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The Manfrotto 055CXPRO3 Carbon Fiber Tripod Legs is part of the 055CX series, which was designed to meet the needs of demanding professionals and photography enthusiasts who want the best in terms of performance and quality. It has been improved with the use of carbon fiber tubing for its legs. Thanks to innovative production techniques - which allow for high quality 100% carbon tube structures - the 055CX series guarantees a higher load capacity and an increased height with a lighter overall weight (-20%) thanks to a completely new design, which allowed to lighten the components.
The 055CXPRO3 is a 3-leg section tripod, with a center column design that allows it to be used in either vertical or horizontal position. By extending the column to its highest vertical position, the column can be swung over to horizontal without removing the head or disassembling the column itself.
The 055CXPRO3 also features several other improvements, such as an improved leg locking system, redesigned angle adjustment levers, and a leveling bubble that is incorporated into the head plate.
| Maximum Height | 68.9" (175cm) |
| Maximum Height w/o Column Extended | 55.1" (140cm) |
| Minimum Height | 4.5" (11.5cm) [w/center column in horizontal position] |
| Folded Length | 25.6" (65cm) |
| Load Capacity | 17.6 lbs (8kg) |
| Leg Sections | 3 |
| Leg Lock Type | Flip levers |
| Independent Leg Spread | Yes |
| Center Column Sections | 1 |
| Center Column Type | Rapid sliding |
| Center Brace | No |
| Spiked Feet | No |
| Head Type | None |
| Head Mount Thread Size | 3/8" |
| Weight | 3.6 lbs (1.6kg) |
REVIEW SNAPSHOT®
by PowerReviewsPros
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Most Liked Positive Review
Exactly what's promised
Quite happy with this tripod -- amazingly lightweight, but stable and has good hight range. It actually feels lighter than numbers lead you to believe, specially compared to it's non-fiber cousin.
...Read complete review
Quite happy with this tripod -- amazingly lightweight, but stable and has good hight range. It actually feels lighter than numbers lead you to believe, specially compared to it's non-fiber cousin.
Stability is excellent, legs feel sturdy and do not bend or wobble even or max extension. I have been using Canon EOS 40D with EF 70-200mm L IS and extenders on it (on top of Manfrotto 468rc2 ballhead) and it takes that weight quite easily. Built-in levelling bubble and easy-to-use-even-with-one-hand leg clamps make finding good footing and adjustment simple.
I also like the max height -- you do not have to worry about overhead shots or straining your back while lining up landscape photo.
There are some small things that annoy me: mainly the fact that it does not have a hook for additional weight (it has some strange small hook, but isn't centered and doesn't look very strong). Having a hook or any other kind of connection point at the lower end of center column would make it perfect.
Another thing to consider is that although 3-section version is probably a bit lighter than 4-section and definitely easier to handle, it is QUITE long when folded. I made a mistake of taking this 65cm folded length as final -- but you have to add height of the head as well, making the whole thing closer to 80cms when folded.It is specially visible, when you strap it to backpack -- on smaller backpacks it looks like radar antenna :)
Also, it would have been nice to have either a carrying bag or at least a strap included with rather expensive tripod.
Still, altogether, my best tripod by far.
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Most Liked Negative Review
Design flaw
Mounted a Nikon 400/2.8, along with a wimberly mount, on to the tripod head. The head came loose and out of the tripod's column. It appears, that the head is just pressure...Read complete review
Mounted a Nikon 400/2.8, along with a wimberly mount, on to the tripod head. The head came loose and out of the tripod's column. It appears, that the head is just pressure fitted into the tripod column. Waiting for replacement from Bogen and will see if this is just a one time defect in a part or a design flaw, at least for now, would not use this tripod that puts any off axis stress on the tripod head. The area surface
of the mated parts are to small, to support much stress. I do like it's weight and the way it feels. But leary about putting a big lense on it.
I certainly would not trust it using the tilt feature of the tripod column, no matter the lense and camera.
Reviewed by 186 customers
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Pros
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Comments about Manfrotto 055CXPRO3 3-Section Carbon Fiber Tripod Legs (Black):
This tripod has great build quality. It's light for it's size.
