Dec 23, 2021
Top 10 Best Camera Tripods To Buy
If you’re a photographer, streamer, or YouTuber who’s looking for a great tripod to use —Here’s my list of the 10 best camera tripods for creatives.
A tripod may be a basic tool, but it is one of the most essential things a photographer or YouTuber must have.
But since there are a lot of options available on the market, it’s not easy to know which one to buy.
What is the best camera tripod to buy?
A professional photographer will know that having the best camera tripod is a must.
It helps increase the image’s sharpness and quality by keeping the camera stable, even in low-light environments.
You can also do self-portraits by using a tripod and a camera timer.
However, take note that the tripod is not only for photographers.
YouTubers and streamers nowadays are most likely to use a tripod because of its high level of stability, which is ideal for creating videos and YouTube vlogs.
If you want to take landscape photos, a tripod is also very useful because it makes it easier to frame a subject and take panoramic and HDR photos.
In addition, a good tripod and a good camera will make for great pictures and videos when they are used together.
Lastly, if you want to have the best overall tripod that will definitely help you out in your industry, you can check out this Peak Design Travel.
So without further ado, here’s my list of the 10 best camera tripods to buy.
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10 Best Camera Tripods for Creatives
- Peak Design Travel — Best overall
- Manfrotto 290 Dual — Most stable
- Joby GorillaPod 1K — Most affordable
- Rhino FRHN34CVX30 — Best for professionals
- Vanguard Veo 3+263AB — Best for beginners
- Peak Travel Tripod — Best for travel
- Benro Travel Angel — Most lightweight
- MeFoto C2350Q2K — Most durable
- Benro Mach3 — Best for photographers
- Sirui NT-1005X — Most compact
How to choose a camera tripod?
Just like buying any other gadget or equipment, there are also factors to consider when purchasing a camera tripod.
Before discussing each tripod included in my list, let me first give you some points to consider in finding the best tripod for you.
- Stability
- Weight Support
- Quick-Release System
- Height and Weight
- Materials Used
And to further understand why these things are important to check first, here’s a detailed explanation:
Stability
You must remember that a heavy tripod does not always imply stability.
There are many tripod systems on the market that are substantial and durable but lack the necessary stability when utilized in a variety of weather conditions.
When a tripod is properly assembled, it must withstand not only wind but also little bumps and knocks that may occur in the field.
You should always make sure that your camera and lens balance on a tripod rather than leaning in one direction.
Because if the head is not entirely secured or if the front outweighs the rear and everything falls to the ground, you could damage your equipment, which is the last thing that you want to happen.
Weight Support
One of the most important things to look at when buying a tripod is its capacity to carry the camera’s weight.
It will be a waste of money if you buy a tripod that cannot support the weight of your camera and is not built to carry heavy equipment.
The worst thing that will happen in that case is that the tripod will collapse, and your camera will fall to the ground, where it is most likely to be damaged.
That’s why you must consider the weight capacity of the tripod that you want to buy.
I recommend that you go for a tripod that can hold twice the weight of your camera to assure its durability.
Quick-Release System
More affordable tripods include a simple plastic plate that can be mounted to any camera or lens, but more expensive tripod heads include a more sturdy plate.
The Arca-Swiss Quick Release Mechanism, on the other hand, is the best quick-release system.
It has mostly become a standard among manufacturers, and it has been shown to be a very successful solution for rapid and simple operations.
In comparison to plastic plates, the Arca-Swiss Quick Release System is composed of extremely sturdy metal and allows you to attach the camera or lens to a tripod without having to rotate anything.
A quick-release plate is permanently attached to a camera or lens, allowing it to fit effortlessly into a quick-release clamp.
Height and Weight
As a creative, I personally recommend that you buy a tripod that matches your height so that you don’t have to bend over just to look through the viewfinder.
It must be extendable at least to your eye level because if it’s not, you’ll end up hurting your back because you'll have to bend over just to see what you’re trying to capture.
However, when talking about the weight of a tripod, you must opt for a product that is not too heavy to carry.
You’ll just end up leaving it at home instead of using it outdoors because it is a hassle to bring it with you.
Especially if you’re doing outdoor photo shoots or travel vlogs, you must definitely go for tripods that are lightweight and compact for you to work seamlessly.
Materials Used
The lightest tripods on the market are mostly made with carbon-fiber material.
