nest Traveller nt-6294ck £190/$300

What price a carbon fibre tripod? This one’s cheaper than you might have thought, and strong and stable too

Chunky and strong, the carbon fibre edition of this Nest tripod boasts the biggest maximum load rating of any set of legs on test, at 20kg, and the ball head isn’t very far behind at 15kg. It’s remarkably inexpensive for such a well-made carbon kit, and the aluminium edition costs even less (see ‘Specifications’ below). While the girth of the carbon leg sections is among the widest of any tripod in the group, the Nest nevertheless undercuts the Benro and Kenro for weight by 100g, the complete kit tipping the scales at 1.85kg. The maximum operating height of 166cm is about the same, and the folded carrying length is pretty small at just 45cm.

As in some of the other tripods, one leg is removable for use as a monopod. Like the Kenro, there are two spirit levels on the ball head, and the kit is supplied complete with a posh padded soft case, which is pleasant surprise considering the competitive price. Two alternative leg angles can be locked in place via a simple sliding lever, and the ball head features adjustable friction damping and a pan lock/release knob. The rubber feet are particularly heavy-duty, but they don’t have retractable or replacement spikes.

Performance

Setting up and folding the tripod are quick and easy procedures, all the moving parts and clamps operating with smooth efficiency. The only slightly fiddly facet is that the Arca-swiss type quick-release plate secures via a lever, which has an adjustable tensioning screw. The regular locking screws of most competing tripod heads can feel a bit more straightforward.