Manfrotto BeFree Advanced Travel Tripod Review - one of the best travel tripods

[@JUNO-69]

Love my BeFree. But the little spring on the ballhead plate lock mechanism pinged itself out on my first trip with it. Still works great just a little tougher to pop camera on and off the plate.

[@TH-ds2yx]

Anyone here wondering if it fits the Peak Design standard plate. It does not. It will only fit the Peak Design double plate. I found this out but couldn't be bothered returning the tripod, and i use the peak design plate in the PD capture clip, so ordered a "leftfoto" arca swiss quick release plate to swap onto the ball head.

[@AL-tj7ye]

I own a manfrotto be free and the wind knocks it down quite easily, there's no hook that I could add weight. I saw a review of Induro, they have spikes you could jab legs into soil or snow, and you could flip camera upside down as well, super great features!

[@Photogearnews]

The hook wasn’t on the original/cheaper BeFree and was added on the BeFree colour and advanced versions. I’ve used all of them and can’t say I’ve had an issue with it blowing over.

[@Photogearnews]

Oh... and the centre column is reversible for mounting the camera upside down... pretty sure this is in the video you just watched 👍

[@JohnChu]

200PL-PRO plate--- First I've ever heard of it.. a combo RC2 and Arca plate. Now that's cool!

[@Quillmgs14]

Thank you sir. I bought the same tri today and had issues with it. After watching your review (the 4th I watched) I better understood how to use it. Good job communicating how the rotational lock works. mgs

[@waygone6657]

Nice honest review, thanks. I like the choice in leg locks and the head plate option. I use a M-Plate Pro which accommodates both RC2 and Arca but it is good that Manfrotto is allowing that as well.

[@reyneilperez5578]

Nice review. Tnx a lot. Just got a used manfrotto be free advanced..

[@rodneymcgiveron]

This was awesome to watch ..I own a 20 year old SLIK 5000 that still works really well . Last year I bought a second hand Canon DSLR 600D and the previous owner threw in a Manfrotto MKC3 HO 1...It's really nice to use for the Canon an d for my Panasonic DV compact camcorders..Would love a newer Manfrotto now ..Thanks for the video .

[@paulchoccyt1303]

What hook is good to add to this so i can attach a bag for weight?

[@piotrstepien1234]

Is it possible to remove this central column not to hit the ground nor to have it extended? I mean like unscrewing this lower part.

[@bikecommuter24]

Cool I've been considering getting the BeFree and the backpack that goes with it, I want to carry a tripod with me but don't really want one hanging outside the bag and here it is. Thanks for the review. Twist knobs or levers it does not really matter to me, But I do like that you pointed out its a littler easier to get in and out of the bag with the twist knobs.

[@gewglesux]

I wonder how this compares to the Gitzo Traveler series 0

[@hoplite101able]

Hi mate will this hold a spotting scope?

[@romualdb5968]

Hi there any news about this video "QVC" about tripods as you talk at the end of this vidéo ?

I don’t know I saw fstoppers review and they didn’t like the weight distribution and plate locking mechanism...

[@RichardsWorld]

The sale price on the big sites was to good and they are all sold out! They were on sale for $250. So, I ended up ordering the slightly bigger GT version.

[@Photogearnews]

Big fan of the GT version... it’s a bit more solid but still portable enough to come everywhere

[@slazen]

Does it support a 200 500 mm nikkor lens

[@timeflies1114]

Hi, Really good review, thanks. Quick question, is it relatively easy to remove the ball head? Thanks again Simon

[@jdc2126]

I can imagine if you're in a rush to set this up, the twist to lock looks time consuming., and you might end up not locking one up completely and crash come your camera tumbling down. Not sure to even recommend this design. How safe is this tripod?

[@seasidefoto]

Thanks to your honest review, I bought this one today. Thanks.

[@davidcooper6704]

I was confused at first when you said there are free leg positions on the Beefree advanced.

[@elstcman5]

lmaooooooo same

[@theviewer5104]

Thx for yhe video. Do you feel it is also steady enough for long exposure with a dslr indoors as much as the more heavier (and more expansive) manfroto models ?

[@ricardomagath3640]

Hi! Will this be compatible with the SMALLRIG Arca Swiss Quick Release Plate L Bracket for Sony A7III?

[@jzayas5698]

Would this ballhead be compatible with L-Brackets?

[@CarlosMenciaTT]

Do you think a small slider would work on it with a gh5 ?

[@zeroice00]

Can you mount a peak design "Dual Plate" securely into this new head?

[@1newboyuk]

yes

[@MyMomSaysImSmart]

I'm looking for a video of someone actually mounting an arca-swiss plate to one of these. I just received one and none of my arca plates actually want to mount on it. Pretty disappointing.

[@DrGagnon1962]

Indeed. The plate from this tripod is Arca-Swiss on one axis, but has a wider base on the axis used to mount it in its saddle. So the plate can fit into an Arca-Swiss system, but regular Arca-Swiss plates are too narrow to attach on the saddle of this tripod.

