Slik U9000 Photo/Video Tripod

I wanted to buy a tripod for a high-end digital camera (not SLR). I also wanted to be able to use it with my camcorder. So I am not a professional, but an enthusiast. So altough there are rock stable tripods; they are mostly heavy and expensive; so I'd rather have something lighter, cheaper but also of high quality. I guess there are lots of people like me. Probably that's why even the professional companies began to produce items for us (eg. Manfrotto's new 7xx series) There are two types of tripods for this purpose: 1.Cheap ones with plastic heads (Slik u9000) 2. Expensive ones with metal heads (Bogen 718B) Slik U9000 is one the best in the first category. I tried both Slik U9000 and the Bogen 718B ($130). I must say that controls of Slik as as smooth as the Bogen, if not better. Bogen doesn't feel all that more stable than the Slik also. So its your choice, but I think Slik is a pretty good tripod. Advantages of Bogen 718B to Slik U9000 are: * Bogen slightly smaller when folded * Bogen slightly taller when opened * Smaller quick release plate for compact cameras * Metal head and quick-release plate Advantages of Slik u9000 to Bogen 718B * Slik is way cheaper * Slik is as smooth as Bogen, if not better. * 3 way head have 3 different tighteners, Bogen uses 2 tighteners. * Altough the head is plastic, controls are well placed and are oversized for ease of use. * Flip levers are slightly easier to operate than Bogen. * Slik has a level.

Very smooth, controls are well placed, over-sized and very easy to operate. Has a level.

Not very small, but small enough. Very good price for a descent tripod.

Bogen 718B, cheap walmart stuff.

NA

Excellent value. Lightweight allum. Tripod with 3 way panning, retractable spiked feet, bubble level, geared center column, quick release plate. All in all an excellent value, although better suited for Video since it''s legs are connected and not independent. But works well for cameras too, that''s what I used it with before taking the step to Carbon Fiber Velbon.

Lightweight, retractable spiked feet, 3 way panning head, bubble level, sturdy.

Only real complaint is connected legs. The panning is a little less than percise but acceptable. It''s a little susceptable to shake when setup tall, but usually very sturdy.

Most.

Haven''t had to use them, but don''t think I will need to.

I think the Slik U9000 is good value for the money.

Lightweight, easy to use, good as second tripod, quick release.

None, for it's price range

Bogen 3021

No idea, I never needed it.

I find it to my liking, it's reliable and do not weigh too much.

This tripod is strong, but still very light.
Good rotation possibilities.

It is just one thing I have noticed; it will not flip more than 86-88% when you want to take "standing pictures".

Tripods and other onopods.

Nothing.