I was like, man, I don’t know if I can live with that one-side tilt limitation. Then, you said it was $600. The best choice is one that you don’t have to make.
Ever since i added L-Brackets to my life, the limitations of any ball head went away. I also never remove my quick plates. Not sure the D ring thing is that much of an issue? (And yep. I've forgotten a toothbrush , but i've never forgotten my allen key.... ). Tony, I'm using a Promaster Professional XC325C for backpacking / traveling purposes. Weighs as much as the new Peak Design unit (+/-). It was cheap, it's tough, and it's light.... and if i forget it somewhere... i'm not out 600 to 1000 big ones. (LOOKING AT YOU GITZO!) 🇨🇦
Bigg Pappa: Terry Pratchett wrote, “Five exclamation marks, the sure sign of an insane mind.” Not sure what he would make of all the exclamation marks and the ALL CAPS in your comment, but I think you need to seek professional help.
Yyyup. Watched a review right B4 it from another TH-camr and man, what a difference. Literally the second coming of tripods. Greatest thing since sliced bread.
Exactly, all these other TH-camrs even though they say that their review it's not affected by the fact that Peak desing is sponsoring their review, they surely lack on info.
Everyone including this video was technically sponsored unless they send the tripod back to the manufacturer, but it's somewhat different than directly being paid to make a video (tax on the value of the item should be paid if kept, but that's a different matter so all of these people take a financial loss due to tax unless they ignore that or until they sell the item). I've done a video like that where I was offered a code to print an expensive photobook. I don't see any issue as long as the video maker is clear of the entire exchange. Some youtubers had affiliate codes, which should be disclosed, but that too I don't personally see an issue with. I'd dont get the conspiracy theory stuff because usually it's pretty easy to see if there was some exchange involved. Tony here did some real testing and he is photography centric, so it shows in his video for the better (again, nice job). My main comment was meant to highlight that.
@@DylanHaskin I just withdrew my pledge after witnessing the type of trollish behavior displayed by backers on Kickstarter. Any rational observation is quickly dumbed down by battery of "paid" trolls who I am sure are there by the virtue of pledging the bare minimum required to be able to make comments on KS. They descend upon you like swarm of wasps and try to sting you into submission. Btw I recently checked this tripod out personally, though wonderfully designed it will end up being a wall flower as one will need an adaptor to mount a ball head if one has to get any use out of it. And once the adapter is attached the compactness for which one will be paying $$$ will be thrown out of the window.
I agree on the lack of a D ring and the need to carry a hex wrench. It is also totally out of my price range. If I'm going to spend $600 I'll buy a lens.
The problem with the bag is you often don't use it. When you're actually working you want your tools to always be easily accessible. For me, my tripod simply hangs from one of my shoulder straps. I never ever use a tripod bag. If an Allen key is required, which is dumb, at least have it stored *in* the tripod itself.
Tony, I want to thank you for your honesty and your commitment to editorial integrity. I was initially amazed by the sheer number of TH-camrs out there singing the praises of this tripod despite its high price and inherent limitations. I appreciate your honest opinion and I'm glad that at least one guy out there doesn't exchange positive reviews for free product or money.
Haven’t read all the comments on the post but I did not hear Tony raise it and have not seen it in any of the comments that I have read and that is that it’s a 5 segment tripod. It’s the first generation of a new design so it’s going to have design bumps that will no doubt be improved in next generations so I’m less worried about some the points that Tony raises, and the price is hardly a problem for a serious tripod, see Gitzo and RRS, but 5 segments is a real issue. Travel tripods of necessity need to make the compromise of additional segment(s) in order to minimize the folded length for travel purposes. Most well designed travel tripods get away with 4 segments, Gitzo Travel 1 for instance, a fabulous tripod that costs more than the Peak Design but even 4 segments is a compromise. Every segment in a tripod increases susceptibility to shake and vibration, the very thing you’re trying to mitigate with a tripod. The 5th segment of the Peak Design looks to be so thin that in any wind above a breeze the likelihood of focus-compromising shake and vibration would, in my experience, be very high, particularly when the centre column is raised to any degree. Centre column should never be raised, introduces too much potential for vibration, and the RRS tripods for instance don’t even have a centre column in their design for that very reason but the Peak Design requires the centre column to be raised. So, I will not be switching to Peak Design’s new tripod, as exciting and novel as it seems. In the interest of saving an inch in length and width as compared to the Gitzo, they appear to have introduced significant problems in the design of other more important areas of their tripod’s performance. Just because it’s novel doesn’t mean it’s better, would be happy to pay Peak Design’s price if it could actually deliver on performance.
For a fair comparison, Gitzo travel tripods are >$500 (with similar weight capacity). While I haven't used the Manfrotto BeFree (Manfrotto & Gitzo as of now are made/owned by the same company), but I believe a good tripod (CF specifically) costs good $$$.
I love my Peakdesign camera clips, have them on all my backpacks but i replaced the screws on the plates with D-Ring ones, it's really easy and you can buy 1/4" replacement screws for 1-2$ in great quality with spring detents for the D-Ring
Batman: "Tell me, do you bleed?" Tony Northrup: "Only when I loosen the ring on my Peak Design tripod. I'm not gonna make that mistake again." Batman: "You will."
I can't trust the Northrup's on reviews, especially when they apparently have a built in bias for a particular product and/or company. I'm sure if PD would sponsor them, they'd give it rave reviews. But I do agree that it's over priced.
@@neostephens8980 They don't accept sponsorships from photography gear companies. They seem really good at pointing out the pros and cons of everything they review; and their reviews are pretty consistent with my own experiences. This has made them one of my most trusted review sources. Can you point out a review of theirs that you feel is biased?
I feel like I dont really go to Peters videos for the context anymore just go because I like how he edits and colors and the general production quality.
Peter who? His vids can be stunning & he sets the benchmark in production but do I trust his gear reviews? Nope, there's no way would I buy anything on his recommendation, he's up there on the don't believe all you see pole with his mate Casey. I don't mean to kiss ass but thank god we have this channel away from these "Influencers"
@@ripley1690 It would help if he actually showed the tripod properly ;-) Reviews v Sales are entirely different hats off to Tony for pointing out the obvious flaws in design. I think there is potential here some excellent ideas if taken to the next level via another company it could be a winner. But it has to be more realistic on price
I clicked on your review expecting an unbiased and un overlyhyped review as you usually do and needless to say you delivered. There certainly is a lot to like about how compact and goodlooking it is but for me that ballhead design is a serious drawback, one knob means no individual panning control, and that price is pretty out there. 3 legged things have some pretty good tripods at a much lower price.
Andres Cifuentes I just received my PD tripod not as ‘cute’ as three legged think RIck Punks but has to be better three legged thing a complete waste of money.
If it is stable enough for what you do, no shame in that... If your tripod is "good enough," then a more expensive one won't magically make your shots better.
I definitely agree with you on having a D-ring instead of hex key to tighten. I like the idea of being able to use my peak design strap clip with a tripod instead of having to take it off every time I want to use a tripod. But the price is pretty steep!
Easy to replace hex key with home made ring, no tools required, 1st mid I would do. Love modifying camera gear to make gear better,i have modified most my gear.
What do you mean by strap clip? You mean their carrying clip thing? These plates work with those. If you mean the little round things that hang off for their camera straps, those go on the base too and don't get in the way of my tripods or the carrying clip.