[@mattruff6973]

Where do you find an iPad holder accessory that plugs into the easylink connections?

[@chrischrischris723]

Do you think this will hold a 70-200 2.8 ?

[@wilkbor]

Thanks for the video. I've been looking at this tripod as an option for travel.... Do you know if the ballhead is removable from the center column or is it fixed permanently? Thanks again, KB.

[@neilt11]

Removable

[@ron-namvet5651]

I have two other Manfrotto tripod models and have complaints about both. I need one that can hold that weight that they say it can. For the price of this new Manfrotto, you can get a better one that also makes into a great mono pod. Might even find it made of carbon fiber.....

[@-Bob]

the audio in this video sounds a bit odd in 7.1, not sure if its just my headset but I thought you should know

[@Photogearnews]

Thanks for the feedback.I have just noticed that I left the safety track on... so the left and right channels are slightly different. It might be peaking ever so slightly on one side occasionally.... and that is probably sounding odd in 7.1. Haven’t noticed it through normal headphones/laptop/tv. Appreciate the feedback.

[@bellacavachon7510]

Richard, I know that this review was ages ago, but I'm interested to know whether this advanced version is wider than the original befree tripod. There seems to be more space between the folded legs, presumably to accommodate the larger ballhead. Is that the case?

[@ChokeLever]

It doesn’t look like it has a level. Is one necessary? Manfrotto’s own sales pitch on their higher end tripods says “no decent tripod would be without a level” or words to that effect.

[@petegerardini2455]

FYI - the spiked feet are over 45 euros.

[@heisenberg7700]

Can I use my phone with this?

[@andygibson9232]

Nothing mentioned about the 2IN1 design, it also has a monopod option hidden inside one of the legs..a big addon and nothing mentioned. So clearly he hasn't read the insrtructions properly.

[@Photogearnews]

I hate to break it to you but that’s not the BeFree Advanced that has that feature it’s the BeFree 2N1. Nice try though 😄👍

[@Photogearnews]

And to add, this video was uploaded in March 2018... the 2N1 was released in September 2018

[@mstoltz]

if you already have a arca plate mountet on the camera, will this work or do you have to mount the one that comes with it ? for example, i have the Peak Design Slide II "Tallac Edition" with a Arca plate, and can i use that plate on this head ? Greetings from Sweden Morgan

[@niccoloamerighi8945]

How can i remove the ball head?

[@alanjrobertson]

Fantastic review, thanks!

[@johnger850305]

Found this useful, wanna get the whole set but my Benro tripod still works fine except for the ball head. Maybe I'll just get the MH494 itself and wait until my tripod isn't any usable:)

[@jans19772012]

Great video, great tripod .....may want to take a look to 3 Legged Thing.

[@Photogearnews]

I've been in contact with them but they haven't replied. Would live to review some of their kit as it's really good!

[@UserName________]

Thoughts on using this one for macro photography?

[@justenangelpascua2520]

Can I use this with a sony A7III?

[@RexC88]

Definitely yes! Im using my A73 on this tripod.

[@stylebluesguru]

Great review very detailed and well delivered, very helpful cheers.

[@cpaint69]

Do you think this tripod is strong enough for shooting Northern Light in Iceland during December with a Fuji X-T2 plus XF 16mm f1.4 lens? I am told the wind is pretty strong over at Iceland.

[@sethshaffer8592]

Longer exposures are ideal with more sturdy tripod in my opinion.

[@myraemery8749]

Very good review, I'm sold on one! But, a quick question, if as you said replacing the old befree tripod head with it, will the tripod still fold back with the knobs etc being bigger? Just to put my mind at rest!

[@agustingc]

thanks for the video! How can i connect a manfrotto friction arm to the easy link connector on the tripod?

[@fasil.364]

I have d500 with Nikon 18-300 mm lense , do you think is it stable to use long exposure ?

[@Photogearnews]

Answer: It depends, mainly on what you consider a long exposure and the conditions. If you aren't shooting in heavy winds you should be fine. It's pretty solid. If I was shooting in strong winds or for more than a minute or two, I may look for something more solid. However, that would also generally mean larger and heavier, so it's a compromise. I've had no problem doing 30sec exposures with the older Manfrotto BeFree tripod, although using the lighter Sony A7R and 24-70mm f/4 lens.

[@robertb.3651]

Get yourself a better lens !!!!

[@nilotpal_dey]

Can it handle nikon d750 with 16-35 f4 lens ?

[@andrewwright99999]

Best review to date and I think my canon 80d with 18-135 lens will be ok :)

[@tidesofkali]

using it with my 80d with the 18-135 and 70-200. no problem

[@RynnCox]

I know nothing about tripods, but I was recommended this tripod. Can it take overhead shots? And I'm assuming this will be fine with a Canon M3?

[@waygone6657]

I don't have this tripod but I have other Manfrotto equipment, it should be fine with a canon M3 however your choice of lens with affect the balance overhead or on the ground with any tripod or monopod.

