Manfrotto 055CXPRO4 Tripod-4 Section with Q90 Column and Mag Castings
SKU: BG055CXPRO4
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reg s : is this tripod carbon fiber?CARLA B : Yes and I love itSCOTT A : Yes - the legs and center column are carbon fiber. The leg extension clamps, leg hinges and top mount are mag castings.THOMAS I : Yes, it is indeed. Legs and center shaft are all carbon fiber I suspect the fasteners and frame are magnesium. It is a great stable and very strong tripod working smoothly after pretty hard use here in the desert of Northern Mexico.
I would recommend this product . I particularly like the feature that allows the tripod to collapse allowing you to shoot maybe 6" off the deck.
Tom IretonBEN T : Yes. The latches and hardware are either cast aluminum or magnesium (MG, I think), and the rest is carbon fiber.
It is light and rigid, for a small tripod. I use it frequently and would buy it again in a heartbeat.ANGEL P : Yes, It isROBERT D : The label on one of the leg states "Carbon Fiber"!SALVADOR H : YesKIM S : Yes - any Manfrotto with CX in the item number is carbon fiber. I'm not sure why this isn't obvious on the website - most of Adorama's listings clearly state what a tripod is made of.RICHARD B : Yes the tripod is made of carbon fiber--I used this tripod in Scotland for 10 days and the weight of said equipment was not an issue.
I note that my tripod is an 055CXPRO4, but is only a three section--I would have to access the Manfrotto info but I believe they have the two options, either a three section or a four.JEFFERY S : yes it isLAURENCE R : If you look at the tech specs, it says "Materialcarbon fiber tubing + magnesium castings", so I think so. It feels like carbon fiber, is tough and very light.WONG C : http://www.manfrotto.us/new-055-tripod-series
My Manfrotto is CARBON FIBER. I purchased it for strength, durability, and as light a weight as possible. I selected this based upon a recommendation by a professional news photographer who does landscape photos in the Sierra on the side. He claims that you take landscape photos with a tripod....all others are deleted.BRIAN D : Yes, it is indeed. Legs and center shaft are all carbon fiber.CHE H : Yes it is. It's good quality and highly recommend.BRYAN D : yes it is. It is very sturdy. I like the way I still have stability even if the legs are not fully extended.JOHN P : Yes it is. For the size it is also very light and will fit into a suitcase very well.SIGMON W : yesBLAINE B : Yes. It is carbon fiber tubing and magnesium castings.TERRY D : Yes, this tripod is carbon fiber.
Shopper : Undecided over lower weigh, but a little below eye height- stability if extend column Manfrotto 190 cx pro3, eye height a little high, but extra weight 055 cx pro 3, or better eye height, more weight 055 cxpro4 as a compromise eventhough less stable. Recommendations?
DKIM S : I traded an older, metal Manfrotto for the 3-section carbon-fiber one I now use. The older one was probably the one you are wondering about (I traded it to my brother after buying the lighter one, so I don't have a model number at hand). I have had no regrets, and lots of positive results.
The 3-section design is much better for me, since it allows me to pack the tripod in a carryon backpack (after sliding out the stem and head). Much better than having to trust airline handlers. It also eliminates the need for a heavily reinforced special tripod carrier that I made out of an ancient saxophone case. So the folded size is a big advantage for me.
The lighter weight is also a big deal when carrying it on an all-day or steep walk, etc.
I've had no problems with stability, and there are always tricks like hanging a weight (your gear bag, for instance) from the bottom of the stem, to stabilize.
Nor have I felt that the extra height of the old one was a significant loss. There could come a time, but I doubt it will be a frequent occurrence.SCOTT A : I love the 055 cxpro4 and have had no issues with stability. It's rock solid for what I use it for.JEFFERY S : Purchased because of lower weight on long hikes. I don't have a problem with fully extended height and I'm tall. If you don't need the lower weight you can find a cheaper tripod that's just as stable though.ROBERT M : I have both the 055cxpro4 and the 055cxpro3 and I think both are excellent tripods. I had a 190 aluminum tripod and I wanted both the lighter weight and the extra height of the 055 legs. The 4 section is shorter and easier to carry. I use it for everything except when I use my 600mm f4 with a Wimberley head. I use the 3 section legs for that set up. It supports the weight well with no movement. I am not sorry I switched to these tripods. These will be the last ones I buy.LARRY S : Hello,
I chose the 4-section 055 Carbon Fibre for lighter weight, bigger leg sections and shorter length. I am very happy with it and I see no issues with the stability. I owned the aluminum 190 3-section and I own the aluminum 3021about 20 years (old 055) 3-section. I sold the 190 aluminum to buy the 055 Carbon fibre.
The 4-section 055 carbon is higher than the 190 aluminum, bigger leg sections, same closed length and weight, and more stable. It fits in my suitcase like the aluminum 190 did.
