Manfrotto 055CXPRO3 3-Section Carbon Fiber Tripod Legs (Black)
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.
- Magnesium die castings and magnesium top plate with an integrated leveling bubble
- 3-faceted 100% carbon fiber center column, which totally eliminates column rotation
- Redesigned more ergonomic flip locks
- Built-in low angle adapter in the center column for ground level shots
- Four leg-angle settings (23,47,66 & 89°)
| 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 PowerReviews(based on 161 reviews)
Ratings Distribution
98%
of respondents would recommend this to a friend.
Pros
- Lightweight (147)
- Stable (145)
- Unfolds quickly (115)
- Folds away (43)
Cons
- Cumbersome (5)
- Poor quality (4)
- Heavy (3)
Best Uses
- Landscape/scenery (121)
- Night shots (98)
- Portraits (81)
- Travel (72)
- Wildlife (72)
- Reviewer Profile:
- Photo enthusiast (95), Semi-pro photographer (33), Pro photographer (18), Casual photographer (8)
- Was this a gift?:
- No (100), Yes (5)
Most Liked Positive Review
What a Tripod Ought To Be
I am an amateur, but serious, photographer. I spend hours on a single subject. I have some heavier lenses on a Nikon D200 and a Nikon D700, rather heavy cameras. I need ...Read complete review
I am an amateur, but serious, photographer. I spend hours on a single subject. I have some heavier lenses on a Nikon D200 and a Nikon D700, rather heavy cameras. I need a tripod.
I've had a handful of "affordable" tripods. They've never been sturdy. They rock when I push the shutter release, and I've been forced to use a cable release or the self-timer even on the tripod just to get a steady image. They've been fragile and broken easily.
I've finally splurged for the tripod I should have had all along. This is THE RIGHT TRIPOD. It's LIGHT. It's rock steady. It's plenty tall. It adjusts plenty quickly. The center column shifts to 90 degrees. The legs can be spread to almost straight out to get as low as you want to get. It includes no head, allowing me to pick my own. (The 486RC2 ball head is a GREAT match.)
My very few criticisms aren't worth mentioning, but I will: (1) a carrying strap would be useful; (2) a carrying handle would be useful; (3) legs locking together for transport would be useful; (4) the rubber feet MAY eventually wear on rough surfaces and retractable metal spikes would have been nice. These are REALLY picky comments, though. The tripod is EVERYTHING is appears to be and ought to be.
As for the price... For some, it's hard to justify. But I've spent more than this for all the wrong tripods and known it pretty quickly after buying them. This could be my last tripod. It's just that good. That makes it a good value. The value that it is is unfortunately not readily discernable unless you account for how little you'll use the wrong tripod.
VS
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 161 customers
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Displaying reviews 1-20
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Pros
- Good Stability
- Lightweight
- Unfolds Quickly
Cons
Best Uses
- Landscape/Scenery
- Night Shots
- Sports/Action
- Travel
- Wildlife
Comments about Manfrotto 055CXPRO3 3-Section Carbon Fiber Tripod Legs (Black):
Only gave it 4 stars, as have not had a chance to work with it. Very light compared to my old Manfrotto. Seems sturdy Like the ability to put center column to horizontal position easily.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Good Stability
- Lightweight
- Unfolds Quickly
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Manfrotto 055CXPRO3 3-Section Carbon Fiber Tripod Legs (Black):
This is a very good tripod. It is very sturdy and everything works as it should.
I like the carbon fiber as it is light, strong, and it is great in the cold weather as the legs remain much warmer than aluminum versions.
I use it with the Manfrotto 054 Magnesium Ball Head with RC4 Quick Release and it is the perfect setup.