Just got a PD tripod to complement my other PD bits 'n' bobs. I keep one of their hex keys on my keyring so not a problem at all... until I lose or forget my keys of course 😂
A beautiful tripod! But €400+ for the carbon version (and even considerably more post-Kicksarter) is ridiculous! I was very tempted to support the project / buy one... until I saw the price.
If it were me, it would be hard to recommend a tripod that can make you bleed. No more products for you to review from Peak Design Tony. Loved the outtake at the end
Under the US rules for social media disclosure, receiving product for free (even for review) is considered 'sponsored' even if no payment or gift cards are received. It's no different than receiving free food as a foodie. Now if you had to return the tripod back to PeakDesign, then it wouldn't be sponsored. As an aside, in Canada, even though many TH-camrs and social media accounts don't do it, another rule is that all winners must answer a skill-testing question (mostly in the form of a math equation).
@@kelvinzyteng Or they'll sell their cheap knock off version on ebay and amazon while trying to pretend it's the real thing and then disappear in the middle of the night when you need to get your POS KO fixed.
If you are already spending that much, the Gitzo world traveler is awesome! Only very slightly greater dimensional footprint, normal and really excellent ballhead. I prefer a non-proprietary QR plate.easy to misplace the plate as well! L-bracket always stays on camera.
we're gonna have to see more indepth reviews, but that tripod head design looks like a solution in search of a problem. it sure packs tightly, but i'm not convinced that it is steadier than a standard old ball-head.
The quick release plates absolutely do not come loose, I don’t know what you’re talking about there. I’ve been using the capture for years and I’ve never tightened the plate since it was first installed. Install it tightly and there won’t be a problem.
Peak Design can v2 that price right up to $800. They charge double the going rate on everything they sell. It's easier to swallow with the Capture Clip system and straps, but the other stuff they sell gives me a rash thinking about the prices.
@@hautehussey They can charge it, but we also don't need to buy it. An example for me personally is the Peak Design backpack Tony wears in the video. I researched those and really like it. I want one. But the price is $200 too much and I won't even consider buying it. And I use their straps and Capture Clip system.
I'm using their base plate, because it's convinient. But yesterday my camera including my 24-70 fell of my tripod, because it wasn't tighten up right. Now both are broken. Gonna switch back to the manfrotto system...
7 reviews for the Peak Design Travel Tripod showed up in my feed today... You are the only one that gave it a review that didn't look like a promotion. Thanks Tony. Hook'em!
Cost isn't outrageous IF it keeps up with Gitzo and Really Right Stuff (then it would be quite cheap). The need for a hex wrench drives me nuts, and I say that as someone who overall loves Peak gear and beats the crap out of it each week. Would a coin slot kill them?? Really well done first impression and overview. I'm interested but not sold. Peak, if you're listening and want another person to beat the snot out of it on planes each week, just sayin, I'm here...😉
PDTT Vs gt1545t + markins q3i-tr: The PD is 5 sections (not good for vibration dampening), max height is too low (10cm lower than gitzo+markins). The 1545t beats the Sirui N-2204x for dampening and that tripod is 1.5kg! On the plus side the PDTT is amazingly compact and 150g lighter than the gitzo+markins
Just bought the Rangers 55” Ultra Compact and Lightweight Aluminum Tripod with 360° Panorama Ball head, and I must say for $76 it's pretty great. Super light and compact. I've never used the fancy, more expensive brands so maybe you should do a review on this more budget model and see what you think.
Do you have to use the Peak Design plate ? Looks like a standard Arca Swiss. $600.00 is crazy, I can pick up a pair of vice grip pliers for $15.00 that can pinch my finger just as easy.
@@hautehussey That is true but I noticed restrictions on the amount of travel freedom of that ball head. The video also shows if you have a thicker camera plate it may not fit....not something I would want to find out after relying on it. I like the tripod legs and would opt for the option to use my own ball head.
The form factor is what is really amazing about it. The thing is so small when folded up but I am confident other companies will be able to replicate it and sell it for way less than 600. That 600 is also USD if it wasn't already bad enough lol.
I think it depends on the usage scenario. As an avid backpacker who travels around quite a lot, often hiking through rough terrain for days on end, every gram and space I can save from my gear is worth the cost. For quick urban trips? Not worth it. Granted, Tony's point on the need for a hex tool remains, but I carry a pocket tool anyway so again depends on your needs.
While I can't (and won't) say anything about the tripod or its price tag, there is one thing I'd like to say regarding Peak Designs quick release plates: I have been using the Peak Design Slide with my 7D2 for almost two years now. Most of the time my camera has a Canon 400mm f/5.6L lens mounted; both clock in at around 2 kg of weight. During that time I haven't had to adjust the quick release plate once. Whenever I take my camera with me I have a look at the plates orientation and check if it is still fixed - and it is. So at least from my experience those plates don't move at all once properly fastened. That being said, I am carrying the little hex tool on my key chain. I don't leave house without it, so I have it on me at all times. Not a big deal, IMHO. P.S.: I still have one of the old release plates, I believe they have been redesigned since. The old ones can also be adjusted with a coin or screwdriver.
Yeah, if you're not walking with the QRP attached to something it's probably fine. I use the PD Clip which always loosens up. It'll also loosen up if you have the camera locked in the tripod and walk with it (or drive over a dirt road).
Well, the plate *is* attached to the sling - though it is via the clip, as you said. If it's directly fixed to something like a tripod that'll probably change things. In any case, I appreciate the honest review! It seems like a decent enough travel tripod overall... with the exception of that price tag.
You know, you could just use a third party Arca Swiss plate that does have a D ring on the screw. The Peak Design is also so much smaller and more stable than the Befree. I’ve been using the Befree Carbon for about 5 years, and it’s slowly been driving me crazy. Not only is it huge compared to the Peak Design, but I absolutely hate that I have to fully extend the center column when I want to store it. It also annoys me that I always have to loosen the head to line it up perfectly so the legs fit around it. The Peak Design tripod automatically lines the head up when you lower the column. And don’t get me started on the pains of underslung mode or using an entirely separate column to get low shots.
Thanks god you are here, some other youtubers that I do like a lot, are either really blindly excited that they honestly see it as perfect, or sold their integrity rather fast. I do suspect it's a great tripod, but I have never seen a product with not ONE tiny not-great thing to mention. Thanks!
Some Arca Swiss plates will apparently work on the Peak Design tripod - some of these might able to accommodate a screw with a d-ring or have a screw with a slot. I'm using a Black Rapid screw on my old Peak Design plates - not sure if it fits in the new plates.
$600 Lmao. I have a freaking fantastic carbon fiber Benro that is by far the best tripod I've ever owned and I think I paid 389 bucks for it with the damn ball head. And I'm one of those that actually likes the twist locks. I've had both kinds of leg locks and when it comes to sea water the twist locks are real easy to clean. Unlike my Manfrotto that had flip locks. Having sea water in those flip lock almost made it impossible to lock the mechanism. Eventually they corroded. The Benro I took apart, rinsed and put back together in about 7 minutes.
I've had great luck with my Benro too. And also prefer the twist locks. Very simple to give all 4 a little quarter twist and then tighten them all back down boom-boom-boom.