I am very happy with mine and would reccommend to anyone.JOSEPH R H : I bought the 055CXpro4 because of the weight and the length collapsed so it would fit in luggage. I've extended the center column high because I'm 6 foot without and stable issues. Really like the tripod, light weight and easy to open up.WONG C : I chose the Manfrotto 055CXPRO4 to use for general tripod needs, stability, and ability to be stable with cameras such as Nikon D700, with various f/2.8 lens. I was planning to do some autumn colors photos in the Sierra and went to a seminar by a Sacramento Bee professional photographer who did a story with lots of photos on fall colors. This was his tripod and as with most photo gear, it is a compromise of stability, weight, and how you carry your gear. If you are driving up to your scene or gig, weight is less important. If you have $3-5K of gear sitting on top of your tripod, get the best that you can afford. The M-055C was a compromise. If I was backpacking long treks, I may consider a lighter option...but then...I may be using lighter camera gear...certainly less. It is all a compromise, but I trusted a professional newspaper photog's advice. It is a fine tripod. Not sure why eye height is a problem.GLEN R : I would go witht he lower weight. When you are moving around and walking distances it makes a huge difference. The hight is ok with me and I am about 6 feet tall. With all the heavy lenses it helps balance it all out. it is sturdy. I have a non-carbon Manfrotto and I barely use it because of the weight. The Pro4 also folds up fairly small as well. I currently use it with a 5D Mark II with a 70-200 2.8 IS II lens and it is plenty sturdy.
Hope that helps.ALICE G : i shoot graphic design projects/landscapes/real estate & once u add the camera body & lens the weight for stability is nice on tripod super sturdy. i have a giotto ball head that i really like paired w/it. goodluckDON C : That's a tough question and only you can answer. I went with the extra weight because I'd rather not be bent over the tipod. I also, don't carry mine long distances or a long time.
Jan F : How many pounds will this support? which head do you recommend using and why?CRAIG E : The specs say it can support up to 8 kg (17lbs). I've never come close to maxing it out (and I use a Canon 1Ds MkIII and my heaviest lens is the 28mm-300mm) . I use the Manfrotto 405 Quick Release Geared Head. Very stable with this tripod because I use those for star field/moon shots. The Q90 column is quite handy and easily deployed (once you get used to it) but you will need a sand bag as a counter weight or you can spread the legs further out to keep it from becoming unbalanced. It's very light and quick to set up. One of the best purchases I've ever made. Hope this helps.KIM S : The specifications show the capacity as 8 kg, which is 17-odd pounds. That is enough for my Nikon and probably most other SLRs; maybe some medium-format, though I don't knoww weights on those.
The choice of head is very personal. I prefer the three-knob type, because I think in x-y-z-axis terms, and because I can set two of the variables and adjust one without losing the other. The conveinence of the ball-joint type doesn't outweigh this ability to work 'stepwise' toward a final aiming position -- for me. I shoot landscapes and stuff that don't run around all that much; if I were a portrait or sports photographer, I'm sure the ball-head would appeal more than it does.
I've been very happy with the tripod. It is tall enough for me (so many barely come to eye-level if you're six fott or over), and has the shoot-straight-down design as well as adjustable-angle legs. With the stem and head removed, the four-section design fits into a small carry-on backpack (the other two pieces go in as well, but the whole assembled tripod would be too long.) I also got Manfrotto's carrying sling, and sort of regret it, since it isn't rally needed very often. The weight difference from a 3-section metal version of the same tripod is significant, too.JOHN M : The 055CXPRO4 Tripod will support a bit over 17lbs which of course includes your head.
As for the head, it really depends on what you're shooting. Some people like the grip head while others like the 3-way axis head. For all-around shooting I would recommend the grip, for cold, calculated shooting like landscapes, I always use a 3-way.
