For a long time I've been looking for a tripod that's light, strong, tall, has a ball head and panorama function AND is affordable. This tripod exceeded my expectations. The tripod comes packed in a protective cover with a shoulder strap. The ball head is protected by a cloth bag (against scratches but certainly also against contamination). The first set-up works without any problems and intuitively even without the operating instructions. The feet can be adjusted to different angles using the brackets on the joint and the stand is really solid - nothing wobbles! The center column can be installed the other way around so that the camera hangs down between the legs - this allows for really great photo positions! If you pull out the middle rod as far as it will go, you can tilt it by 90° (see photo). However, you should make sure that the camera protrudes at most up to the level of the base, otherwise it becomes very unstable. Regarding the ball head: I am also more than enthusiastic about it. The camera is held very firmly via the quick-release plate. Here's a very small note: I would have liked to be able to adjust the position of the camera on the quick-release plate (keyword nodal point for panoramas, etc.). Since the ball head is Arca-Swiss compatible, you can also use other quick-release plates without any problems. The joint itself is smooth-running but also offers a suitable resistance. The panorama function with scale behaves in a similar way, so that panoramas or time-lapse recordings with a smooth panning are easily possible. But the best thing about the tripod is the very attractive price! You would pay significantly more for a comparable tripod from a well-known brand.