@@glennaa11 Agreed. I have never understood why so many people dislike them. They're also a hell of a lot harder to wear out versus a clasp style lock. Also like I said before, to clean them you literally just unscrew it, slide the tube out, rinse off the little plastic sleeves and tubing. Done. No tools required. Lol.
@@jries77 the twist locks seem to take up less space than the clip mechanisms as well. I had a tripod where one of the clips broke which put me off the clips pretty much for good
@@glennaa11 that is exactly what I was about to say earlier and forgot to include that. I too have had those clasps break. I don't know I just don't like them at all. But to each their own.
A great carbon fiber tripod with ball head might be ok at $600. Ball head is often several hundred alone. I wish there was an Acra Swiss option but then a lot of the desirability of the Peak design tripod is the clever integration of the ball head. Update: Peak’s customer service tells me that most Arca Swiss plates are compatible with their ball head.
@@hautehussey Thanks -- I agree, but there are sometimes issues with different manufacturers' arca-swiss mount components that do not gel because of minor differences in overall width or depth of the dovetail. Would love love to see the tripod clamp tried with RRS, Kirk or other common plates.
Tony and Chelsea, You guys take more crap for telling the truth than any other TH-camrs I've seen. I guess that's the price of being a 1.3M sub channel. With that said, I hope you guys never change because you've saved me a fortune. Thank you.
Really appreciate your willingness to state the things you don't like about the product -- especially when TH-cam is filled with product reviews where the reviewer behaves more like a hype-man than anything else. Sadly, with all the benefits the tripod provides, the $600 price tag is well beyond the price range I'd be willing to pay. Great review, though.
I love their camera straps, however this tripod, whilst looks gorgeous, just is lacking too much by what it seems. Nice honest video and I hope Peak Design takes note for a version 2!
they have another plate with red rubber like stuff on it. It never gets loose. I got it from some previous captures years ago. it was called smth pro or smth, anyway its also small as new black one but with way more rubber that kind a sticks to the camera to prevent it from moving
Great review ! Thanks.... I bought the Manfrotto befree carbon, thanks to your reviews....and seeing you use it so often. The peak designs carbon fibre version is 1.27kg/2.81lbs.... that's more than 15% heavier than the manfrotto befree carbon fibre tripod at 1.1kg. I think the weight, coupled with the price, along with the Allen key, and head tightening mechanisms, are fairly major negatives. Unless they've managed to achieve an unparalleled level of steadiness and lack of flex in the legs, I shall remain happy with the befree. I've attached a hook to the mafrotto befree, which was the only thing I felt it lacked. Best wishes to you both......J
Great review! Thanks so much Tony. One thing that has me interested is the head. My primary tripod is the manfrotto 055 proX4 carbon fiber. The thing is, with the RRS BH40 on it, it weighs 6 lbs. That means even the aluminum PD tripod will weigh half as much! You are only saving .5LB going with the $600 CF version. It's the included ball head that is really saving the weight! All the other "travel" tripods are much more cumbersome to set up since the legs are inverted. I really like the looks of the PD tripod for my use. I sure don't think $240 is worth saving 1/2 lb. Plus, the PD design lets me check my blood sugar anytime I use it.
Thank you! The first honest look at this thing I have seen. So many tubers are giving this 100% good reviews, no negatives. I am a PD fan but I am skeptical of this tripod. Looking forward to the long term review.
Screw the peak design stuff. Unless you want a camera holder for your backpack. I have tried some of their products besides the backpack deal, and found them left wanting. Neither breaking the mold for overall weight or design. The only saving grace is the look it presents. Definetly not what you want when making your way to any mountain peaks though, just leave it in the car. Your better off tossing your camera in or on an actual hiking backpack with soft cases for lenses, filters, extras, etc. I have been doing this on my hiking, fishing, and hunting for years now. I use a jacket as extra padding. Gregory 45L backpack, Sony A7ii, 16-35 2.8GM, 70-200 2.8GM, 1.4-2.0x extenders, filter set 82mm w stepdown for 70-200 Breakthrough photography, Sirui t-025x carbon fiber travel tripod with a head swap to an Arca-Swiss moonball p0 (fixed most of the stability best head ever!) + all the fixins from batteries to camera remote. It all fits in the pack with enough room for extras. It can probably hold enough for 1 night in the wilderness with all the gear if you were willing to rough it without a tent. If your looking for a 1-3 night bag I would look at a 55 or 65 liter pack. Personally I am looking at the Gregory Baltoro 65L for longer excursions. I feel going a little large on the pack never hurts, its minimal weight and can be cinched down to the same form factor. Ya there's a few more straps, but the diversity of loadout cannot be beat. Nor the comfort of carry. Ps I have been looking at tripods, and I wouldn't consider this one yet. Not a fan of the ball head. I love my Arca-swiss moonball p0! its very much the same as the peak design but better (peak design did choose a better one to try and copy) just need to do better with head functionality. I keep eyeballing the Really Right Stuff TQC-14 series 1 Mk2. I own the TVC-24L Series 2 (version 1) Its rock sold, and stable enough to make a dinner table with a 3/8 thread. At the same time I have been building up quite a bit of gear around photography. I feel its getting close to time to come full circle back to the camera body. This all started with my a7ii combo with the kit lens.
The final kickstarter version that shipped has hexkey in "key" like format that is mounted to tripod by default and is easy to move to ones keyring which helps with one of the issues you mentioned with the quick release plate but they also make those with coin slotted screw for capture models.
Been there done that. Peak Design did something a little off in their comparison with the Gitzo Traveller and choose to compare with the 4 section rather than the 5 which is lighter and smaller when folded. I have a 4 section one though for a bit more stability.
@@jhellier The Markins Q3i-tr is only fractionally lighter at 375g vs 390 for the Gitzo GH1382TQD on my series 1 traveller. The Markins is more compact though and interestingly has a higher max load of 30kg vs 11kg. RRS ones look nice too but yet again don't appear to be much lighter. Which Gitzo heads have you used?
Blood: deal breaker $600: deal breaker Tool mount: deal breaker Not Manfroto mount compatible: deal breaker Makes picking up a 2nd BeFree an easier choice.
I have a few of the PD straps and mounts. Strangely enough, the mounts I have from them do have a D-ring or coin slot. Not sure why they removed that for this one....
Unless they removed it for size. However, I would argue that ability to tighten the screw when travelling with your travel tripod is more important than saving a couple MM.
I'm with you Tony. There's a lot to love about this sleek design - especially that it isn't so bulky and uh... lumpy. But those things that you mention are super annoying - though I don't think in practice the limited rotation angles will be a big deal at all. I think I might prefer the super compact head, but I'd have to try it myself. Pinch points suuuuuuuuuuck and they need to all be designed out. The Manfrotto BeFree (which I love and actually bought at your suggestion) also has pinch points on the leg locks though not as bad as the issue you showed. Also, $400 - $600 is kinda deal breaker unless it's absolutely unicorn level flawless and my will power abandons me.
Interesting design and looks good, but i agree about the need for the hex tool / allen wrench to tighten the plate. That locking mechanism and the notched ballhead design would need to get used to.
What happened to companies putting their own money into producing their products lol? If their company is successful, don't they have the cash and resources to do it on their own (genuine question)?. It is sleek looking; hopefully they come out with a video head version one day... not looking forward to seeing the cost of that though haha.
