Overall Rating: 4.7/5
The Manfrotto 126BSU is a professional-grade steel lighting stand built for serious photo and video production. Designed to support large, heavy lights and modifiers, it offers excellent durability, stability, and ease of use for both studio and location work.
Key Specifications:
Maximum height: 3.3 meters (10.9 feet)
Closed length: 1.31 meters (51.6 inches)
Load capacity: 40 kilograms (88 pounds)
Stand weight: 8.3 kilograms (18.3 pounds)
Footprint diameter: 1.26 meters (49.6 inches)
Number of sections: 3 (2 risers)
Top mount: 5/8" Baby pin and 1-1/8" Junior receiver combo
Built-in leveling leg for uneven ground
Compatible with optional wheels
Build Quality:
Made entirely of black chrome-plated steel, the 126BSU is exceptionally robust. Its double-braced legs and thick risers make it a true workhorse. The stand locks feel solid and the design is clearly made for long-term professional use. Many users report using this stand for years without issue, even under demanding conditions.
Performance:
The stand can safely hold up to 40 kilograms, making it ideal for supporting large monolights, strobes, video lights, booms, or modifiers. The wide footprint ensures it remains stable, even when fully extended. The built-in leveling leg is especially useful for outdoor shoots or uneven flooring.
Ease of Use:
Despite its heavy-duty nature, the 126BSU is simple to set up. The riser sections extend smoothly, and the built-in springs prevent the lights from slamming down when loosening the locks. While it folds down to a manageable size, its 8.3 kg weight and 1.31 m folded length make it less ideal for lightweight travel.
Pros:
Extremely durable and stable
High load capacity
Suitable for uneven terrain
Built for professional use
Works with both Baby and Junior fittings
Cons:
Heavy and bulky for travel
No air cushioning
Pricier than standard light stands
Best For:
Studio photographers and filmmakers
On-location crews with heavy equipment
Professionals using large lighting modifiers
Shoots on uneven ground (thanks to leveling leg)
Value:
While not cheap, the 126BSU offers excellent long-term value for professionals who need a heavy-duty stand they can rely on. It’s a solid investment for those working regularly with big lights and gear.
Final Verdict:
The Manfrotto 126BSU is one of the most dependable cine stands on the market. If you need strength, stability, and reliability—and don’t mind the weight—it’s an excellent addition to any serious production kit.