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Comments about Manfrotto 055CXPRO3 3-Section Carbon Fiber Tripod Legs (Black):
I use this tripod for landscape and wildlife photography. It's featherlight, deploys quickly, and I never worry about stability.
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Comments about Manfrotto 055CXPRO3 3-Section Carbon Fiber Tripod Legs (Black):
I have been very pleased with this tripod which I use with the 498 MAXI BALL HEAD w/RC2 QR PLATE -. It is light weight for its size and I can easily strap it to the side of my camera backpack or rolling case. And the lightweight of this tripod does't affect how sturdy it is. I feel safe putting A D800 or D700 on it with a telephoto lense. The only thing that I think is lacking is that the feet could have some optional spikes rather than just the rubber tips. Overall, I'd say this is a good all purpose tripod and I highly recommend it . The ball head I use is not as good for video as it is for stills but I'm sure these legs take other ball heads that are more suited to that.
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Comments about Manfrotto 055CXPRO3 3-Section Carbon Fiber Tripod Legs (Black):
It's really light and very strong and looks cool too
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Comments about Manfrotto 055CXPRO3 3-Section Carbon Fiber Tripod Legs (Black):
This is by far, the best tripod I have ever owned. Very light weight, and incredibly sturdy. Primarily used outdoors, and is very rugged and weather resistant. Holds 20 pounds with no problem. Very Strongly recommended. You will not be dissatisfied.
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Comments about Manfrotto 055CXPRO3 3-Section Carbon Fiber Tripod Legs (Black):
When I bought my first tripod I thought it would serve me for many years. As I got more serious with photography I purchased bigger lenses that require a sturdy platform with minimal movement. I also began to question how secure that expensive camera and lens combo was sitting up on that tripod. With all this in mind I purchased a better quality tripod constructed of aluminum. In regard to sturdiness it did a real good job providing you didn't need to raise the center column which unfortunately I had to do most of the time. That defeated the purpose of a sturdy set of legs. Within a coule months I realized the frustration that I was experiencing with this tripod. Aside from the center column issue I also began to really dislike the twist lock legs which was made even worse due to the 5 sections. I found myself actually keeping it somewhat extended so I wouldn't have to battle with the Twist locks. This just wasn't going to do! I began looking at some more expensive tripods and I have to admit I had sticker shock. I actually began to think I may just have to deal with the one I was using when I stumbled onto the Manfrotto 055CXPRO3 Carbon Fiber Tripod from B&H Photo. The price was amazingly reasonable actually to the point that I was skeptical. You know how they say if it sounds to good to be true it may just be. Well, lets just say this tripod proved this fear wrong. I absolutely love this tripod. The Carbon Fiber makes it quite light but it's very sturdy. I'm 6 foot tall and the height is perfect without using the center column. Occassionally I have extended the center column and found it to be very stable and rigid. I love how you can articulate the legs and/or center column to get down to real low subjects. The 3 section cam lock legs are so quick and a joy to use. I use it combined with a ballhead and I would recommend this tripod to anyone. I finally can say that I've bought a tripod that is about as perfect as perfect can be. I have zero complaints or issues with this tripod.
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Comments about Manfrotto 055CXPRO3 3-Section Carbon Fiber Tripod Legs (Black):
I'm 6'4" and this tri-pod (with ball-head) can go taller than my eye level. Great versatility and light
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Comments about Manfrotto 055CXPRO3 3-Section Carbon Fiber Tripod Legs (Black):
I needed a tripod that would be lightweight but wouldn't compromise on stability or quality. I do mostly video work and often use a slider on top of this as well as the head and camera and it works great. I love that you are able to widen the legs way out and switch into macro-mode, very cool. The construction is great and it feels very well-built. The only exception is when you are switching to macro mode, the horizontal converter bit feels a little flimsy, but that only seems to be a feeling, it all works great.
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Comments about Manfrotto 055CXPRO3 3-Section Carbon Fiber Tripod Legs (Black):
Awesome tripod. Light weight and durable. I would buy this product again.
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Comments about Manfrotto 055CXPRO3 3-Section Carbon Fiber Tripod Legs (Black):
I did a lot of research before I ordered the Manfrotto 055CXPRO3....and it has more than lived up to my expectations. Very solid and stable, lightweight, and smooth operation. Highly recommend this tripod to anyone who needs professional grade support for their DSLR shooting stills and video. Excellent!