It is the best material used for a tripod since it provides durability, and stability, and, most importantly, it doesn’t rust.
However, if you’re on a tight budget, you may not go for it since it comes with a higher price.
Fortunately, there are tripods that are made out of aluminum which is much heavier, but you can get them for a lower cost.
There are also tripod brands that manufacture tripods that are made with stainless steel, but it is not ideal to buy, especially if you’re doing outdoor photography, since it is too heavy to carry.
You always have the option of choosing a carbon-fiber or aluminum tripod — it will only depend on your preference and budget.
1. Peak Design Travel
If you’re looking for the best overall camera tripod that fits your needs, then check out this one from Peak Design Travel.
The best overall tripod for creatives.
A travel tripod with the stability, load capacity, and deployed height of a professional monopod but with the convenience of a water bottle’s diameter storage.
It is faster and easier to set up and take down thanks to the design’s unique features; camera quick release that is safe, fast, and comfortable.
On the other hand, this tripod has a 20-pound weight capacity and can optimize a full-frame DSLR with a telephoto lens.
Lastly, all parts are serviceable, cleanable, and replaceable and include a padded and weatherproof case.
The Peak Design Travel is an excellent choice if you’re searching for the best overall camera tripod that is suitable for you.
Specifications
Material: Carbon Fiber
Weight: 2.84 pounds
Folded height: 57cm
Max height: 175cm
Max load: 10/7kg
Leg sections: 4
Pros
- Flexible
- Easy to set-up
- Lightweight
Cons
- Bulky
- Poor build
Buy Peak Design Travel on Amazon
2. Manfrotto 290 Dual Tripod
With a simple set of unique features and a quality design, the Manfrotto 290 modernizes the concept of the original rock-solid tripod.
The best tripod for stable photography and filming.
It has the 290’s rock-solid design, which includes the revolutionary 90° column mechanism and four-leg angle settings, allowing it to reach ground-level shooting positions.
It also has a new rubber legwarmer to improve grip and an updated metal disc with the Manfrotto logo, which updates the product’s look.
Additionally, the Manfrotto 290 is available in three models — stand-alone tripod, tripod kit with three-way head, and tripod kit with ball head.
You can actually choose from these models depending on your needs as a photographer, streamer, or YouTuber.
Regardless of what you choose, they are all well-built and rest assured that you can create your photo shoots and video clips in the most stable way possible.
It also has leg angle selectors, which allow you to reach even the lowest positions and angles.
The Manfrotto 290 Dual is an ideal choice for creatives that are looking for the most stable tripod camera.
Specifications
Material: Aluminum
Weight: 2.28kg
Folded height: 69cm
Max height: 175cm
Max load: 5/6kg
Leg sections: 3
Pros
- Easy to carry
- Great height
- Quick to operate
Cons
- Poor leg
- Expensive
Buy Manfrotto 290 Dual Tripod on Amazon
3. Joby GorillaPod 1K
If you’re looking for the best tripod to use for practicing your skills in photography, the Joby Gorilla Pod 1K is a great option for you.
The most affordable tripod for hobbyists.
This tripod is ideal for hobbyists and beginning photographers who cannot yet afford to purchase a professional tripod.
This tripod is a great option if you’re on a really tight budget but want to start your creative career.
It is also perfect for you if you’re just doing photography for fun and entertainment.
You’re not required to buy one of those high-end tripods because the Joby GorillaPod 1K has features that are suitable for your needs.
You can freely follow your passion for creating photographs and videos without breaking the bank.
It is also lightweight and portable, which allows you to carry and use it even when you’re doing outdoor activities like hiking and traveling.
The Joby GorillaPod 1K is an amazing pick if you’re wondering about the most affordable camera for creatives.
Specifications
Material: Plastic, stainless steel
Weight: 196g
Max height: 25.5cm
Max load: 1kg
Pros
- Affordable
- Portable
- Perfect for outdoor
Cons
- Too small
- Doesn’t extend
Buy Joby GorillaPod 1K on Amazon
4. Benro Rhino FRHN34CVX30
The Rhino FRHN34CVX30 camera tripod provides the best strength-to-weight combination without losing stability.
The best tripod for professionals.
Even though it is the most expensive tripod on my list, it is a great investment for professionals to capture the best photos and videos possible.
With its reverse-folding design, it is extremely portable and is suited for a studio as well as outdoor photography.
