The Alta+ 204AP Aluminum Alloy Tripod from Vanguard is compact 19.09" (48.5cm), lightweight 2.98 lb (1.35 kg) and can support your camera, lens, or camcorder up to 4.4 lb (2.0 kg). Alta+ is built with features such as dual locking safety mechanisms, an anti-shock ring to minimize damage by camera vibration, 3 leg angles (25°, 50°,80°), and rubber feet with retractable spikes so you can set up on almost any terrain. The Alta+ 204AP also comes with a fluid 3-way panhead with 2 handles (PH-12) and three bubble levels for positioning versatility and accuracy.
The Alta+ 204AP is also equipped with clamp-style leg locks and large foam grips for all-weather usage. With all these features, this tripod is ideal for a wide variety of photographic shooting situations, including macro (by reversing the head and using the built-in low-angle adapter), landscapes, portraits, nature, and travel.
| General | |
|---|---|
| Material |
Aluminum alloy legs Magnesium heads and canopy |
| Load Capacity | 4.4 lb (2.0 kg) |
| Maximum Height | 51.18" (130cm) |
| Folded Length | 19.09" (48.5cm) |
| Leveling Bubble/Illuminated | 3 x non-illuminated |
| Weight | 2.98 lb (1.35 kg) |
| Head Type | 3-way panhead with 2 handles (PH-12) |
| Quick Release | QS-50 |
| Legs | |
|---|---|
| Head Attachment Fitting | 1/4"-20 |
| Leg Stages/Sections | 4 sections |
| Leg Lock Type | Clip lock |
| Independent Leg Spread | Yes |
| Spiked/Retractable Feet | Yes |
| Center Brace | No |
| Center Column | |
|---|---|
| Center Column Type | Sliding |
| Center Column Sections | 1 |
REVIEW SNAPSHOT®
by PowerReviewsPros
Cons
Best Uses
Most Liked Positive Review
Superb, EXCELLENT VALUE, blows away comp
I purchased this today after testing it upstairs at BH. I spent a good two hours comparing different tripods that were lightweight (not just looking but opening them, placing weight on them, seeing ...Read complete review
I purchased this today after testing it upstairs at BH. I spent a good two hours comparing different tripods that were lightweight (not just looking but opening them, placing weight on them, seeing how rugged they were, putting my Canon DSLR on them, as well as my Canon HF S10 video camera), highly functional, and HIGH quality (near pro level). Well, I chose this tripod because of the following reasons:
First, it has a FLUID HEAD. The box itself fails to mention that. The head moves so fluidly and although it says photo tripod on the box, I use it for video with my Canon HD camera. WOW, this is an amazing tripod. Second, it has two axes (handlebars?) of controls, one for each hand. This allows for more precise movement. Third, it has a built in level. How useful! Fourth, it is lightweight, and comes with a FREE tripod bag inside the box! Fifth, it is quite small so you can stow it away. Sixth, it is the BEST price to value ratio you will ever find on a tripod. Ever? YES! I spent two hours looking at every single tripod in this weight/price category at BH! BH has the best selection in NYC and if you can't find a competitor to beat a product here, well then, you've got yourself the best product!
I make YouTube videos and when motion is required, you can see that there is no jerk from point A to point B. It's a totally smooth/fluid motion.
BOTTOM LINE: THIS TRIPOD IS PRO QUALITY. FLUID HEAD and LEVEL with THREE AXES OF MOTION (up, down, diagonal)!
VS
Most Liked Negative Review
Light weight Tripod
This tripod is very light weight which is what I really needed. It's not as well made and I thougth it should be for the price, but it does the job and serves my ...Read complete review
This tripod is very light weight which is what I really needed. It's not as well made and I thougth it should be for the price, but it does the job and serves my needs.
REVIEWS
Reviewed by 18 customers
Sort by
Displaying reviews 1-18
Comments about Vanguard Alta+ 204AP Aluminum Alloy Tripod:
It's hard to imagine a better tripod with a price/ weight/ size combination.
It's so light and small, I was disappointed when I unboxed and extended it fully. I was like, "there's no way this thing isn't going to be a wobbler."
Boy was I wrong, it's smoother and WAY more solid than I expected.
Pushing the to the weight limit with a spotting scope did wobble a little bit though. Not sure if the load capacity is under / or over rated.
Not the tripod's fault, but I was crossing my fingers it could.
But in optimal conditions, it worked perfectly anyway with a bunch of stuff on it.
