Rating of TOP-14 tripods for cameras: how to choose, review and characteristics of the best models

camera tripod can be useful not only for professionals.

Even a simple social media avatar can be made better by eliminating the fuzziness that occurs due to natural hand tremors.

In addition, a tripod allows you to take a family or group photo without sacrificing one of the family or team members.

People who are far from photography are ready to go to the store and buy the first tripod they come across, but this is not worth doing: the devices differ in size, installation method, material and other parameters.

Therefore, it is better to familiarize yourself with the variability of this device and make an informed choice.

Rating of the TOP 14 best tripods for cameras

Page navigation:

Types of tripods and their features

Important! There are several types of tripod designs that determine the features and scope of the “stand”.

1. Monopods. Simple, reliable, mobile, designed mainly for shooting dynamic events (for example, sports competitions). They are inexpensive and allow you to quickly place the camera in the desired position, but do not provide full stabilization of the camera.
2. Tripods. They consist of 3 legs, respectively, have 3 points of support and provide more reliable stabilization of the camera. They are quite heavy and large, but are perfect for cases where you need to shoot for a long time while holding the camera in the same position.
3. Tabletop compact tripods. Devices whose name speaks for itself. These are miniature and lightweight tripods for placing on any flat surface (for example, on a table or windowsill) and then placing cameras on them.
4. Tripod-clothespin. It has a flexible base and is therefore suitable for compact cameras and smartphones. The clamp is made in the form of a spring clip, which securely holds the device between the mounts and allows you to take both classic and selfie shots. Between the clothespin and the place for fixing there may be an extension rod, a hinged or flexible (elastic) base. Depending on this, you can take photographs at different distances from the object and at different angles. This type of tripod is suitable for creating content using a selfie camera, for example, for beauty bloggers.
5. Clamp stands. They are fixed in a horizontal view almost motionlessly using special clamps and allow you to create clear photographs with ideal boundaries of objects. If the model is equipped with a rotating lock, pictures can be in both portrait and landscape orientation.

What parameters should you pay attention to when choosing?

When choosing a tripod for a camera, first of all you should take into account the type of design discussed above.

Note! Once the choice of tripod type has been made, you need to pay attention to other characteristics:

• Weight and dimensions. For photographers working in a studio, they are not so important, but for travel photographers or bloggers they are perhaps the key parameters. Lightweight and compact tripods are transportable and suitable for travel.
• Material. The material of the tripod determines its main characteristics. Thus, carbon tripods are lightweight and dampen vibrations, while aluminum models are heavier and more stable. When it comes to plastic, it is important that the main elements (for example, the tilt adjustment screws or camera clamp) are made of high-quality material, such as chrome or steel.
• The number of “legs” of a tripod , which are also fulcrum points and determine the reliability and stability of the camera.
• The diameter of the legs and the working height range of the tripod. For some photographers, for example, it is important that the tripod can be extended for full-length shooting.
• The quality of the attachments on the legs (spikes or rubber tips).
• The method of adjusting the clamp is the head to which the camera is attached. There is ball regulation, 2D and 3D. The first type allows you to quickly and accurately adjust the position of the camera. The second - in the horizontal and vertical planes, the third - horizontally, vertically and to the side.

Choosing the Right Tripod

Having considered all the possible varieties, you should pay attention to a number of mandatory criteria that a good tripod should have:

• Match the height of the photographer. At first glance, it seems that leaning towards the lens is very easy, however, think about the possibility of many hours of shooting and the number of times you will have to lean towards your camera. Therefore, it is better if, when completely disassembling, for example, a tripod, the lens of the attached camera is at your eye level.
• Bottom position. When choosing, fold the tripod as far as possible and place it at the lowest point. How low is the lens? This is very important when taking macro photography of some mushrooms, berries and low flowers.
• Sustainability. Do you want to shoot in any weather? Then shake your tripod before purchasing and imagine yourself shooting in a strong gust of wind.
• Camera weight. Find out the maximum weight of a camera for this device. Think about the future of your hobby, because at first, photographers often go with a standard set: a mirror body + a kit lens, and over time they buy more massive devices, for example, a flash or large and, most importantly, heavy lenses.
• Spikes for stability. A great addition to a good tripod, for example, are spikes that extend from the legs for stable shooting in winter, on ice. It’s good if they are also covered with rubber plugs so that you can use the tripod without fear even at home on parquet, linoleum or laminate.
• Removable surface for fastening. Such a mini-platform on a tripod can be removable or tightly screwed. It is better to find the first option, since, for example, during extreme photography, it is easier to remove the camera and put it on a tripod. How to use this mount? You will just need to move the special lever and pull out the camera with a thin bottom stand, rather than bother unscrewing the entire DSLR camera and missing out on good shots.
• Price. It all depends on the financial capabilities of the beginning amateur photographer. And here there are two ways: either learn from something simple, easy and inexpensive, “test out” the very operation of the camera with a tripod, maybe it will turn out to be completely unnecessary in your photographic life. Or buy immediately, for a long time, a stable and medium-priced model.

