Best Tripods On The Market 2023 Reviews

Are you looking for a way to take your photography to the next level? As any photographer knows, the equipment that you choose is essential. In addition to the camera itself, a tripod is a piece of gear that you simply can not live without.

The best tripod will ensure your camera remains perfectly stable, producing breathtaking shots, and can be used in a wide range of different ways.

But which one is the perfect one for you? Well, that is likely to be influenced by your budget. Therefore, we have created detailed reviews at differing price points to help make the decision process easier.

So let’s go through them and make sure you end up with the perfect tripod for your needs…

Best Tripods Reviews

Best Tripods Under $50

1 Zomei 55″ Compact Light Weight Travel Portable Folding SLR Camera Tripod

If you are planning a hiking trip, you will want to be able to travel as light as possible. Every extra pound in your backpack is likely to weigh you down. Traveling over long distances can be rather uncomfortable if your equipment is too heavy.

Traveling light…

One of the great things about the ZOMEI 55″ Compact Light Weight Travel Portable Folding SLR Camera Tripod is that it is especially light. In fact, this model weighs just 2.5 pounds. However, it is able to support an impressive eleven pounds.

This is ensured by the tripod’s aluminum alloy legs. These legs are designed to be especially sturdy to provide your camera with plenty of support. There are also non-slip mats on the feet to help prevent the tripod from slipping on the ground.

Just so portable…

When not in use, this tripod folds up into an especially compact size. This helps to make it especially easy to carry. You are also treated to a special carrying case that can be attached to the outside of your backpack.

However, it should be noted that the top extension mechanism has been made of plastic. This means that it may not be as sturdy as could be hoped. If you don’t lock the mechanism in place carefully, it is likely to slide down while you are taking photos.

2 Joby GorillaPod SLR Zoom Flexible Tripod

With its fun and friendly design, this tripod really stands out from the crowd. The JOBY GorillaPod SLR Zoom. Flexible Tripod has long been a popular model among amateur photographers. It boasts an especially lightweight and compact design that makes it easy to travel with.

Embracing pure versatility…

This model boasts unique wrappable legs, and each of the legs is set with ten different leg joints. This helps you to choose from an impressive range of different angles. Each of the legs has been covered with grippy rubber, which helps them to stay firmly put once you have set them.

The legs can be flexed and twisted so that you can secure them to tree branches, poles, and virtually anything you choose. The rest of the tripod has been made of a combination of German TPE rubber, stainless steel, and Japanese ABS plastic. This helps to make it especially tough and durable.

Quick as a flash…

The JOBY GorillaPod SLR Zoom. Flexible Tripod is set with a quick-release plate that remains connected to your camera. This allows you to slip it on and off the ball head very quickly and conveniently. The special ball head allows you to tilt and pan your camera the full 360 degrees.

If you are looking for a high quality tripod for taking on the road, this model is a good option. The JOBY GorillaPod SLR Zoom. Flexible Tripod doesn’t have all the bells and whistles of some models. However, what it lacks in features it makes up for in portability and ease of use.

Best Tripods Under $100

Vanguard VEO 2 204AB Aluminium Travel Tripod

If you are going on a long trip, weight is likely to be one of your main concerns. While you may not need a top of the range tripod, you will need it to be as light as possible. Vanguard has created a tripod that is as light as possible while also being stable and durable.

The perfect travel companion…

In fact, the Vanguard VEO 2 204AB Aluminium Travel Tripod is one of the lightest tripods around. When not in use, it folds up to just 40 centimeters. This helps to make it especially easy to carry over long distances.

The aluminum legs are designed to be especially strong and sturdy to provide your camera with plenty of support. The legs can be set in several different positions to deliver plenty of versatility. Extra stability is provided by the spiked ends of each leg.

Spin away…

The Vanguard VEO 2 204AB Aluminium Travel Tripod is set with a rapid rotation center column design. This makes inversion very quick and easy, as nothing needs to be unscrewed in order to remove your camera. The ball head can remain attached to the tripod even when you pack it away.

However, this model is rather light on features compared to some tripods. For example, it does not have an option for rock claws. But, if you are looking for a light tripod for traveling, this model is a good option.

Best Tripods Under $150

1 Sirui NT-1005X 55.1″ Lightweight Aluminum Camera Tripod

As any photographer knows, the perfect shot can present itself at any time. Therefore, you need to always be ready in case the right photo opportunity comes along. The last thing you want is to have to waste time setting up your tripod.

Easy does it…

Fortunately, this won’t be an issue when you choose the SIRUI NT-1005X 55.1″ Lightweight Aluminum Camera Tripod. This model promises to be especially quick and easy to set up. This is largely due to the ball head that boasts an Arca-Swiss compatible quick-release plate.

All of the adjustments that you need to make can be made very quickly and smoothly. Once the adjustments have been made, they can be depended on to lock firmly in place. The non-slip feet on the ends of the legs also help to make this tripod especially sturdy.