Was a little bummed the picture showed the thing with bubble levels on all axis. There is actually just one.
GREAT for adventurers who want the lowest possible weight and size (without having to take out a loan) in a truly functional and versatile tripod.
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Vanguard Alta+ 204AP Aluminum Alloy Tripod:
This is my first pro-level tripod (or at least my first expensive one I didn't buy at [@]). I do photography, but mostly DSLR video. I love this tripod. It's easy to use and the head is nice and fluid. My only complaints: I wish it could get taller. You have to take off one of the arms on the head to fit it in the bag.
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Vanguard Alta+ 204AP Aluminum Alloy Tripod:
This tripod is very light weight which is what I really needed. It's not as well made and I thougth it should be for the price, but it does the job and serves my needs.
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Vanguard Alta+ 204AP Aluminum Alloy Tripod:
Needed this for hiking. It's light, small and seems very sturdy with my t1i and Sigma 18-200 lens on it.
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Vanguard Alta+ 204AP Aluminum Alloy Tripod:
It's sturdy, easy-to-use & dependable. We're VERY pleased.
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Vanguard Alta+ 204AP Aluminum Alloy Tripod:
occasionally taking him on trips, it is not heavy, but for professional use I would recommend something more stable.
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Vanguard Alta+ 204AP Aluminum Alloy Tripod:
Great tripod which I use weekly and travel with it strapped to my photo pack.
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Vanguard Alta+ 204AP Aluminum Alloy Tripod:
Purchased the tripod to use with a 5D for backpacking. The tripod packs down pretty small and is stable enough for use with the 5D. I have not used it yet with any lens bigger than the 24-70 2.8L but it works fine with that. I was always careful in the wind but it does has a weight hook on the center pole and the legs can be spread to prevent tipping.
I also liked this tripod because it has a very smooth pan and tilt head which is nice when I want to use my 5D mark II for video.
Notes: one arm must be unscrewed to fit inside the bag (easy enough)
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Vanguard Alta+ 204AP Aluminum Alloy Tripod:
Needed a tripod that I could carry on my dual-sport motorcycle when riding out on photo sessions. This thing really fits the bill perfectly. Just the right size, and very well made and put together.
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Vanguard Alta+ 204AP Aluminum Alloy Tripod:
Perfect first tripod. Got this one for my daughter's Nikon d500, she loves it.
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Vanguard Alta+ 204AP Aluminum Alloy Tripod:
Lightweight, easy to use, nice controls, decent height for the weight. Only downfall is you have to take off one of the handles to get it in the storage bag.
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Vanguard Alta+ 204AP Aluminum Alloy Tripod:
My son was very happy with the quality of your product.
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Vanguard Alta+ 204AP Aluminum Alloy Tripod:
I needed a tripod for my Canon 40D. I have lots of heavy duty video tripods so that is what I am used to, but needed something that would travel well. This fits in my Canon carry on travel case perfect with room to pack other little stuff around it. It seemed too light and flimsy and a little awkward when I first got it, but it is perfect for travel and sturdy enough for a quick studio session.
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Vanguard Alta+ 204AP Aluminum Alloy Tripod:
I just invested in this tripod for a college class, and it is honestly the best one I could find for this price. The head is like butter, perfect for panning. I am pleased with this, well worth the money if you're on a budget!
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Vanguard Alta+ 204AP Aluminum Alloy Tripod:
This stand is sturdy, small and very light! I like that there is a bag with it to keep it clean and in good condition. I took this hiking on very rugged terrain and did very well with me.
Definitely a good buy for the buck!
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Vanguard Alta+ 204AP Aluminum Alloy Tripod:
This tripod is very good for Backpacking, light enough to lug around,great build quality,easy to setup.
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Vanguard Alta+ 204AP Aluminum Alloy Tripod:
I purchased this today after testing it upstairs at BH. I spent a good two hours comparing different tripods that were lightweight (not just looking but opening them, placing weight on them, seeing how rugged they were, putting my Canon DSLR on them, as well as my Canon HF S10 video camera), highly functional, and HIGH quality (near pro level). Well, I chose this tripod because of the following reasons:
First, it has a FLUID HEAD. The box itself fails to mention that. The head moves so fluidly and although it says photo tripod on the box, I use it for video with my Canon HD camera. WOW, this is an amazing tripod. Second, it has two axes (handlebars?) of controls, one for each hand. This allows for more precise movement. Third, it has a built in level. How useful! Fourth, it is lightweight, and comes with a FREE tripod bag inside the box! Fifth, it is quite small so you can stow it away. Sixth, it is the BEST price to value ratio you will ever find on a tripod. Ever? YES! I spent two hours looking at every single tripod in this weight/price category at BH! BH has the best selection in NYC and if you can't find a competitor to beat a product here, well then, you've got yourself the best product!
