The best digital camera tripod doesn’t just provide a stable place for you to rest your camera. It can also enhance your photography. Tripods are an essential accessory if you’re trying to take hands-free photos or record video without shaky playback. That said, they aren’t a one-size-fits-all affair.
One of the first things you’ll need to consider is where you plan on shooting. For landscape photography, for example, you’ll want a rugged tripod that can hold its own on uneven terrain. Other factors to consider include whether you’re shooting with heavy lenses versus a simple point-and-shoot camera. Do you need a tabletop tripod or a traditional tripod?
Finally, things like durability, extension lengths, and whether it comes with a head are additional factors that may influence your final purchasing decision. Keep reading our best digital camera tripods buying guide to learn more. And if you’re in the market for a new camera, check out our picks for the best digital cameras.
Top Digital Camera Tripods
#1 Amazon Basics WT3130T+WT3111H 50-Inch Camera Tripod
Award: TOP PICK
WHY WE LIKE IT: This camera tripod has a low-weight design and folds, making it easy to transport and store. The tripod has a quick-release plate, allowing users to detach the camera fast.
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- Exceptional portable design
- Compact height when folded
- Supports portrait and landscape camera orientation
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- Not suitable for heavy cameras
- Short maximum height
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The Amazon Basics WT3130T+WT3111H 50-inch camera tripod is an extremely lightweight camera tripod that will appeal to people who travel regularly. This device has an aluminum core and plastic parts. It has a three-way head that supports tilting and swivel motions, allowing users to place the camera in both portrait and landscape orientations. However, this camera wobbles a bit at the maximum height and is not recommended for heavy cameras weighing more than 4.4 pounds.
Featuring three-section telescoping legs, this Amazon Basics tripod enables hassle-free height adjustment. The legs are lockable, securing the camera. The tripod measures just 16.5 inches when folded, allowing hassle-free transportation and storage. This camera accessory has a quick-release mounting plate that allows photographers to detach the camera fast. It has a very flexible joint that offers smooth movements. We like its ball joint lock, which is easy to operate.
#2 K&F Concept TM2515M1 67-Inch Camera Tripod
Award: HONORABLE MENTION
WHY WE LIKE IT: This camera tripod has a high loading rating, making it a good choice for SLRs and camcorders. It rotates in all directions, so it can be used for panoramic photography.
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- Exceptionally high loading rating
- Heavy-duty build
- Handy detachable monopod
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- Ball head doesn’t move smoothly
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The K&F Concept TM2515M1 65-inch camera tripod has a military-grade aluminum alloy build that supports regular use. Featuring corrosion-resistant parts, the tripod is suitable for outdoor professionals. Weighing just 3.3 lbs, this camera tripod is easy to transport. It folds to a measly 16.5 inches, simplifying storage. This camera flexes in a 180-degree plain, allowing users to both portrait and landscape shots. However, the ball head on this model doesn’t move very smoothly.
A large metal ball that offers durability, while the 28mm mount provides compatibility with a wide variety of cameras. It has a maximum load rating of 22 lbs, so it’s suitable for heavy DSLR cameras and camcorders. The ball head rotates 360 degrees, so it comes in handy for panoramic shooting. This camera tripod features a detachable monopod that can be used as a walking stick. With five-section tube legs, this camera allows users to adjust the working height easily.
#3 Ailun 4326547074 Camera Tripod
Award: BEST PORTABLE
WHY WE LIKE IT: This multifunction camera tripod has flexible octopus-style legs that enable fastening to poles and devices. It has a phone attachment that will appeal to people who regularly engage in smartphone photography
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- Amazingly flexible legs
- Included phone holder
- Rotating ball head
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- So-so build quality
- Not suitable for very heavy cameras
- Short stature
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The Ailun 4326547074 camera tripod is an octopus-style camera tripod that offers outstanding flexibility. This camera features several attachments that provide compatibility with various devices. A high-quality metal ball joint offers durability. This camera tripod has a standard ¼” screw for attaching digital cameras. It also comes with a universal phone holder for various Android and iOS smartphones. However, this device is made mostly of plastic and rubber parts, which are prone to breaking.