I am 6'2" and needed a tripod that would extend far enough so would not have to always bend my knees when shooting. This tripod is just the right height.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Good Stability
- Lightweight
- Unfolds Quickly
Cons
Best Uses
- Landscape/Scenery
- Night Shots
- Portraits
- Sports/Action
- Travel
- Wildlife
Comments about Manfrotto 055CXPRO3 3-Section Carbon Fiber Tripod Legs (Black):
Really enjoy how light and sturdy the tripod is. Sets up quickly. Mounted the Manfrotto 393 HD Gimbal Head to it. It's a great combination for wildlife and sports photography.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Good Stability
- Lightweight
Cons
Best Uses
- Landscape/Scenery
- Night Shots
- Travel
- Wildlife
Comments about Manfrotto 055CXPRO3 3-Section Carbon Fiber Tripod Legs (Black):
It is the first time that I use Manfrotto Tripod. It was best in all situations in my trip. High quality and good deal. Amazing
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Folds Small
- Good Stability
- Lightweight
- Unfolds Quickly
Cons
- None
Best Uses
- Landscape/Scenery
- Night Shots
- Travel
Comments about Manfrotto 055CXPRO3 3-Section Carbon Fiber Tripod Legs (Black):
This is my first carbon fiber tripod. I'm retired and approaching 75, so the light weight especially is a blessing. Considering it's weight and feel I was surprised at how stable it is, as well as, smooth to adjust. If my requirements were greater I might say it should be even more stable, but then I could have purchased a larger more expensive tripod. This is just what I needed.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Flexible
- Good Stability
- Lightweight
Cons
Best Uses
- Landscape/Scenery
- Wildlife
Comments about Manfrotto 055CXPRO3 3-Section Carbon Fiber Tripod Legs (Black):
Having broken 2 inexpensive tripods I was in desperate need of a replacement. The choices were almost overwhelming, but I had read a number of good reviews regarding the Manfrotto 055CXPRO3. In the short time I have had it, it has certainly lived up to those reviews. It is a very flexible tripod, relatively light and has easily accommodated every photography situation I have thrown at it. I am basically a wildlife photographer and it certainly fills my needs. I would recommend this tripod to anyone without reservations.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Bottom Line Yes, I would recommend this to a friend
Images shared by Swamp thing
Sunrise - Bennetts Point Road
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Pros
- Good Stability
- Lightweight
- Unfolds Quickly
Cons
Best Uses
- Home
- Landscape/Scenery
- Macro
- Night Shots
- Wildlife
Comments about Manfrotto 055CXPRO3 3-Section Carbon Fiber Tripod Legs (Black):
I really needed a Carbon Fiber Tripod, why? Because I like to shot with my tripod always. I only had 2 requisites; Not to heavy and I'm 6 feet tall so I want a tripod where I don't have to bend. This meet those 2.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Bottom Line Yes, I would recommend this to a friend
Images shared by hfgerena
New Tripod in Action
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- You may also flag this review
Pros
- Good Stability
- Lightweight
Cons
Best Uses
- Night Shots
- Portraits
Comments about Manfrotto 055CXPRO3 3-Section Carbon Fiber Tripod Legs (Black):
I use this tripod for general photography. I did not know if I should buy the Pro3 or Pro4. I spoke to BH Photo and they recommended the Pro3- fewer leg joints is more stable. I chose the Pro 3. The legs are easy to extend. They can be adjusted for different angles. The tripod is fairly light. I am very happy with this tripod.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Good Stability
- Lightweight
- Unfolds Quickly
Cons
- No Spikes on Feet
Best Uses
- Landscape/Scenery
- Travel
Comments about Manfrotto 055CXPRO3 3-Section Carbon Fiber Tripod Legs (Black):
Using the tripod mostly for landscape I am trekking through some rough backcountry a lot of the time. This tripod is light weight and a sure fire way to go when packing in. It's sturdy as can be and definitely tough. Being able to get the tripod flat, right down on the ground is also a huge plus. The only problem I have with this tripod is that the feet are rounded rubber and do not have any kind of spike to stabilize in icy or slick areas. Other than that this is an outstanding piece of equipment.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Folds Small
- Good Stability
- Lever Type Leg Locks
- Lightweight
- Unfolds Quickly
Cons
- No Spikes on Feet
Best Uses
- Home
- Landscape/Scenery
- Portraits
- Travel
Comments about Manfrotto 055CXPRO3 3-Section Carbon Fiber Tripod Legs (Black):
This tripod is a nice addition to my 4x5 field camera kit. It is light in weight, easy to set up and the locks function perfectly. It is compact enough for backpacking, which is important to me.
I prefer lever-type leg locks to twist-locks as they are easier for me to operate.
One thing I wish this tripod had is spikes on the feet. That's my only 'con' for this excellent tripod.
If you use a large format camera, particularly a heavier monorail or a format larger than 4x5, a heavier duty tripod may be a better choice. However, for a lighter 4x5 field camera, the 055CXPro-3 is a great choice.
-Preston
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Good Stability
- Lightweight
- Unfolds Quickly
Cons
Best Uses
- Landscape/Scenery
- Night Shots
- Sports/Action
- Travel
- Wildlife
Comments about Manfrotto 055CXPRO3 3-Section Carbon Fiber Tripod Legs (Black):
I bought this tripod to replace the 055 pro -alum. model that I had. This carbon fiber tripod is the way to go. The weight difference is significant when I am hiking. I use an over the shoulder strapped attached to the tripod and I hardly know I am carrying it. The legs fold out cleanly and there is an ease with all movable parts.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Folds Small
- Good Stability
- Lightweight
- Unfolds Quickly
Cons
Best Uses
- Home
- Landscape/Scenery
- Night Shots
- Portraits
- Travel
Comments about Manfrotto 055CXPRO3 3-Section Carbon Fiber Tripod Legs (Black):
This tripod is awesome. I've read that you usually have to extend all the legs out before you extend the center column, but thats not true with this tripod. When I setup this tripod, I usually just pull the leg out one notch and pull up the center column to match the height I want, then I just start snapping away. It does not vibrate!!
