Manfrotto Element MII

£45/$50 www.manfrotto.com

Part of a new range, the Element MII aims to be lightweight and affordable, which it manages with aplomb. Weighing in at a slender 0.5kg and still able to hold up to 8kg of kit, the Element MII will be more than up to the job for most roaming photographers. It’s a pretty simple design, without fancy bells and whistles like a tri-part foot or quick-release plate, but the price is attractive. We rather like the stylish red finish, too, though you can get it in black if you’re a traditionalist. PROS Light, ideal for travel; amazing value CONS Aluminium not carbon fibre; no QR plate

Material: Aluminium Sections: 5 Max load: 8kg Extended length: 159cm Packed length: 43cm Weight: 0.5kg