Top 5 Tripods for Photos & Videos in 2024
Tripods are a cornerstone of quality photography and videography, and there’s no denying that they are a must-have camera accessory for any photographer. Whether you're a hobbyist or a professional photographer, finding the best tripod for your specific needs can greatly enhance your results. This is true whether you capture moments with a DSLR, compact camera, iPhone, or other device.
When selecting the best tripod, it’s important to consider several factors, including its unique specifications, weight and portability, maximum payload, and compatibility with your device. As such, we've collated a list of the top 5 tripods, ensuring you'll find the best tripod for your specific needs.
#1 The best travel tripod: Joby MK Compact Action Tripod
- Max load: 1.5KG
- Weight: 1.2KG
- Max height: 155cm
- Folded length: 43cm
The Joby MK Compact Action Tripod perfectly balances sturdiness and portability. Its design facilitates still photography and videography with smooth panning for videos and free movements for stills. A maximum load of 1.5kg and a weight of just 1.2kg make this an ideal companion for lighter cameras and mobile devices. Including a smartphone mount amplifies its appeal for mobile photography and videography enthusiasts. Compact enough to fold down to 43cm and extendable up to 155cm, it is a prime contender for the best travel tripod.
#2 The best tripod for DSLR: Manfrotto Befree Advanced Lever Tripod
- Max load: 8KG
- Weight: 1.59KG
- Max height: 151cm
- Folded length: 40cm
Building upon the popularity of its compact travel tripod range, Manfrotto introduces the Befree Advanced Lever Tripod with a fast, secure lever-locking system. Weighing just 1590 grams, this best tripod for DSLR extends to 151cm, supporting a maximum load of 8kg. Its three leg angles, versatile ball head, and three ergonomic adjustment knobs for friction control, panoramic movement, and sphere lock make it the perfect companion for professional photographers with heavier equipment.
#3 The best versatile tripod: Vanguard Veo 3 GO 235AB Tripod
- Max load: 4KG
- Weight: 1.24KG
- Max height: 136cm
- Folded length: 33cm
Designed for travel and content creation on the go, the Vanguard Veo 3 GO 235AB Tripod offers a lightweight build and a max capacity of 4KG. Its leg that converts into a monopod extends its versatility further. It folds down to an impressive 33cm while still being able to extend for diverse shooting requirements. With features such as a reversible centre column, low-angle adapter, and a Bluetooth remote, this is an excellent contender for the best tripod for iPhone.
#4 The best lightweight yet robust tripod: Vanguard Veo 3 GO 235CB Tripod
- Max load: 8KG
- Weight: 1.06KG
- Max height: 155cm
- Folded length: 41cm
Like its sibling model above, the Vanguard Veo 3 GO 235CB Tripod is perfect for content creators seeking a mix of portability and robustness. Its carbon fibre build assures strength without adding weight, and the 5-section legs provide sturdy support. With a max payload of 8KG, this tripod accommodates a variety of digital cameras. Notable features include a QR plate that adjusts to a smartphone holder, three leg angles for optimal viewing, and a unique Arca-compatible ball head with a removable panhandle for stills and videos. This tripod even converts to a monopod, further augmenting its adaptability.
#5 The best compact travel tripod: Manfrotto MK Element Small Travel Tripod
- Max load: 4KG
- Weight: 1.15KG
- Max height: 143cm
- Folded length: 32cm
Lastly, the Manfrotto MK Element Small Travel Tripod is a reliable choice for travel, folding down to a backpack-friendly 32cm while extending to a height of 143cm. This tripod has a 4KG safety payload, perfect for mirrorless and entry-level DSLR kits. Key features such as a spring-loaded hook at the bottom of its centre column for extra stability and a versatile ball head for quick compositional adjustments make this tripod a compelling choice for photographers on the move.
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Choose the best camera tripod for your needs
Tripods are a must-have camera accessory, and Investing in the right tripod is essential to improving your photography or videography results. The best tripod isn't necessarily the most expensive one but rather the one that meets your requirements and complements your creative process. Hopefully, this guide has provided valuable insights into the top tripods on the market and steered you towards the best choice for your needs.
Our Ultimate Guide to Buying a Tripod is an excellent resource that breaks down the anatomy of a tripod, explores different tripod heads and feet, and explains how to understand tripod specs. It also provides expert advice on the main types of tripods.
Remember, it's not just about choosing the best tripod for your camera; it's about finding the right tool that suits your creative style and shooting requirements. Browse our tripods online now to shop the highest-quality tripods on the market!
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