I make YouTube videos and when motion is required, you can see that there is no jerk from point A to point B. It's a totally smooth/fluid motion.
BOTTOM LINE: THIS TRIPOD IS PRO QUALITY. FLUID HEAD and LEVEL with THREE AXES OF MOTION (up, down, diagonal)!
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Vanguard Alta+ 204AP Aluminum Alloy Tripod:
Solid yet compact. Supports our high speed camera without any problems. Would definitely buy again.
Displaying reviews 1-18
REVIEW SNAPSHOT®
by PowerReviewsPros
Cons
Best Uses
Most Liked Positive Review
Superb, EXCELLENT VALUE, blows away comp
I purchased this today after testing it upstairs at BH. I spent a good two hours comparing different tripods that were lightweight (not just looking but opening them, placing weight on them, seeing ...Read complete review
I purchased this today after testing it upstairs at BH. I spent a good two hours comparing different tripods that were lightweight (not just looking but opening them, placing weight on them, seeing how rugged they were, putting my Canon DSLR on them, as well as my Canon HF S10 video camera), highly functional, and HIGH quality (near pro level). Well, I chose this tripod because of the following reasons:
First, it has a FLUID HEAD. The box itself fails to mention that. The head moves so fluidly and although it says photo tripod on the box, I use it for video with my Canon HD camera. WOW, this is an amazing tripod. Second, it has two axes (handlebars?) of controls, one for each hand. This allows for more precise movement. Third, it has a built in level. How useful! Fourth, it is lightweight, and comes with a FREE tripod bag inside the box! Fifth, it is quite small so you can stow it away. Sixth, it is the BEST price to value ratio you will ever find on a tripod. Ever? YES! I spent two hours looking at every single tripod in this weight/price category at BH! BH has the best selection in NYC and if you can't find a competitor to beat a product here, well then, you've got yourself the best product!
I make YouTube videos and when motion is required, you can see that there is no jerk from point A to point B. It's a totally smooth/fluid motion.
BOTTOM LINE: THIS TRIPOD IS PRO QUALITY. FLUID HEAD and LEVEL with THREE AXES OF MOTION (up, down, diagonal)!
VS
Most Liked Negative Review
Light weight Tripod
This tripod is very light weight which is what I really needed. It's not as well made and I thougth it should be for the price, but it does the job and serves my ...Read complete review
This tripod is very light weight which is what I really needed. It's not as well made and I thougth it should be for the price, but it does the job and serves my needs.
REVIEWS
Reviewed by 18 customers
Sort by
Displaying reviews 1-18
Comments about Vanguard Alta+ 204AP Aluminum Alloy Tripod:
It's hard to imagine a better tripod with a price/ weight/ size combination.
It's so light and small, I was disappointed when I unboxed and extended it fully. I was like, "there's no way this thing isn't going to be a wobbler."
Boy was I wrong, it's smoother and WAY more solid than I expected.
Pushing the to the weight limit with a spotting scope did wobble a little bit though. Not sure if the load capacity is under / or over rated.
Not the tripod's fault, but I was crossing my fingers it could.
But in optimal conditions, it worked perfectly anyway with a bunch of stuff on it.
Was a little bummed the picture showed the thing with bubble levels on all axis. There is actually just one.
GREAT for adventurers who want the lowest possible weight and size (without having to take out a loan) in a truly functional and versatile tripod.
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Vanguard Alta+ 204AP Aluminum Alloy Tripod:
This is my first pro-level tripod (or at least my first expensive one I didn't buy at [@]). I do photography, but mostly DSLR video. I love this tripod. It's easy to use and the head is nice and fluid. My only complaints: I wish it could get taller. You have to take off one of the arms on the head to fit it in the bag.
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Vanguard Alta+ 204AP Aluminum Alloy Tripod:
This tripod is very light weight which is what I really needed. It's not as well made and I thougth it should be for the price, but it does the job and serves my needs.
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Vanguard Alta+ 204AP Aluminum Alloy Tripod:
Needed this for hiking. It's light, small and seems very sturdy with my t1i and Sigma 18-200 lens on it.
