Manfrotto MK055XPRO3-BHQ2

Manfrott o’s heavyweight contender

£300, $370

More substantial than the Manfrotto 190, this 055 series tripod has wider leg section diameters of 30mm, 26mm and 22mm, compared with 26mm, 22mm and 19mm. As a result the tripod itself is 25 per cent heavier, at 2.5 kilograms, and weighs in at three kilograms with the same XPRO ball head. It has a carrying length that’s just 3cm longer, yet gains 10cm in maximum height, at 182cm. In this group, that’s only beaten by the giraffe-like Benbo 2.

The centre column and push-levers for the four-position multi-angle legs are also beefier than in the 190 tripod but, at eight kilograms, the maximum load rating only gains a single kilogram. At least that’s a closer match to the 10-kilogram rating of the XPRO head that’s supplied with both kits.

Further similarities between both Manfrotto tripods include an ‘Easy Link’ connector, which enables you to attach accessories such as an LED light, and a bubble level on the collar, in addition to the two bubble levels featured in the ball head. The pivot mechanism of both tripods is identical in style and operation – the 055’s is just a little bigger.

Performance

Overall rigidity is more impressive than that of the 190 on test, but the leg sections still drop out too freely when released. As a kit, the 055 legs feel a better match for the pro-quality XPRO ball head.

Specs Maximum operating height: 182cm Folded height (with head): 70cm Weight with head: 3kg Max load (legs, head): 8kg, 10kg Leg section diameters: 30mm, 26mm, 22mm Pivoting centre column : 90º only Ball head: Manfrotto XPRO Head mount diameter: 60mm Locking leg angles: Four angles Feet: Pads

Verdict

Features Build/handling Performance Value for money

Overall

Of the two Manfrotto kits on test, this is the sturdier and better option.