The Peak design quick release plate is the ONLY plate Ive ever used that doesn't slip. Ive tried many different D rings, manfrotto etc and they all slip with with my gear and a bigger lens. I recommend their products. They seem to be innovators in the industry - Im super fussy about the head - so Im not sure this is the tripod for me though... something to try.
After switching to mirrorless, I start using a Velbon UT series tripod for travel and never looked back. I’ll still bring my Gitzo tripod if I am absolutely sure I am going to use it, but for “just in case I need it” carrying around roaming all day, it’s the Velbon.
My main travel tripod is a Q-666C. Many different companies retail it and it doesn't really matter who you get it from. What you're going to get is a tall and light yet sturdy carbon fiber tripod for a pretty good price (under 150 bucks) that doesn't lock down as well as you'd like. No matter how tight you twist, there will always be that little play at the end. For what I paid, it's something I can deal with.
Some really good points here, but while Peak's included plate may not be good, but I am very surprised to see you advocating for Manfrotto's terrible QR plates too. A custom Arca-swiss plate for your cameras not only is more secure, but reduces droop and never comes loose because they are form fitted to your camera.
Tony: Are you able to pan the ball head without changing the orientation of the camera on any other axis, as you can on other tripods such as the Gitzo Traveler series? That's a crucial feature, and it isn't clear to me that you can do that with a single adjustment ring.
If Peak Design ever releases a full frame camera, they will make it more expensive than a Leica and Leica will be looking at them like „WTF is wrong with you guys?“
Full frame?? Ew so old school old tech. Now if they made a pro level APSC mirrorless camera like the amazing best camera made today the Fuji XT3. Now that would be hard to beat and exciting. Full frame, meh, boring, big, heavy, big, subject imposing monster so called FF cameras.....full frome is just a bull crap marketing tool, considering a full frame is actually a crop sensor compared to a medium format camera. Sensor size ego driven marketing bull crap. Sensor size does not matter.
So how is it now after a while? I am trying to find information about this tripod on an HONEST view. All I can find are sponsored videos like crazy. Bets thing since sliced bread! Everywhere you look. How is the stability with all legs extended? The thinnest legs look totally flimsy to me. I own a regular tripod - not a travel one. So I got only three sections, not five. Mine is aluminium and weighs 1.5kg. How is it for longer lenses? Is it stable? Does it wobble when being at 200 / 300mm? Nowhere I look are these questions answered and I don't want to shell out 600 bucks for a tripod and then realize my old 100 euro one is better. Thanks for the video and cheers,
Honestly it's awful. It's just a poor design. We took it to Iceland for a real test and by the end of the trip both Chelsea & I were sharing a single Manfrotto tripod.
Always preaching the truth. As for me, my go to travel tripod is the $200 Sirui T-25SK T-0S Series Travel Tripod. I use an older model but this tripod seems to be the smallest & lightest (folds down to 12.2 in & weighs 2.2 lbs w/ head). BTW, for $600 I'd rather get a Gitzo.
I dont understand the hatred for a hex key. A small tool with a ring to attach anywhere! I see " im gonna lose it,its so small,blah blah blah.. I'll bet sd cards, batteries, bag,keys,,cords, etc. are not forgotten?. Just ordered my PD aluminum tripod.
I was like, man, I don’t know if I can live with that one-side tilt limitation. Then, you said it was $600. The best choice is one that you don’t have to make.
They have one for 289 on Kickstarter now
@@naughtyskweet6 But it's the aluminum one not the carbon fiber one Tony was using.
Ever since i added L-Brackets to my life, the limitations of any ball head went away. I also never remove my quick plates. Not sure the D ring thing is that much of an issue? (And yep. I've forgotten a toothbrush , but i've never forgotten my allen key.... ). Tony, I'm using a Promaster Professional XC325C for backpacking / traveling purposes. Weighs as much as the new Peak Design unit (+/-). It was cheap, it's tough, and it's light.... and if i forget it somewhere... i'm not out 600 to 1000 big ones. (LOOKING AT YOU GITZO!) 🇨🇦
@@Nilly-tube true. But the same lifetime warranty
Ken Imrie I checked to be sure, but it is Arca Swiss compatible, so any arcs Swiss standard bracket or plate will work.
After purchasing their stuffs, I always get the feeling that it's good, but it's not as good as it costs.
@adam nelson You sir are a bit much. Sponsored or not, Tony didn't recommend the product.
@adam nelson Someone's jealous
also, settle tf down. Dafuk is wrong with u
@adam nelson Stop yelling. Nobody cares.
@adam nelson Calm down Lol!
Bigg Pappa:
Terry Pratchett wrote, “Five exclamation marks, the sure sign of an insane mind.” Not sure what he would make of all the exclamation marks and the ALL CAPS in your comment, but I think you need to seek professional help.
Thank you for the review, Anthony. Your objectivity is highly appreciated by every one of us.
Interesting, you pointed out a lot that the other videos haven't. Great job on that!
This is why I trust them 💯 all the times
Yyyup. Watched a review right B4 it from another TH-camr and man, what a difference. Literally the second coming of tripods. Greatest thing since sliced bread.
this is actually why i hit subscribe xD
Exactly, all these other TH-camrs even though they say that their review it's not affected by the fact that Peak desing is sponsoring their review, they surely lack on info.
Everyone including this video was technically sponsored unless they send the tripod back to the manufacturer, but it's somewhat different than directly being paid to make a video (tax on the value of the item should be paid if kept, but that's a different matter so all of these people take a financial loss due to tax unless they ignore that or until they sell the item). I've done a video like that where I was offered a code to print an expensive photobook. I don't see any issue as long as the video maker is clear of the entire exchange. Some youtubers had affiliate codes, which should be disclosed, but that too I don't personally see an issue with. I'd dont get the conspiracy theory stuff because usually it's pretty easy to see if there was some exchange involved. Tony here did some real testing and he is photography centric, so it shows in his video for the better (again, nice job). My main comment was meant to highlight that.
Just saved me a pile of cash, thank you Tony.
Great! Didn't feel like an advertisement like other youtubers.
I think Tony's was the only one who was not sponsored - all the others mentioned it was sponsored.
Good job tony!
@@DylanHaskin this is what piss him off the most :D
@@DylanHaskin I just withdrew my pledge after witnessing the type of trollish behavior displayed by backers on Kickstarter. Any rational observation is quickly dumbed down by battery of "paid" trolls who I am sure are there by the virtue of pledging the bare minimum required to be able to make comments on KS. They descend upon you like swarm of wasps and try to sting you into submission.
Btw I recently checked this tripod out personally, though wonderfully designed it will end up being a wall flower as one will need an adaptor to mount a ball head if one has to get any use out of it. And once the adapter is attached the compactness for which one will be paying $$$ will be thrown out of the window.
I agree on the lack of a D ring and the need to carry a hex wrench. It is also totally out of my price range. If I'm going to spend $600 I'll buy a lens.
He missed saying that the bag for the tripod has a hex wrench in a tiny pocket.. but thats pretty easy to lose too.
@@monkeywizard77 I always misplace the wrench because I dont have a bag
can't agree more with the lack of D ring. I have the hex wrench with me all the time but hate having to use it every single time.
@@ryanthomas9306 i think the tripod comes with a bag. Just going by Peter McKinnons review. He loved it, but i was glad to see another point of view.
