Tripod Showdown - Sachtler, Switchpod, Manfrotto, Ifootage, Joby - (Tabletops and Fluid Heads)

Tripods, fluid heads, and other camera holding tools are pretty boring compared to all the sweet cameras, lights, lenses, and other things you can spend money on, but pretty much everyone needs one, and there's not a ton of information from the trendy KZbinrs that teach about the difference in quality between price levels. It's not common knowledge that pros will spend as much as their camera on their tripod and fluid head setup... but why? Isn't a tripod just a thing to hold your camera? In this video, I go over all my experience buying tripods over the years, and why I ended up spending almost 3 grand on my tripod/fluid head setup after 5 years of being disappointed with all the other things that have held my camera.
Links from video:
Manfrotto 323 Quick release plates: $40
geni.us/SZqO [B&H]
iFootage table tripod: $68
geni.us/w3o9rnB [B&H]
Switchpod: $99, or $119 w/ ballhead
geni.us/AB3Yu [B&H]
Sachtler Flowtech w/ FSB8: $2821
geni.us/8qWtnF8 [B&H]
Sachtler Speedlock CF75: $1280
adorama.rfvk.net/QV9NY
Manfrotto 546b tripod + 502ah fluid head kit: $639
geni.us/DQge [B&H]
Manfrotto 502ah fluid head flat base: $169
geni.us/vCvm [B&H]
Vanguard alta pro w/ ball grip (PHOTO ONLY): $180
geni.us/YnbEI [Amazon]
Sachtler ACE-M Kit: $712 ($450 if on sale)
geni.us/x5GI [B&H]
Sachtler ACE-XL Fluid head: $546
geni.us/clN6 [B&H]
CAMERA CLAMP ARM (no tripod, B-cam setup):
Impact Pivot Arm + Camera platform kit: geni.us/tE9P [B&H]
Super clamp: geni.us/aLKu [B&H]
CINEKITLIST's curated group buy deals (I have discovered that their facebook group is much more active and maintained than the website): / cinekitlist
Their website: www.cinekitlist.com/
Rhino arc 2 Rolling Impact Stand Build used for A cam in this video:
• DIY ROLLING MACRO Slid...
If you enjoy the video, thumbs ups are cool. Subscribe if you want more showdowns, more are coming.
/ tommycallaway
--------------// Other Socials \\--------------
INSTAGRAM: / tgcallaway
TWITTER: / tgcallaway
--------------// MUSIC in this video \\--------------
Best music service, and what I use now - commercial worldwide licenses on everything forever: bit.ly/37z9PvM
(get two extra free months with that link)
--------------// Camera Gear \\--------------
Sony A7S III: geni.us/ct4S [B&H]
Sigma 24-70 2.8: geni.us/rZFJA [B&H]
Sony A7S III Luts used in this video: bit.ly/2VjhmuJ
B-cam in this video: geni.us/0RZN [B&H]
--------------// Audio Gear \\--------------
MY SUPER CRISPY STUDIO MICROPHONE: geni.us/UecU3 [Amazon]
MY AUDIO RECORDER: geni.us/35rbA [B&H]
BEBOB Crocodile Clamp Vmount to 2x Dtap: geni.us/hulPC9q [B&H]
BEBOB VMOUNT TO USB conversion plate: geni.us/QNRJ [B&H]
BEBOB MICRO VMOUNT BATTERIES: geni.us/YAyn6a [B&H]
IMPACT ROLLING STAND: geni.us/DAH5nT [B&H]
IMPACT RAPID BABY ADAPTER: geni.us/t7ZDJs [B&H]
RODE PSA1 BOOM ARM: geni.us/XSWLD [B&H]
My adobe audition instant preset for vocals: bit.ly/2ZRE4wU
(currently being used on podcasts, productions, and paid work by hundreds)
--------------// Lights \\--------------
KEY AND BACK LIGHTS: geni.us/2DkMFB [Amazon]
SOFT BOX + GRID: bit.ly/33j2D6F
FRESNEL FOR BACK LIGHT: geni.us/NdxH [B&H]
BARN DOORS BACK LIGHT: geni.us/qOUTZw [B&H]
TOP / HAIR LIGHT: geni.us/OkqXPW [Amazon]
BACKGROUND LIGHT (LEFT): geni.us/YJUAST [B&H]
BACKGROUND LIGHT (RIGHT): geni.us/nQc0d3M [B&H]
FILL LIGHT ON MY ROLLING STAND: geni.us/cFJCXA [B&H]
--------------// Important \\--------------
I earn from qualifying purchases made through the links on my channel with the following affiliate programs:
Amazon Affiliates
B&H Affiliate Program
Adorama Affiliate
--------------// Timestamps \\--------------
0:00 - Intro
0:27 - Tabletop Tripods
5:33 - Things to consider when buying a Tripod
7:26 - What I need
7:50 - My first tripod
9:21 - Ebay garbage tripod
10:36 - iFootage Gazelle
11:14 - Manfrotto 502
11:29 - Tripods and Fluid heads can be individually paired
12:36 - Saving money on expensive gear
13:29 - Manfrotto 546b Legs
14:28 - Sachtler Ace M Fluid Head
15:59 - Sachtler Speedlock CF75 Legs
17:26 - Sachtler Ace M vs Ace XL
18:25 - Sachtler FSB 8
19:26 - Worst thing about Sachtler Ace M/XL
21:04 - Sachtler Flowtech 75 Legs
23:03 - Tripod bags
24:22 - Money wasted
24:56 - Tripod Alternatives
25:34 - Conclusion

