I have been reading tons of reviews on this site and others and there are way to many options to sort through regarding tripods. I had narrowed it down to the Manfrotto based on reviews and comments. But, 3 Legged Thing kept popping up in threads and I started looking closer at that.

I am looking for advice between the Manfrotto 190CXPRO4 and 3 Legged Thing X4 Jack.

Both are around $340 on B&H (after Manfrotto rebate). These are both in my budget, I would prefer to keep it under the $400 amount. I have a 60D with the 70-200 f/4 being the heaviest lens.

Manfrotto 190CXPRO4 4-Section Carbon Fiber Legs with 498RC2 head.
http://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/produc...bon_Fiber.html
http://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/produc...Ball_Head.html

3 Legged Thing X4 Jack 4-Section Magnesium Alloy Tripod with AirHed 1 Ball Head
http://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/produc...Magnesium.html


Both come out similar in weight with legs and head. ~4.2 lbs. I would like to keep it light enough to encourage me to take it with me and use it.

* Manfrotto has flip locks and the center column that can go horizonal. It has an 11 lb rating and is carbon fiber.

* 3LT are twist locks and has has 16.7 lb rating and is magnesium alloy. Arca-Style plate and a leg detaches to become a monopod.

The more I read, the more I confuse myself chasing different options and brands. Is the horizontal feature worth it on the Manfrotto or is the 3LT better with higher rating and features? It seems the Manfrotto is recommended more frequently, but the 3LT seems to be better recommended

Any advice or thoughts between the 2 would be appreciated. Or other ideas in this price range.

Much appreciated,
Eric