This camera tripod is very compact, so it fits easily in purses and backpacks for simple transportation. It has flexible octopus-style legs that enable securing the camera tripod onto poles and other devices. The ball joint rotates 90 degrees to allow changing the orientation of the attached device. It has a black color scheme that blends in with other camera gear and accessories. This tripod comes with a wireless Bluetooth remote shutter for smartphones, allowing simple operation.
#4 Endurax ETR66 66-Inch Camera Tripod
Award: BEST FOR PROFESSIONALS
WHY WE LIKE IT: This camera tripod has a stocky design that will appeal to professional users. It rotates 360 degrees, so it’s ideal for panoramic recording. The tripod comes with a travel bag.
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- Extremely long legs
- Heavy-duty construction
- 360-degree rotation
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- Takes up a lot of space even when folded
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The Endurax ETR66 66-inch camera tripod is a large device meant for professionals. With a height of 66 inches, this device stands tall, so it’s ideal for big photographers. It has non-slip rubber feet that offer stability. This camera has five-section legs, offering a lot of flexibility. We like its flip-lock knob that steadies the camera during photoshoots. The tripod comes with a transport bag. However, its collapsed height of 18 inches is on the high side, so the camera takes up space in transit. For more options, check out our roundup of the greatest digital camera bags.
An intuitive ¼” quick-release plate on this tripod works with a wide variety of cameras. With a built-in bubble, this device enables photographers to stabilize the camera easily. It has a three-way pan head with 360-degree rotation, so it’s suitable for PTZ cameras. The camera also comes with a phone holder for compatibility with iPhones and other phones. It has a high loading capacity, making it an ideal choice for DSLR and video cameras.
#5 Linkcool Camera Tripod
Award: BEST FOR SMARTPHONE PHOTOGRAPHY
WHY WE LIKE IT: This Linkcool tripod features both a smartphone holder and standard camera screw, accommodating cameras, small camcorders, and more. It comes with a fob for a simple, cordless operation.
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- Outstanding flexible design
- Included remote shutter
- Smartphone holder
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- Not suitable for very heavy cameras
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The Linkcool camera tripod is a multifunction tripod compatible with both smartphones and cameras. This tripod has a phone clip that holds smartphones ranging in size from 2.4 to 3.7 inches. It also features a standard camera screw that connects digital cameras seamlessly. The camera folds neatly and takes up very little space during transit and storage. However, this model is not suitable for very heavy cameras and camcorders
This Linkcool camera tripod has a swivel ball joint that offers 360-degree rotation for multi-angle shots. It enables the camera to capture images in both portrait and landscape. This Linkcool tripod comes with a remote shutter that works with smartphones to capture images and videos without touching the phone. Featuring flexible, folding rubber legs, this camera is suitable for a wide variety of settings. The legs grip poles and other items, offering flexible placement.
#6 UBeesize TR67 67-Inch Camera Tripod
Award: BEST FOR DSLR CAMERAS
WHY WE LIKE IT: This tripod has a remarkably high maximum height that will appeal to tall photographers. It comes with a smartphone holding device and Bluetooth shutter for operating smartphone cameras from afar.
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- Outstanding build-quality
- Comes with a phone holder and remote shutter
- Supports heavy cameras
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- Takes up plenty of space
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The UBeesize TR67 67-inch camera tripod has advanced features that will appeal to professional photographers and vloggers. It has a maximum height of 67.3 inches, making it a good choice for tall users. Featuring a versatile head, this camera supports multiple shooting angles, and it easily snaps portrait and landscape shots. An integrated level enables users to level up the camera fast. However, measuring a whopping 20.1 inches when collapsed, this camera is large and takes up plenty of space.
Featuring high-quality aluminum alloy parts with ABS resin, this UBeesize tripod is lightweight and durable. Its non-skid horseshoe feet provide stability. The camera comes with a universal phone mount that accommodates 2.3 to 4.5-inch phones, allowing photographers to use their smartphones for shooting. It supports 360-degree rotation for flexibility. This camera tripod also comes with a wireless remote that operates the phone shutter as far as 30 feet away.
