Absolute pleasure. I was actually thinking of doing a short video describing the nomenclature as it applies to the different models. Would this be useful?
I have your tripod model and I love it for the same reasons. LS-324CEX leg section lengths are perfect for rapid tripod deployment in my use. I'm a bit shorter and only extend out 2 leg sections 90% of the time. My only two complaints about the tripod is that the legs are not as sturdy as I was expecting it to be but a stone bag or hook does the trick. The other issue is a borderline deal breaker because the spread of the tripod legs can be rather narrow and tips over. Even more so when all if its legs are retracted. Depending on the leg angle of the tripod that means you need to be within arms length of the tripod in case it tips over.
Fully retracted it is bit narrow. I've read a similar comment on someone else's review a while back. I haven't had any issues (yet) but did have a Sirui R-2814x blow over (I managed to catch it in the nick of time) while the Leofoto LS284CEX standing next to it didn't, which surprised me. Luck of moment I guess.
@@emilvonmaltitz I recently purchased the QS-60 for my LS-324CEX. The quick disconnect makes the folded size much more manageable out in the field now.
@@emilvonmaltitzthat is my only hesitation going with Leofoto. 23 degrees isn’t wide enough of an angle. People are actually hiring machinists to mod them to open further.
Hi Sanjana - it's just the Nisi les cap that comes with the V7/V6 100mm filter holder systems. It's a 'snap-on' type so slughtly rubberized and designed to slip over the metal lip of the master adapter.
Obviously the CEX version is superior for most average height males because it reaches eye level without a center column. That said, the 324C comes complete with the LH-40 ball head for less than the price of the CEX w/leveling base. I’m 5’9” (1.75m) and I don’t use large telephotos, I think I can make the 384C work with a bit of help from the included center column. Thanks for the outstanding comparison.
I enjoyed very much the video. Thank you for the information. I was wondering can you do a video on the LS-365, LQ-365, and lighter weight and stable tripods. Thank you again. My wife go the LS-324C and loves it. I am 5"11' and looking for one myself. Hope you can help.
I haven't actually had a chance to even see the LQ series in the flesh yet, but am hoping to soon. If your wife has the 324C, what are your thoughts on it? The 365 is an amazing heavy duty but pack-able and lightweight tripod....but it is significantly heavier than the 324C. Major advantages of it are the load bearing capacity and height offered by that fifth leg section.
@@emilvonmaltitz My wife as I said loves it. But it is a little short for me. I am trying to find one that fits my height with a leveling base, add-on or comes with. I think I would like the center column for added height when needed. I will check out the 365. Thank you for the follow-up.
What in your opinion is the best Leofoto tripod for general camera photography? I’m thinking 284 or 324 but I have no idea which sub model or head to get. -thank you.
@@ptpaintballer43 my personal preference is either the 284cex (or 284cl with an addition of a leveling head) or the 324cex (I own this one) or a 324pro with leveling head.
@@ptpaintballer43 in terms of heads… you can’t go wrong with the LH-40, although I’d also plump for the quick-release clamp instead of the standard screw clamp.
@@emilvonmaltitzif I buy the 284cex and a lh40 would I need to level the setup twice? Once for the tripod base mount and the other for the lh40 since it’s a ball mount?
@serloud I don’t actually have a dedicated bag for the tripod. The bag that the LS-324CEX came with fits the legs and head that I use (either a LH-40 or G4). There is a new Leofoto padded bag that comes in 65, 70 and 80cm lengths which is much nicer than the standard bag that the tripod ships with. It also has a larger head section which more easily accommodates heads with an arm.
Thanks for the review. Just about to purchase it. Would you reccomend this tripod for hiking? I do a lot of hiking, sunset, mountains, etc. mostly 4-5 hours of walking. Is it too bulky?