[@TommyCallaway]

Added timestamps in bottom of video description. Enjoy!

[@Ex-Rated202]

Hi Tommy, have you tested the Peak Design tripod? If so what are your thoughts? Thanks for the great video, keep up the amazing work.

[@JaredSpink]

I know this was tough to make, so I want to say thank you. For someone that’s been looking for a good tripod and fluid head, I found this extremely helpful. Thanks Tommy.

[@TommyCallaway]

Thanks Jared!

[@JakeSloan]

THIS IS AWESOME... Tommy the man laying it out plain and simple for everyone to understand. mad props

[@MountUpMedia]

Props to you doing this, no one really wants to ever talk about tripods

[@MarkBennettCameraCrisis]

Tommy is ruthless - love it. I appreciate the honesty.

[@chrisw443]

This video reminded me of not being crazy and the fox station I worked at that treated me like I was a moron, purposely gave me a 28 pound sachtler tripod then fired me for not being able to fulfill my duties physically for complaining of pain. Looks like I need to have a chat with labors and industries. I was horribly gaslit the whole time about the kit being insanely heavy, this was my first job post 2020. So I really believed him, and that speed lock 75 was in the other lockers, for the "essential operators". Despite me remembering tripods for shoulder cams not needing to be that heavy. Those liars.... Thank you for this video and reminding me of that tripod.

[@booradley3146]

Loved this. Honest and to the point. It's the same thing with most gear and or clothing. Or as the older generation says, I'm too poor to buy crap. Much appreciated 👍

[@tombuck]

Yikes this is an impressive breakdown. A good tripod is an investment that can literally last a lifetime. Side note: the PolarPro Apex base with a Joby head is a great super strong tabletops option.

[@TommyCallaway]

Thanks Tom! This one was quite difficult to put together.. and it just touches the surface!

[@phuntshotenzin6904]

The best tripod review in the whole of KZbin. Appreciate your effort & honesty. New sub here.

[@ElectricDreams10]

I find that every one of the problems you encountered before you got to the best tripod are addressed by my e-image GH06 and carbon legs. The pan handle won't move a mm in any direction when locked off, the legs are totally solid and secure with a single lock, no sharp bits, super easy to deploy and re-pack into the very good quality supplied bag. Crucially, the fluid head movement is crazy smooth and counterbalance operates superbly. It also looks and feels very well made. The only limiting factor to some - not me - is the 6kg balance capacity (the legs will take 20kg). The way you feel about your Sachtler is exactly how I feel about my e-image kit. It was AUD$1095 new a couple of months back.

[@TommyCallaway]

That’s a great set too!

[@igorkas]

Great video, Tommy! I've been looking at Sachtler heads myself, and it's good to see more perspectives out there. Just an FYI on the counterbalance: you don't actually want it to spring your camera back like that. Balance your camera forward or backwards and set your counterbalance tension so that the head will stay at any position you leave it in. ProAV TV had a good explanation of how to set it properly.

[@KellenChase]

this video was incredibly useful and I have learned so much. thank you for putting it together. I am still struggling with the prices of what is probably necessary, but at least now I understand the specs, what those look like in practice (counterbalance etc) and the consequences of not purchasing for the proper weight.