Beginner’s Guide to Digital Camera Tripods
What are Digital Camera Tripods?
Tripods are one of the most important digital camera accessories that you’ll find on the market for both novice and professional photographers. A good tripod can improve your images by offering a stable base for a camera. Along with picking the best digital camera for video, this will give you the freedom to take group photos and hands-free shots, as well as reduce motion blur in photos and videos.
If you’re trying to take more advanced shots, like long exposure images, you’ll appreciate the added stability that a good tripod offers. More importantly, for serious photographers — hobbyists and professionals alike — adding a tripod to your setup allows you to focus on the three pillars of photography so that you get the perfect shot every time: lighting, subject, and composition.
As with other camera accessories, such as fine digital camera docking stations, tripods come in various configurations, with some being better suited for specific scenarios than others. You can find lightweight models that are mobile-friendly, so you can take them anywhere you plan to shoot. Additionally, some models are designed for rugged conditions or with longer extensions so you can take better photos at height.
How Digital Camera Tripods Work
Most tripods you’ll find on the market have three legs, although it is possible to find versions with more or fewer legs. Normally, you’ll find that the legs can have three to five sections. Tripods with more sections tend to be shorter. This is ideal for someone prioritizing portability as shorter tripods are usually more compact and lightweight. However, you’ll usually need to spend more time assembling them, and the extra sections can reduce stability.
Unlike some camera accessories, tripods tend to be universal, meaning that they can work with any camera, including smartphones, as long as it has the necessary mounting components. But, make sure your camera is mounted correctly, otherwise, you might find yourself doing DIY digital camera repair.
Typically, you’ll find that tripods are made from aluminum or carbon fiber. Aluminum is a great option if you’re trying to stay on budget, as these tripods are generally cheaper. The only drawback is that aluminum tends to create a heavier tripod.
If you’re trying to shoot on the go with a tripod, carbon fiber legs are the preferred choice. Although it’s more expensive, their lightweight design makes them a travel-friendly option. Plus, carbon fiber is better at handling vibrations.
Don’t forget to look for the leg locks, too, which are essential components in a tripod’s design that let you securely adjust the height. The most common types are designed to either twist or flip to lock each tripod leg into place. Twist locks are usually faster to assemble than flip locks.
Tripod heads are another essential feature, but they’re not always standard. The head lets you adjust the camera angle and is usually removable. This means you can switch the head to accommodate different shooting styles, cameras, and even smartphones. There is a wide range of tripod heads, but the most common ones you’ll find are ball and three-way heads.
And when you’re ready to transfer your files off of your camera, you might need the best digital camera USB cable.
Why You Should Buy a Digital Camera Tripod
A tripod is one of those camera accessories that doesn’t need a lot of justification for a person to buy. A good tripod can improve your photography, give you the freedom to put more thought into your photography, and allow you to take hands-free pictures if you prefer.
Are Digital Camera Tripods Worth Buying?
- You Like Hands-free Shots: Trying to take hands-free pictures can be challenging without a tripod. So, if this is a goal for you, even the cheapest tripod will elevate your photography game.
- You Need Image Stability: Whether you’re taking long-exposure photography shots or simply trying to record video, a shaky camera can ruin that goal. Investing in a tripod will give you the camera stabilization you need to improve your image quality.
- You Have a Heavier Camera: Smartphones and compact cameras are fairly lightweight, so you might not mind holding them all day. But if you own a DSLR or mirrorless camera, that weight can get to you — especially if you’re shooting for long periods. A tripod can take that load off your hands.
- You Want to Improve Your Photography: The three rules of photography are lighting, subject, and composition. With a tripod, you have time to think about your image’s composition rather than trying to catch images on the fly while fumbling with your camera.
Why Digital Camera Tripods May Not Be for You
- You Don’t Own a Camera: Tripods are such a universally beneficial tool for any camera owner that there aren’t very many cases against purchasing one. But if you don’t own a camera or don’t use your smartphone for serious photography, a tripod might seem like a frivolous purchase.
