Which tripod to buy?

[Tagan]

Hi there,
So I have kinda left christmas shopping till the last minute and am wanting to buy my boyfriend a tripod for christmas and am choosing between these four:

Manfrotto Modo Maxi Tripod:
http://products.noelleeming.co.nz/search?login=false&items=0&w=MODO+MaXI&af=

Pudney & Lee Large Camera Tripod:
http://products.noelleeming.co.nz/search?login=false&items=0&w=p18200&af=

Marumi Compact Tripod
http://products.noelleeming.co.nz/search?login=false&items=0&w=TD-1931&af=

Pudney & lee digital/video camera Tripod:
http://products.noelleeming.co.nz/search?login=false&items=0&x=23&y=15&w=P18202&af=

He is around 178cm tall and is using a Canon EOS 100D, he is just starting out but is interested in time lapse and long exposure photography.
Would appreciate any advice at all!
Thanks

[ElectricImages]

Out of those I would go for the Manfrotto. Decent build, very compact, has independent legs that aren't constrained by a mid spreader, and easily capable of handling the weigh of a 100D. However, for the same money, you might also look at the Velbon Sherpa 200 or a Vanguard Espod (carbon fibre and terrific construction for under $100!!).

[ricktas]

Welcome to AP :D : Have a read of this : http://www.ausphotography.net.au/forum/showthread.php?71593-A-beginners-guide-to-buying-a-tripod-and-head

[Tonym]

What about a Benro? they are very good quality for a lot less than the Manfrotto.

[LJG]

That link Rick has put up is a really good place to start. Just from personal experience though I find screw locks a PITA, flip locks are a lot easier to use. Also try and get one that folds up as small as you can for the weight it has to carry. If you want to strap it on to a backpack smaller is better. Also as ElectricImages has said independent legs do offer more versatility because sometimes you may find yourself wanting to put them in some strange situations.