The problem with the bag is you often don't use it. When you're actually working you want your tools to always be easily accessible. For me, my tripod simply hangs from one of my shoulder straps. I never ever use a tripod bag.
If an Allen key is required, which is dumb, at least have it stored *in* the tripod itself.
Dude, this is the best tripod ever. I cant go anywhere without this
Tony, I want to thank you for your honesty and your commitment to editorial integrity. I was initially amazed by the sheer number of TH-camrs out there singing the praises of this tripod despite its high price and inherent limitations. I appreciate your honest opinion and I'm glad that at least one guy out there doesn't exchange positive reviews for free product or money.
Haven’t read all the comments on the post but I did not hear Tony raise it and have not seen it in any of the comments that I have read and that is that it’s a 5 segment tripod. It’s the first generation of a new design so it’s going to have design bumps that will no doubt be improved in next generations so I’m less worried about some the points that Tony raises, and the price is hardly a problem for a serious tripod, see Gitzo and RRS, but 5 segments is a real issue. Travel tripods of necessity need to make the compromise of additional segment(s) in order to minimize the folded length for travel purposes. Most well designed travel tripods get away with 4 segments, Gitzo Travel 1 for instance, a fabulous tripod that costs more than the Peak Design but even 4 segments is a compromise. Every segment in a tripod increases susceptibility to shake and vibration, the very thing you’re trying to mitigate with a tripod. The 5th segment of the Peak Design looks to be so thin that in any wind above a breeze the likelihood of focus-compromising shake and vibration would, in my experience, be very high, particularly when the centre column is raised to any degree. Centre column should never be raised, introduces too much potential for vibration, and the RRS tripods for instance don’t even have a centre column in their design for that very reason but the Peak Design requires the centre column to be raised. So, I will not be switching to Peak Design’s new tripod, as exciting and novel as it seems. In the interest of saving an inch in length and width as compared to the Gitzo, they appear to have introduced significant problems in the design of other more important areas of their tripod’s performance. Just because it’s novel doesn’t mean it’s better, would be happy to pay Peak Design’s price if it could actually deliver on performance.
For a fair comparison, Gitzo travel tripods are >$500 (with similar weight capacity). While I haven't used the Manfrotto BeFree (Manfrotto & Gitzo as of now are made/owned by the same company), but I believe a good tripod (CF specifically) costs good $$$.
I love my Peakdesign camera clips, have them on all my backpacks but i replaced the screws on the plates with D-Ring ones, it's really easy and you can buy 1/4" replacement screws for 1-2$ in great quality with spring detents for the D-Ring
I hear that you can use most arca Swiss plates. That's sort of my beef with Manfrotto stuff
Batman: "Tell me, do you bleed?"
Tony Northrup: "Only when I loosen the ring on my Peak Design tripod. I'm not gonna make that mistake again."
Batman: "You will."
Yoda: "You will, you will."
Chewbaka: "GGGrrrraaaawwwhhhhhllllll" with an agreeing nod.
Ewan Mcgregor (obi wan): "Be mindful of your thoughts, Tony, they betray you"
I can't trust the Northrup's on reviews, especially when they apparently have a built in bias for a particular product and/or company. I'm sure if PD would sponsor them, they'd give it rave reviews. But I do agree that it's over priced.
Juan Quispe lol
@@neostephens8980 They don't accept sponsorships from photography gear companies. They seem really good at pointing out the pros and cons of everything they review; and their reviews are pretty consistent with my own experiences. This has made them one of my most trusted review sources. Can you point out a review of theirs that you feel is biased?
A MUCH more objective review than Peter McKinnon (although I liked his too!) - thanks for sacrificing your finger Tony!
I feel like I dont really go to Peters videos for the context anymore just go because I like how he edits and colors and the general production quality.
Peter who? His vids can be stunning & he sets the benchmark in production but do I trust his gear reviews? Nope, there's no way would I buy anything on his recommendation, he's up there on the don't believe all you see pole with his mate Casey. I don't mean to kiss ass but thank god we have this channel away from these "Influencers"
This was a first look review. Peters was a paid endorsement.
@@ripley1690 It would help if he actually showed the tripod properly ;-)
Reviews v Sales are entirely different hats off to Tony for pointing out the obvious flaws in design. I think there is potential here some excellent ideas if taken to the next level via another company it could be a winner. But it has to be more realistic on price
$600 is 40 cases of beer. Hmmmm. Beer or travel tripod? Beer and cheap tripod win today.
And cirrhosis
While I probably need not buy a 600$ tripod but a cheap tripod can ruin your 3000 camera. Do you want that?
@@Neopulse00
Yeah because wine won't do that.
Beer will guarantee an above average user experience every single time!
40 cases of beer makes for a pretty good "tripod", and also seating area. And you are guaranteed a good time. win win
I clicked on your review expecting an unbiased and un overlyhyped review as you usually do and needless to say you delivered. There certainly is a lot to like about how compact and goodlooking it is but for me that ballhead design is a serious drawback, one knob means no individual panning control, and that price is pretty out there. 3 legged things have some pretty good tripods at a much lower price.
Andres Cifuentes I just received my PD tripod not as ‘cute’ as three legged think RIck Punks but has to be better three legged thing a complete waste of money.
Considering my travels rarely cost as much as this travel tripod, the old Walmart special will have to suffice for the foreseeable future.
If it is stable enough for what you do, no shame in that... If your tripod is "good enough," then a more expensive one won't magically make your shots better.
@@harrkev I primarily shoot reptiles/amphibians/invertebrates. I rarely use a tripod. I was just being snarky. Lol.
I definitely agree with you on having a D-ring instead of hex key to tighten. I like the idea of being able to use my peak design strap clip with a tripod instead of having to take it off every time I want to use a tripod. But the price is pretty steep!
Easy to replace hex key with home made ring, no tools required, 1st mid I would do. Love modifying camera gear to make gear better,i have modified most my gear.
What do you mean by strap clip? You mean their carrying clip thing? These plates work with those. If you mean the little round things that hang off for their camera straps, those go on the base too and don't get in the way of my tripods or the carrying clip.
@@bosniakedisniksic solder a bit of the hex key to a washer and put it on your key ring.
Just got a PD tripod to complement my other PD bits 'n' bobs. I keep one of their hex keys on my keyring so not a problem at all... until I lose or forget my keys of course 😂
A beautiful tripod! But €400+ for the carbon version (and even considerably more post-Kicksarter) is ridiculous!
I was very tempted to support the project / buy one... until I saw the price.
I love how you laughed when you said the price. That would’ve been the entire world’s reaction. Thank you for being honest.
For just a bit more you can get a RRS with a BH-30. Best tripod I have ever used. I have a beFree and a MePhoto Carbon FIber.
If it were me, it would be hard to recommend a tripod that can make you bleed. No more products for you to review from Peak Design Tony. Loved the outtake at the end
Under the US rules for social media disclosure, receiving product for free (even for review) is considered 'sponsored' even if no payment or gift cards are received. It's no different than receiving free food as a foodie. Now if you had to return the tripod back to PeakDesign, then it wouldn't be sponsored.
As an aside, in Canada, even though many TH-camrs and social media accounts don't do it, another rule is that all winners must answer a skill-testing question (mostly in the form of a math equation).
Sure, it is stable with the leg sections fully retracted. How stable is it at full extension? It looks shaky to me.
