Slik Sprint Pro vs Manfrotto 7xx

[Longship]

I'm in the market for a decent tripod for use with my G3. I'm kind of between the Slik Sprint Pro and the Manfrotto 714B/724B. If I go with the Manfrotto, it'll probably be the 724B--more money but a sturdier tripod, I think.

I'd like to hear what others have to say about how these compare.

Please limit discussion to these tripods. My budget is limited and I do want something that is easy to carry and fairly light weight. All three of these models are about $100.00 or less. I very well may get a Manfrotto 3299 Quick Release with the tripod. It's about $30.00 more but would make things much easier.

One thing that intrigues me about the Slik is that you can lower it to about 6.5 inches--not possible with the Manfrottos. So I'm leaning towards the Slik right now.

What are the plusses and minuses of each of these tripods?

Thanks much.

Regards,
Arne

[Mitcon]

Hi Arne,

I've had both of these and still have the Slik Sprint Pro GM. I did put a different ball head on it so I could have a QR plate, much handier. It's very light, quite small and I think fair quallity also for the price. It's much more adjustable also for uneven surfaces or using on steps.

As you said it's also able to go lower because of the 3 different leg angles. I wasn't keen on the Manfrotto where the legs attach to the centre column and I love getting low for a different angle on alot of my shots. I think with the legs spead it's even more stable.

I don't know if you noticed but the centre column also unscrews to leave you with a column thats only a couple of inchs off the ground with the legs fully spead. Both are good tripods in the end although and it really comes down to the intended use and what you prefer the look of.