Hi Tyo…personally, for hiking I think the 324CEX is too much…which is why I also own the Ls-284CEX, and that for hiking is superb. Still not exactly light, but awesome even for heavy camera setups. I did an article a while back on it which you can read here: landscapegear.co.za/blogs/news/a-landscapers-secret-weapon-the-levelling-tripod
Hiya! Two primary reason for having a leveling base under a tripod head: 1) You can level the base of the tripod head so that you can get an accurate pan for panoramic photography. If the head isn't leveled you end up with a sloping horizon (yes it's possible to do this just by adjusting the individual legs, but it's much slower than simply leveling the base). Some photographers use the ball head to level and then rotate the camera on that. The problem with this approach is that all your panoramic shots will have a centered horizon. If you level the base of the tripod you can tilt the head and down, but the horizon will continue to stay parallel to the ground as you rotate or pan. 2) If you want a tripod that does double duty - stills and video - having leveling base means you can very quickly level the base of the tripod head so that pans with video don't end up having a skew horizon as you pan. In both cases it is entirely to do without the leveling base...but the base makes if far faster and much easier than fiddling with the individual legs. Hope that clear it up. Cheers
Without a leveling base, can you not just level the ball head using the level on the camera screen itself, lock it in place and then use the pan on the ball head to take panoramic shots? Or am I missing something? Also, is the leveling base you can buy separately the exact same model that comes with the CEX version? Thanks.
You forgot to mention the little fact that the leg locks on the LS-324C PRO are better waterproofed which makes a difference in beach front, and snow and arctic photography plus it meets most airline carriers carry on criteria. The center column in the CEX in my book is a big detractor as it only increases the chance for vibration in windy conditions. My normal tripod is a Jobu Design Algonquin, or RRS but for travel I prefer the LS-324C Pro.
Thanks for reaching out Uwe. The video predates the Pro version of the Ranger by over a year. I didn't forget because I didn't have the LS-324C Pro since it didn't exist (the Athena had only just been announced if I remember correctly). Now that the Pro is out, it definitely does have better locks and the carbon tubes are also slightly stiffer with their new weave. I also prefer the fact that the LS-324C Pro has the longer legs of the CL and CEX Rangers as opposed to the earlier LS-324C which has slightly shorter legs. I'm not sure what Centre column you mean with the CEX. The CEX has a built in leveling head which if you need a leveling head is more stable than adding an additional leveling head to the setup. Your Jobu Design Algonquin looks to be a really good tripod. Unfortunately we don't get them here so I have zero experience with them apart from what I have read. I'm hoping to get my hands on the LS-324C Pro in future and will then be able to do an update on the video. Thanks for the feedback and the view. Cheers
Hi, i’m 6ft. I don’t have any video stuff on the lens cap. It’s the standard snap on lens cap for the Nisi V6 and V7 master filter ring. It comes with the filter holder set, but can also be purchased separately.
Apologies for the delayed response Manny...yup, I mention the column in the video. It's a bit of a hack putting it all together although the new quick release clamps make it easier if you add them.
@@gilquintana315 🤣 the darnedest thing. I could have sworn I was 6ft1 and then measured myself the other day and came away with 182cm! Perhaps I’m getting old… or I’d better go and see a doctor. It’s also entirely possible that meauring yourself is a stupid idea and when I go for my annual checkup I’ll suddenly grow another inch once more 😜
Exactly what I was looking for. Perfect and detailed. Covers everything that really matters. Thanks for the video.
Absolute pleasure!
Great video. This is the pratical info most other “reviewers” fail to deliver.
Belated thanks Luis
Thanks for translating the model numbers into the leg diameter specification. It makes choosing among the models less of a mystery. Good stuff!
Absolute pleasure. I was actually thinking of doing a short video describing the nomenclature as it applies to the different models. Would this be useful?
Short and to the point video! Helped me decide which way I want to go with these tripods.
I’m glad that it helped! Enjoy the tripod when you get it.
Thanks for another great video. Keep them coming!
Thanks for watching!
Crackin’ good video! Cheers! 👍✌
Thanks George!
Great informative video. Thank you :)
My pleasure! Thanks so much for watching and dropping a comment.
I have your tripod model and I love it for the same reasons. LS-324CEX leg section lengths are perfect for rapid tripod deployment in my use. I'm a bit shorter and only extend out 2 leg sections 90% of the time. My only two complaints about the tripod is that the legs are not as sturdy as I was expecting it to be but a stone bag or hook does the trick. The other issue is a borderline deal breaker because the spread of the tripod legs can be rather narrow and tips over. Even more so when all if its legs are retracted. Depending on the leg angle of the tripod that means you need to be within arms length of the tripod in case it tips over.
