Benro Tortoise TTOR35C with GX35 Ball Head Review:
The Carbon Fibre Tripod That Finally Made Me Retire My Heavyweight
The wind was absolutely howling across Bamford Edge, gusting well over 40mph and threatening to send my previous aluminium tripod—and more importantly, my Canon 5D Mark IV—tumbling into the Hope Valley below. I was trying to capture the dramatic morning light breaking through storm clouds over the Dark Peak, but every shot was either blurred from vibration or required me to physically brace the entire setup with my body weight. That’s when I realised my old budget tripod wasn’t just holding back my photography—it was becoming a genuine safety hazard in proper mountain conditions.
Standing there in the Peak District wind, desperately trying to keep my camera gear from becoming very expensive scrap metal, I made a mental note that would prove costly for my bank account: it was finally time to invest in a proper carbon fibre tripod.
- Dual Panning Ballhead Included – aluminium Ballhead with Arca-Swiss Style Camera Plate
- Slim Design – Compact enough for travel and easy storage.
- Ultimate Stability – The Columnless design offers the most stability of all of our tripods
The Great Tripod Upgrade Journey
Like most photographers starting out, I’d convinced myself that tripods were just expensive ways to hold cameras still. My first was a £40 Amazon special that weighed more than my entire camera bag and had the structural integrity of overcooked spaghetti. After that folded in half during a gentle Lake District breeze, I upgraded to a supposedly “professional” aluminium model that served me well enough for a couple of years—until I started taking it into properly challenging conditions.
The problem with budget tripods isn’t just their weight, though mine certainly made every hike feel like I was carrying a scaffold pole. It’s that they fail precisely when you need them most: in wind, on uneven ground, or when you’re trying to make precise adjustments for composition. There’s nothing more soul-destroying than travelling to a remote location for that perfect sunrise shot, setting up a 2-minute exposure with your Lee Filters, only to discover your tripod has shifted 3mm during the exposure, rendering the entire image unusable. I’d lost count of the number of shots I’d missed because the tripod couldn’t handle the conditions or because setting it up took so long that the light had changed.
After extensive research (and some serious internal debate about spending £400 on what’s essentially a three-legged camera stand), I settled on the Benro Tortoise TTOR35C with the GX35 ball head. Benro might not have the brand recognition of Gitzo or Really Right Stuff, but their reputation for producing professional-quality carbon fibre tripods at more reasonable prices made them an attractive option for a glorified hill walker with expensive camera gear.
What I Love About the Benro Tortoise
Carbon fibre construction that actually matters: The weight difference between this and my old aluminium tripod is immediately noticeable—1.8kg versus nearly 3kg. That might not sound dramatic, but when you’re carrying it alongside my Lowepro PhotoSport Backpack PRO 70L AW III loaded with camera gear, shelter, and overnight kit, every gram counts. More importantly, carbon fibre dampens vibrations far better than aluminium, meaning sharper images in windy conditions.
Twist-lock leg adjustment system: The legs extend and lock with a simple twist motion that’s both faster and more reliable than flip-locks. Even when wearing my Rab Baltoro Gloves in winter conditions, I can operate them easily. The system stays tight even after months of use in muddy, sandy, and wet conditions across the Scottish Highlands.
Impressive load rating: Benro rates this at 18kg, which is more than enough for my Canon 5D Mark IV with the Canon EF 70-200mm f/2.8L II USM attached—my heaviest combination. In practice, it feels completely stable even with my longest lens fully extended and the camera tilted at awkward angles for composition.
Four-section legs for compact transport: When collapsed, the tripod measures just 57cm, which fits perfectly in the side compression straps of my main hiking pack without extending beyond the top. This compact size has made it possible to carry on scrambles and via ferratas where a longer tripod would be completely impractical.
GX35 ball head precision: The ball head locks solid with just the right amount of tension adjustment. I can make fine compositional adjustments with the friction control, then lock everything down completely for long exposures. The quick-release plate is Arca-Swiss compatible, which means it works with most professional accessories.
Leg angle flexibility: The three-position leg angle adjustment allows the tripod to go surprisingly low—useful for foreground-focused compositions—or adapt to uneven terrain. I’ve used this feature countless times on rocky shorelines and steep hillsides where standard leg positions would be useless.
Build quality that inspires confidence: After two years of regular use in harsh conditions, from Scottish winter storms to dusty summer scrambles, everything still operates as smoothly as when new. The carbon fibre shows minimal wear, and all adjustment mechanisms remain tight and precise.
What Could Be Better
- Dual Panning Ballhead Included – aluminium Ballhead with Arca-Swiss Style Camera Plate
- Slim Design – Compact enough for travel and easy storage.
- Ultimate Stability – The Columnless design offers the most stability of all of our tripods
Price point for hobbyists: At £400 for the tripod and head combination, this represents a significant investment for amateur photographers. While the quality justifies the cost, it’s a considerable step up from budget alternatives that might serve casual users adequately.
