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For travel photographers, the ideal tripod must strike a careful balance between stability, adaptability, and portability — without compromising performance. Introduced on June 11, 2025, and officially unveiled at the BILD Expo in New York, the Manfrotto ONE marks a significant evolution in tripod design. Backed by more than three years of global user research across Asia, Europe, and North America, it is engineered as a true hybrid solution for creators working across both photography and video.
In this review, we explore the features, strengths, limitations, and ideal configurations for the Manfrotto ONE, specifically from a travel photography perspective.
Why the Manfrotto ONE Stands Out
At its core, the Manfrotto ONE is built for adaptability. Its Q90 rotating center column allows seamless transitions between vertical and horizontal shooting, making it particularly effective for overhead food shots, low-angle compositions, and architectural work. The Xtend legs deploy quickly and lock securely, even on uneven terrain. The integrated hidden spiked feet offer additional grip on surfaces like sand, stone, or loose gravel, while the modular Xchange quick release system enables fast changes between heads and accessories.
The tripod is available in both aluminum and carbon fiber models, with or without the 500X fluid video head. Every version reflects Manfrotto’s emphasis on build quality and long-term durability.
Strengths for Travel Photographers
The Manfrotto ONE excels in environments that demand rapid adaptation. The rotating center column simplifies framing at unconventional angles without the need to reposition the legs, which is useful when space or time is limited. For hybrid shooters, the option to pair the tripod with the 500X fluid head creates a platform equally capable of supporting stills and smooth video pans.
Stability is another strong point. Even in wind or on rugged ground, the tripod performs reliably, particularly in its carbon fiber configuration, which offers improved vibration dampening without a major weight penalty. The modular design extends its usefulness further — interchangeable feet, quick-release plates, and optional adapters allow travel photographers to build a setup tailored to their preferred working style.
Limitations to Consider
While the carbon fiber model keeps weight retainable, this is not a minimalist travel tripod. Photographers prioritizing ultralight packing for extended hikes or carry-on-only trips may find it too bulky. The price point also reflects its premium positioning; the carbon fiber version with the fluid head has a price tag that puts it firmly in the professional tier. Additionally, the modularity that makes the system flexible also introduces complexity. There is a learning curve, particularly for those who are accustomed to more straightforward tripod designs.
Recommended Setup for Travel
For most hybrid travel photographers, the best all-around configuration is:
Manfrotto ONE Carbon Fiber Tripod with 500X Fluid Head
Pair it with:
These accessories streamline your workflow and protect your gear during travel.
Alternatives to Consider
If weight and budget are top priorities, here are a few lightweight alternatives:
Final Verdict
The Manfrotto ONE is not the lightest or most budget-friendly tripod available, but for travel photographers who need a reliable tool capable of supporting both stills and video in a wide range of environments, it delivers exceptional performance. With its thoughtful modular design, professional-level stability, and hybrid flexibility, it stands out as one of the most capable all-in-one tripods available in 2025. For travel photographers seeking a long-term investment in adaptable, field-ready gear, the Manfrotto ONE is a compelling choice.
