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This smallrig ad pro8 freeblazer counterbalance carbon vs 79 200 5cm carbon comparison helps you choose between two professional video tripods. Both models use carbon fiber legs and fluid heads for smooth camera movement. The main difference lies in their height range and load capacity. The AD-Pro8 offers a lower maximum height but includes a detachable handle and ground spreader. The 79-inch model reaches higher and supports heavier payloads, making it suitable for larger rigs. You should review the specific specs to see which fits your gear.
Maximum Height
77 inches (196cm)
79 inches (200.5cm)
Payload Capacity
17.6 lbs (8kg)
37.5 lbs (17kg)
Counterbalance Steps
6-step
7-step
Leg Tube Diameter
Standard (not specified)
18mm/18mm/24mm
Included Accessories
Mid-level spreader, ground spreader, smartphone holder
Phone clip
Tripod Weight
12.8 lbs (5.8kg)
14.7 lbs
Choose the first if
- You need a lighter tripod that weighs 12.8 lbs for easier transport.
- You require ground and mid-level spreaders for stability on uneven terrain.
- You prefer a maximum height of 77 inches for standard shooting positions.
Choose the second if
- You support heavy camera rigs up to 37.5 lbs safely.
- You need a taller maximum height of 79 inches for high-angle shots.
- You want thicker 18mm leg tubes for enhanced stability with heavy loads.
Verdict
Choose the AD-Pro8 if you prioritize lightweight portability and extra stability accessories for lighter setups. Select the 79-inch model if you shoot with heavier equipment and need greater height reach. Both provide smooth fluid head performance for professional video work.
Tripod Build and Height Specs
Maximum Height
Edge: SmallRig 79" Carbon Fiber Video Tripod
The SmallRig AD-Pro8 FreeBlazer Counterbalance Carbon Fiber Video Tripod Kit reaches a maximum height of 77 inches, or 196 centimeters. This height is sufficient for most standard shooting scenarios. The SmallRig 79" Carbon Fiber Video Tripod extends higher, reaching 79 inches, or 200.5 centimeters. This extra two inches can matter when you need to frame subjects from a standing position without raising the tripod further. If your work requires taller framing options, the 79" model offers a slight advantage. Both tripods provide a substantial working height range for professional video production.
Payload Capacity
Edge: SmallRig 79" Carbon Fiber Video Tripod
Load capacity determines how heavy a camera rig you can safely mount. The SmallRig AD-Pro8 FreeBlazer has a maximum load capacity of 17.6 pounds, or 8 kilograms. This is suitable for lighter to mid-weight camera setups. In contrast, the SmallRig 79" model supports a much heavier load, with a maximum capacity of 37.5 pounds, or 17 kilograms. This allows you to mount larger cinema cameras, heavy lenses, and extensive accessory rigs without stability issues. If you use heavy professional equipment, the 79" model is the clear choice for its superior strength.
Tripod Weight
Edge: SmallRig AD-Pro8 Carbon Fiber Video Tripod
Portability is key when you move between locations. The SmallRig AD-Pro8 FreeBlazer weighs 12.8 pounds, or 5.8 kilograms. This makes it lighter and easier to carry for extended periods. The SmallRig 79" model is heavier, weighing 14.7 pounds. The additional weight comes from its thicker leg tubes and higher load capacity design. While the AD-Pro8 is more portable, the 79" model sacrifices some lightness for increased stability and strength. Choose the AD-Pro8 if you prioritize carrying the gear over long distances.
Counterbalance Steps
Edge: SmallRig 79" Carbon Fiber Video Tripod
Counterbalance systems help keep your camera steady at any tilt angle. The SmallRig AD-Pro8 FreeBlazer features a 6-step dynamic counterbalance system. This allows you to balance cameras weighing between 1 and 8 kilograms. The SmallRig 79" model offers a more advanced 7-step dynamic balance adjustment. It supports a wider range of dynamic balance loads, from 9 to 22 pounds. More steps provide finer control over the balance, which is crucial for smooth pans and tilts with heavy rigs. The 79" model offers more precision in this area.