Head size relative to legs: The GX35 ball head, while excellent, is quite substantial relative to the tripod legs. This makes the entire setup feel slightly top-heavy when carrying, though it doesn’t affect stability when deployed.
Limited accessories included: Unlike some premium tripods, the Benro comes with minimal accessories—just a basic carry case. Additional items like spiked feet for icy conditions or a stone bag for extra stability must be purchased separately.
Leg lock maintenance: While the twist-lock system is generally reliable, sand and grit can occasionally cause the locks to become stiff. Regular cleaning is essential, particularly after coastal photography sessions where salt spray is a factor.
Real-World Performance Across Two Years
The true test of any mountain photography gear comes through sustained use in challenging conditions, and the Benro Tortoise has accompanied me across some genuinely demanding terrain. During a winter photography session at Bamford Edge, with temperatures well below freezing and strong winds across the exposed gritstone, the tripod performed flawlessly for sunrise shots over the Hope Valley. The carbon fibre didn’t become unpleasantly cold to handle, unlike my previous aluminium model, and the twist-locks operated smoothly despite frost accumulation.
On the opposite extreme, during a summer photography trip around the Peak District, the tripod spent several days in muddy conditions around reservoirs and moorland streams. The legs cleaned easily with just water, and the twist-lock mechanisms showed no signs of degraded performance despite being thoroughly caked in Dark Peak peat.
One of the most impressive demonstrations of its stability came during a coastal photography session at Saltburn-by-the-Sea. I was using my Canon EF 24mm f/1.4L II USM for wide-angle compositions of the Victorian pier, with my Lee Filters Big Stopper creating 30-second exposures in challenging North Sea wind conditions. The combination of the tripod’s low centre of gravity and the ball head’s solid lock meant every frame was tack sharp, even when I could feel the setup swaying slightly in the strongest gusts.
The compact collapsed size has proven invaluable for technical scrambling routes where every piece of gear must justify its weight and bulk. During morning photography sessions around Scarborough’s dramatic coastline, the tripod fitted easily in my pack’s side compression straps without affecting balance on the steep cliff paths. This accessibility meant I could deploy it quickly for compositions of the castle ruins and harbour that would have been impossible to capture handheld.
Perhaps most importantly, the tripod has never failed when conditions were genuinely challenging. Unlike my previous budget models, which seemed to develop problems precisely when I needed them most, the Benro has consistently delivered reliable performance regardless of weather, terrain, or how roughly it’s been treated during transport.
- 35kg/77lb Max Payload Capacity
- Dual Panning Ballhead Included – aluminium Ballhead with Arca-Swiss Style Camera Plate
- Ultralight Camera Plate – New lighterweight design.
Integration with Complete Photography Kit
The Benro Tortoise works seamlessly with my broader photography setup, particularly when combined with other professional-grade components. The Arca-Swiss compatible quick-release system means my camera can mount directly without additional adapters, speeding up deployment in rapidly changing light conditions.
When using longer exposures with my Lee Filters system—particularly the Big Stopper or Super Stopper—the tripod’s stability becomes crucial. Any vibration during a 4-minute exposure will ruin the shot, and the Benro’s carbon fibre construction provides the rock-solid foundation these techniques demand. The ball head’s micro-adjustment capability allows precise composition alignment, essential when working with graduated neutral density filters where horizon placement must be exact.
The tripod’s compact size pairs perfectly with my Lowepro PhotoSport Backpack PRO 70L AW III for overnight photography trips. While the pack’s main compartment houses my Canon 5D Mark IV and lens collection, the tripod travels externally without creating an unwieldy load. This configuration has worked brilliantly for wild camping trips where I need both photography equipment and overnight kit including my MSR Access 2 tent and Rab Mythic 600 sleeping bag.
During winter photography sessions, when I’m wearing my complete layering system including the Rab Cinder Downpour Jacket and Rab Mythic Ultra Down Jacket, the tripod’s controls remain easily operable. The twist-lock legs can be adjusted even with gloved hands, and the ball head’s large locking knob provides adequate leverage for secure tightening in cold conditions.
Alternatives Worth Considering
Gitzo Mountaineer Series 2 Carbon Fibre (£600-700): The gold standard for professional tripods, offering marginally better build quality and weight savings of around 200g compared to the Benro. The Gitzo’s carbon fibre layup is arguably the finest available, with tube construction that feels noticeably more solid under load. The G-lock twist system operates with Swiss watch precision, and the reputation for lasting decades is well-earned. Professional photographers who can justify the cost benefit from the ultimate in reliability and precision, though you’re paying a significant premium for relatively modest performance gains. The resale value remains strong, making it a better long-term investment despite the higher entry cost.
- Reversible column: The rapid column can easily be inverted for an alternative shooting angle or low level macro work.