[@satchelack]

Excellent video, thanks for sharing your extensive experience. Quick question about 75mm vs. 100mm sizing … If you have 100mm sticks and a 75mm head, does a 75-100 bowl adapter really make them work well together in practice? Or is it clunky and not worth the trouble?

[@kermitshamburger774]

GREAT VIDEO! This is one of if not the best entry level to pro tripod video that I have ever seen. Thank you.

[@TommyCallaway]

Thanks Kermit. I appreciate that!

[@Rashadmcka]

i have the E-image gh06 head and i changed the legs to the iFootage TC7. Ever since getting the legs, i have loved using the tripod on-location shoots, not so heavy i cant bring it, and the fluid head is amazing. Maybe not exactly a setup for someone just starting, but I recommend it!

[@iangrogan5261]

Has the GH06 head held up well? I’m stuck between it, the SGC T8, and the Sachtler Ace XL. I do a lot of work at longer focal lengths with quick panning/tilting and need something that will take out the micro jitters and feel consistent and not “jumpy” in feeling. My 502 head isn’t cutting it anymore.

[@Anders49DK]

​@@iangrogan5261 I am in this exact spot. What did you end up with?

[@JordanThomasmedia]

Tommy this was fantastic. For the Sachtler CF legs, is the mid level spreader removable? Want to be able to use the tripod for some lower angels shots.

[@frankluo230]

I keep hearing that the third tripod legs you bought, is the one you know what you always wanted. You demonstrated that in details and some more. Thanks a lot.

[@MrAndrewClaycomb]

I’ve never heard that, but it was definitely my case. I started with a still tripod/ball head, moved to a Manfrotto 502 with two stage legs, and my last tripod purchase was an O’Connor 1030 w O’Connor 35A legs. There’s nothing the O’Connor can’t do, except be small and light weight for remote travel, so now I’m looking for something that fits my travel needs and is still reasonable quality. There’s no such thing as a perfect tripod.

[@killaclownz911]

Awesome video brother, thanks for your input and knowledge when it comes to tripods, you are appreciated!

[@JoeMustang99]

I've had that iFootage tripod and video head since they first came out and I did need to tighten the clamps after a year. But you tighten the 11mm nut on the opposite end of the flip lock bolt, not the screw on the upper leg clamp. If you overtighten the flip lock nut the leg won't release when flipped out. If it is too loose, the leg won't be clamped tight enough when the flip lock is turned in. Try it. The K5 head is not a true fluid head. I use it in place of a ball head and it works great for that, not for video with a long lens. I shoot wildlife video with an 840 mm equiv lens and nothing but the expensive Sachtler type will work with small movements with a long lens following a slow moving subject. A long lens with a small movement is a tough application for a fluid head. The Manfrotto 502AH isn't quite smooth enough for me.

[@GearTestTV]

I almost purchased the Gazelle Uprise yesterday, but I decided against it. Thanks for confirming that decision!

[@RolandDobbins]

The Fotopro M5 is also a decent desktop ballhead tripod for mirrorless & dSLRs with common lenses, & is height-adjutable, at $115. Very informative video, thanks!

[@BugBobsWildWorld]

Great breakdown, thank you. Switchpod is fantastic - it holds everything. The Sachtler gear is amazing, never heard of them, appreciate the tip.

[@TommyCallaway]

Thank you for watching. I agree, switchpod rocks!!

[@edielayland8211]

Do you know if the Sirui SVH15 75mm fluid head will fit on Flowtech 75 legs? Thanks!

[@rayrapphaelbisnar]

have you had any experience with the manfrotto 645 or the e-image gh06?

[@ThisIsTechToday]

I love the Sachtler Flowtech and FSB combo. It really is fantastic and I hope I don't have to buy a replacement ever in my life, lol.

[@TommyCallaway]

We probably won’t. It’s so solid!!!

[@JoATTech]

Unfortunately Flowtech legs can crack. There is a video on YT, when dude advertise Flowtech legs, and got cracked spreader mounting/connection points. So does not seem as durable as you may think.

[@christophemalinur9959]

Even if you have a issue with Sachtler, you can trust the Vinten/Sachtler cusomers service. They are very nice and always there.