[@gingerelvis]

Looks decent, very similar to my Mefoto Roadtrip in a lot of ways. You should add the Roadtrip to your roundup ;) can be had for a a great price if you hunt around a bit and there is a carbon option.

[@b.d0091]

Center column converts into monopod?

[@Photogearnews]

Nope... BeFree 2-in-1 one of the legs converts to monopod

[@b.d0091]

Photogearnews thaks fr ur quick response 🙏

[@yiotachristou7087]

How do I order this? Manfrotto BeFree Advanced tripod? Is that it?

[@Mykeprime]

Any thoughts on this vs the Mefoto Roadtrip?

[@adrianlunasandi8443]

can you change the head?

[@Photogearnews]

Yes

[@MominNz]

Im getting the MVKBFRT-LIVE . best pod...

[@murimurimrui]

is the ball head removable?

[@Photogearnews]

Yes

[@johnnyappleseed68]

does the ball head come with the purchase of this tripod?

[@Photogearnews]

Yes

[@kunalrajputphoto]

Fantastic!

[@SPDTDL]

Very nice

[@erikleypoldt8275]

Why make the centre column so long? Limits how low you can get

[@Photogearnews]

You can reverse it so you can put the camera practically on the ground. Maximises the working range hugely

[@mrswinkyuk]

Yes, those legs _are_ quite 'fin'

[@rvjr]

was about to say no deal until you said those stupid twist locks are optional.

[@garryfield2628]

I wanted to travel light but now have to invest in a sandbag.....lol

[@calvinchann1996]

Three months down the line, the head is not available from anywhere, except on eBay from Israel. Sorry, but I’m not buying it from there.

[@astromanicdave]

I’m sold!

[@pj_-cq1du]

ugh.... why did they change the leg locks?! im getting so frustrated with gear lately.

[@Photogearnews]

If you watched the video (or checked the description 😉) you’ll discover that they haven’t - they have released two versions, with twist locks or lever locks. More choice!

[@thinktank8389]

Let's push down on that, pop, No problems here, let's move on.

[@Photogearnews]

You’re correct... if you have a camera and lens that has a combined weight of more than about 30KG it will absolutely be an issue.

[@thinktank8389]

@@Photogearnews very good mate. Happy shooting. Could you recommend the one and only (first and last) tripod for wildlife. The Mountaineer is crazy expensive. But I like it. Anything as good, but maybe under 800$ us? Thank you

[@CartubeCoIl]

Very good review, cover all aspects. Thanks, subscribe.

[@donbosco9048]

That is tripod man.. that is stand… just showin full stand up

[@Optikification]

carbon version for me.

[@shakalaka7502]

I hate these screw type legs.

[@RichardSibley]

shakalaka then you’ll like the version with lever locks 👍

[@Photogearnews]

Lever lock version is also available for the same price. Using a miniature version of the locks found on Manfrotto’s larger tripods.

[@shakalaka7502]

Photogearnews ok...thanks

[@DamianBrown]

sweet, I prefer locks other than usually twice a week I catch a finger on one :D

[@oh-totoro]

Fully agree. I have the previous version of the BeFree, but I recently bought the Manfrotto Element Traveller (which I only bought as the Carbon Fibre version is a little lighter than the regular BeFree) and it has twist locks. They are not great at all. They aren't convenient or an improvement in any way. If it ain't broke, don't fix it.

[@TheOneAndOnlyRalph]

Many other tripods have all the same Features and more at a lower cost - Screw manfrotto!

[@noelcastro8765]

nc ;3

[@hazelthemage]

What

[@Photogearnews]

What?

[@seapanther53]

Ahhhh!! Twist locks!! I hate twist locks!! Whyyyy manfroto!! So stupid

[@Photogearnews]

Simple solution is to get version without. Clever Manfrotto for bring out two versions 😉

[@antonoat]

Mickey mouse tripod, wouldn't last long out in the field and would be useless in even a slight breeze.

[@Photogearnews]

Been using for over a year in the Peak District with no problems

[@antonoat]

@@Photogearnews It's obviously intended as a very lightweight tripod which in my experience works against it. I've known lots of people who have bought similar tripods then after a while they upgrade to something more sturdy so in the long run they end up spending more. I've been using tripods for thirty years, ultra lightweight tripods are not suitable for still photography.

[@Photogearnews]

That’s what the ballast hook is for. Hook your bag on it with a few kilos worth of lenses and the tripod isn’t budging And most experienced photographers I know have two tripods - one as lightweight travel tripod to take on planes, when hiking distances... and then a more sturdy tripod for when it’s possible to carry such a tripod with any issues. All I can say is that I’ve use BeFree tripods when I want to travel light and I’ve had no problem with 30sec + exposures at night of the Milky Way or just the usual running blurry water. When I know conditions are worse then the 190CX will come out, which isn’t exactly heavy.

[@robertb.3651]

I have a Manfrotto 058b and yes it's more substantial but it's not fun carrying it around , so this small thing makes sense if you know your limitations....