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Vanguard Alta+ 204AP Aluminum Alloy Tripod:
It's sturdy, easy-to-use & dependable. We're VERY pleased.
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Vanguard Alta+ 204AP Aluminum Alloy Tripod:
occasionally taking him on trips, it is not heavy, but for professional use I would recommend something more stable.
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Vanguard Alta+ 204AP Aluminum Alloy Tripod:
Great tripod which I use weekly and travel with it strapped to my photo pack.
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Vanguard Alta+ 204AP Aluminum Alloy Tripod:
Purchased the tripod to use with a 5D for backpacking. The tripod packs down pretty small and is stable enough for use with the 5D. I have not used it yet with any lens bigger than the 24-70 2.8L but it works fine with that. I was always careful in the wind but it does has a weight hook on the center pole and the legs can be spread to prevent tipping.
I also liked this tripod because it has a very smooth pan and tilt head which is nice when I want to use my 5D mark II for video.
Notes: one arm must be unscrewed to fit inside the bag (easy enough)
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Vanguard Alta+ 204AP Aluminum Alloy Tripod:
Needed a tripod that I could carry on my dual-sport motorcycle when riding out on photo sessions. This thing really fits the bill perfectly. Just the right size, and very well made and put together.
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Vanguard Alta+ 204AP Aluminum Alloy Tripod:
Perfect first tripod. Got this one for my daughter's Nikon d500, she loves it.
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Vanguard Alta+ 204AP Aluminum Alloy Tripod:
Lightweight, easy to use, nice controls, decent height for the weight. Only downfall is you have to take off one of the handles to get it in the storage bag.
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Vanguard Alta+ 204AP Aluminum Alloy Tripod:
My son was very happy with the quality of your product.
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Vanguard Alta+ 204AP Aluminum Alloy Tripod:
I needed a tripod for my Canon 40D. I have lots of heavy duty video tripods so that is what I am used to, but needed something that would travel well. This fits in my Canon carry on travel case perfect with room to pack other little stuff around it. It seemed too light and flimsy and a little awkward when I first got it, but it is perfect for travel and sturdy enough for a quick studio session.
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Vanguard Alta+ 204AP Aluminum Alloy Tripod:
I just invested in this tripod for a college class, and it is honestly the best one I could find for this price. The head is like butter, perfect for panning. I am pleased with this, well worth the money if you're on a budget!
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Vanguard Alta+ 204AP Aluminum Alloy Tripod:
This stand is sturdy, small and very light! I like that there is a bag with it to keep it clean and in good condition. I took this hiking on very rugged terrain and did very well with me.
Definitely a good buy for the buck!
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Vanguard Alta+ 204AP Aluminum Alloy Tripod:
This tripod is very good for Backpacking, light enough to lug around,great build quality,easy to setup.
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Vanguard Alta+ 204AP Aluminum Alloy Tripod:
I purchased this today after testing it upstairs at BH. I spent a good two hours comparing different tripods that were lightweight (not just looking but opening them, placing weight on them, seeing how rugged they were, putting my Canon DSLR on them, as well as my Canon HF S10 video camera), highly functional, and HIGH quality (near pro level). Well, I chose this tripod because of the following reasons:
First, it has a FLUID HEAD. The box itself fails to mention that. The head moves so fluidly and although it says photo tripod on the box, I use it for video with my Canon HD camera. WOW, this is an amazing tripod. Second, it has two axes (handlebars?) of controls, one for each hand. This allows for more precise movement. Third, it has a built in level. How useful! Fourth, it is lightweight, and comes with a FREE tripod bag inside the box! Fifth, it is quite small so you can stow it away. Sixth, it is the BEST price to value ratio you will ever find on a tripod. Ever? YES! I spent two hours looking at every single tripod in this weight/price category at BH! BH has the best selection in NYC and if you can't find a competitor to beat a product here, well then, you've got yourself the best product!
I make YouTube videos and when motion is required, you can see that there is no jerk from point A to point B. It's a totally smooth/fluid motion.
BOTTOM LINE: THIS TRIPOD IS PRO QUALITY. FLUID HEAD and LEVEL with THREE AXES OF MOTION (up, down, diagonal)!
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Vanguard Alta+ 204AP Aluminum Alloy Tripod:
Solid yet compact. Supports our high speed camera without any problems. Would definitely buy again.
Displaying reviews 1-18