Perfectly horizontal…

The legs swing up to help make this tripod especially compact for easy carrying. Once extended, you are treated to a choice of three locking angles. Each leg can be set and locked independently, which is sure to be a bonus on uneven ground.

However, it should be noted that the operating height is a bit on the low side. You may also find that the lack of an independent friction damper is a bit frustrating. But all in all, this is a solid and dependable tripod for its category.

2 Manfrotto MT290DUA3US Dual Aluminum 3-Section Tripod

Manfrotto is famous for creating a wide range of different types of tripods. Their models are especially popular among amateur photographers. These tripods are known for being especially sturdy and come packed with high-end features.

But how does this tripod measure up?

The Manfrotto MT290DUA3US Dual Aluminum 3-Section Tripod is set with special rubber leg warmers. They have been designed to provide a comfortable grip while maximizing ergonomics. They are also set with aluminum leg locking levers that are fully tension adjustable.

One of the things that really makes this model stand out from the crowd is the 90-degree center column mechanism. This makes it possible to extend the column both vertically and horizontally. This helps to make this tripod especially versatile and provides you with a wide range of framing options.

Versatile and practical…

One of the superb things about this tripod is that each leg provides four different angles. You can choose from 25 degrees, 46 degrees, 66 degrees, and 88 degrees. Each leg can be set at a different angle if you wish to provide you with plenty of versatility.

At a weight of just four pounds, you are sure to find that this tripod is easy to carry around. You are also treated to a special carrying case that looks especially stylish and can be attached to a backpack. If you are looking for a model that boasts high-end features combined with a reasonable price tag, this is a good option.

Best Tripods Under $200

1 Manfrotto MT190XPRO4 Aluminum 4-Section Tripod

When searching for a quality tripod, you are sure to appreciate a model that is especially sturdy. The tripod should stay firmly in place, even during windy weather. Fortunately, the Manfrotto MT190XPRO4 Aluminum 4-Section Tripod promises to be the sturdiest tripod around.

But does it actually deliver?

The four leg sections that this tripod feature, helps to provide extra stability and versatility. They are set with a multi-angle leg lock system that holds them firmly in place. Even at the maximum operating height, you can be sure that the legs remain particularly sturdy.

This full-sized tripod provides a maximum operating height of 68 inches. However, when you are ready to pack it away, it folds down to just 22 inches. Even with the head, it weighs just 2.6 kilos, making it very easy to carry to your shooting location.

Nice and rugged…

The enhanced 90-degree pivot facility that this model is set with is especially quick and easy to operate. This makes it possible to change to horizontal boom mode in a few seconds. The XPro ball head is also especially sturdy and comes complete with a pan only release and adjustable friction damper.

In order to make the overall design extra sturdy, you are provided with specialized Allen wrenches. These are used to make the connection between the legs and attachment plate rock solid. However, making the necessary adjustments takes a bit of extra time and trouble, which is not ideal if you are in a hurry.

2 Benro Mach3 2 Series Aluminum Tripod (TMA27A)

If you are shooting on rough terrain, setting up your tripod can be rather tricky. It will be necessary to set the legs at different heights or angles. Otherwise, you are likely to find that your shots appear to be at an angle.

So what’s the solution?

The Benro Mach3 2 Series Aluminum Tripod (TMA27A) is one of the most advanced tripods in the Benro range. As a result, it comes with a number of top of the range features that make it especially versatile. This includes high-performance twist locks and magnesium castings that are ideal for both indoor and outdoor use.

The aluminum legs are designed to be especially versatile, as well as being sturdy and lightweight. Each of the legs can be locked in a number of different positions. In addition, the legs can be locked in different positions to make it possible to set the tripod at an angle.

Get down to the ground…

The aluminum legs are tipped with spikes to help you set the tripod firmly into the ground. You are also provided with a short column as part of the tripod kit. This can be interchanged to help make ground level shooting especially easy.

It should be noted that the Benro Mach3 2 Series Aluminum Tripod (TMA27A) is slightly longer than average. This is designed to help you reach new heights with your photography. However, the extra length can mean that strapping it onto the outside of a backpack is a bit of a challenge.

Best Tripods Under $250

Mefoto GlobeTrotter Classic 64.2″ Aluminum Travel Tripod

With its five leg sections, this tripod really stands out from the crowd. Not only do the extra leg sections help to make this tripod extra stable, but they also deliver extra versatility. The legs are tipped with spikes, while they can be set independently at a wide range of different angles.

All kitted out…

One of the great things about the MeFOTO GlobeTrotter Classic 64.2″ Aluminum Travel Tripod is the special features it comes with. You are provided with a set of interchangeable metal spikes and rubber pads. This makes this top of the range tripod ideal for both indoor and outdoor shooting.

