Pros
Sturdy and stable
High-quality build
Versatile and adjustable
Great for both close-up and landscape photography
Easy setup and quick adjustments
Suitable for heavy cameras and lenses
Long-lasting durability
Excellent extension height
Smooth leg locks and clamps
Carbon fiber material reduces weight compared to aluminum
Cons
Heavy for backpacking and long hikes
Pricey
Red sleeve on the center post is prone to potential breakdown
Main Product Advantages
10 Stability
The tripod is described as extremely stable and sturdy, capable of handling heavy camera setups without any wobbling, ensuring perfectly level shots.
10 Build Quality
Built with high-quality carbon fiber, this tripod is praised for its durability and robust construction. It is made to last and withstand heavy use.
9 Versatility
Highly versatile with adjustable legs and horizontal column, allowing for a variety of configurations and angles suited for different types of photography.
9 Ease of Setup
Users find it easy to set up and adjust, thanks to quick release leg locks and a well-designed mechanism.
8 Height
Offers a very tall extension, suitable for photographers who need high-angle shots. Some users appreciate not needing to extend the center column.
8 Value for Money
Considered a worthwhile investment for serious photographers despite its high price. It offers good value due to its quality and features.
7 Portability
While the tripod is portable and useful for travel photography, its weight can make long-distance carrying tiring.
6 Weight
Despite being made of carbon fiber, the tripod is still considered heavy by some users, making it less ideal for long hikes or backpacking.
Manfrotto MT055CXPRO3 Carbon Fiber 3-Section Tripod with Horizontal Column, Black - Product Review
The premium Manfrotto 055 carbon fiber 3-section tripod delivers maximum rigidity from the lightest components.
The 100% carbon fiber tubes and new Quick Power Lock (QPL) leg locking system maximize the tripod’s rigidity and vibrational absorption, stabilizing camera equipment under any condition.
The key feature of the MT055CXPRO3 is its 90° column, which allows the column to be extended vertically or horizontally.
The horizontal column mechanism is housed within the tripod's top casting for compactness, but it is easily and quickly extended whenever you need it.
Switching between vertical and horizontal column orientation requires no disassembly, and can even be done with a camera attached.
The 3-section legs of this Manfrotto tripod make it light and ready for to go.
The legs of the MT055CXPRO3 tripod are also fast to extend and adjust, thanks to the Quick Power Lock (QPL) levers.
The special design of the QPL levers allows single-handed opening of all leg sections in one action.
Intuitive and ergonomic leg angle selectors allow each leg to be independently and solidly set to any of the preset angles, allowing positioning freedom.
A bubble level is built in to the top of the center column for precise framing. The bubble level rotates freely around the center column, so it can be positioned wherever it's easiest to see.
The top casting of the MT055CXPRO3 has an Easy Link connector for supporting photo or video accessories (such as an LED light, flash, or reflector) on an extending arm or bracket, transforming the tripod into a practical mobile studio.
Technical Specifications
Closed Length: 24.8”
Leg Angles: 25°/46°/66°/88°
3 Leg Sections
Leg Tubes Diameter: 1.15”-0.98”-0.8”
Load Capacity: 19.84 lbs
Maximum Height (with Center Column Down): 55.12”
Maximum Height: 66.93”
Minimum Height: 3.54”
Weight: 4.4 lbs
Conclusion
The Manfrotto MT055CXPRO3 Carbon Fiber 3-Section Tripod with Horizontal Column is an exceptional tripod that combines strength, versatility, and ease of use. Its 90° column feature and Quick Power Lock system set it apart, making it a valuable tool for professional photographers and videographers. The addition of advanced features such as the Easy Link connector and the rotating bubble level further enhance its usability, making it a highly recommended investment for anyone in need of a reliable tripod.