Gitzo to Manfrotto?
Feb 19, 2013 04:30:14 #
Malcolm B
Loc: Leicester (UK)
Yes, I know its another tripod question, but I hope that this is slightly different.
Apart from the 2 - 3 times difference in cost, is there really any difference between the Gitzo and Manfrotto carbon fibre tripods. I know that the Gitzo has a several (6?) layered construction but cannot find out anything about the construction of the Manfrotto, but presumably it is layered also.
I am looking to buy a CF tripod and if there is no real difference, then the extra cost would seem not to be worthwhile. What are your thoughts on this?
Apart from the 2 - 3 times difference in cost, is there really any difference between the Gitzo and Manfrotto carbon fibre tripods. I know that the Gitzo has a several (6?) layered construction but cannot find out anything about the construction of the Manfrotto, but presumably it is layered also.
I am looking to buy a CF tripod and if there is no real difference, then the extra cost would seem not to be worthwhile. What are your thoughts on this?
Feb 19, 2013 04:37:37 #
Feb 19, 2013 05:36:53 #
How rough do you really plan on being with your tripod? I purchased a Benro carbon tripod and Manfrotto ballhead so, that I could continue to use the less expensive quick release plates that I had with my Manfrotto aluminum tripod. Some companies sold camera specific QR plates running approximately $40.00 each versus ~$11.00 for Manfrotto's which was not camera specific. Maybe, B&H's website might have more info http://www.bhphotovideo.com
Feb 19, 2013 08:23:21 #
romanticf16
Loc: Commerce Twp, MI
When you read about any or the outings of the "Nikonians" the predominant products seem to be Gitzo Tripods with Really Right Stuff Ballheads and Mounting Plates. "The difference between men and boys is the price of their toys." As they've said in interviews, they have closets full of inferior tripods before making their final choice- could have saved money by buying the best once and for all.
Feb 19, 2013 08:28:38 #
My advice is to look on review forums of people who are actually using these tripods..and not amateurs either...people who know their stuff.
Amateurs tend to go cheap, and settle for wobbly...I know, I'm one of them.
I've bought several "ok" tripods but I know that what I really should do is just buy a good one and keep it for 30 years.
Amateurs tend to go cheap, and settle for wobbly...I know, I'm one of them.
I've bought several "ok" tripods but I know that what I really should do is just buy a good one and keep it for 30 years.
Feb 20, 2013 11:27:25 #
BigD
Loc: The LEFT Coast
The Manfrotto carbon fiber tripods are awesome. I have a Gitzo carbon fiber monopod and I LOVE IT but my Manfrotto 055CXPRO3 tripod is equally as awesome. I mount a Canon 1D MkIv on it with a 400mm f/2.8 on a Manfrotto 498RC2 ballhead with PL400 quick release plates and it is solid as a rock. Didn't find any stickers that tell how many layers the carbon fiber is on the Manfrotto but honestly they look the same (Manfrotto is a tiny bit darker in color) and since they are owned by the same people I'm thinking they are pretty darn close. Either way you won't be buying cheap since both are higher end just stay away from the thin legged versions if your looking for stability. :thumbup: :thumbup: :thumbup:
Feb 20, 2013 14:52:33 #
The only thing that Manfrotto seems to lack is the "impress" factor !
Feb 20, 2013 14:55:52 #
BigD
Loc: The LEFT Coast
imagemeister wrote:
The only thing that Manfrotto seems to lack is the "impress" factor !
They're both made in Italy so whatsamatta?
:wink:
Feb 20, 2013 17:42:06 #
I bought a nice Pro Master FW29T tripod from Service Photo here in Baltimore.
It is solid as a rock, holds my Canon 50D with battery grip and 100-400mm "L" lens securely.
For the little use I have for a tripod, it works great at $125.00
It is solid as a rock, holds my Canon 50D with battery grip and 100-400mm "L" lens securely.
For the little use I have for a tripod, it works great at $125.00
Feb 20, 2013 17:48:07 #
Feb 20, 2013 18:09:35 #
Malcolm B
Loc: Leicester (UK)
Thanks guys for all your input. Still not sure which way to go , but now I have your input I have a better feel for both.
Thanks.
Thanks.
Feb 20, 2013 19:05:06 #
Gitzo used to be one of the best tripods when they were made in France. Since they've been bought out, I've heard the quality is not the same. However, I don't have any personal experience with the new Gitzos.
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