Leg Tube Design
Edge: Tie
The construction of the legs affects both stability and weight. The SmallRig AD-Pro8 uses carbon fiber legs with a one-step lock system for quick height adjustment. This design simplifies setup and breakdown. The SmallRig 79" model also uses carbon fiber but incorporates 18mm and 24mm diameter aluminum alloy leg tubes in a 2-2-1 arrangement. These thicker tubes enhance overall stability and resist shaking during heavy use. The AD-Pro8 focuses on speed and lightness, while the 79" model prioritizes rigidity and durability for demanding environments.
Which SmallRig Carbon Tripod Fits You
Shooting with heavy cinema rigs
Our pick: SmallRig 79" Carbon Fiber Video Tripod
You need maximum stability for heavy equipment. This model supports a safe load of 33 pounds and a max load of 37.5 pounds. The 18mm leg tubes provide extra rigidity. The 7-step counterbalance system handles loads between 9 and 22 pounds. You get smoother pans with heavy cameras on this sturdy build.
Working in tight spaces
Our pick: SmallRig AD-Pro8 Carbon Fiber Video Tripod
You value quick adjustments and portability. This tripod reaches 77 inches and folds to 38 inches. The one-step leg locks save time compared to multi-step systems. At 12.8 pounds, it is lighter than the 79-inch model. The detachable telescopic handle fits left or right hands for comfortable operation in confined areas.
Needing maximum reach
Our pick: SmallRig 79" Carbon Fiber Video Tripod
You require higher framing for interviews or group shots. This model extends to 79 inches, offering more vertical reach than the 77-inch competitor. The 100mm bowl head ensures stability at full height. You get 360-degree rotation and a -60 degree tilt. The higher maximum height helps you frame subjects without needing a separate boom.
SmallRig AD-Pro8 Carbon Fiber Video Tripod
Best for: Video creators needing precise counterbalance control
- Payload Capacity
- 17.6lbs (8kg)
- Maximum Height
- 77" (196cm)
- Material
- Carbon Fiber, Aluminum
- Head Type
- Fluid Head
- Leg Lock Type
- One-Step
- Weight
- 12.8lbs (5.8kg)
This SmallRig AD-Pro8 is a carbon fiber video tripod designed for smooth camera movement. It reaches a maximum height of 77 inches and supports payloads up to 17.6 pounds. The fluid head features a 6-step counterbalance system and 4-step hydraulic damping. You get quick one-step leg locks and a detachable handle. This kit suits videographers who need stable, balanced shots with professional-grade controls.
- One-step leg locks for quick height adjustment from 23 to 77 inches
- 6-step dynamic counterbalance system handles cameras weighing 1–8 kg
- 4-step hydraulic damping allows precise pan and tilt control
- Carbon fiber legs keep the weight at 12.8 lbs while supporting 17.6 lbs
- Maximum height of 77 inches is slightly shorter than the 79-inch alternative
- Payload capacity of 17.6 lbs is lower than some heavier-duty tripods
- Base weight of 12.8 lbs is heavier than standard aluminum tripods
- You need a fluid head with adjustable damping for smooth video panning
- You want to balance heavier camera rigs using a multi-step counterbalance
- You prefer carbon fiber legs for a balance of strength and portability
- You require a maximum height exceeding 77 inches
- You need to support camera payloads heavier than 17.6 pounds
- You prefer the absolute lightest possible tripod for travel
Verdict: SmallRig AD-Pro8 Carbon Fiber Video Tripod is a solid choice for videographers who need precise counterbalance and damping. It fits users who prioritize smooth motion control over maximum height or minimal weight.
SmallRig 79" Carbon Fiber Video Tripod
Best for: heavy camera rigs and studio video
- Payload Capacity
- 37 lb/17kg
- Maximum Height
- 79'' (200.5cm)
- Material
- Carbon Fiber
- Head Type
- Fluid Head
- Weight
- 14.7lb
- Recommended Usage
- Professional Video Production
This SmallRig 79-inch carbon fiber tripod weighs 14.7 pounds and supports up to 37.5 pounds. It features a 100mm fluid head with 7-step counterbalance and 4-step damping. The 18mm leg tubes offer stability for heavy gear. You get a working height range from 35 to 79 inches. This setup suits professional videographers needing smooth pans and reliable support for large camera rigs.
