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This is the Leofoto G2 geared head supporting my Canon EOS R7, equipped with a Sunwayfoto L bracket. Although the tripod is not perfectly level, the top module remains level for panning. |
Recently, I reviewed the Sunwayfoto GH-Pro 2 Plus geared tripod head. While exploring various online reviews, I came across many favorable comments about the Leofoto G2, a lighter and more compact geared head. So, I decided to purchase one and have started testing it.
The Leofoto G2 can function on its own (just be sure to take out the safety screws) or serve as a leveling/panning module attached to a ball head that uses the standard Arca Swiss mounting system.
This unit operates similarly to a tilt/shift lens, allowing for various movements. While this design contributes to its lightweight and compact nature, it does limit its range of movements compared to most geared heads. However, there are ways to work around these limitations, making the G2 a versatile head that can be mounted directly on a tripod.
Manufactured in China, the Leofoto G2 is made of high-quality metal and shows meticulous craftsmanship. It remains stable in any position, with movements that feel smooth and well-damped, showing no signs of free play.
I bought mine for AUD263 on Ebay, and it arrived quickly. The head comes in a padded drawstring bag that provides protection whether it’s on or off the tripod. It weighs 326 grams and is quite compact, even smaller than many ball heads. The maximum load capacity is 20 Kg, which surpasses most other heads of this size.
The tilt and yaw movements are geared, allowing for a maximum of +/- 10 degrees. While this may seem small, it meets the needs of most of my photography situations. Panning occurs at the head’s upper module, which is ungeared and features a locking screw. The panning is exceptionally smooth, without any noticeable play.
A spirit level is included on the top of the panning module to ensure the top is level with the geared tilt and yaw adjustments, facilitating level panning. This feature works well.
Since the G2 head cannot flip over, an L bracket must be attached to the camera for portrait shots. This is a good practice as it keeps the camera perfectly aligned over the tripod. I use the Sunwayfoto L bracket with my Canon EOS R7.
The geared mechanism limits the camera’s downward tilt to 10 degrees. However, I can achieve about 20-25 degrees by adjusting one of the tripod legs. For greater tilting angles, a three-way or ball head would be necessary. The Leofoto G2 can be mounted on top of a ball head for finer adjustments in any direction.
The included instructions contain diagrams of a geared head that doesn’t match the product in the box. Given the craftsmanship of the head, this seems like an unusual oversight. Thankfully, the operation is intuitive, so detailed instructions are not essential.
Summary
My initial impression of the Leofoto G2 geared head is extremely positive. It feels well-constructed and enjoyable to use. I plan to make it my primary tripod head for the coming months, and I look forward to seeing how it performs with regular use over time.
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The inclusion of the padded drawstring bag is a nice touch |
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The supplied camera mounting plate features a convenient captive D ring for landscape orientation. |
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This shows the underside of the head, featuring a standard 3/8 inch tripod mounting thread for direct attachment to a tripod (safety screws must be removed) and an Arca Swiss flange for mounting onto a ball head. |
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Camera positioned on the L bracket for portrait orientation |