Fully retracted it is bit narrow. I've read a similar comment on someone else's review a while back. I haven't had any issues (yet) but did have a Sirui R-2814x blow over (I managed to catch it in the nick of time) while the Leofoto LS284CEX standing next to it didn't, which surprised me. Luck of moment I guess.
@@emilvonmaltitz I recently purchased the QS-60 for my LS-324CEX. The quick disconnect makes the folded size much more manageable out in the field now.
@@emilvonmaltitzthat is my only hesitation going with Leofoto. 23 degrees isn’t wide enough of an angle. People are actually hiring machinists to mod them to open further.
Pretty cool! Uggh I need to replace my PEak Design as it does not go down all the way....what lens cover so I see on your lens.
Hi Sanjana - it's just the Nisi les cap that comes with the V7/V6 100mm filter holder systems. It's a 'snap-on' type so slughtly rubberized and designed to slip over the metal lip of the master adapter.
Spot on with the included lens cap, although it's the 'snap-on' variety as opposed to the magnetic one that comes from Kase (and K&F I think)
Very helpful, was wondering the difference between the two models
Glad it was helpful!
Obviously the CEX version is superior for most average height males because it reaches eye level without a center column. That said, the 324C comes complete with the LH-40 ball head for less than the price of the CEX w/leveling base. I’m 5’9” (1.75m) and I don’t use large telephotos, I think I can make the 384C work with a bit of help from the included center column. Thanks for the outstanding comparison.
I enjoyed very much the video. Thank you for the information. I was wondering can you do a video on the LS-365, LQ-365, and lighter weight and stable tripods. Thank you again. My wife go the LS-324C and loves it. I am 5"11' and looking for one myself. Hope you can help.
I haven't actually had a chance to even see the LQ series in the flesh yet, but am hoping to soon. If your wife has the 324C, what are your thoughts on it? The 365 is an amazing heavy duty but pack-able and lightweight tripod....but it is significantly heavier than the 324C. Major advantages of it are the load bearing capacity and height offered by that fifth leg section.
@@emilvonmaltitz My wife as I said loves it. But it is a little short for me. I am trying to find one that fits my height with a leveling base, add-on or comes with. I think I would like the center column for added height when needed. I will check out the 365. Thank you for the follow-up.
What in your opinion is the best Leofoto tripod for general camera photography? I’m thinking 284 or 324 but I have no idea which sub model or head to get. -thank you.
@@ptpaintballer43 my personal preference is either the 284cex (or 284cl with an addition of a leveling head) or the 324cex (I own this one) or a 324pro with leveling head.
@@ptpaintballer43 the 284cl/cex is the goldilocks size IMO. Light enough to travel, but sturdy enough for a pro-level camera rig.
@@ptpaintballer43 in terms of heads… you can’t go wrong with the LH-40, although I’d also plump for the quick-release clamp instead of the standard screw clamp.
@@emilvonmaltitzif I buy the 284cex and a lh40 would I need to level the setup twice? Once for the tripod base mount and the other for the lh40 since it’s a ball mount?
Or perhaps getting the 284c pro with a g4 head since it seems that one has a built in leveling head?
I saw your content and bought the set. LS-324C+LB60, BV-10 Can you share what bag you carry that all fits in at once?
@serloud I don’t actually have a dedicated bag for the tripod. The bag that the LS-324CEX came with fits the legs and head that I use (either a LH-40 or G4). There is a new Leofoto padded bag that comes in 65, 70 and 80cm lengths which is much nicer than the standard bag that the tripod ships with. It also has a larger head section which more easily accommodates heads with an arm.
Thanks for the review. Just about to purchase it.
Would you reccomend this tripod for hiking? I do a lot of hiking, sunset, mountains, etc. mostly 4-5 hours of walking. Is it too bulky?
Hi Tyo…personally, for hiking I think the 324CEX is too much…which is why I also own the Ls-284CEX, and that for hiking is superb. Still not exactly light, but awesome even for heavy camera setups. I did an article a while back on it which you can read here: landscapegear.co.za/blogs/news/a-landscapers-secret-weapon-the-levelling-tripod
What is the advantage of having a leveling base and ball head on top of it?
