Fotopro X-Go 5-Section Carbon Fiber Tripod with Built-in Monopod, FPH-42Q Ball Head, 17 lbs Capacity, 56" Maximum Height - Orange

I was looking for a tripod under 3 pounds, that folds under 14", under $200, and was as high and stable as possible given my first 3 priorities. I tested 5 models: 2 from Fotopro plus a Surui, MeFoto, and K&F Concepts.This Fotopro X-Go Carbon tripod is the lightest and highest quality one I could find given those constraints. The lightness was second to only the K&F, and was second to none in stability and general feel and build quality.2nd best was the Surui T-005X aluminum and was just slightly heavier, but has no monopod. It was a super bargain at about $60 and definitely won the title of "best bang for the buck". The head was actually my favorite of the bunch offering a top notch feel, and a very smooth pan. It was a tough decision for me to go with the higher priced carbon Fotopro, but ultimately the very slight weight savings of around only 1 ounce, the versatility of the included monopod, the better stability, and the general feel, quality, and comfort in use made the Fotopro Carbon a winner for me.Another really good buy, at 3rd place, is the "X-Go Gecko Green Tripod Kit" available for around $60. This is just a smokin' deal for the quality and stability, however it was the heaviest, longest, and bulkiest when folded. Someone looking for a tripod but doesn't mind a little bit of extra weight (still only 2.83 pounds) and a little bit more width and length when folded should consider this one.The K&F was lighter but was nowhere near the quality, stability, or versatility as the others. It was also much longer folded at the longest in the bunch by a lot. The most disappointing aspect of this K&F tripod was that the head felt cheap and did not offer the ability to smoothly pan. A photo of the tightening lever held on by seemingly inadequate hardware is included in this review. Another thing I didn't like about it was the non-spring-loaded leg locks. Additionally, mine had some metal shavings captured in the leg tubes which rattled annoyingly. Although easy enough to remedy, that didn't make a good impression at all.Last on the list was the MeFoto backpacker air, which is not a bad tripod but sacrifices way too much for me in stability, usability, versatility, and dependibility for the weight and folded-length savings. I question the durability of the whole unit, if not babied.I bought my Fotopro X-Go Carbon for $189 on Amazon, sold by Adorama. I would have ordered direct through Adorama, but I get some rewards through Prime.I will follow up with a longer term update in the future.Lots of photos included. It was impossible for me to add captions on them, so I hope they still add some value and don't cause confusion. Please let me know if you have any questions.Update:. Still love it!