Recommendations

[slat]

I am looking for a tripod for about $200. It will need to support 8 to 9 lbs. at most. Using mostly for night and astrophotography and maybe some landscape. Would appreciate opinions on heads and the pros and cons of different ones? I'm most unsure of those. What's opinions on swivel columns? They peak some interest in me? Could possibly stretch budget a little bit if needed.

 

[chuasam]

Budget a bit low. For $200 you could get one of those unknown brand tripods or some used legs.

 

[benhasajeep47 46]

Sturdy, decent head. In your price range. RC2 is their small QR plate (quick release). Spare plates are not that expensive. So you can pick up extra plates for bodies, or lenses with a tripod foot. It's aluminum so it's not the lightest. It says 5.6# with the head.

ManfrottoMK290XTA3-3WUS 290 Xtra Aluminum Tripod with 804 3-Way Pan/Tilt Head

I have had Manfrotto for over 20 years. Have not broken a single part. But you can get parts for them. Which may be hard to do for the cheaper MIC off brand ones (made in China).

 

[slat]

What if the budget was increased by $50 or $100. Also what about heads and swivel column?

 

[benhasajeep47 46]

What if the budget was increased by $50 or $100. Also what about heads and swivel column?

If you mean a column that goes 90 degrees to the side. This one has it. $200. The previous one and this one includes the heads. They are 3-way heads. Swivels around 360 degrees. Tilts front and backwards. And tilts to the one side more than 90 degrees. Each adjustment has it's own handle to tighten loosen, and help make movement.

ManfrottoMK290DUA3-3WUS 290 Dual Aluminum Tripod with 3-Way Pan/Tilt Head

 

[weepete]

Velbon Sherpa 5470d, under budget, comes with 3 way pan and tilt head or ballhead and can take up to 8.8lbs. I have an earlier model and it is pretty steady, used it in various conditions and been fine with the exception of one particularly windy day where the wind speed was above 40mph.

 

[Destin]

Vanguard Alta Pro. I had one and loved it.

 

[SCraig]

If your "8 to 9 lbs. at most" is simply the weight of camera and lens I'd recommend increasing it. What if you have to hang something from the tripod to keep it stable in windy conditions? Your weight goes right out the window. Many people recommend 50% more than the expected weight of camera and lens.

If my tripods didn't even have a center column it would suit me fine. I never raise mine, it just adds vibration. I had one on which the center column pivoted 90 degrees horizontally and hated it.

I'd also recommend one with the fewest legs possible. The more leg joints the more points there are for something to get loose or flex. For that reason I do not like legs with 4 sections.

 

[Derrel]

Swivel columns....many are sketchy...

3-section legs are typically sturdier than 4-section legs...2-section legs are the BEST for steadiness...but make the 'pod taller when carried, transported.

Aluminum 'pods are often affordable, and the heavier, bigger ones can be relatively stable.