Even if it's a sponsored video, I honestly feel there should always be pros and cons. This is why I love you guys
$600 lol forget all that nonsense. Neewer will copy it with a D ring screw for $79.99 😆
Just give the Chinese 1-2 months and almost guaranteed. I'm guessing $150 though, $79.99 for aluminum version 😉
@@curtisc8386 And Arca clamp
Except the Chinese ones of similar quality are also quite expensive.
As usual, China will take the design n replicate with a better design from feedback and develop a cheaper one.
@@kelvinzyteng Or they'll sell their cheap knock off version on ebay and amazon while trying to pretend it's the real thing and then disappear in the middle of the night when you need to get your POS KO fixed.
If you are already spending that much, the Gitzo world traveler is awesome! Only very slightly greater dimensional footprint, normal and really excellent ballhead. I prefer a non-proprietary QR plate.easy to misplace the plate as well! L-bracket always stays on camera.
we're gonna have to see more indepth reviews, but that tripod head design looks like a solution in search of a problem. it sure packs tightly, but i'm not convinced that it is steadier than a standard old ball-head.
The quick release plates absolutely do not come loose, I don’t know what you’re talking about there.
I’ve been using the capture for years and I’ve never tightened the plate since it was first installed. Install it tightly and there won’t be a problem.
Looks like some good ideas that just need a v2.
The price is silly though. They can't version 2 themselves around that.
Peak Design can v2 that price right up to $800. They charge double the going rate on everything they sell. It's easier to swallow with the Capture Clip system and straps, but the other stuff they sell gives me a rash thinking about the prices.
If it’s better then they can charge whatever higher price they want, right?
@@hautehussey They can charge it, but we also don't need to buy it. An example for me personally is the Peak Design backpack Tony wears in the video. I researched those and really like it. I want one. But the price is $200 too much and I won't even consider buying it. And I use their straps and Capture Clip system.
I'm using their base plate, because it's convinient. But yesterday my camera including my 24-70 fell of my tripod, because it wasn't tighten up right. Now both are broken. Gonna switch back to the manfrotto system...
Tony Great Review one point just remove the Hex Screw and screw in a D-ring that's what I do with PD stuff
7 reviews for the Peak Design Travel Tripod showed up in my feed today... You are the only one that gave it a review that didn't look like a promotion. Thanks Tony. Hook'em!
Cost isn't outrageous IF it keeps up with Gitzo and Really Right Stuff (then it would be quite cheap). The need for a hex wrench drives me nuts, and I say that as someone who overall loves Peak gear and beats the crap out of it each week. Would a coin slot kill them??
Really well done first impression and overview. I'm interested but not sold. Peak, if you're listening and want another person to beat the snot out of it on planes each week, just sayin, I'm here...😉
PDTT Vs gt1545t + markins q3i-tr:
The PD is 5 sections (not good for vibration dampening), max height is too low (10cm lower than gitzo+markins). The 1545t beats the Sirui N-2204x for dampening and that tripod is 1.5kg! On the plus side the PDTT is amazingly compact and 150g lighter than the gitzo+markins
Are they nuts? You can almost get a Gitzo for that price.. (which I'm pretty sure is much more stable)
Just bought the Rangers 55” Ultra Compact and Lightweight Aluminum Tripod with 360° Panorama Ball head, and I must say for $76 it's pretty great. Super light and compact. I've never used the fancy, more expensive brands so maybe you should do a review on this more budget model and see what you think.
Do you have to use the Peak Design plate ? Looks like a standard Arca Swiss. $600.00 is crazy, I can pick up a pair of vice grip pliers for $15.00 that can pinch my finger just as easy.
Tony tFuntek the peak design is standard arca Swiss size (only square) so they would all work with this. That’s one advantage.
@@hautehussey That is true but I noticed restrictions on the amount of travel freedom of that ball head. The video also shows if you have a thicker camera plate it may not fit....not something I would want to find out after relying on it. I like the tripod legs and would opt for the option to use my own ball head.
The form factor is what is really amazing about it. The thing is so small when folded up but I am confident other companies will be able to replicate it and sell it for way less than 600. That 600 is also USD if it wasn't already bad enough lol.
For this price everything needs to be (close to) perfect. Even then I won't spend that amount on a tripod lol...
The hex wrench is hidden in the bag that covers the tripod, look at Jason Vong´s review, he mentioned it.
This video just saved me my hard earned money. Cancelling the pledge.....thanks Tony...that was the best 5 minute review i have ever seen.
I think it depends on the usage scenario. As an avid backpacker who travels around quite a lot, often hiking through rough terrain for days on end, every gram and space I can save from my gear is worth the cost. For quick urban trips? Not worth it. Granted, Tony's point on the need for a hex tool remains, but I carry a pocket tool anyway so again depends on your needs.
Looks like it would be wobbly AF at full stance?!
noahlar that’s my concern and something I would’ve liked them to focus more on. What’s the weight capacity and just how stable is it?!
The weight capacity is apparently 9kg/20lbs. (!), which is more than double the rating on the BeFree.
While I can't (and won't) say anything about the tripod or its price tag, there is one thing I'd like to say regarding Peak Designs quick release plates:
I have been using the Peak Design Slide with my 7D2 for almost two years now. Most of the time my camera has a Canon 400mm f/5.6L lens mounted; both clock in at around 2 kg of weight. During that time I haven't had to adjust the quick release plate once. Whenever I take my camera with me I have a look at the plates orientation and check if it is still fixed - and it is. So at least from my experience those plates don't move at all once properly fastened.
That being said, I am carrying the little hex tool on my key chain. I don't leave house without it, so I have it on me at all times. Not a big deal, IMHO.
P.S.: I still have one of the old release plates, I believe they have been redesigned since. The old ones can also be adjusted with a coin or screwdriver.
Yeah, if you're not walking with the QRP attached to something it's probably fine. I use the PD Clip which always loosens up. It'll also loosen up if you have the camera locked in the tripod and walk with it (or drive over a dirt road).
Well, the plate *is* attached to the sling - though it is via the clip, as you said. If it's directly fixed to something like a tripod that'll probably change things.
In any case, I appreciate the honest review! It seems like a decent enough travel tripod overall... with the exception of that price tag.
I'm using Manfrotto befree, but i've hanged the ball head for one that supports panning. BTW 600 for a travel tripod is crazy :)
Which head are you using?
You know, you could just use a third party Arca Swiss plate that does have a D ring on the screw.
The Peak Design is also so much smaller and more stable than the Befree.
I’ve been using the Befree Carbon for about 5 years, and it’s slowly been driving me crazy. Not only is it huge compared to the Peak Design, but I absolutely hate that I have to fully extend the center column when I want to store it. It also annoys me that I always have to loosen the head to line it up perfectly so the legs fit around it. The Peak Design tripod automatically lines the head up when you lower the column. And don’t get me started on the pains of underslung mode or using an entirely separate column to get low shots.
Thanks god you are here, some other youtubers that I do like a lot, are either really blindly excited that they honestly see it as perfect, or sold their integrity rather fast. I do suspect it's a great tripod, but I have never seen a product with not ONE tiny not-great thing to mention. Thanks!