[@HowdyItLovll]

But $3,000… OUCH

[@tiger5551]

do you have any recommendations for a 30 pound weighted tripod? I need to be comfortable knowing the tripod will hold my Panasonic news camera

[@FTGTapGod]

For Tommy (and anyone reading the comments) the E-Image (or IKAN) tripods feel almost identical to the Sachtler Ace line at a decent cost savings. The Ace line is definitely a departure from what you would think of as Sachtler quality, but at the E-Image price point the movement you get is fantastic. I had the EG05 next to the Ace XL and they were incredibly similar. And the E-Image have a similar single action riser system to the Flowtech. The Tripod/Fluid Head I would really like to try is the SCG T8AL2. They are a new company and they look great for the price. Haven't had a chance to try them yet though.

[@Xbui.23]

Links bro

[@GeraldBertramPhotography]

Great informative video Tommy! Interesting you had those problems with the iFootage tripod. I have the TA5 Gazelle, I believe it's the step up from the one you have, and it is rock solid and legs have never slipped on me. Totally agree with you about Sachtler gear. They make amazing stuff.

[@TommyCallaway]

I think the chance of budget gear failing is just a lot higher with those smooth aluminum legs and the clamp locks on the ifootage one; which makes sense. It failed when I was mounting a slider. Gotta be careful pushing budget tripods with expensive / heavy setups.

[@GeraldBertramPhotography]

@@TommyCallaway can't argue with you there!

[@kvtsui]

Great work Tommy. I picked up the Sachtler Ace M combo from the B&H sale using one your affiliate links. Would love to see a slider buying guide from you in the future.

[@TommyCallaway]

Thank you! If considering the rhino arc 2, watch my video from a week or two ago about the probe lens setup and my problems with it. I still gotta try the Kessler system before I make my decision on which one is ultimately the best investment.

[@paulchiu]

Tommy, we're in May 2023, is there a travel video head out there? For Sony A1 with much to 135 1.8 lens. Thanks! I used Sachtler like in this video, but at my studio.

[@cinedorks9331]

If you're trying to use your phone as a teleprompter, you need to look into the Padcaster Parrot if you haven't heard of it. Gerald mentioned it in one of his older videos, it's one of the best purchases I've made. Lightweight and screws right onto your filter thread and has step-up rings to accommodate nearly all photo lenses and has a free teleprompter app that is really intuitive and easy, and you have a bluetooth remote for controlling it. And it's only $100. Easy peezy.

[@Donbros]

Sorry i didn't understood besides sachtler 2500 tripod what else you liked?

[@hawkley3862]

Amazing video, Highly needed thankyou.

[@ivanruiz2218]

This was very helpful, thank you.

[@JoeTheViewer]

Thanks for the review!

[@skymakai]

Appreciate the video! I'll be looking at the Sachtler Flowtech w/ FSB8! Funny though, the screw you pointed at on the iFootage is not the right one to tighten. You have to tighten the screw on the clamp itself. Open the clamp and tighten it a bit and try to close it. You can overtighten it and the clamp won't be able to close, so you would loosen it until you find the sweet spot where it's tight and can still close.

[@byannamarieokc]

Hi. Have you heard of the DOLLYPOD IVA - Wheeled Tripod with PRO-4A 3-Way Head? I came across it while searching for a tripod on wheels. I bought it. It is pretty cool BUT I can't seem to get it to pan smoothly. I was wondering is there a trick or have I made the wrong purchase?

[@Germannn]

oh yes i se the rotolight now, cant wait to see whats your thoughts

[@Newt211]

Subscribed - This was so helpful and it convinced my wife why cheapo tri-pods are not good.

[@mkyalva]

Thanks man, great video. Really informative

[@NoraphonKaedklung]

Good comparison, thanks.

[@itstoelean]

Super helpful video, thank you!

[@JamieFenn]

I hate my gorilla pod haha. Have you used the Peak Designs Carbon Tripod? Seems like the perfect tripod minus the price..

[@TommyCallaway]

I don’t like the idea of a 5 stage tripod... I even feel like 2 is too many. too many locking mechanisms. I much prefer the single latch on the flowtech and cf75 speed locks. They’re way more convenient in my opinion

[@JamieFenn]

@@TommyCallaway What would you recommend for something lightweight and backpack/travel friendly?

[@TommyCallaway]

Backpack friendly, I don’t have any advice. For me, it’s all about the flowtech. It has a great carrying handle, is lightweight, and will never break.

[@-paulmp]

The $12 tripod works for the little Aputure lights.

[@siemworks7078]

Cool! Just bought a aktiv8 head and the 75flowtech. My first videotripod and probably my last. Nice you like the 75:)

[@TommyCallaway]

Congrats!!!

