Benbo 2 BE N102C

Different by design, and with an XL build Specs Maximum operating height: 256cm Folded height (with head): 114cm Weight with head: 4.1kg Max load (legs, head): 10kg, 10kg Leg section diameters: 35mm, 29mm Pivoting centre column: 360º Ball head: Benbo Professional Head mount diameter: 50mm Locking leg angles: Any angle Feet: Spiked rubber

£250, $360

A bit of a monster, the Benbo 2 kit weighs a hefty 4.1 kilograms and is a lengthy 114cm when folded. It rises to a towering 256cm at full stretch, requiring the additional use of a step ladder to look through the camera’s viewfinder. It’s certainly well suited to highlevel shots, but is equally adept at low-level shooting, thanks to the unique Benbo design.

Unlike regular tripods, the Benbo has a single joint around which all three legs and the centre column can pivot. This means you can adjust the legs and centre column independently, to any angle throughout a full 360-degree rotation, and lock everything off with a single clamp.

In other respects, the Benbo is quite basic. For example, the locking clamps for extending the single outer section of each leg are neither of the flip or twist variety, instead relying on a basic locking screw. The ball head does have adjustable friction damping and a panning release, but it’s the only one in the group that lacks a quickrelease plate. Operation is far from intuitive and some learning time is required to unleash its full versatility.

Performance

Rigidity is very good, but the Benbo 2’s Achilles heel is its central clamp: even after using great force to tighten the long locking lever, the legs can slide apart when the feet are on a smooth surface.

Verdict

Features Build/handling Performance Value for money

Overall

It’s big and versatile, but the single clamp struggles to give a firm lock.