Some Arca Swiss plates will apparently work on the Peak Design tripod - some of these might able to accommodate a screw with a d-ring or have a screw with a slot. I'm using a Black Rapid screw on my old Peak Design plates - not sure if it fits in the new plates.
$600 Lmao. I have a freaking fantastic carbon fiber Benro that is by far the best tripod I've ever owned and I think I paid 389 bucks for it with the damn ball head.
And I'm one of those that actually likes the twist locks. I've had both kinds of leg locks and when it comes to sea water the twist locks are real easy to clean. Unlike my Manfrotto that had flip locks. Having sea water in those flip lock almost made it impossible to lock the mechanism. Eventually they corroded. The Benro I took apart, rinsed and put back together in about 7 minutes.
I've had great luck with my Benro too. And also prefer the twist locks. Very simple to give all 4 a little quarter twist and then tighten them all back down boom-boom-boom.
@@glennaa11 Agreed. I have never understood why so many people dislike them.
They're also a hell of a lot harder to wear out versus a clasp style lock.
Also like I said before, to clean them you literally just unscrew it, slide the tube out, rinse off the little plastic sleeves and tubing. Done. No tools required. Lol.
@@jries77 the twist locks seem to take up less space than the clip mechanisms as well. I had a tripod where one of the clips broke which put me off the clips pretty much for good
@@glennaa11 that is exactly what I was about to say earlier and forgot to include that.
I too have had those clasps break. I don't know I just don't like them at all. But to each their own.
Word! 100% agreed!
How about a video on the new drone laws?
This makes me love my RRS sticks and BH-40 even more.
A great carbon fiber tripod with ball head might be ok at $600. Ball head is often several hundred alone. I wish there was an Acra Swiss option but then a lot of the desirability of the Peak design tripod is the clever integration of the ball head. Update: Peak’s customer service tells me that most Arca Swiss plates are compatible with their ball head.
Thanks for the review! It looks like the PD tripod is arca-swiss compatible? Are there any issues with using non-PD plates?
Sorry I don't know, we don't have any Arca plates.
Shouldn’t be any issues since they’re the same size.
@@hautehussey Thanks -- I agree, but there are sometimes issues with different manufacturers' arca-swiss mount components that do not gel because of minor differences in overall width or depth of the dovetail. Would love love to see the tripod clamp tried with RRS, Kirk or other common plates.
This is why I love you guys. Objective preview, talk about what's good, talk about what's bad. Almost everyone else is all aboard the hype train.
Tony and Chelsea,
You guys take more crap for telling the truth than any other TH-camrs I've seen. I guess that's the price of being a 1.3M sub channel. With that said, I hope you guys never change because you've saved me a fortune. Thank you.
Really appreciate your willingness to state the things you don't like about the product -- especially when TH-cam is filled with product reviews where the reviewer behaves more like a hype-man than anything else. Sadly, with all the benefits the tripod provides, the $600 price tag is well beyond the price range I'd be willing to pay. Great review, though.
I love their camera straps, however this tripod, whilst looks gorgeous, just is lacking too much by what it seems.
Nice honest video and I hope Peak Design takes note for a version 2!
Ditto, version 2 should fix these problems, will wait a keep using my Manfrotto
they have another plate with red rubber like stuff on it. It never gets loose. I got it from some previous captures years ago. it was called smth pro or smth, anyway its also small as new black one but with way more rubber that kind a sticks to the camera to prevent it from moving
Great review ! Thanks.... I bought the Manfrotto befree carbon, thanks to your reviews....and seeing you use it so often.
The peak designs carbon fibre version is 1.27kg/2.81lbs.... that's more than 15% heavier than the manfrotto befree carbon fibre tripod at 1.1kg.
I think the weight, coupled with the price, along with the Allen key, and head tightening mechanisms, are fairly major negatives.
Unless they've managed to achieve an unparalleled level of steadiness and lack of flex in the legs, I shall remain happy with the befree. I've attached a hook to the mafrotto befree, which was the only thing I felt it lacked.
Best wishes to you both......J
Great review! Thanks so much Tony. One thing that has me interested is the head. My primary tripod is the manfrotto 055 proX4 carbon fiber. The thing is, with the RRS BH40 on it, it weighs 6 lbs. That means even the aluminum PD tripod will weigh half as much! You are only saving .5LB going with the $600 CF version. It's the included ball head that is really saving the weight! All the other "travel" tripods are much more cumbersome to set up since the legs are inverted. I really like the looks of the PD tripod for my use. I sure don't think $240 is worth saving 1/2 lb. Plus, the PD design lets me check my blood sugar anytime I use it.
Honest review, we need more of these.
Thank you! The first honest look at this thing I have seen. So many tubers are giving this 100% good reviews, no negatives. I am a PD fan but I am skeptical of this tripod. Looking forward to the long term review.
Did every foto vlogger on TH-cam receive this tripod?😀 must be a pretty delicious incentive attached $$$. $600 usd ...NOT!
Screw the peak design stuff. Unless you want a camera holder for your backpack. I have tried some of their products besides the backpack deal, and found them left wanting. Neither breaking the mold for overall weight or design. The only saving grace is the look it presents. Definetly not what you want when making your way to any mountain peaks though, just leave it in the car. Your better off tossing your camera in or on an actual hiking backpack with soft cases for lenses, filters, extras, etc.
I have been doing this on my hiking, fishing, and hunting for years now. I use a jacket as extra padding. Gregory 45L backpack, Sony A7ii, 16-35 2.8GM, 70-200 2.8GM, 1.4-2.0x extenders, filter set 82mm w stepdown for 70-200 Breakthrough photography, Sirui t-025x carbon fiber travel tripod with a head swap to an Arca-Swiss moonball p0 (fixed most of the stability best head ever!) + all the fixins from batteries to camera remote. It all fits in the pack with enough room for extras. It can probably hold enough for 1 night in the wilderness with all the gear if you were willing to rough it without a tent. If your looking for a 1-3 night bag I would look at a 55 or 65 liter pack. Personally I am looking at the Gregory Baltoro 65L for longer excursions. I feel going a little large on the pack never hurts, its minimal weight and can be cinched down to the same form factor.
Ya there's a few more straps, but the diversity of loadout cannot be beat. Nor the comfort of carry.
Ps I have been looking at tripods, and I wouldn't consider this one yet. Not a fan of the ball head.
I love my Arca-swiss moonball p0! its very much the same as the peak design but better (peak design did choose a better one to try and copy) just need to do better with head functionality.
I keep eyeballing the Really Right Stuff TQC-14 series 1 Mk2.
I own the TVC-24L Series 2 (version 1) Its rock sold, and stable enough to make a dinner table with a 3/8 thread.
At the same time I have been building up quite a bit of gear around photography. I feel its getting close to time to come full circle back to the camera body. This all started with my a7ii combo with the kit lens.
$600??? Insert blinking guy meme.
Or 289
The final kickstarter version that shipped has hexkey in "key" like format that is mounted to tripod by default and is easy to move to ones keyring which helps with one of the issues you mentioned with the quick release plate but they also make those with coin slotted screw for capture models.
"Peak Dollars"?! Some useful innovations at a cost... figuratively and literally. Great review, thanks.
Actually the tripod comes with a hex wrench for plate tightening and tripod maintenance and it can be clipped nicely to one leg.
I’ll just get a gitzo series1 instead.