[@Elizalustof]

I’m looking for a tripod that’s just over 6foot for my modelling project/work. I’m wanting to use my iPhone 12 Pro Max with it - is there any affordable tripods you can suggest for my needs. Thank you xx

[@sonicacoustics9176]

Very detailed product reviews. Cool! :)

[@tinylil]

Really appreciate this! Thank you :)

[@LongboardSessions]

Alright, this was awesome, thank you!

[@eqbrutus5838]

Great vid. I learnt a lot here. I love your BG lighting too but I really am curious, you've got that Christopher Walken thing going on - Is that a regional accent?

[@johnmorris1162]

The Weifeng WF717 legs look similar to the el-cheapo tripod you have but the head does not have the same problems (not the one I have anyway). The WF717 head lacks a counter balance mechanism but does generally work way better than the Manfrotto 502ah head I have (which I find quite flimsy). I have successfully used the WF717 to track yachts and surfers with a 400mm lens on my BMPCC4K. The WF717 model has been around some years and is generally regarded as the best of the worst for a starter video tripod.

[@carlosq00]

Great video and advice 👊🏽🔥🙏🏽

[@puddytat62]

I only saw the title so maybe you deal with this option later on. Yes the Jobi stuff is adequate for very light use and to hold maybe small lights/monitors and their new metal ones might be better. I might suggest the E-Image product lines ... they make both an aluminum and CF set of sticks that have a one lever lock per leg sorta similar to the Sachtler Flowtech tripods. I got the CF E Image from BH so it should be available. For less expensive shoots I will use that . For several day shoots I stick to the Flowtech .. E image make some very nice CF boom poles too. As you likely know, the CF stuff tends to not be that much lighter but they are a ton more expensive except for E-image. Another option I like is the Manfrotto 535 CF model... it is a good choice if you can find one used. Given that most cameras today are small there should be no need to get monster tripods and heads unless you plan on adding matte boxes and follow focus etc. With some cameras you are forced to get a matte box just to use an ND like the GH series or even the S1H .... I have used the 535 with an ifootage CF jib holding a C300M2 and they were plenty strong enough. In truth we do live in a golden age of low cost ground breaking cameras and certainly the tripod market has followed suit. Lots of reasonably priced options .

[@gdrriley420]

E-Image EG05A2 in the last week was on sale for almost 1/2 off at 190$ vs 320$ and often is around 250$. I haven't test it yet but I can't wait

[@TommyCallaway]

I hear AMAZING things about the e-image stuff. Wish I had one to include, but I FAR exceeded my tripod budget this lifetime. Hahah

[@gdrriley420]

@@TommyCallaway for whatever reason across B&H amazon and adoramba it has 5 stars with like 150 reviews. I've used Manfrottos before and meh

[@paulengle5784]

Man, I’m sorry you encountered that issue with the iFootage tripod. Gerald their feet and monopods are really well-reviewed. Did you reach out to iFootage to see if a replacement would fare better?

[@CameraManJohn]

Very nice! I've been struggling with my slider n fluid head combo. Might have to check out that Sachtler... rip wallet

[@TommyCallaway]

Yup.

[@roryonabike5863]

I think that traditional tripod legs are expensive overkill for many people. Note that Miller's entire Solo line of tripod legs work exactly the same as conventional still photo legs.

[@25Buttholes]

great video brother thank you!

[@joyoffilming9500]

What a great comparison and conclusion re buying crap and thereby paying double. I bought a Sachter Flowtech 75 and operate it with a Manfrotto Nitrotech fluid head, and it is a great combo. Nevertheless, this combo is too heavy to just carry it around for a long walk. So, I just got me an iFootage Cobra 2 C180 for run & gun shooting with my Lumix S1H and Sirui anamorphic FF lens. Tested it with the Nitrotech fluid head to find out about smoothness of movements - first results are awesome. So, just today, I ordered the iFootage Komodo F5 Fluid head to complement my lightweight setup.

[@antpruitt]

Such a great breakdown. I'm sorta hybrid. Pay a little more for one and also buy a lil less expensive for other uses (not cheap ones)

[@DanielScottFilms]

Great vid Tommy! Keep at it. "They wouldn't pay me. They wouldn't work with me." 😆

[@TommyCallaway]

Haha thanks. Just trying to stay honest. :)

[@DanielScottFilms]

@@TommyCallaway I tend to watch less of influencers who grow too big. Most of them just seem too interested in affiliate links rather than giving genuine opinions or come up with creative ways to use the gear we already have. Keep it real.

