Gitzo GT3533LS Review

  1. Introduction & Specifications
  2. Design & Operation
  3. Test Results
  4. Head Choice
  5. Comparison & Conclusion

Introduction

NameGitzo GT3533LS Systematic
ClassSystematic
Yaw Stiffness1399 +/- 4 Nm/rad
Yaw Damping0.406 +/- 0.04 Js/rad
Pitch Stiffness4612 +/- 28 Nm/rad
Pitch Damping0.821 +/- 0.082 Js/rad
Retail Price$860
Weight4.59 lbs (2.08 kgs)
Manufacturer weight rating55 lbs
Maximum Height59.7 in (151.6 cm)
Minimum Height3.9 in (9.9 cm)
Center ColumnNo
Base Diameter2.8 in (7.1 cm)
Folded Length26.5 in (67.3 cm)
Folded Circumference15.3 in (38.9 cm)
Folded Volume494.0 cu. in. (8.1 liters)
Leg MaterialCarbon Fiber
Leg Sections3
Primary Leg Angle23 deg
Leg LocksTwist
Top Tube Diameter32.9 mm
Second Tube Diameter29.0 mm
Third Tube Diameter25.4 mm
Exchangeable FeetYes
Foot TypeRubber Platform
Bottom HookYes

The test results are included here as I consider them to be part of the tripod’s specification.  For full discussion of the stiffness and damping, see the test results page of the review.

For the most part, the specifications speak for themselves.  The GT3533LS is large and heavy tripod, just as we expect for a tripod in this class.  Don’t even think about getting this tripod into a carry on bag.  Its at home when used in the studio or not too far from a car.  The weight isn’t so much an issue here as the bulk.  The Gitzo is a cumbersome companion even when strapped to the outside of a pack.  The relatively low weight though makes it a pleasure to walk around and shoot with.

The leg angle of 23 degrees is perfectly within the acceptable range.  While I prefer a degree or two more, I’m not going to put up a fuss about this one.  

As usual, the manufacturer weight rating is a meaningless specification.  Yes, you can easily put 55 lbs onto the GT3533LS and it won’t collapse.  You could put much more than that.  If you ever were to consider 55 lbs of equipment, you need a telescope tripod, not a camera one.

 

What’s in the Box?  

The GT3533LS comes with two sets of feet, some hex wrenches, and a Gitzo branded dust bag.  The dust bag is just that, something to store the tripod in and keep the dust off.  It is not a carrying case and would not hold up to any sort of abuse.  The two sets of feet are a nice touch.  The first are just rubber studs that perform well in a variety of conditions.  The second are what I call ‘platform feet’ that perform well on flat surfaces, and when you don’t need to move the tripod around much.