The Giottos MTL9351b is a fairly cheap option, priced at £80, and is bound to catch the eye of any budget-conscious photographer.
Constructed from aluminium, the Giottos MTL9351b weighs just 1.84kg and extends to a maximum height of 156cm. There are three extendable leg sections, along with a centre column that can be tilted 180 degrees on its axis and completely reversed.
Neatly tucked away in its own little pouch is a short centre column attachment that can be switched with the full-sized centre column to enable super-low angle shots. The centre column features a handy spirit level and is released via a twist-lock mechanism underneath the main body. This is slightly awkward to operate as it’s tricky not to scrape your knuckles against each of the legs as it turns.
The MTL9351B’s legs are notably thinner than the majority of its rivals, although despite this, it still manages to feel solid and sturdy and not at all fragile. When setting up the stand to full height, the telescopic legs slid smoothly into position, being held securely in place with flip-locks and showing no signs of slipping.
With a maximum load weight of just 5kg, it was able to support our tripod head, professional D-SLR body and 24-70mm lens. However, we did notice during testing that applying any more pressure to the centre column saw it slip slightly – so if you’re expecting to use heavier cameras and lenses, this may not be rugged enough.
Weight 1.84kg
Max Height: 156cm
www.giottos-tripods.co.uk