I have used the elements MK1 on several occasions as 2 family members have it. This MK2 is cheaper in price but also in construction. The leg angle setting mechanism is nowhere near as robust. But it works. Hopefully the small plastic stopper can be replaced as it seems to be an easy fix and seems to be a weak spot.
To be fair to Manfrotto, for the load rating of the tripod the plastic it seems adequate, the damage is more likely to be a result of the opening process.
But the thing works and the price is good so it gets a good vote.