[@TommyCallaway]

I think, as long as you remain honest and creative, the affiliate links are less of a priority. I’ve seen some go down the path of greed, but there are others who are doing something amazing. Keep an eye on make art now’s channel over the next week or so.

[@NeilEvery]

I had the iFootage T7 and it was okay but a bit too heavy and I had the same problem with the legs getting loose - tightening it up worked for me. Now I have the LeoFoto 364 and it is the BEST tripod I have ever owned. It can take a ton of weight, everything is smooth, its super light and has a very good collapsed to full height range. I have it paired with the Libec 450 head which is fantastic. I love flat-based heads with 75mm bowl adaptors so I can switch easily between sticks, slider, etc. Manfrotto, despite the name, are trash. Many of their heads billed as fluid heads are in fact friction heads - good luck trying to do a smooth diagonal pan on a long lens (which is the true test of a quality head/sticks combo).

[@TommyCallaway]

Thanks for your insight! I personally haven’t owned a manfrotto head, I went straight to sachtler. I must have spoiled myself! I only hear good things about the 502 at it’s price point, and also the E-image gh06.. but I hate friction heads. I wanted to do a bunch of demos showing panning movement of each head but that can be influenced by skill and isn’t totally objective.. also, the video was already almost half an hour. There’s so much to talk about, so little time.

[@NeilEvery]

@@TommyCallaway Thanks Tommy. I think many under estimate the importance, the value and the many intricacies of tripods and heads. You could probably have an entire channel dedicated only to sticks and heads! I hear you on being spoiled with the Sachtler - I started out in the industry as a Camera Assistant so for many years knew only of Sachtlers, OConnors and Arri geared heads. After that 99% of heads are pretty lame... :)

[@Rashadmcka]

Honestly surprised to be hearing about the TC7 having issues. I own it and have had no issues. I wonder if they have a bit of a QC problem. Edit: I thought the t7 was the same as the Tc7 but after looking it up, i guess they are different!

[@NeilEvery]

@@Rashadmcka they may have upgraded it. To be fair it had a lot of use and had some pretty heavy setups on it. I still have it and use it for my little xc10 B camera and Benro S6

[@roryonabike5863]

In addition to Sachtler, which is discontinuing its decade old FSB fluid heads, it's well worth considering Miller and Cartoni. Personally, I use a Miller CX6, but Cartoni is excellent and less expensive.

[@TommyCallaway]

yeah, i saw the new fluid heads.. they look pretty fancy, i'm still very happy with the FSB8 though. I don't think i'll ever need to buy another tripod or fluid head.. looking forward to seeing lots of FSB go on the used market for a steal in the near future, though.

[@andilematomela2043]

Thank you

[@ThoughtSpirals]

Can we have some time stamps in the description to make it easier to jump around and compare heads on second watch?

[@TommyCallaway]

I’ll be going through this evening or tomorrow to add. Had a busy day!!

[@LensVid]

Great roundup Tommy. We are also working on our own Video Tripod comparison (in our case we will be looking at two new Manfrotto legs/heads that you didn't mention). The Sachtler Flowtech is fantastic but the price is really out of reach for most users (even for us as working professionals it is hard to justify). p.s. Tommy - what is the 18-35mm Cine lens in the background connected to your Sony?

[@TommyCallaway]

Good eye! That’s my custom PCHood Cinematics Sigma 18-35 cine conversion. It’s a photo sigma 18-35 converted to a par-focal cine 18-35 with gears and de-clicked aperture. It also looks suuuuuper sick, and costs half as much as a regular cine sigma. Only downside is some focus breathing.. which I don’t actually mind at all. I’m looking forward to your tripod video as well! There’s just so many tripods and fluid heads.. I don’t think my showdown is an end-all, but more of an informative journey of “what you get for the money around different budgets”

[@LensVid]

@@TommyCallaway :) I actually went and looked around for this lens (I think I know most Cine zoom lenses in this range and we are always looking for new ones to test - the Sigma 18-35mm is a fantastic lens so having a Cine housing is really cool - I should have remembered seeing this mod in a different video on KZbin - did you make a video about it? if not, maybe you should). I actually talked to Kazuto Yamaki a few times (during Photokina R.I.P.) and suggested to him that Sigma should come up with a compact Cine line for mirrorless cameras - he listened but didn't say much. I think they have other priorities - but with the new FP they are focusing more on mirrorless so who knows. We will be testing the 635/645 legs in a few days and two heads from Manfrotto a bit later - I have to be honest I still prefer my good old 028B which we reviewed years ago. Yes it is a stills tripod but for studio work + leveling base, it is fantastically useful for both stills and video (especially product photography/videography and food photo/video work which is what we do on a daily basis). P.S. breathing is something we now test on all lenses - Tomorrow we will post an interesting review/comparison with a little surprise when it comes to focusing breathing - you should check it out.

