Comparison Velbon EX-530 vs Hama Star 63

The minimum height relative to the base at which the tripod base can be mounted.

The lower the minimum height, the better the tripod is suitable for macro and product photography; in addition, the range of height adjustment available to the user depends on this indicator. Note that for models with the ability to flip the boom (see below), the minimum height is given for the traditional position of the boom, platform up. And if the claimed minimum is significantly less than the length of the tripod when folded (for example, 15 cm with a length of 50 cm), this means that the legs can “spread” to a horizontal position or close to it, thus lowering the entire structure.

The maximum height from the base on which the tripod base can be mounted.

For desktop use (see "Installation"), a large height is not required, therefore, in most of these models, this figure does not exceed 20 cm — the only exceptions are some specific monopods. Accordingly, the difference in height between different desktop structures in most cases does not matter much. But in the floor models, the most "undersized" have a maximum height of about 40 – 50 cm, and the highest ones are able to open up to 2.5 m and even higher. In such cases, the choice should take into account the specifics of use. So, it makes sense to specifically look for a model at 150 – 160 cm if it is fundamentally important to install the camera at eye level (eye level is usually about 10 cm lower than a person’s height). At the same time, most camcorders and many cameras have swivel screens that allow you to comfortably look at the device from top to bottom; and even in the absence of such a screen, bending down to the level of the camera is not so difficult. And it makes sense to pay attention to tripods with a height of 170 cm and above mainly in those cases when shooting over heads is planned — for example, reports from public events.

The diameter of the centre shaft of a tripod or the main shaft of a monopod (see "Type"). In both cases, thicker rods increase the weight and dimensions of the structure, but have a positive effect on strength. And for classic tripods, a lot of weight can be an advantage — a massive rod has a positive effect on stability, especially in the lowered position.

The presence in the tripod of a special mechanism that provides raising and lowering the central rod, in other words, height adjustment (usually by turning the corresponding knob). This function complicates and increases the cost of the design, but provides additional convenience: it is easier to set the exact height by turning the knob than to move the bar manually by opening and closing the lock. In addition, the movement is smoother — this is important in situations where the height needs to be adjusted right in the process of shooting.

In tripods with this function, the head has a special plate (platform) with a mounting screw for the camera, installed in the mounts, which ensure its quick removal and re-installation on a tripod. This design increases the efficiency of work: it is enough to screw the platform to the camera once, and installing / removing the camera (together with the platform) will be much faster and easier than if you had to screw it back to the tripod itself every time. Removable platform is considered mandatory for professional tripods.

The maximum camera weight that this tripod can support.

If the tripod is purchased for use with a smartphone or action camera, you can ignore this parameter: the weight of such gadgets usually does not exceed 200 g, any tripod of the corresponding specialization can easily handle such a load (see "By Purpose"). Compact point-and-shoot cameras usually weigh up to 300 g, and amateur video cameras - up to 700 g; but in both cases, there are also more massive models. This should be taken into account when choosing a tabletop tripod (see "Installation") for such equipment - some tabletop models have rather limited weight restrictions; but with floor-standing ones, there are usually no difficulties.

But if a tripod is purchased for professional equipment, special attention should be paid to the permissible weight. Thus, a professional video camera can “pull” 2.5 kg or even more; the average weight of a SLR camera is 600 – 800 g, but this is only the “body”, to which the weight of the optics is added – and in some powerful telephoto lenses it can exceed 2 kg. So such devices may require quite “durable” tripods.

Special hook mounted on the lower end of the rod of a classic tripod (see "Type"). As the name suggests, it is most commonly used to hang a photographer/cameraman's bag, although it can of course be used for other items as well. This not only provides additional convenience, but also improves the stability of the structure: the weight on the hook acts as a ballast, additionally holding the tripod upright.