BENRO TRA269 Travel Angel TRA

The main reason I bought this tripod was for its compact size at a low price point. It's relatively easy to carry this around while out hiking or just around the house. It's very sturdy with most of my lenses, and has served me well for nearly 2 years now.A couple of things that keep this from being 5 stars:* With my 100-400 lens (very heavy), the ball head starts to show its limits. Technically the lens/camera combination are well under the weight limit specs, but there is definite reverberation movement after letting go of the camera.* The legs take forever to extend. I have gotten good at it, but it still takes nearly a minute to go from compact to full size.* I wish this were lighter, but of course, it's not a carbon fiber, so you get what you pay for.

This is an excellent light weight travel tripod which will fold up to a length and size that can be fitted into any carryon luggage, including the smaller size European. With the head attached, it only weighs 4 pounds. It does take some time to secure the legs, and it is necessary to make sure the legs are locked into position to prevent any accidents. The quick release plate for the head is secure and easy to install or remove quickly. For the money, it would be hard to ask for a better travel tripod.

I have owned this tripod for nearly two years. It looks professional and has a quality and smooth feel to it. It is easy to adjust and is sturdy. For around $200, it is a good value. For such a substantial tripod, it folds down fairly small and can be packed in a small suitcase. It is, however, still too big and heavy for hiking and sightseeing purposes, so it ends up being mainly for home use instead. All in all, however, I am still glad that I made this purchase.

Very sturdy and easy to use. Will have to accept the weight as a trade off for the quality construction. Folds up to a very compact size.

Performs as expected.