The five sectioned legs help to ensure a stable maximum operating height of 165 centimeters. When not in use, this tripod folds down to just 41 centimeters in length. The legs swing up to help reduce the carrying length, while it is also possible to detach one of the legs.

Need a monopod?

Detaching the third leg will mean that you are able to utilize this tripod for monopod use. It boasts a rather impressive maximum load rating of 12 kilos for the legs and accompanying ball head. The patented Precision Matched Q Series Ballhead is especially smooth and easy to detach.

While this is not the lightest tripod around, there is also a carbon fiber option available. This helps to lighten the load considerably while providing enhanced stability and durability. You are also provided with a fully padded carry case to make this tripod especially easy to carry.

Best Tripods Under $300

Manfrotto MK190X3-2W Aluminum 3-Section Tripod Kit

Trying to create smooth and flawless panning shots can be rather tricky. If the ball head of your tripod is not fluid, you are likely to especially rather shaky shots and video footage. Fortunately, the Manfrotto MK190X3-2W Aluminum 3-Section Tripod Kit has been specially designed to solve this issue.

Let’s take a closer look…

Smooth shots are ensured by the patented XPRO Fluid Head that comes with an innovative design. The legs can be angled so that you are able to achieve very low shots. This helps to deliver especially versatile shooting in a wide range of different environments.

The fact that the warranty period is just six months is not very impressive. This may well give you pause for thought if you are looking for a tripod that is especially durable. However, it is possible to extend the warranty period for an extra nine and a half years.

Case comes as an extra…

It should also be noted that this model does not come with a carrying case. This can make it rather difficult to carry over long distances. Although Manfrotto has created a carrying case for this model, you will need to pay extra for it.

Best Tripods Under $400

3 Legged Thing Equinox Leo Carbon Fibre Tripod

With its unique design, this tripod really stands out from the crowd. However, you can be sure that the 3 Legged Thing Equinox Leo Carbon Fibre Tripod is much more than a pretty face. In fact, this model was the winner of the coveted Lucie Technical Awards Tripod of the Year.

The three sturdy legs are set with oval-shaped grips on the large and durable leg locks. These are designed to help make adjusting the height and angle of the legs an absolute breeze. The leg locks also come complete with a secondary locking system that supplies enhanced stability.

Built to last…

The fact that this model comes with a comprehensive five-year warranty is sure to provide you with plenty of confidence. It has been made of solid carbon fiber. This means that you can be sure it will serve as your photography companion for many years to come.

Another key feature of this tripod is the innovative AirHed Switch 360 ball head. This helps to deliver especially smooth shooting in all types of conditions. The AirHed Switch 360 also boasts a dual-pan design, which helps to make it easier and faster to level the unit.

Bit of a heavyweight…

However, all this stability and durability comes at a bit of a cost. The 3 Legged Thing Equinox Leo Carbon Fibre Tripod is significantly heavier than many other tripods. However, you most definitely appreciate the fact that it is able to support up to 66 pounds.

Best Tripods Under $700

Gitzo GT3533SUS Lightweight Systematic Tripod SER.5 3S

It is often said that you get what you pay for in terms of quality and features. If you are a professional photographer, you are likely to want to invest in nothing but the best. In terms of price tag, this model is certainly right at the top.

Lightweight yet incredibly strong…

Gitzo GT3533SUS Lightweight Systematic Tripod SER.5 3S boasts a number of advanced features that really make it stand out from the crowd. The entire tripod has been made of carbon fiber. Not only is this stronger and lighter than aluminum, but it is also especially good at dampening vibrations.

Carbon fiber also provides a number of other advantages in comparison to aluminum. It does not transfer heat as easily, while it is ideal if you are shooting in especially hot climates. Carbon fiber is also less susceptible to erosion and can be used in and around seawater without concern.

A firm fit…

The top of the tripod boasts a lever that is used for loosening and removing the top plate. It features a spring-loaded design that makes the release especially quick and smooth. However, you can be sure that your camera will be held firmly in place while you are shooting.

As a bonus, you are also treated to a special tripod case to keep your tripod in. This case has been made of systemic carbon fiber and is especially durable. This means that you won’t have to worry about your tripod getting scratched while you are traveling.

Something for on top?

There is no point in having a fantastic tripod if you haven’t got the very best equipment to put on top of it. So please check out our Best GoPro Camera reviews, our Best Compact Cameras reviews, and our Best Waterproof Camera reviews.

So, which is the Best Tripod of them all?

They often say that you get what you pay for, but that is not always the case. While not being the most expensive model, the…

Mefoto GlobeTrotter Classic 64.2″ Aluminum Travel Tripod

…really rises to the top.

The interchangeable feet that come with this model make it suitable for all types of terrain. You are also provided with the patented Precision Matched Q Series Ballhead for incredibly smooth shooting. This model also comes in a wide range of different colors to help it stand out from the crowd.