Been there done that. Peak Design did something a little off in their comparison with the Gitzo Traveller and choose to compare with the 4 section rather than the 5 which is lighter and smaller when folded. I have a 4 section one though for a bit more stability.
Gitzo tripods are great but their heads are too heavy. I recommend markins q3i-tr and rrs heads.
@@jhellier The Markins Q3i-tr is only fractionally lighter at 375g vs 390 for the Gitzo GH1382TQD on my series 1 traveller. The Markins is more compact though and interestingly has a higher max load of 30kg vs 11kg. RRS ones look nice too but yet again don't appear to be much lighter. Which Gitzo heads have you used?
I agree that having a d-ring is easier than the hex, but I also never had an issue with my plate coming losing and I put it through the works.
Blood: deal breaker
$600: deal breaker
Tool mount: deal breaker
Not Manfroto mount compatible: deal breaker
Makes picking up a 2nd BeFree an easier choice.
They have a dual plate for Manfrotto. RCT2
Garry Vancauwenbergh Good to know for those who might go for this. $25 at Amazon.
I have a few of the PD straps and mounts. Strangely enough, the mounts I have from them do have a D-ring or coin slot. Not sure why they removed that for this one....
Unless they removed it for size. However, I would argue that ability to tighten the screw when travelling with your travel tripod is more important than saving a couple MM.
Great overview.
Thanks, Matt! I was hoping you would get one, too, because you travel more than anyone I know and I'd like a second opinion on the usefulness of it.
Tony & Chelsea Northrup they never sent it out and wasn’t invited to trip 🤷♂️
I'm with you Tony. There's a lot to love about this sleek design - especially that it isn't so bulky and uh... lumpy. But those things that you mention are super annoying - though I don't think in practice the limited rotation angles will be a big deal at all. I think I might prefer the super compact head, but I'd have to try it myself. Pinch points suuuuuuuuuuck and they need to all be designed out. The Manfrotto BeFree (which I love and actually bought at your suggestion) also has pinch points on the leg locks though not as bad as the issue you showed. Also, $400 - $600 is kinda deal breaker unless it's absolutely unicorn level flawless and my will power abandons me.
That Peak Design tripod meets a lot of needs that I have. Peak has been consistently solid with their Kickstarters.
Your reviews are always great and with something which noone else will tell you. Thanks Tony.
Brilliant design, but like everything from Peak, very expensive.
Interesting design and looks good, but i agree about the need for the hex tool / allen wrench to tighten the plate. That locking mechanism and the notched ballhead design would need to get used to.
What happened to companies putting their own money into producing their products lol? If their company is successful, don't they have the cash and resources to do it on their own (genuine question)?. It is sleek looking; hopefully they come out with a video head version one day... not looking forward to seeing the cost of that though haha.
Came back to say, I'm backing the aluminum version and I mostly believe their reasoning for using Kickstarter so, yeah.
The Peak design quick release plate is the ONLY plate Ive ever used that doesn't slip. Ive tried many different D rings, manfrotto etc and they all slip with with my gear and a bigger lens. I recommend their products. They seem to be innovators in the industry - Im super fussy about the head - so Im not sure this is the tripod for me though... something to try.
The most trusted and honest reviewer on the platform. Thank you Tony. You really are making a difference in the photography industry.
After switching to mirrorless, I start using a Velbon UT series tripod for travel and never looked back. I’ll still bring my Gitzo tripod if I am absolutely sure I am going to use it, but for “just in case I need it” carrying around roaming all day, it’s the Velbon.
I was really excited until I saw the price lol
My main travel tripod is a Q-666C. Many different companies retail it and it doesn't really matter who you get it from. What you're going to get is a tall and light yet sturdy carbon fiber tripod for a pretty good price (under 150 bucks) that doesn't lock down as well as you'd like. No matter how tight you twist, there will always be that little play at the end. For what I paid, it's something I can deal with.
Outrageous design. Five sections crane legs + central column. Stable enough for a smartphone. Maybe from a Chinese producer, but without one zero.
Some really good points here, but while Peak's included plate may not be good, but I am very surprised to see you advocating for Manfrotto's terrible QR plates too. A custom Arca-swiss plate for your cameras not only is more secure, but reduces droop and never comes loose because they are form fitted to your camera.
Manfrotto BeFree vs Peak Design BeExpensive ;-)
Tony: Are you able to pan the ball head without changing the orientation of the camera on any other axis, as you can on other tripods such as the Gitzo Traveler series? That's a crucial feature, and it isn't clear to me that you can do that with a single adjustment ring.
No, it just moves freely when loose.
If Peak Design ever releases a full frame camera, they will make it more expensive than a Leica and Leica will be looking at them like „WTF is wrong with you guys?“
Full frame?? Ew so old school old tech. Now if they made a pro level APSC mirrorless camera like the amazing best camera made today the Fuji XT3. Now that would be hard to beat and exciting. Full frame, meh, boring, big, heavy, big, subject imposing monster so called FF cameras.....full frome is just a bull crap marketing tool, considering a full frame is actually a crop sensor compared to a medium format camera. Sensor size ego driven marketing bull crap. Sensor size does not matter.
alan connelly WTF is wrong with you?
@@LeriJ to stoop down to your level, no WTF is wrong with you, ego issues?
alan connelly sensor size does matter, especially for something like low light photog
On the Kickstarter they state that the quick release is compatible with arca swiss plates.
I am waiting some Chinese companies make a cheap version of it 🤣
I'm more than happy with my Sirui travel tripod.
Victor Lo Amen
@@MoritzElsaer-fp7wp Even with 25 percent, Chinese copy is gonna be cheaper
Victor Lo It’s made in China
You don’t want a cheap tripod.
So how is it now after a while?
I am trying to find information about this tripod on an HONEST view. All I can find are sponsored videos like crazy.
Bets thing since sliced bread! Everywhere you look.
How is the stability with all legs extended? The thinnest legs look totally flimsy to me. I own a regular tripod - not a travel one. So I got only three sections, not five.
Mine is aluminium and weighs 1.5kg. How is it for longer lenses? Is it stable? Does it wobble when being at 200 / 300mm?
Nowhere I look are these questions answered and I don't want to shell out 600 bucks for a tripod and then realize my old 100 euro one is better.
Thanks for the video and cheers,
Honestly it's awful. It's just a poor design. We took it to Iceland for a real test and by the end of the trip both Chelsea & I were sharing a single Manfrotto tripod.
Always preaching the truth. As for me, my go to travel tripod is the $200 Sirui T-25SK T-0S Series Travel Tripod. I use an older model but this tripod seems to be the smallest & lightest (folds down to 12.2 in & weighs 2.2 lbs w/ head).
BTW, for $600 I'd rather get a Gitzo.
That super shallow dof in combo with the random focusing damaged my brain.
Weird - looks like an ND filter on that camera, Northrup. 😆😉
At 3:45 into the video he's taking a long exposure shot. ND is for that. That's not so weird.
I dont understand the hatred for a hex key. A small tool with a ring to attach anywhere! I see " im gonna lose it,its so small,blah blah blah.. I'll bet sd cards, batteries, bag,keys,,cords, etc. are not forgotten?. Just ordered my PD aluminum tripod.
No
Indeed the most concise review we could ask
I use the Sirui T-005X and it is incredibly light, sturdy and affordable. I would highly recommend for any photographers starting out.
I have that one too.