Lifting height

The height of a tripod for a DSLR camera plays a role, since the rise of the tripod is influenced by a rod, which can be placed in any position using a special nut. The height of the rod depends on the tripod model. The maximum lifting length is 50 cm. Raising the barbell higher on tripods for greater coverage does not make sense, since the instability of the structure will increase. Somewhere this part is even removable.

Note! Whether or not to choose a tripod with a removable boom for the optimal shooting height is a personal choice. Many photographers find it more convenient to lower or raise the camera a few centimeters while shooting using simple manipulations with the rod, rather than fiddling with assembling and disassembling legs, for example, a tripod for shooting from above any objects.

Fixture load

When choosing a tripod for all cameras, it is especially important to consider determining the load. In the future, you may purchase other, heavier photographic equipment or accessories, so it is worth finding out the load on the selected tripod in advance. The maximum weight that this device can support should be twice the weight of your photographic equipment. This reserve is taken in order to easily rotate the tripod head, which will be less loaded.

Best Large Tripods

Large tripods can be useful in both studio and street photography, as well as when recording reports.

Rating of the best tripods for large cameras based on customer reviews and ratings.

HAMA Star-63 (04163)

Height adjustable floor tripod from 66 to 166 cm with 3D adjustable head.

The model is designed for photo and video recording equipment weighing up to 4 kg.

It has a built-in head that is adjustable horizontally and vertically and tilts sideways, rests on 3 legs and has rubber support tips.

The tripod is made of aluminum and is characterized by ease of assembly and high quality materials.

Specifications:

• height: 66-166 cm;
• Max. load: 4 kg;
• weight: 1.74 kg;
• number of legs: 3;
• rod diameter: 26.7 mm.

Advantages

• price;
• quality of materials;
• head adjustable in all planes;
• case included;
• sustainability.

Flaws

• no phone attachment;
• long handle;
• tight adjustment.

HAMA Star-64 (04464)

Two-tone stable tripod with 3-axis head, bag hook and built-in level.

A reliable device made of aluminum alloy, designed for fixing equipment weighing up to 4 kg.

The tripod is easy to install on almost any surface, securely fixed and quickly adjusted thanks to the adjustable head.

The kit includes a replacement pad. The screw size for the tripod socket is 1.4 inches.

Specifications:

• height: 69-185 cm;
• Max. load: 4 kg;
• weight: 1.66 kg;
• number of legs: 3;
• rod diameter: 26.7 mm.

Advantages

• build quality;
• ease of installation;
• camera lift height range;
• light weight;
• design.

Flaws

• plastic support locks;
• unstable (especially during wind);
• poor head mobility.

HAMA Delta Duo 170 (04098)

Stable, reliable tripod with a height of 62 to 170 cm, a built-in level and a maximum load of 4 kg.

The aluminum alloy floor tripod is suitable for fixing photo and video cameras weighing up to 4 kg.

A distinctive feature of the model is the versatility of its legs, due to which it can be placed on any surface.

The device has a built-in level and an adjustable 3D head.

Specifications:

• height: 62-170 cm;
• Max. load: 4 kg;
• weight: 1.85 kg;
• number of legs: 3;
• rod diameter: 26 mm.

Advantages

• different types of tips included;
• convenient case;
• build quality;
• height adjustment range.

Flaws

• unreliable fixation of the device;
• heavy;
• cannot be used as a monopod.

Rekam E-155

A lightweight and inexpensive tripod for beginner photographers with a shooting height of up to 155 cm and a small (59 cm) folded height.

The compact device for installation on the floor has three stable legs and rubber tips included.

Height adjustment ranges from 56.5 to 155 cm, and the head is 3D adjustable.

The model is equipped with a bag hook, a built-in level and a lifting mechanism. Replacement pad and storage case included.

Specifications:

• height: 56.5-155 cm;
• Max. load: 4 kg;
• weight: 1.19 kg;
• number of legs: 3;
• folded length: 59 cm.

Advantages

• good altitude range;
• light weight;
• case included;
• built-in level;
• High quality camera clamps.

Flaws

• unstable;
• when folded, it takes up a lot of space;
• tight head movement.

HAMA Action 165 3D (04095)

Aluminum 3D tripod with spiked legs and rubber tips included at an affordable price.

The black floor tripod has a solid appearance and reliable aluminum rods, as well as fasteners made of high-quality plastic.

Height adjustment is possible in the range from 61 to 165 cm. The maximum load is 4 kg.

The kit includes a 3D head, a replacement pad and a case.

Specifications:

• height: 61-165 cm;
• Max. load: 4 kg;
• weight: 1.32 kg;
• number of legs: 3;
• rod diameter: 23 mm.

Advantages

• metal base;
• ease of use;
• camera fixation strength;
• price;
• smooth adjustment of the head.

Flaws

• build quality;
• there is some play in parts;
• no phone attachment.

Manfrotto MKCOMPACTLT (Compact Light)

Laconic, durable and lightweight tripod with a ball head in two colors.

The miniature tripod weighs less than 1 kg and comes in red and black colors and comes in a convenient case for storage and carrying.