[@TommyCallaway]

Will check it out! And, I will be talking about that lens very soon. :) Komodo shows up this month.

[@LensVid]

@@TommyCallaway Surprisingly I never had a chance to work with Red cameras (coming from a stills background). But I will certainly wait to see what are your thoughts on using it.

[@TommyCallaway]

Neither have I! I bought one blind so I can share my experience of going from small mirrorless to big boy cameras.

[@daveandjoannenoordhoff]

Wonder what you are talking about ... I have two iFootage Gazelles (TA 7 and a TC6) and they are absolutely great. No problems with loose leg locks or anything else. Agree with your assessment of the iFootage Cobra 180 monopods/table top trtipod. iFootage seems to me to be top flight medium capacity tripod at an acceptable price. Love the iFootage Komodo K5 fluid heat also.

[@TommyCallaway]

I'm glad yours isn't having any issues! I just shared my own experience. It failed while I had my slider on it.

[@finality4795]

Just got the speedlock cf with fsb 6 for around 1300 euro, not bad, the flowtech legs cost more than the speedlock and fsb 6 combined while the speedlocks weight less by 1.5 kg. It's just not as durable as those flowtech legs, but value wise, you get similar system / less weight / less pain in the pocket.

[@NickThaRuler]

Thanks!

[@xDreaMeRxYT]

Great video!

[@TommyCallaway]

Thanks Ron!

[@4CardsMan]

Thanks for all the data. This would play a lot better if it were less jumpy. I ended up getting confused about which rig you were talking about several times. Perhaps you could break this long video down into three separates, one to show the junk, one to show the stuff that will barely get by, and one to show the good stuff. That said, I really appreciate your calling things like they are.

[@topicruben]

Gonna be honest with you. The tripod I have costs 25€. It’s a piece of garbage, but as I was using in the house it was ok until..., I started doing gigs for companies and tried to pan or tilt it! Then I realized I needed something else, but as I definitely don’t have the money for the last one you showed (which I love btw) I thought of getting the Cayer BV30L - maximum 13,2 lb, 5.99kg. what do you think about it? Do you even consider it?

[@cinedorks9331]

I have this tripod. Been using it for two years. It gets the job done, but it's far from perfect. As an entry level tripod that provides a larger size, stability, and semi-fluid pan and tilt motion with a bowl mounted head, it's a great tripod at a great price. Compared to a semi-pro build tripod though, you can tell where its flaws lie. But if you just need something that isn't a crappy Wal-Mart in-store tripod for casual users, it's a worthy upgrade. My biggest gripe is the bubble level on the tripod head is poorly fastened to the head and you can tell it is ever so slightly crooked, which means leveling the head for level pans is impossible using the bubble level, but that's what you get when there's variance in your cheap generic products. The bowl mounted head is its biggest benefit. Being able to detach it and use it elsewhere, like on a slider, is a big bonus.

[@topicruben]

@@cinedorks9331 Thanks so much brother 🙏

[@Raulito979]

Nice video man

[@electronicbox6990]

You mentioned some 500 ish usd fluid heads. Try SCG. Smooth Camera Gear T6. For the same price coming with tripod and the fluid head is great!

[@anywherenearzero]

Is it made from Aluminum OR Alumin(I)um lol

[@ClaudioDesideriFilms]

It was so interesting to learn so many tripod features from Keanu Reeves

[@chrisw443]

I would recommend a pineta peak or small rig speed release system. Because saying the only tripod thats good is nearly a thousand dollars is not correct any more. But very helpful video. My other comment says why.

[@airviewcinematography]

I love my FSB 8/Flowtech75 setup. BUT, the mid-level spreader is absolute junk. I'm on my 3rd one. They break very easily.

[@randalltinfow4485]

If you addressed rebound, I missed it. Otherwise useful.

