Manfrotto Lite Tite 026

Pros

  • Beautifully made, a quality product.
  • It weighs in at a hefty 40.4 grams.
  • Mostly all metal construction.
  • 180 degree movement on the adapter. 90 degrees either side of vertical. This adapter probably moves a bit more than 180 degrees, maybe a couple of degrees more each side.
  • Tear shaped umbrella slot (mount).
  • The umbrella slot is angled to centre the flash onto the umbrella.
  • Both the top and bottom spigot are well secured to the adapter.
  • The elbow between the top and bottom of the adapter does not use a ratchet system, but the handle used for tightening is very high quality and the chance of slippage is minimal.
  • The elbow handle, once tightened can be adjusted to be moved out of the way.
  • The adapter can handle heavy weights, perhaps even more than the Phottix Varos PRO S rated at 25kg.
  • All levers on the adapter (there are different 4 types) are easy to grip and use.
  • It is easy to tighten or loosen all 4 screw heads on the adapter.
  • The top spigot has a 1/4 and 5/8 male bolt.
  • The bottom spigot attaching the adapter to the lightstand has 1/4 or 5/8 female threads.

The Manfrotto 026 can be attached directly to some lightstands without the bottom spigot, like the Lumopro LP605.

Cons

  • No cold shoe supplied, it must be bought separately at additional cost.
    The top and bottom spigot plus the umbrella screw have no curved surface, this may damage an umbrella shaft, but this issue is less important for spigots.

It is a quality adapter, not as well designed as the Phottix Varos PRO S, but very good nonetheless. It is a good choice, Score: 8/10.