Manfrotto believes you should never be limited by your equipment, which is why the Befree line of tripods was developed to provide an ideal, portable solution for travel and adventure. Today, in the run-up to Photokina, we are seeing some unique additions and updates to the series with something that will likely appeal to everyone.
Claiming to be the most versatile model in the range, the Befree 2N1 offers photographers an all-in-one support that can be quickly converted from a tripod to monopod, as needed. The aluminum system features a dedicated lock for the monopod leg so that there is no play when the leg is set up as a tripod, and is easily accessible when needed. It also has a magnesium spider and EasyLink and comes with the 494 Ball Head, making it capable of supporting up to 17.8 lb as a tripod or 11.1 lb as a monopod. The 2N1 can reach a maximum height of 59" and closes to 16". You can find it with either lever locks or twist locks.
Another tripod being released is the Befree GT Carbon Alpha, which has been designed to match Sony's latest a7 and a9-series cameras. As for specs, it is essentially the same as the existing Befree GT Carbon, the company's flagship carbon fiber model, with a maximum height of 59" and closed length of 16", as well as a payload of 22 lb due to the use of the 496 Ball Head. The real difference is cinnabar color-matching with Sony's camera bodies and a dedicated Sony 200PL-PRO camera plate that matches the body design, to prevent twisting.
One last tripod to discuss is targeting videographers: the Befree Live. This is an upgraded version of the lightweight video-oriented line and will support loads up to 8.8 lb. Vloggers and hobbyists will be able to improve their quality significantly and enjoy the benefits of the MVH400AHUS fluid head. It has improvements across the board, with an EasyLink attachment, a stronger core, improved angle selectors and more. Much like the other tripods, this aluminum model can reach 59.5" and closes to 15.75" for portability.
Last on the list for today is a trio of compact ball heads for cameras or accessories. The 490 is the latest entry-level head, with an RC2 attachment plate, and it will hold systems up to 8.8 lb. It is designed for simplicity and ease of use. Also being released are updated versions of the 492 Center Ball Head. Both options offer an 8.8 lb payload and have a ¼"-20 thread on top for attaching your camera or accessory. The 492LCD model is quite similar, but has a cold-shoe mount on the base, making it perfect for camera-mounting devices such as monitors.
Are you a fan of Manfrotto's Befree tripod range? Need help looking for the best tripod for you? Make sure to leave a comment below!