- 100mm bowl head with 7-step dynamic balance adjustment
- 18mm diameter leg tubes for enhanced stability
- Supports payloads up to 37.5 pounds
- Dual-mode quick release plate for fast mounting
- 14.7-pound weight may limit portability for travel
- 79-inch maximum height restricts high-angle framing
- 18mm leg tubes add bulk compared to thinner designs
- You need stable support for heavy video cameras
- You require smooth panning with adjustable damping
- You shoot in fixed locations like studios
- You prioritize lightweight gear for hiking
- You need extreme height for overhead shots
- You prefer aluminum tripods for lower cost
Verdict: SmallRig 79" Carbon Fiber Video Tripod provides robust stability for heavy cameras. It fits videographers who value smooth motion control over portability.
Specifications side by side
| Spec | SmallRig AD-Pro8 Carbon Fiber Video Tripod | SmallRig 79" Carbon Fiber Video Tripod |
|---|---|---|
| Payload Capacity | 17.6lbs (8kg) | 37 lb/17kg |
| Maximum Height | 77" (196cm) | 79'' (200.5cm) |
| Material | Carbon Fiber, Aluminum | Carbon Fiber |
| Head Type | Fluid Head | Fluid Head |
| Leg Lock Type | One-Step | – |
| Weight | 12.8lbs (5.8kg) | 14.7lb |
| Recommended Usage | – | Professional Video Production |
| Color | Black | Black with Silver Accents |
| Focal Length | – | 100mm |
| Intended Use | Video | Video |
| Dimensions | 7.48 × 11.8 × 43.7 inches | 7.87 × 7.87 × 5.91 inches |
| Size | AD-pro8 | – |
| Model | AD-Pro8 | 5578 |
Frequently asked questions
Which SmallRig tripod is lighter to carry?
The SmallRig 79" Carbon Fiber Video Tripod is the lighter option. It weighs 14.7 pounds, making it easier to transport than the AD-Pro8. The AD-Pro8 FreeBlazer Counterbalance Carbon Fiber Video Tripod weighs 17.6 pounds. You should choose the lighter model if portability is a priority for your shoot.
Does the AD-Pro8 have a counterbalance system?
Yes, the SmallRig AD-Pro8 FreeBlazer Counterbalance Carbon Fiber Video Tripod includes a counterbalance feature. This system helps you maintain precise control over camera movement. It is designed for video creators who need smooth damping and balance adjustments while shooting. The 79" model focuses on robust stability instead.
What is the maximum height of the 79" tripod?
The SmallRig 79" Carbon Fiber Video Tripod extends to a maximum height of 79 inches. This allows for higher shooting angles compared to some standard tripods. It is suitable for professional video production where elevated perspectives are necessary. Check the leg tube count to see how it achieves this height.
Are both tripods made from carbon fiber?
Yes, both models are constructed from carbon fiber. The SmallRig AD-Pro8 and the 79" model use this material for their legs. Carbon fiber provides a good balance of strength and weight reduction. This material choice helps you maintain stability without adding excessive bulk to your gear setup.
Which tripod is better for heavy camera rigs?
The SmallRig 79" Carbon Fiber Video Tripod is better for heavy rigs. It supports a safe load of 33 pounds and a maximum load of 37.5 pounds. The AD-Pro8 is designed for precise counterbalance control rather than maximum load capacity. Choose the 79" model if you are using heavy cinema cameras.
What color is the SmallRig AD-Pro8 tripod?
The SmallRig AD-Pro8 FreeBlazer Counterbalance Carbon Fiber Video Tripod is black. The 79" model features black legs with silver accents. Both colors are professional and neutral. The choice between black and black with silver accents is purely aesthetic and does not affect performance.
Is the AD-Pro8 suitable for standard video shooting?
Yes, the SmallRig AD-Pro8 is a solid choice for standard video shooting. It reaches a maximum height of 43.7 inches in its folded state for storage, but extends higher for use. It fits users who prioritize smooth motion control. It is ideal for videographers who need precise damping during their productions.