The automated leg angle adjustment on the Rhino FRHN34CVX30 allows you to change leg angles at the touch of a button.
With its unique features, professionals can work comfortably and smoothly without being interrupted.
The Rhino FRHN34CVX30 is also a well-built tripod that can provide you with a stable set-up.
If you’re looking for the best professional tripod to use for photography or YouTube videos, this is the most suitable option for you.
The Rhino FRHN34CVX30 is a good option for people searching for a high-quality tripod camera for professionals.
Specifications
Material: Carbon Fiber
Weight: 6 Pounds
Max height: 174.5 cm
Max load: 20kg
Leg sections: 4
Pros
- Great quality
- Easy to use
- Expressive height
Cons
- No column pivot
- No center column
- Expensive
Buy Benro Rhino FRHN34CVX30 on Amazon
5. Vanguard Veo 3+ 263AB
If you’re looking for the best tripod with various features and functions, the Veo 3+ 263AB is the right one for you.
The best camera tripod for beginners.
This is an all-in-one tripod that is both sturdy and stylish, and it has become popular because of its amazing versatility.
Veo 3+ 263AB is easy to operate which is perfect not only for professionals but also for beginners.
It also offers amazing flexibility, which allows you to do any type of photography.
Vanguard combines superior computer numerical control (CNC) engineering technology with high-grade materials to provide the highest stability and quality for your photographs.
You can also convert Veo 3+ 263AB’s one leg into a monopod for maximum flexibility.
So if you’re looking for a tripod that has various uses, this tripod is definitely for you.
The Vanguard Veo 3+263AB is definitely a great choice for people that are looking for an outstanding camera tripod for beginners.
Specifications
Material: Aluminum
Folded height: 29.9 Inches
Max height: 67.9 Inches
Max load: 33 Pounds
Leg sections: 3
Pros
- Excellent maximum height
- Quick leg locks
- With center column
Cons
- Long folded
- Too long even folded
Buy Vanguard Veo 3+ 263AB on Amazon
6. Peak Travel Tripod
The Peak Travel Tripod is specially made for creatives that are usually doing their photo shoots and videos while traveling.
The best travel tripods for vloggers.
It is perfect for YouTubers that are featuring different places or events on their vlogs.
It provides you with pro-level stability, load capacity, and extended height, which is perfect for professional photographers and YouTubers.
This tripod’s one-of-a-kind design makes it easy to assemble and disassemble, so it won’t cause you any hassle at all.
If you’re a freelance artist doing travel vlogs, I recommend you buy this Peak Travel Tripod.
It will help you to capture and record the best shots and moments that you need to have.
It is also a perfect tripod for DSLR users since it is durable and you can be sure that it will hold your camera tightly.
The Peak Travel Tripod is a nice option if you’re wondering about quality camera tripods for travel.
Specifications
Material: Aluminum
Weight: 1.56kg
Folded height: 14cm
Max height: 152.4cm
Max load: 9.1kg
Leg sections: 3
Pros
- Portable
- Phone bag included
- Low-profile ball head
Cons
- Expensive
- Not the tallest
Buy Peak Travel Tripod on Amazon
7. Benro Travel Angel
The Benro Travel Angel is designed to offer lightweight camera support for photographers and vloggers.
The most lightweight tripod for creatives.
It is perfect for outdoor use since you can easily carry it and use it for your photo shoots.
In addition to its tripod legs, its kit includes a short center column, rubber footpads, and metal spikes — all of which can be swapped out for different looks.
Also, one of the tripod legs can be easily converted into a monopod for extra versatility.
Additionally, the Benro Travel Angel won’t fail you when it comes to durability.
It is built to last, so you can be sure that you will benefit from its use for the longest time.
And since it is the most lightweight tripod on my list, it is also a great option for creatives who do photography and video clips while traveling or doing outdoor activities.
The Benro Travel Angel is an amazing pick if you’re searching for the most lightweight camera tripods for creatives.
Specifications
Material: Aluminum
Weight: 2.42kg
Folded height: 45cm
Max height: 161cm
Max load: 10/14kg
Leg sections: 4
Pros
- Easy to carry
- Great for travel
- High quality
Cons
- Shorter operating height
- Lack instability
Buy Benro Travel Angel on Amazon
8. MeFoto GlobeTrotter C2350Q2K
If durability is one of your priorities in choosing a camera tripod, the MeFoto GlobeTrotter is the best option for you.
