Manfrotto 290 XTRA vs Vanguard AEO 235AB

Currently looking these two. I like the vanguard because the weight capacity is 13.2lbs whilst the Manfrotto is 11lbs. There might be the odd time I put a Gripped 7D on it.

Im trying not to break the bank on a tripod and I know everyone will say "well how much do you value your camera?" but just cant afford to dish out major cash at the moment.

Vanguard is $129
Manfrotto is $141

Mostly landscape and eventually long exposure use.

These listed weight capacities don't mean a great deal, and shouldn't be used as a basis of comparison.

I owned a Vanguard aluminum tripod, and wouldn't buy another. Not very stiff. Of course that varies, I didn't try every one of their tripods! A medium-range consumer tripod, not the worst, far from the best.

In the days I owned aluminum tripods, I was much happier with Manfrotto in general. Well designed for what they are, a high-range consumer or low-range plus pro tripod.

You've probably read how you should save your pennies for a medium-range carbon fiber tripod at least. Those people aren't wrong, and I have been through a lot of tripods getting to true pro gear, but I'm not sure I would have done anything different when I was buying the non-pro stuff. I've given a few Manfrotto away to family & friends, I'm sure they're getting good use out of them!