[@shiekinvestments8472]

A tiny bit of TWERK & it will move!! 😂😂😂

[@1dxmark297]

◆ You'd rather be careful not to break the Flowtech 75 tripod. In addition, the accessories are very expensive.

[@silversulu]

Flowtech/FSB8 all the way; save up & ante up & never look back

[@NewerSing]

My first tripod is a soviet steel tripod with friction head, not good for movement, ok for placing camera on it, great to use as a small ladder. My second tripod is the Manfrotto Nitrotech N12 kit with connected legs. The jump is steep, but I went to the stores and tried different tripods and figured that it's better to buy high quality gear. Same thing about cages and all other kinds of grip. It's just painful to look at the shitty gear you bought that just sits there collecting dust.

[@alexanderktn]

The constant sliding of your camera is very annoying since it more often than not looks like the mic is going to hit you...

[@NathanBuildsRobots]

6:05 Nice. Low angle shot. I see what you did there.

[@paulloth]

10:57 i dont have these problems at all it works fine for me...i freakin love this tripod because it is so stable maybe your unit is defective...

[@tasercs]

I agree. other people here are making purchasing decisions based on the ifootage tripod in the video. It must be a one off issue; if the leg simply collapsed under finger pressure, it would never have got to market. I'd go as far as to say this is very unfair and not representative. Still, it is a viewpoint and it is up to the viewer to make their minds up.

[@TommyCallaway]

If Sachtler delivered a defective product, I would determine they are junk. QA should be exceptional at those prices. That being said, I really like my flowtech.

[@TommyCallaway]

@2WheelsGood I think I have different standards for different tools. Tripods are largely simple mechanics so I am very critical of them, and lights/electronics have sensitive components, so I have a bit more wiggle room in terms of how much back and fourth or QA problems there are.

[@TommyCallaway]

I would certainly send in / exchange your a7s3. That’s totally unacceptable

[@tasercs]

@2WheelsGood Thanks, good to know. I'm glad you have had such a positive experience. I've just ordered a TC6S and a C180 monopod. I have hardly ever seen a brand so universally liked in reviews ( with one notable exception LOL)

[@roryonabike5863]

In October, Sachtler launched its Aktiv line of fluid heads. The FSB line is being discontinued. See this discussion: forum.blackmagicdesign.com/viewtopic.php?f=2&t=123375&p=679301&hilit=sachtler#p679301

[@KowboyUSA]

My Digital 8 Sony Handycam would malfunction from embarrassment if I tried to put it on a $3,000 tripod.

[@floatinsun]

3000$ tripod would be great for 200$DSLR 😂

[@finality4795]

that's overkill, if you got a $200 dslr the ace-m setup is more than you'll need for a long time

[@JoATTech]

Any Joby is piece of s..t. I got 3k pro version and my 2kg setup just fallen down few days ago. If you divide max load of the joby by 3, maybe it would work, but anything heavier (still under advertised load capacity) may fall down and get damaged.

[@Donbros]

New joby pro is way better

[@mico5003]

Those last two praised tripods yeah? Read 2 stars or 1 star reviews in b&h. This dude does seems honest, but does he really being sincere? This is yt be careful and do your own research.

[@kurtnelle]

Freaking Tripod is gonna cost more than the camera.

[@YoungBlaze]

i want to spend 1,000,000 dollars on a tripod PLEASE POINT ME IN THE RIGHT DIRECTION

[@gamerpoets]

Psych ward that way ->

[@Maxfuretto]

First 😅

[@TommyCallaway]

You did it!

[@siriusgd4753]

I wouldn't buy anything from K&F Concept. They have the worst customer service. They take your money and then they don't send you the product and then play games with you for weeks not giving you a product NOR your money back. I'll never buy anything from these clowns.

[@jamskof]

cyclist?

[@TommyCallaway]

Nope, I was just really thin when I filmed this. I'm in much better shape these days!

[@jamskof]

@@TommyCallaway i was thinking you looked in great shape! your built for the alps! :)

[@TommyCallaway]

Thank you!

[@MrTom38ncalif]

I would reespectifully disagree... you are not wasting money when you buy the best tripod - a dozen pictures which are the epitomy of thoussands of folks are well worth the 3K spent and then again, the top pic is priceless >>> heres where I went>>> Sachtler aktiv8 flowtech75 MS Tripod System ... if you can forgo a few starbucks then go for it... B&H payboo is a blessing