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Comments about Manfrotto 055CXPRO3 3-Section Carbon Fiber Tripod Legs (Black):
Ideal for my needs ...
Pros
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Comments about Manfrotto 055CXPRO3 3-Section Carbon Fiber Tripod Legs (Black):
I had been using a 20 year old Bogen with aluminum legs- I wanted to get a slightly burlier ball head and decided to upgrade my legs as well. We had also gotten a couple of 055 aluminum tripods for work, and they seemed like a great combination of weight and strength.
I love the carbon fiber version! feels really stable, and is fairly light (although not necessarily dramatically lighter than the aluminum- I guess that weight savings is more pronounced on the heavier tripods). For reference I'm using this with a gripped Canon 60D, with the largest lens being the 70-300L.
I thought the horizontal-mounting of the center column was just gimicky, but I used it for some macro shots recently and found it quite handy.
I just purchased a knock-off padded tripod bag, and I might actually take this hiking with me!
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Comments about Manfrotto 055CXPRO3 3-Section Carbon Fiber Tripod Legs (Black):
I use my tripod for HDR and night photography. It is really easy and light to carry, yet still very sturdy. It goes up to a very practical height so I don't have to crouch to take the photo. Adjusting the legs is quick and easy.
I am planning to use it for a lot of still-life studio work as well which I couldn't attempt with a hand-held camera.
I wanted a tripod I would not need to upgrade for a really long time and I think I have found it. Well-constructed and a great deal for the price.
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Comments about Manfrotto 055CXPRO3 3-Section Carbon Fiber Tripod Legs (Black):
Have been carrying around a very good and HEAVY aluminum tripod, not only is this one a lot lighter but it is so much easier to set up and much more versitle.
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Comments about Manfrotto 055CXPRO3 3-Section Carbon Fiber Tripod Legs (Black):
I spent hours on internet research watching clips, reading reviews. It all comes down to priorities. For me there were: travel/wildlife - size, casual/rare usage - low price, reliability - stability. It came down to 055cxpro3 3 or 4 fold tripod. I had preferred shorter fold due to backpack travelling but then I recalled all my trips and chose a bit more stability. 5 stars for me. Best option, best value, excellent ratio – quality to price (especially during promotion). Bottom line: Recall all your past experience (other tripods you used, trips), go and check local store and then make a list of your priorities. Then… you will compromise but at least you have "a base line". This is my base line and it is very good.Set: Canon 40D and 18-200mm lens. 055CXPro3 tripod, 054 Mag.Ball Head with Q2.
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Comments about Manfrotto 055CXPRO3 3-Section Carbon Fiber Tripod Legs (Black):
Very well designed, lightweight and very stable for DSLR cameras.
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Comments about Manfrotto 055CXPRO3 3-Section Carbon Fiber Tripod Legs (Black):
I use this particular tripod as a travel companion. Shaves off a few critical pounds when stuffed in a checked bag. It's light weight and rugged construction are essential. I'm at a loss for finding anything it's lacking.
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Comments about Manfrotto 055CXPRO3 3-Section Carbon Fiber Tripod Legs (Black):
Works perfect for by Zone Vi 4x5 and Bogen 3047 head.
Locks are great and of course it's very light!
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Comments about Manfrotto 055CXPRO3 3-Section Carbon Fiber Tripod Legs (Black):
I use this tripod wit a joystick head and my canon 60D.
This product is easy to setup, light and offers a great stability for my camera even with heavy lenses.
You can adjust the legs in different angles to provide enough shooting possibilities.
I wish it could have a carrying case included!
Great product from Manfrotto... I definetely recommend it.. I got rid of my cheap and weak tripod before having the risk to damage mu lenses and camera...
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Comments about Manfrotto 055CXPRO3 3-Section Carbon Fiber Tripod Legs (Black):
This carbon midsize tripod is extremely light which makes it very easy to take out for long periods. The construction is excellent and built-in cross arm capability is simple and effective. With a 70-200 you will have to wait for the camera to settle if your exposure times get long. There is a bubble level built in to the post, handy if you are doing panos.
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