This tripod is fantastic. The ball head allows for smooth panning when shooting video and gives the user the ability to shoot at angles a base model tripod would not allow. It has a good solid build that does not tip when bumped or when the wind picks up. The center of gravity is excellent and can be altered by locking angle of the legs in one of 3 positions. The angle locks on the legs are well constructed, they will not slip but are easily unhinged to change positions or fold the tripod. The extension locks on the legs are tight and the legs will not gradually slide up as will happen with a lesser tripod. Height can be adjusted either through the extension of the legs or by raising the head of the tripod, making it nice when you have the tripod leveled and want to adjust the height without the hassle of re-leveling. The quick connect function is a great feature, it works with a nut that must be turned to expand the plate instead of a lever which I have seen on other models, however this may be better than a plastic lever since it is metal and should not wear out so quickly. With the recessed area on the side of the ball head you can turn the camera to portrait mode and move with the dial base, which makes changing orientation painless. The tripod also comes with a high quality case. The case is cloth, but rigid with a heavy zipper, carrying handles, and a shoulder strap making this lightweight (~4lbs) tripod easy to carry to any location.Pros:LightweightBall head allows smooth panningQuick ConnectLeg angle locksSturdyMultiple height adjustment optionsQuality caseCons:Leg angle locks can be tricky to figure out the first timeFolds up (over the head) for storage with seems to confuse your non-photography friends when they try and pack up your gearQuick connect uses nut instead lever