Leofoto LN-324C Review

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

The LN-324C is a mid-size tripod from Leofoto’s systematic ‘LN’ line.  Leofoto has a reputation for building high quality products for the price, and this is no exception.  Being a systematic tripod, this is designed to be a versatile piece of equipment capable of carrying video equipment or being adapted for studio use with a center column.

NameLeofoto LN-324C
ClassSystematic
Yaw Stiffness712 +/- 3 Nm/rad
Yaw Damping0.349 +/- 0.035 Js/rad
Pitch Stiffness2372 +/- 15 Nm/rad
Pitch Damping0.666 +/- 0.067 Js/rad
Retail Price$450
Weight4.87 lbs (2.209 kgs)
Manufacturer weight rating55 lbs
Maximum Height59.7 in (151.6 cm)
Minimum Height3.7 in (9.4 cm)
Center ColumnNo
Base Diameter2.3 in (5.8 cm)
Folded Length22.5 in (57.2 cm)
Folded Circumference16.0 in (40.6 cm)
Folded Volume458.0 cu. in. (7.5 liters)
Leg MaterialCarbon Fiber
Leg Sections4
Primary Leg Angle24 deg
Leg LocksTwist
Top Tube Diameter32.5 mm
Second Tube Diameter28.0 mm
Third Tube Diameter25.0 mm
Fourth Tube Diameter22.0 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.

There is nothing particularly out of the ordinary in the specifications.  The weight is a little bit higher than we expect from a tripod of this size and class.  Most others are just over four lbs.  The leg angle is perfectly acceptable at 24 degrees.  With four leg sections, the folded size is decently compact, but don’t expect to get it comfortably into a carry on bag.  Below is the LN-324C in a maximum standard size carry on bag:

It barely fits, pushing into the edges of the bag.  Obviously this is without an attached head as well.  So, while yes, you can technically put it in a travel bag, don’t expect to put much else in there, or get a large checked piece of luggage.

What’s in the Box?  Leofoto provides a cornucopia of accessories in the box with the tripod.  First off, and most obvious is a decent quality carrying case.  You won’t feel the need to rush out and buy a different one, but at the same time the nylon is a little thin, the zippers are a little on the small side.  It was made with cost in mind, so don’t expect it to last decades.  Also included is a 60mm video bowl.  Most manufacturers charge a pretty penny for this particular accessory, so it is a nice addition for those who will be using the tripod with a leveling fluid head.  However, most leveling heads use either a 75mm or 100mm bowl.  You would have to do some searching to find a 60mm one, and even then, you shouldn’t be investing money into an obscure standard.  So while including the video bowl is well intentioned, it is largely useless.  Finally, and at long last, the LN-324C includes a variety of tools for doing any necessary maintenance.  Aside from the tools, I would rather none of this was included and the price of the tripod was lower as a result.  Most of these items are just going to take up storage space in your closet.