Tripods are a cornerstone of quality photography and videography — a must-have accessory for any photographer, whether you're a hobbyist or a professional. Finding the best tripod for your specific needs can greatly enhance your results, whether you shoot with a DSLR, mirrorless camera, compact, or smartphone.
When selecting a tripod, it's important to consider its weight and portability, maximum payload, maximum height, and compatibility with your gear. We've rounded up five of the best tripods on the market to help you find the right one for your needs.
#1 Best travel tripod: Vanguard VEO 3 GO 204AB Travel Tripod/Monopod
- Max load: 3kg
- Weight: Lightweight build
- Max height: 131cm
- Folded length: 34.5cm
The Vanguard VEO 3 GO 204AB is the ideal full-featured tripod for travel and content creation on the go. Lightweight and compact, it folds down to just under 35cm while extending to 131cm — enough for most shooting situations. A 3kg maximum payload handles the majority of mirrorless and DSLR kits with ease.
The VEO T-45 ball head makes fast, intuitive adjustments to framing and composition, while a reversible centre column and low-angle adapter add versatility for macro and ground-level shooting. Three leg angles (21°, 50°, and 80°) ensure stability on varied terrain, and the included rubber and spiked feet give you options for different surfaces. It also converts to a monopod/selfie stick and includes a smartphone adapter — making it a genuinely versatile travel companion. Includes a carry case.
#2 Best tripod for DSLR: Manfrotto Befree Advanced Lever Tripod
- Max load: 8kg
- Weight: 1.59kg
- Max height: 151cm
- Folded length: 40cm
Building on the popularity of its compact travel tripod range, Manfrotto's Befree Advanced Lever Tripod features a fast, secure lever-locking system. Weighing just 1,590g, it extends to 151cm and supports a maximum load of 8kg. Three leg angles, a versatile ball head, and three ergonomic adjustment knobs for friction control, panoramic movement, and sphere lock make it the ideal companion for professional photographers with heavier equipment.
#3 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 offers a lightweight build and a 4kg maximum payload. One leg converts into a monopod for added versatility. It folds down to an impressive 33cm while still extending for diverse shooting requirements. Features include a reversible centre column, low-angle adapter, and a Bluetooth remote — making it an excellent choice for smartphone and mirrorless shooters alike.
#4 Best lightweight carbon fibre tripod: Vanguard Veo 3 GO 235CB Tripod
- Max load: 8kg
- Weight: 1.06kg
- Max height: 155cm
- Folded length: 41cm
Like its sibling above, the Vanguard Veo 3 GO 235CB is perfect for content creators seeking a mix of portability and robustness. Its carbon fibre construction delivers strength without adding weight, and the 5-section legs provide sturdy support. With an 8kg maximum payload, it accommodates a wide range of cameras. Notable features include a QR plate that adjusts to a smartphone holder, three leg angles, and an Arca-compatible ball head with a removable panhandle for stills and video. It also converts to a monopod for added adaptability.
#5 Best compact travel tripod: Manfrotto MK Element Small Travel Tripod
- Max load: 4kg
- Weight: 1.15kg
- Max height: 143cm
- Folded length: 32cm
The Manfrotto MK Element Small Travel Tripod is a reliable choice for travel, folding down to a backpack-friendly 32cm while extending to 143cm. With a 4kg safety payload, it's well suited to mirrorless and entry-level DSLR kits. A spring-loaded hook at the base of the centre column adds extra stability when weighted, and the versatile ball head allows quick compositional adjustments on the move.
Choose the best tripod for your needs
Investing in the right tripod is one of the most impactful upgrades you can make to your photography or videography setup. The best tripod isn't necessarily the most expensive — it's the one that meets your requirements and complements your creative process.
For a deeper dive into what to look for, read our Ultimate Guide to Buying a Tripod, which covers tripod anatomy, head types, leg materials, and how to read specs. You can also browse our full range of tripods online, or visit a Ted's Cameras store for personalised advice.
Frequently Asked Questions
What should I look for when buying a tripod?
The key factors to consider are maximum payload (must exceed the weight of your heaviest camera and lens combination), weight and folded length (especially important for travel), maximum height, leg material (aluminium vs carbon fibre), and head type (ball head, pan-tilt, or fluid head for video). Read our Ultimate Guide to Buying a Tripod for a full breakdown.
What is the difference between aluminium and carbon fibre tripods?
Aluminium tripods are more affordable and durable, but heavier. Carbon fibre tripods are significantly lighter for the same strength and rigidity, and also dampen vibration better — making them the preferred choice for travel and long hikes. The trade-off is price: carbon fibre tripods typically cost more than their aluminium equivalents.
What is the best tripod for travel photography?
The best travel tripod balances low weight, compact folded length, and sufficient payload for your gear. The Vanguard VEO 3 GO 204AB and Manfrotto MK Element Small Travel Tripod are both excellent options for lighter kits, while the Vanguard Veo 3 GO 235CB offers carbon fibre construction with an 8kg payload in a compact, lightweight package.
Can I use a tripod with my smartphone?
Yes — most modern tripods include a 1/4"-20 thread mount that accepts a smartphone adapter. Several tripods in this list, including the Vanguard VEO 3 GO 204AB and Vanguard Veo 3 GO 235AB, include a smartphone mount or adapter in the box. A tripod is particularly useful for smartphone video, long exposures, and self-portraits.
What is a ball head tripod?
A ball head is a type of tripod head that uses a ball-and-socket mechanism to allow quick, fluid repositioning of the camera in any direction. It's the most popular head type for still photography, offering fast adjustments with a single locking knob. Pan-tilt heads offer more precise, independent control of each axis and are preferred by some landscape and architectural photographers. Fluid heads are designed specifically for smooth video panning and tilting.