Just be sure whatever head you choose it is matched to the weight you're going to attach it too. If you already have another Manfrotto head, pick one that has the same quick release plate.ROBERT M : I am using the Manfrotto 498 RC2 Ball Head and the head is rated at around 8 kg along with the tripod. This combination offers light weight along with enough holding power to hold a D300 with a battery pack and up to my 400mm lens without slipping. The 4 leg sections allow the tripod to be easily carried as it is shorter than the 3 section and I have not found it to be less stable. The 498 RC2 Ball Head allows for pano shots and the friction control allows for easy movement that is dampened so heavier loads are easier to use. Although the head weighs about the same as the tripod, I have found it is not hard to carry. I use the RC2 connect plates on other bodies and other lenses so it can handle all but the biggest telephoto lenses. I did add pipe insulating padding to two of the legs or you can buy aftermarket padding. I would purchase this set up again and I do recommend this combination for features, cost and reliability.JOSEPH D : It is rated to support 17.6 pounds , but I have not loaded that much on mine, but it sturdy enough to support that much with no problem
I recommend and use a Markins ball head , I think it is a Q10 , and I believe an M10 this the heavy duty model, they come highly recommended and I love mine. They have a torque adjustment that allows you to set a sweet spot for any lens you haveBRYAN D : I am not sure of the exact weight it supports but I believe it is in the range of 17lbs. it is a mostly compact size when folded up and is easy to unfold and refold. At the time of the purchase, I was looking for a tripod that would support any future upgrades and that is why i chose this one after many comparisons. I also like that the center column can be used to extend the height or dropped to the side to capture a lower angle. I use a Manfrotto 327RC2 Lightweight Magnesium Body Joystick Head with Quick Release. It supports 12 pounds of weight. One day while I was out and about , I saw a gentleman with this set up . I knew at that point, I had to get a set up just like it. The kind of shooting I do, I like to be able to adjust the camera to get a different angles quickly. With a gentle squeaze of the handle, I can adjust the camera without having to adjust the tripod. I like that the legs can also slide open wider independant of the other legs for when the ground may be uneven. I also like that the legs can be fairly close together and still stand soundly. I highly recommend it for anyone who loves the art of photography. It is worth the investment. I like the quick release feature on the joystick, so that I can quickly snap it on the tripod and be ready for a picure op in less then 2 minutes. I can keep the adapter attached to the camera without it interferring when i am shooting without a tripod.ALAN T : I use it with a Canon 5D and up to a400 mm zoom -- rock steady.
Reviews about this item
Review Summary
2014-02-28T19:00:00
Rated 4 out of 5
Good Tripod!
I've had this tripod for about 2 years now. I use it with the 498RC2 manfrotta ball head. The tripod is a bit on the heavy side but tolerable on photowalks. It is not a big hassle to carry around. It is very sturdy and strong. It has kept up with me for two years and still looks new. I mainly use it for sports photography and landscape. It is easy to set up when out and about. My main issue is just the weight but as mentioned, it's not a huge inconvenience.
Claudia
2014-01-28T19:00:00
Rated 5 out of 5
well balanced loading ability and weight
I use Tripod for both still images and video. The load capacity of this tripod allows me to use a relatively heavy fluid head for my DSLR and all of my lenses. The lightweight and 4-section legs also make it easy to carry around.
GUANGWEI D.
2013-04-01T21:00:00
Rated 5 out of 5
very useful tripod
this tripod is very useful for me,it unfolds quickly, I will carry it when I go for a trip because of its light weight,Carbon Fiber is very good!
SHEN Z.
2012-12-30T19:00:00
Rated 5 out of 5
Much better than expected!
I felt that spending this much money on what amounts to three sticks and a bolt was proving the adage "a sucker is born every day." However, I had to try the best, so I skipped the aluminum (too heavy) and three section (to large to backpack easily) and went right to this model. I could not be more impressed. The stability absolutely blows away my WalMart toy, and the height (fully extended) makes it much more usefull than my other Manfrotto carbon travel tripod. While the travel tripod is extremely light, it lacks the ability to hold a spotting scope or my "heavy set up" (Pentax K-5 with battery grip and Tamron 70-200 f/2.8 lens) without sagging. This tripod (with the 410jr head) holds it all without concern. So...I guess the extra money was worth spending, because I couldn't be happier.
ANTHONY D.
2012-08-23T21:00:00
Rated 5 out of 5
All-around tripod
I like that it's lightweight, folds down to a relative small form fator for carrying.
Don C.
2012-06-07T21:00:00
Rated 5 out of 5
Great Tripod
I've only had the tripod a few weeks, but I used it with my longest lens (70-300) at a graduation in a large arena where I was a good distance away from the stage and way above it. The tripod took the weight of camera and lens at awkward angles without any problem. Combined with the Acratech Ultimate ballhead, I am very pleased with this tripod.
PATRICIA S.
2012-05-27T21:00:00
Rated 5 out of 5
great product nice and stable
worth the money,stable and good value
JR
2011-09-06T21:00:00
Rated 5 out of 5
Sturdy and rigid
Love the durability and rigidity. Its very windy in the desert and you need a very rigid tripod for crisp images...this does the trick especially for being a light weight tripod.
PHP
2010-03-20T21:00:00
Rated 5 out of 5
Great Tripod! Very light!