- Revolutionary Carbon eXact tubes are even stiffer to maximize rigidity and image stability. Carbon eXact optimizes the f…
- G-lock system has been redesigned from the inside out; G-lock Ultra is smoother and softer to use, and is designed to re…
Peak Design Travel Tripod Carbon (£500-550): Prioritises packability over outright stability, collapsing to just 39cm length through clever leg design that nests inside itself. The innovative construction includes integrated tools, magnetic quick-adjustment mechanisms, and a unique ball head design that’s either brilliant or frustrating depending on your workflow. While genuinely impressive for travel photography, the smaller leg diameter and reduced height means compromised load capacity and stability in challenging mountain conditions. The quick-release system is proprietary, limiting accessory compatibility. Ideal for travel photographers and content creators who prioritise portability over maximum performance, but less suitable for serious landscape work with heavy telephoto lenses.
- COMPACT TRAVEL TRIPOD: We reimagined the travel tripod from the ground up – resulting in pro-level stability, height and…
- SPEEDY SET UP: Unique leg design lets you deploy and lock this peak design tripod in seconds – no flipping, rotating or …
- PRO-LEVEL PERFORMANCE: Don’t let the size fool you – this tripod supports up to 20 lbs, handling a full-frame DSLR with …
Manfrotto Element MII Carbon (£280-320): A more budget-friendly carbon option that offers decent performance for casual users and those stepping up from aluminium. The 5-section legs collapse to a compact 42cm, though the smaller tube diameter reduces rigidity compared to 4-section designs. While not matching the Benro’s build quality or 18kg load capacity (rated at 12kg), it provides genuine carbon fibre benefits at a lower price point. The twist-lock system lacks the smoothness of premium alternatives and can become sticky with use. Overall stability in extreme conditions is reduced, but for sheltered locations and lighter camera setups, it represents solid value. The included ball head is functional but basic, lacking the precision of dedicated units.
3 Legged Thing Legends Bucky Carbon (£450-550): British-designed travel tripod that prioritises maximum versatility through innovative modular design. Weighing 1.87kg with an impressive 30kg load capacity, Bucky collapses to just 41cm through 5-section legs and a reversible triple-section centre column. The standout feature is the completely detachable leg system—all three legs can be removed and used as monopods or boom arms, while the remaining centre column becomes a tabletop tripod. Height range extends from as low as 11cm up to almost 2 metres, offering one of the largest dynamic working ranges available. The new Rapid-Latch system and raised O-Pads provide excellent grip even with gloves, while the twist-lock mechanisms feature improved “Chicken Lips” shims for enhanced strength. However, the 5-section design means more joints and potential flex compared to 3 or 4-section alternatives, and the complexity can make setup slower than traditional tripods. The premium pricing reflects the innovative engineering, but some users report difficulty ensuring all twist-locks are properly tightened. For photographers needing maximum versatility and height range in a compact package, Bucky offers unmatched flexibility, though the modular complexity may not suit those wanting simple, straightforward operation.
- Say hello to Bucky, one of the Legends Range of tripods brought to you by 3 Legged Thing. This adjustable carbon fibre t…
- Folding to just 41cm and weighing 1.87kg, Bucky is the perfect travel companion for professionals. With 5-section detach…
- Despite its lightweight construction, Bucky has the ability to support up to a staggering 30kg of camera equipment. It’s…
Each alternative serves different priorities: the Gitzo for ultimate performance regardless of cost, the Peak Design for travel convenience, the Manfrotto for budget-conscious buyers, and the 3 Legged Thing for those wanting something distinctive. The Benro occupies the sweet spot of professional performance at a more accessible price point.
Honest Verdict After Two Years
The Benro Tortoise TTOR35C has fundamentally changed how I approach mountain photography. Where my previous tripods were limitations to work around, this has become an enabling tool that opens up creative possibilities. The weight savings mean I’m more likely to carry it on longer hikes, and the stability means I can attempt shots that would have been impossible with lesser equipment.
More importantly, it’s never let me down when conditions were challenging. After two years of regular use in everything from Highland gales to coastal spray, every component operates as smoothly as when new. That reliability has value beyond the purely technical—there’s considerable peace of mind in knowing your gear will perform when the light is perfect but the conditions are brutal.
Would I buy it again? Absolutely. While £400 represents a significant investment for hobby photography, the improvement in both image quality and shooting confidence justifies the cost. The tripod has essentially paid for itself through enabling shots that simply wouldn’t have been possible with budget alternatives.
My only regret is not making this upgrade sooner. Looking back at images from those first challenging years, I can see how tripod limitations were holding back my photography. The Benro hasn’t just improved my current work—it’s opened up entirely new approaches to landscape photography that rely on absolute stability and precise positioning.
For anyone currently struggling with budget tripods in demanding conditions, the step up to carbon fibre isn’t just about convenience—it’s about expanding what’s photographically possible. The Benro Tortoise delivers professional-level performance without the premium brand pricing, making it an excellent choice for serious enthusiasts ready to invest in genuinely capable equipment.
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