The most durable tripod to buy.
The MeFoto C2350Q2K is an ideal choice for people that are looking for the most durable camera tripod that is suitable for their needs.
This tripod is made to last, which is why you don’t need to buy one from time to time.
Not only that, but it is also the most stylish tripod on my list.
It has a variety of colors and styles that you can choose from depending on your preference.
Despite the fact that it is more expensive than others, you can be sure that you can use it to capture photos and create videos for a long period of time.
The MeFoto GlobeTrotter’s legs can also be inverted and folded back 180°, making it small enough to carry just about anywhere.
Its features include weather and dust resistance, so you can work seamlessly even if you’re outdoors or traveling.
Specifications
Material: Carbon Fiber
Weight: 2.1kg
Folded height: 41cm
Max height: 165cm
Max load: 12/12kg
Leg sections: 5
Pros
- Easy to carry
- Affordable
- Can use as a monopod
Cons
- Only for two position
- Not the tallest
Buy MeFoto GlobeTrotter C2350Q2K on Amazon
9. Benro Mach3 Series 2
If you’re looking for a great camera tripod to use for studio and outdoor photo shoots, this Benro Mach3 is the perfect one for you.
The best camera tripod for photographers.
It is recommended for professional photographers because it is built with great stability, which is ideal for all kinds of photography.
In addition, this tripod is intended to provide compact and light camera support.
It has three legs, which are all adjustable, so you can easily set it up in whatever position you like.
This 9X carbon fiber tripod features high-performance twist locks and magnesium castings that make it suitable for both indoor and outdoor photography.
Benro Mach3 is combined with advanced materials and a classic design, which makes it preferable for photographers.
It is also lightweight and compact, so you can use it anytime and anywhere you want.
The Benro Mach3 is an amazing choice for professionals that are looking for a high-quality camera tripod that fits their needs.
Specifications
Material: Aluminum
Weight: 2.42kg
Folded height: 60cm
Max height: 167cm
Max load: 8/8kg
Leg sections: 4
Pros
- Affordable
- Great stability
- Well build
Cons
- Poor leg
- Can’t use as a monopod
Buy Benro Mach3 Series 2 on Amazon
10. Sirui NT-1005X
This Sirui NT-1005X can offer you a sustainable and comfortable photography experience.
The most compact camera tripod for photo & video artists.
By twisting one of its legs off and attaching it to the center column, a monopod is available to enhance your creativity in sports photography, close-up, drone shots, hiking, etc.
By using this tripod, you can capture panoramic images hassle-free.
Sirui NT-1005X includes a wear-resistant rugged surface which is designed for efficient locking and safer operation while doing photography.
And since it is very compact, it can easily fit into your bag’s pocket.
It also comes with a carrying case for simple storage and transportation, making it perfect for use while traveling.
Additionally, it is perfect for photographers who use DSLR cameras, mirrorless cameras, and camcorders since it has a wide range of compatibility.
The Sirui NT-1005X is a good option if you’re searching for the most compact camera tripods for creatives.
Specifications
Material: Aluminum
Weight: 1.44kg
Folded height: 36cm
Max height: 150cm
Max load: 10/8kg
Leg sections: 5
Pros
- Extremely small
- With non-slip feet
- Easy to adjust
Cons
- Shorter slide
- No independent damper
Conclusions
Selecting a high-quality tripod can mean investing more money or clarifying the type of photography you’re interested in doing.
And using a tripod allows you to shoot photographs at slower shutter speeds than would be possible if you were to hold the camera in your hands.
Which brand of tripod is best?
There are so many brands that offer high-quality and durable tripods that are suitable for your needs, but if you want the best overall, you can check out Peak Design Travel.
I also include tripods that are suitable for outside use and for travel — Peak Travel Tripod and Benro Travel Angel.
They are both lightweight and compact, which makes them easy to carry and ideal for doing outdoor photo shoots and travel vlogging.
I also feature the MeFoto C2350Q2K, which is the most durable tripod and is perfect for photographers or YouTubers that are using heavy cameras.
Additionally, for those photographers or YouTubers that are doing their photo shoots in their studios, you can also check out my other article where I feature the best studio lights and kits.
Just always remember the things that you must consider before purchasing one, so you’ll not end up regretting and wasting your money.
Since I’m done giving you my top recommendations, which brand do you think has the best tripod? — Leave a comment below.
