the lighting conditions are a little worse, you will notice that a tripod is a useful gadget for choosing longer exposure times, but without risking camera shake. But even for specific long exposures you cannot avoid buying a tripod. Basically, we advise against buying a cheap no-name tripod, as it will hardly convince you in terms of stability, user comfort and durability.

The Italian manufacturer Manfrotto offers a large number of high-quality camera tripods in many different sizes and designs. The brand was first founded in the 1960s by Lino Manfrotto. The company has always been considered one of the global market leaders in the field of professional camera tripods. Typical for Manfrotto tripods are the very good ergonomics, the 90-degree swivelling centre column and high-quality workmanship. Accordingly, with a tripod from this brand, you get a companion that will provide you with many years of loyal service on your photo tours as well as in the photo studio.

One of the classic tripod series from Manfrotto with the greatest success and the highest profile is clearly the 055 and 190 series. The 190 series contains smaller and lighter models, while in the 055 series you will find larger and heavier tripods with a higher load capacity. Both product series are optionally available in aluminium or carbon. Carbon has the advantage over aluminium that it is lighter and less prone to swinging. This means that such a tripod does not wobble as easily during long exposures. However, carbon models also come at a higher price, while aluminium versions are many times cheaper. It is up to you to decide whether the lower weight justifies the higher price. However, we do have one tip for you: if you want to take your tripod on the plane as hand luggage or plan frequent hiking tours with it, you are definitely better off with the carbon version.

In addition, you have the choice between tripods with three and models with four leg segments for both the 190 and the 055 series. Again, both designs have their own advantages and disadvantages. A tripod with three segments per leg is more stable and is characterised by faster assembly and disassembly. However, tripods with four segments per tripod leg take up less space in your luggage. Folding locks are used to fix the tripod legs in both series. Other manufacturers such as Sirui and Gitzo mainly use twist locks. At Manfrotto, however, you will only find these on a few tripods that are recognisable by the "Neotec" designation in the name.

New travel tripods in the range

The two classic series in Manfrotto's product portfolio are supplemented by further tripod series. These include:

• 290
• 057
• Compact
• Pixi

Also some table tripods as well as numerous one-leg tripods Manfrotto has in its range. New is the Manfrotto Element travel tripod product family. It is specifically designed for photographers who need a compact and lightweight tripod that they can take with them on trips and outings. The tripod legs of these models can be folded upwards by 180 degrees, resulting in a very handy packing size. There are five leg segments on each tripod leg. In addition, three angles are possible, allowing the camera to be optimally and quickly aligned in any shooting situation. An uncomplicated set-up is made possible by the extendable telescopic centre column and the twist locks on the legs. You can buy the Manfrotto Element travel tripods as complete kits including an aluminium ball head in two sizes. They are available in both aluminium and carbon versions. You can even find the aluminium version in four colour options. The large models offer the option of removing one leg to use them as a monopod.

Finding the right tripod head

As usual, Manfrotto's tripod heads are mounted on the tripod using the 3/8'' tripod thread. The heads are secured against accidental loosening with three grub screws. Manfrotto tripods can be purchased either with or without a head, giving you the choice of a complete set or a customised tripod and head combination. All versions can be complemented with tripod heads from the Manfrotto range. Available are, among others:

• ball-head
• geared-pivot
• video- Panhead
• 3-way-panhead

Depending on the application and personal wishes, you can therefore combine an individual tripod from the individual components, which optimally adapts to your requirements. The ball head is the most commonly chosen. It is suitable for all shooting situations where it is important to move the camera quickly. This includes action and sports photography as well as portrait photography. A 3D panhead (also known as a 3-way panhead), on the other hand, always shows off its advantages perfectly when exact camera alignment is required, such as when shooting landscapes or buildings. Only a gear head is even more precise.

Manfrotto tripods - All important advantages and disadvantages at a glance

Before you actually decide for or against a Manfrotto tripod, you can take a look at all the essential advantages and disadvantages in the following overview:

Overall, with a Manfrotto tripod you choose a qualitative companion with many practical extras, so that easy handling is guaranteed as well as a long life.