- You Use a Smartphone for Photography: You can buy grip mounts designed to work with smartphones for a tripod. But if you’re not shooting videos or taking more serious pictures with your smartphone, you might not need a tripod.
How Long Will Digital Camera Tripods Last?
Even a cheap tripod is reasonably durable, so there’s no hard timeline on how long your tripod will last. But there’s plenty of anecdotal evidence on photography forums where members noted that they’d used the same tripod for decades. In most cases, you’ll probably find that you upgrade to a new tripod before your current one stops working.
Similar to camera bodies, user behavior is more likely to dictate how quickly you’ll replace your tripod. Obvious factors like mistreating it, leaving it exposed to the elements, or piling gear on top of it so that the legs or head are damaged will shorten a tripod’s lifespan.
Likewise, using a tripod that isn’t rated to support your camera’s weight can also shorten its lifespan. This usually won’t be a problem for smartphones or compact cameras but can be an issue for DSLR or mirrorless cameras, especially when paired with heavier lenses.
How to Choose the Best Digital Camera Tripods
The most obvious factors with tripods will include height, weight, and material composition. But these aren’t the only factors that might influence your purchase. Picking the right camera tripod can also depend on the camera you’re using, your shooting style, and overall goals.
Best Digital Camera Tripods Key Factors to Consider
1. Where will you shoot?
If you’re trying to be mobile or plan on shooting in multiple locations throughout the day, then you’re going to want a carbon fiber travel tripod. These are lighter and won’t wear on you throughout the day, but they are more expensive than aluminum tripods. But if you’re only shooting in one fixed location, you may find that an aluminum model is sufficient and more affordable.
2. Is there a tripod head?
Remember that not all tripods come with a head. Depending on the type of camera and accessories you’re using, this might be okay as you can pick a head separately that’s suited for your shooting style. But if you’re just starting, you might prefer to skip tripods that lack this feature.
Ball head and three-way head attachments are the most common options. But you’ll need to consider whether you’re shooting with a heavier camera or heavy lenses like telephoto lenses before selecting the right head attachment. For example, gimbal heads can help support the additional weight that would otherwise be too heavy for a standard tripod head to manage.
3. What are the minimum and maximum height?
Most standard tripods are height adjustable. This means you can adjust the tripod to your shooting height to avoid putting strain on your neck and back. But you can also find tripods with extended range, meaning you can potentially achieve more challenging angles that might otherwise be difficult when shooting by hand.
4. Do you want a compact tripod?
Not everyone wants a tripod so they can shoot in a standing position at eye level. Whether you’re shooting closeup stills or taking video from a seated position, sometimes a compact or mini tripod is better. Plus, these models tend to be significantly smaller and easier to store or take with you if you’re working on mobile shoots.
5. What is the weight capacity?
Weight capacity isn’t always an issue if you’re taking pictures or videos with a compact camera or smartphone. But if you’re shooting with heavier cameras such as DSLRs and mirrorless models, you’ll want to check for weight compatibility before settling on a tripod model.
Specifically, both DSLRs and mirrorless cameras support interchangeable lenses, which can add considerable weight to your setup. So, if you plan on using additional lenses, don’t just get a tripod that can only support your camera body’s weight. Be sure that it can support the added lens weight, too.
6. What type of feet does the tripod have?
Tripod feet might seem irrelevant, but not all tripods are designed for all shooting environments. A rubber foot design should be sufficient if you’re shooting indoors as it won’t damage your floors and ensures that your tripod doesn’t shift from minor movements.
But for outdoor shoots, you may find that a tripod with spikes is better because it’ll provide a sturdier base. Keep in mind that you can also find a tripod with both types of feet. Usually, you can unscrew the rubber feet to reveal spiked feet.
7. Can you adjust leg angles independently?
We can’t stress enough that there are variations across tripods. The two most common options are either adjusting each leg individually or where all legs are raised or lowered simultaneously. Depending on your shooting goals, one version will appeal more than others.
Legs that you can adjust independently can be ideal if you’re working with a heavier camera setup, as you can position one leg to compensate for the additional weight. Similarly, you can precisely position your camera for angle shots with lockable leg angles.
