What does a better tripod net me?

Hello everyone,

I right now have a Dolica Proline Carbon fiber tripod. I've been wondering what tripods that are a bit more expensive like Monfrotto would get me over my current one. It seems to do the job in most circumstances.

I know I could definitely get lighter tripod legs, also the ball head included on my tripod(removable) tends to sag a bit after being tightened down. Not sure if these annoyances alone are worth the price difference though. Looking for someone to comment on what other features are gained as you move up the price bracket.

Well, better build for one, greater stability and durability, a smoother action of the ballhead or levers of a Pan n Tilt. Many I know swear by their Gitzos and Manfrottos. I think you'll be able to tell the difference between a good, upmarket tripod and a budget though effective one if you had them side by side for comparative purposes.


Cheers

I used a really cheap tripod for years and it did me proud. As long as you don't feel your existing kit is letting you down then stay with it.

The movement you are getting in the ballhead is a common feature of many heads and my Manfrotto 486RC2 annoyed me so much I switched to a Markins M10 which is completely steady. I took the opportunity to move to Arca-Swiss style quick release clamps and plates at the same time.

For some years now I have used a Manfrotto 055PROB aluminium tripod which has now been replaced in Manfrotto's line up. The Manfrotto range represent the middle ground, not as cheap as some nor as expensive as others and the quality reflects that. With tripods its a case of the more you spend, the better the quality.

Replacing the head wouldn't require replacing the legs.

What does your current setup not do for you? A few things that might come into play are removable/positional center column, legs that fold out to allow you to set up lower to the ground, (potentially) weight [although, if you already have CF legs I'm not sure about that one], standing height.

Just a few for consideration. Your answer to the initial question would help narrow it down; although, my gut reaction is that if you're not hitting a limit if your current gear that bugs you, you're not going to get much more than an emptier bank account by buying a more expensive tripod.

i know it's annoying, but i think if you're okay with what you have, just keep it. better tripods and heads will cost a lot more money.

a big thing you gain is time. like they say, "time is money." you might gain a few seconds with a fast setup and breakdown of your tripod legs. you'd save time fiddling with your ball head trying to recompose the shot after it droops.

weight would be an obvious difference. if you have to lug it a couple of miles on a hike, a couple of pounds might feel like a huge difference. ease of mind is another thing you'd gain. i'd love a lifetime warranty like what gitzo offers.

If the existing tripod weight and stability is not an issue , then a new tripod will not add anything to the equation.

Better tripods will dampen vibrations faster/better.
Better tripods will better resist torsional forces (twisting) caused when gusty winds catch long lenses like sails and cause the rig to twist about the center column.
Better tripods are nicer for set up and take down, both for general feel and for speed.
Better tripods depend less upon absolute weight to provide vibration dampening and torsional resistance.
Better tripods have more flexibility of configuration (like variable leg spreads, removeable center columns, availability of accessory items like straps and spike feet or snowshoe feet)