Obviously the Leica one is 5 times more expensive, but is it significantly more solid than the Manfrotto 209? I will be using it mostly with Nikon D600+100 Macro, and occasionally with 24-70 and 16-35 .
p.1 #5 · Tabletop tripod: Manfrotto 209 vs Leica 14100
I think out of those options, the bogan looks best to me. I would want adjustable height though if I'd be using it for macro shots, so either a leg extension or different leg angles to accomplish that.
p.1 #6 · Tabletop tripod: Manfrotto 209 vs Leica 14100
I've used the Manfrotto 209 for many years and recommend it, and I'm a Leica user. It's very light in weight and holds my Leica M rigs without fuss. I also have the little wallet and the extender but I've only used that once.
p.1 #7 · Tabletop tripod: Manfrotto 209 vs Leica 14100
I use the 209 and it's great. But, I got tired of losing the little cork pads at the end of the arms, so I got some vacuum port caps and put those over the end of the arms and solved the problem and it protects surfaces you set it on better than the pads.
However, the neatest table-top tripod is this one from Berlebach . . .
p.1 #8 · Tabletop tripod: Manfrotto 209 vs Leica 14100
I have the 209 and it's a great wee set of legs. However, you'll need to buy a head to complete the rig. It's stable enough for a DSLR while fairly level. If you plan to shoot verticals, you'll need to use a L-plate. Don't expect to use the drop slot or tilt much or it will fall over with a D600 and zoom. It's better suited for a P&S or M43.
Yeah, the cork pads fell off the first week. I glued on foam ones and they work better. Here's my 209 fitted with a Gitzo 1077M and Kirk clamp:
p.1 #10 · Tabletop tripod: Manfrotto 209 vs Leica 14100
I use the Manfrotto 209, too, as part of the 345 tabletop kit. I use a small RRS B2-FAB mini A-S clamp on it. It works very well, and it can support a1D-series camera with 70-200/2.8L lens, using the lens tripod mount ring.
p.1 #12 · Tabletop tripod: Manfrotto 209 vs Leica 14100
I have a Leica and a Berlebach. The variable rotating legs on the Kirk and Leica are very handy -- especially when you're inclined to use it less as a conventional tripod and more as a flexible brace (against a log, a wall, etc.).
If you're envisioning something that you wold use on uneven ground for macro, etc., none of the pocket tripods are all that great, since they've got such a narrow leg spread. In that sort of circumstance, the Berlebach table tripod or the RRS TP-243 (itself an aluminum reinterpretation of a wooden tripod design) are much better, since they've got a wide enough stance that they can handle heavier loads, more awkward angles, etc.
