An Introduction to Manfrotto Tripods
A good tripod can mean the difference between a shaky amateurish photo or video and a more professional look. Manfrotto tripods offer many options in size, weight and head type tripods. Here we will look at the 190XPROB model.
Features
- Closed length- 22.4 inches
- Max height- 57.5 inches
- Max height with center column- 48 inches
- Load capacity- 11 pounds
- Material- aluminum
- 3 leg sections
- Weight- 4 pounds
A tripod must strike a balance between sturdiness and lightweight. It must be sturdy enough to hold your equipment securely but light enough that it is not a pain to carry around.Manfrotto Tripods have struck this balancenicely with this model.
Unless you are a super professional photographer, you will be more than pleased with this tripod. It is well priced and hits the sweet spot if you will in function. Many cheaper tripods are a bit lighter but are made with a lot of plastic parts, which decreases their life span and stability. On the other end of the spectrum are the carbon fiber models, which are highly durable but will cost you about three times what these Manfrotto tripods cost and are only a fraction lighter.
With all the work that went into making a well-made, lightweight tripod, you might think that ergonomics were out of the question. However, Manfrotto tripods managed to add in features that keep this model user friendly as well. They improved the leg angle release mechanism and the quick release leg locks. You can even adjust the tension of the locks for your comfort level.
In addition to all of these improvements, Manfrotto tripods also included a bubble level, foam leg warmers, and a hook for weighting the tripod in windy or adverse conditions. You will also have the option to purchase accessories like spiked feet or an m-bag.
Cons
The one con to these Manfrotto tripods is the fact that they do not include a head. You must purchase that item separately. When you think about it that is not necessarily a bad thing since the choice of heads for a tripod varies between users anyway.
Bottom Line
Manfrotto tripods have hit a home run with this model. Customers and experts agree that it is a great little tripod for the money. This model is stylish looking, well made and will do the job nicely. You could find a cheaper model but end up paying the cost in reliability and function. Do yourself a favor and start with one of these Manfrotto tripods.