The carbon fiber material is very stiff. It's also very light and doesn't get cold early in the morning. Not as cold as aluminum. So spend the extra money! Get Carbon Fiber!!
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Folds Small
- Good Stability
- Lightweight
- Unfolds Quickly
Cons
- None
Best Uses
- Portraits
Comments about Manfrotto 055CXPRO3 3-Section Carbon Fiber Tripod Legs (Black):
Used for portraits
- Was this a gift?:
- Yes
Pros
- Good Stability
- Lightweight
- Unfolds Quickly
Cons
Best Uses
- Home
- Landscape/Scenery
- Night Shots
- Portraits
- Sports/Action
- Travel
- Wildlife
Comments about Manfrotto 055CXPRO3 3-Section Carbon Fiber Tripod Legs (Black):
I had the 190 4 section CF, but I LOVE the 55. Much more stable and at 5'8", I don't think I'll ever have to use the center column which can make the setup less stable.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
- Recommended:
- Manfrotto 468MGRC2
Pros
- Good Stability
- Lightweight
- Unfolds Quickly
Cons
- Cumbersome
Best Uses
- Home
- Landscape/Scenery
- Night Shots
- Portraits
Comments about Manfrotto 055CXPRO3 3-Section Carbon Fiber Tripod Legs (Black):
Used mostly indoors so far
Sets-up and adjusts easily and securely
Lightweight
A bit bulky when folded up (especially with mounted camera head)
I've not had it long enough to comment on it's durability.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Good Stability
- Lightweight
- Unfolds Quickly
Cons
Best Uses
- Landscape/Scenery
- Night Shots
- Portraits
- Wildlife
Comments about Manfrotto 055CXPRO3 3-Section Carbon Fiber Tripod Legs (Black):
I am a fairly critical reviewer, so I rarely give 5 stars to a product, but this one deserves it. It does everything right. It is lightweight, sturdy, and does not feel cold to the touch in winter, and easy to set up.
We also have the 055 non-carbon version, which is a good tripod, but the carbon version in my opinion is definitely worth the extra cost if you can afford it.
The biggest advantage in my mind over the aluminum one is the light weight. It really makes it easy to carry around with you. Mate it with a lightweight head and you have an awesome combination.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Folds Small
- Good Stability
- Lightweight
- Unfolds Quickly
Cons
Best Uses
- Home
- Landscape/Scenery
- Night Shots
- Portraits
- Sports/Action
- Travel
- Wildlife
Comments about Manfrotto 055CXPRO3 3-Section Carbon Fiber Tripod Legs (Black):
they are amazingly light : and the versatility the provide with their swift metamorphosis is mind blowing.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Good Stability
- Lightweight
Cons
Best Uses
- Landscape/Scenery
- Wildlife
Comments about Manfrotto 055CXPRO3 3-Section Carbon Fiber Tripod Legs (Black):
While the fit and finish isn't as good as the Gitzo offerings, it's a very fine set of legs for a heck of a lot less money. The tripod is quite light and very stable. I'll drop a Markin's Q-10 ball head on it and that should do very nicely.
My hat is off to B & H. I ordered the legs on Tuesday and it arrived on the west coast on Friday morning - and the shipping was free. Thanks for the great service.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Good Stability
- Lightweight
- Price
- Unfolds Quickly
Cons
- Long folded
Best Uses
Comments about Manfrotto 055CXPRO3 3-Section Carbon Fiber Tripod Legs (Black):
I take landscape photos and macro shots as well as trying a fair amount of night photography. In all of these cases, a portable and sturdy tripod is essential. I was looking for a well constructed tripod which didn't weigh too much, but could carry a D700 plus long lenses. Am very happy with this product with only one slight complaint. I am 5;6" and when fully extended, it is really too high for me to be able to look through the camera. When the camera is used in the vertical position, there is no problem. So I usually have to lower the legs a little to get to the right height. But that is better than the opposite, having too short a tripod. The price is very reasonable.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Folds Small
- Good Stability
- Lightweight
- Possible to rotate center
- Unfolds Quickly
Cons
Best Uses
- Home
- Landscape/Scenery
- Night Shots
- Portraits
- Travel
- Wildlife
Comments about Manfrotto 055CXPRO3 3-Section Carbon Fiber Tripod Legs (Black):
The feature of being able to rotate the center bar to a horizontal position is a real plus.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Displaying reviews 1-20
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Ball Heads
- Price: $135.99
- GBP 85.96
Leg Protection
- Price: $49.99
- GBP 31.60
- Price: $54.99
- GBP 34.76
Bags & Cases
- Price: $39.07
- GBP 24.70
Dollies
- Price: $39.95
- GBP 25.25
General Tripod Accessories
- Price: $89.99
- GBP 56.88
What's in the Box
- 2-Year Warranty + Additional 3-Years after Registering Online or by Mail
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