Hiya! Two primary reason for having a leveling base under a tripod head:
1) You can level the base of the tripod head so that you can get an accurate pan for panoramic photography. If the head isn't leveled you end up with a sloping horizon (yes it's possible to do this just by adjusting the individual legs, but it's much slower than simply leveling the base). Some photographers use the ball head to level and then rotate the camera on that. The problem with this approach is that all your panoramic shots will have a centered horizon. If you level the base of the tripod you can tilt the head and down, but the horizon will continue to stay parallel to the ground as you rotate or pan.
2) If you want a tripod that does double duty - stills and video - having leveling base means you can very quickly level the base of the tripod head so that pans with video don't end up having a skew horizon as you pan.
In both cases it is entirely to do without the leveling base...but the base makes if far faster and much easier than fiddling with the individual legs. Hope that clear it up.
Cheers
Without a leveling base, can you not just level the ball head using the level on the camera screen itself, lock it in place and then use the pan on the ball head to take panoramic shots? Or am I missing something?
Also, is the leveling base you can buy separately the exact same model that comes with the CEX version? Thanks.
You forgot to mention the little fact that the leg locks on the LS-324C PRO are better waterproofed which makes a difference in beach front, and snow and arctic photography plus it meets most airline carriers carry on criteria. The center column in the CEX in my book is a big detractor as it only increases the chance for vibration in windy conditions. My normal tripod is a Jobu Design Algonquin, or RRS but for travel I prefer the LS-324C Pro.
Thanks for reaching out Uwe. The video predates the Pro version of the Ranger by over a year. I didn't forget because I didn't have the LS-324C Pro since it didn't exist (the Athena had only just been announced if I remember correctly). Now that the Pro is out, it definitely does have better locks and the carbon tubes are also slightly stiffer with their new weave. I also prefer the fact that the LS-324C Pro has the longer legs of the CL and CEX Rangers as opposed to the earlier LS-324C which has slightly shorter legs. I'm not sure what Centre column you mean with the CEX. The CEX has a built in leveling head which if you need a leveling head is more stable than adding an additional leveling head to the setup. Your Jobu Design Algonquin looks to be a really good tripod. Unfortunately we don't get them here so I have zero experience with them apart from what I have read. I'm hoping to get my hands on the LS-324C Pro in future and will then be able to do an update on the video. Thanks for the feedback and the view. Cheers
Hi bro , may i ask. Does lb 65-75 fit on the ls 324c ? Or only lb 60 can fit ? Help pls
The LB-60N is a better match for the LS-324. The 75 will ‘fit’, but it’ll hang over the edge of the tripod apex
Thank youu!!! Appreciate it !
Hi Emil, thanks for the video! Just for the purpose of comparing the tripods to my body size: may I ask how tall you are?
Hi Markus. I’m 6ft1in
@@emilvonmaltitz Thanks for the info, Emil!
A couple questions. If I missed it, how tall are you? Great comparison seeing your height. Second, do you have a video/info on that lens cap setup?
Hi, i’m 6ft. I don’t have any video stuff on the lens cap. It’s the standard snap on lens cap for the Nisi V6 and V7 master filter ring. It comes with the filter holder set, but can also be purchased separately.
@@emilvonmaltitz Thank you! Very helpful.
for the reference please share your height also
I’m 6ft… or just over 182cm
👏👏👏
thanks
Is good leveling base for astrofotography? I am thinking about 324c vs 284cex
Absolutely yes! I use both tripods for astro-photography all the time.
my LS-324c came with an extra leg that screws beneath the head and it makes it about an extra 8 inches taller, to keep me from bending over.
Apologies for the delayed response Manny...yup, I mention the column in the video. It's a bit of a hack putting it all together although the new quick release clamps make it easier if you add them.
Innorel sell the same or similar quality tripods at about 30% cheaper price.
Don't know of them and we don't get them here in South Africa.
Afaik Innorel are a amazon spin-off
Your height please?
6ft
@@emilvonmaltitz Excellent video. It appears that you’ve shrunk 1 inch since your response about your height a year ago. 😁
@@gilquintana315 🤣 the darnedest thing. I could have sworn I was 6ft1 and then measured myself the other day and came away with 182cm! Perhaps I’m getting old… or I’d better go and see a doctor. It’s also entirely possible that meauring yourself is a stupid idea and when I go for my annual checkup I’ll suddenly grow another inch once more 😜