Awesome tripod. Looks great, folds up small, very versatile in how the legs can fold out to different angles, and the center column can be oriented in a horizontal position very easily. The unit comes with an 18" (top to bottom) center column but I also purchased the short center column which is about 6 inches. I read other reviews on how you have to do a little work to get the tripod low with the long center column. I will rarely need extra height so I usually have the short center column in place. The carbon fiber center column at 18" actually weighs less than the aluminum short center column at 6". This is my first "real" tripod. I've had cheap ones before and even a $125 Sony remote control tripod and this one is clearly superior. I'm using this tripod for a Nikon D90 DSLR and Sony HDR-SR11 HD video camera. I have the 496RC2 ball head and HDV701 fluid video head. When looking for a tripod, I looked at the cheaper models but when you hold them and compare the weight against a carbon fiber tripod, it's night and day. Not that I would be hiking with this on my back all day long but the light weight does make it easier to maneuver. Also, being that it's light means that I won't balk when I think about taking it somewhere. The composite material tripods also handle vibration better than any other material and since I am using this with a video camera, that was important. If I could find any downside to this tripod is that it's very light when using my HDV701 video head and Sony HD camera. The video head is maybe just a little tight so when I'm using the arm to move the camera, I will sometimes make the tripod move. One fix that I found for this is to hang my camera bag on the provided center column hook. Not only does this keep my gear off of the dirty ground, but it provides the extra weight needed to stabilize the tripod. No issues at all when using my D90 on it in a static position. I looked at the 055CXPRO3 tripod but got the 055CXPRO4 because it folded up into a smaller package. This unit will be going on vacations with me and I'm not looking to see how much space my gear can take up. Very highly recommended and definitely worth the extra money. Spend a little more now to get a tripod to last you a lifetime. In the end, this is cheaper.
JOSEPH S.
2010-01-10T19:00:00
Rated 5 out of 5
BEST THREE LEGS A PHOTOG EVER HAD!!
BEST TRIPOD IN THE FIELD AND IN THE STUDIO. I USE THEIR MONO-POD ALSO AND THEY BOTH HAVE THE SAME OUTSTANDING BUILD...
KENT W.
2010-01-09T19:00:00
Rated 5 out of 5
YES, It Is The Greatest!!
For goodness sake, if you are like me and want the best, "GET IT!!" The price has nothing to do with how good this product is!! I have had the best, this is even better!! W.T.H. Over!! KMW
KENT W.
2009-08-18T21:00:00
Rated 5 out of 5
Super Tripod
I needed a lighter and more compact tripod for hiking and travel and this unit fits the bill. The quick adjustment from vertical to horizontal also is very helpful. I also am looking forward to not freezing my hands this winter (since this is not a cold aluminum tripod). The only negative is the price (expensive).
Sammamish W.
2009-01-24T19:00:00
Rated 5 out of 5
Works great
I use for outdoor photography, very light weight, yet stable.
Douglas P.
2009-01-20T19:00:00
Rated 5 out of 5
The sweetest tripod I have ever used
Solidly holds my DSLR and its long lens...something like 15 lbs. Used for everything from long exposures on windy exposed ridges stretched to full height to macro photography of plants a fraction of an inch above the ground. Straps nicely to outside of my backpack with bungee cord. Does not seem to be affected by cold or snow. Solidly built, yet very light. I almost bought one of the cheaper carbon fiber tripods, but am very happy I bought this one instead. The cheaper ones were several inches shorter which would have been a real problem for me. This is one of the few purchases I ever made that actually does everything I ask of it and more.
Pete
2009-01-02T19:00:00
Rated 4 out of 5
Extremely versatile but needs spike feet
This tripod gives you almost unlimited options for positioning your camera on a relatively light weight but sturdy base. The rubber tips on the feet are not very thick and there is no option for spikes, as with other Manfrottos, so it is not well suited for rocky outdoor sites which a light tripod should be used for. It also requires 3 screws for securing a ball head so changing the head is not a quick operation. But he overall ease and flexibility of use outweigh these shortcomings.
DS-LR
About Manfrotto 055CXPRO4
FEATURED REVIEWS
Great Tripod! Very light!
By JOSEPH S.
Awesome tripod. Looks great, folds up small, very versatile in how the legs can fold out to different angles, and the center column can be oriented in a horizontal position very easily. The unit comes with an 18" (top to bottom) center column but I also purchased the short center column which is about 6 inches. I read other reviews on how you have to do a little work to get the tripod low with the long center column. I will rarely need extra height so I usually have the short center column in...
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The sweetest tripod I have ever used
By Pete
Solidly holds my DSLR and its long lens...something like 15 lbs. Used for everything from long exposures on windy exposed ridges stretched to full height to macro photography of plants a fraction of an inch above the ground. Straps nicely to outside of my backpack with bungee cord. Does not seem to be affected by cold or snow. Solidly built, yet very light. I almost bought one of the cheaper carbon fiber tripods, but am very happy I bought this one instead. The cheaper ones were s...
View full Review
The Manfrotto 4-section 055CxPRO4 tripod combines the best performances of the 055 carbon family with lower dimensions. This tripod is compact and light, with the patented Q90° system for quick vertical-horizontal movements. The legs adjustable at four different angles and an integrated leveling bubble is placed on the top plate.
