Manfrotto Monopod 679 vs. 681 (with 234RC Head)

[Beski]

Looking to get my first Monopod and trying to figure out what the difference is between the Manfrotto 679B and the 681B ?? (I am skipping the 680 as it will be just a little short for me). The 681 seems slightly heavier and can carry a slighly bigger capacity, but not sure that's needed with the 234RC head and it's 6 lb. capacity (See Below)

The specs seem very close, so what is the major difference between these two:

Manfrotto 679B (3216) 3 Section Monopod (Black) - Supports 22 lb (10 kg)
http://www.bhphotovideo.com/images/shim.gif
Mfr# 679B • B&H# BO679B Price: $ 50.00
http://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/produc...3_Section.html (http://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/produc...3_Section.html)
Height: 63.8"
Folded Height: 25.2"
Weight: 1.3 lbs.
Capacity: 22 lbs.
Type: 3 Section Flip Levers

========================================

Manfrotto 681B 3 Section Monopod (Black) - Supports 26.5 lb (12 kg)
http://www.bhphotovideo.com/images/shim.gifMfr# 681B • B&H# BO681B http://www.bhphotovideo.com/images/shim.gifhttp://www.bhphotovideo.com/images/shim.gifPrice:$ 59.90
http://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/produc...od_Black_.html (http://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/produc...od_Black_.html)
Height: 63.4"
Folded Height: 26.4"
Weight: 1.7 lbs.
Capacity: 26.4 lbs.
Type: 3 Section Flip Levers

As mentioned above, I will also be getting the Manfrotto 234RC Head, but the Weight Capacity only shows 6 lbs. Is there any reason to worry about that based on my curren gear list below ??

234RC....http://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/554098-REG/Manfrotto_234RC_234RC_Swivel_Tilt_Head_for.html

Thanks,
Tom

[crn3371]

An inch longer when closed, and another 4 pounds in capacity. I really don't see much of a difference. I have the 679B with the swivel head and it works just fine for me. Like you said, the head is going to be the limiting factor. Save $10 and go with the 679.

[Lowner]

I don't think you'd be disappointed in either. A monopod is not as critical as a tripod.

[Beachcomber Joe]

The diameter of the leg sections are larger on the 681B. The smallest leg section on the 681B is the same diameter as the middle section on the 679B.