The Manfrotto Befree 3-Way Live Advanced is a great addition to any video creators bag. This unique tripod features legs that fold up on itself to create a smaller form factor when packed. Additionally the 3-way fluid head folds flat with the tripod when stored.
Disclaimer: Manfrotto provided the tripod reviewed in this article.
Now let’s get into my thoughts about this tripod in my Manfrotto Befree 3-Way Live Advanced review:
Manfrotto Befree Tripod Legs
The Manfrotto Befree tripod includes lever locking legs that are quick to deploy. One of the tripod legs includes a rubber grip that makes carrying easier. While the feet of the tripod are rubberized to avoid skidding on uneven terrain.
Side pull locks on the legs of the tripod allow you to quickly change the angle of the legs. To store the tripod for travel you’ll use the locks to flip the legs all way way up around the head for an ultra compact fit.
The base of the tripod also includes a Manfrotto “Easy Link” port that allows you to mount friction arms and other accessories.
Manfrotto Befree Tripod Head
The most unique feature of this tripod is its fluid head. The head on the 3-Way Live Advanced features a sturdy 3-way fluid head. This allows you to pan, tilt, and rotate while filming videos. The included fluid head can hold up to 13 pounds which should be enough for most camera setups.
The fluid head may not be as smooth as compared to larger heads but the functionality will be useful to anyone who needs smooth pans in their production.
The Tripod head also features an arca-swiss compatible mount that made it perfect for attaching my Peak Design capture clip plate. It’s also compatible with Manfrotto’s 200PL and 501PL plates.
The head also includes 3 bubble levels allowing you to even out the horizon for when you’re panning left to right. Each axis of the head includes a twisting lock allowing you to lock the angle so you can focus on the angles you want to move.
Specs of the Manfrotto Befree 3-Way Live Advanced Review
In the box of the Befree 3-Way Live Advanced you’ll find the tripod, tripod plate and a carrying bag.
- Head Type: Fluid Head
- Bubble Levels: 3
- Quick Release Plate Type: 200PL, 501PL, Arca-Type
- Load Capacity: 13.23 lb
- Weight: 4.34 lb
Summary
If you’re a traveling video creator the Manfrotto Befree 3-Way Live Advanced is a great addition to your kit. The compact design fluid head offers quick setup to get panning shots, especially when compared to other travel tripods. Of course the compact design will also work for photographers but if you’re strictly a photographer you’ll probably want a typical ball head.
Disclaimer: Manfrotto provided the tripod reviewed in this article.