Some elements are made of impact-resistant plastic, and the main parts are made of aluminum.

The system of rapid movement of the central rod and the ball head allow you to precisely adjust the camera for shooting at the maximum possible proximity to the object (including macro photography).

Specifications:

• height: 39-131 cm;
• Max. shooting height: 103 cm;
• Max. load: 1.5 kg;
• weight: 0.92 kg;
• number of legs: 3.

Advantages

• compact;
• easy;
• quickly folds and unfolds;
• entirely made of aluminum;
• possibility of turning over the central rod.

Flaws

• plastic tips of supports;
• no removable platform;
• The maximum shooting height is only 103 cm.

TOP 3 best professional tripods for cameras

Next, we will consider top models costing from 1,500 to 35,000 rubles.

Tefeng Tripod TF-330A

Aluminum tripod with tripod head height from 50 to 135 cm. The legs consist of three sections, which are fixed with latches. The weight is less than 1 kg, which is beneficial for reportage photography when you need to change angles frequently. Supplied with a fabric cover. There is a built-in hydraulic level at the base of the tripod head, so the horizon will not be blocked in your photos. The model belongs to the budget class, but is notable for its overall reliability of design.

Average price: 1,500 rub.

Pros:

• low price;
• wide range of heights.

Minuses:

• not the most common model;
• sharp adjustment does not allow for quality panning.

Tefeng Tripod TF-330A

Manfrotto 475B

Aluminum tripod from one of the industry leaders. The height is adjustable from 43 to 188 cm. Designed for a maximum load of 12 kg with a tripod weight of 4.3 kg. Supplied without a tripod head, which only emphasizes the professional purpose of the model. It does not offer any special equipment, but every part is as reliable as possible and will serve properly for many years. For example, each of the three spacers is equipped with an individual lock.

Average price: 33,500 rub.

Pros:

• quality in everything;
• stylish appearance.

Minuses:

• quite large;
• heavy weight.

Manfrotto 475B

Benro C-458

Aluminum tripod with shooting heights from 26 to 184 cm. Weighs just under 3 kg - the upper part of the structure is made of aluminum, and the legs are made of carbon fiber. The maximum supported weight is 12 kg. The collet clamps of the leg sections are protected from dust penetration inside, which ensures their practically inexhaustible resource. The tripod head is not included in the package. The model is notable for its relatively low weight and high stability, even at maximum shooting height.

Average price: 24,600 rub.

Pros:

• combination of carbon fiber and carbon fiber in the structure;
• durable leg section clamps.

Minuses:

• sold in few places;
• Not the most comfortable handle to carry.

Benro C-458

The best monopods

Monopods are no less stable than tripods, but they take up much less space both when disassembled and folded.

Manfrotto MMCOMPACT (Compact Monopod)

Lightweight, compact, budget monopod in four colors, weighing only 330 g.

A portable monopod with a working height from 39 to 145.5 cm is designed for shooting with cameras whose weight does not exceed 1.5 kg.

The model has an ergonomic handle made of high-quality material that is pleasant to the touch and a universal 1.4-inch mount.

The kit includes a wrist strap for easy operation of the device.

Specifications:

• height: 39-145.5 cm;
• assembled length: 39 cm;
• weight: 0.33 kg;
• number of boom sections: 5;
• Max. load: 1.5 kg.

Advantages

• compact;
• easy;
• quality materials;
• ease of assembly;
• price.

Flaws

• flimsy assembly;
• camera weight is limited to 1.5 kg;
• maximum height is only 145.5 cm.

GoPro ASBHM-002

Telescopic monopod-tripod for GoPro video cameras with a convenient design, light weight and excellent stability.

The monopod with a telescopic design has an unusual shape and compact dimensions, but is very stable and allows you to shoot high-quality videos even in windy weather.

When folded, the model is only 23 cm long, but unfolds to 56 cm.

The magnetic mount allows you to quickly turn your monopod into a tripod, making it a 2-in-1 device.

Specifications:

• height: 23-56 cm;
• assembled length: 23 cm;
• material: plastic;
• Compatible camera models: GoPro, GoPro MAX.

Advantages

• compact;
• very stable;
• adapter-platform included;
• spectacular design;
• head included.

Flaws

• Only suitable for GoPro brand cameras;
• price;
• completely plastic.

FUJIMI FM103

Inexpensive floor-standing monopod made of aluminum with a maximum load of 5 kg.

The monopod is made of aluminum alloy and has a robust design that can support devices weighing up to 5 kg.

The maximum working height is 55 cm, with a central rod - 171.5 cm.

The model has a screw for a tripod socket with a diameter of 1.4 inches and a rod consisting of 4 sections.

Specifications:

• height: 55-171.5 cm;
• assembled length: 55 cm;
• Max. load: 5 kg;
• weight: 0.36 kg;
• rod diameter: 26.8 mm.

Advantages

• easy;
• wide range of height adjustment;
• price;
• compactness;
• case included.

Flaws

• no head included;
• there is no protective cover on the landing pad;
• no level.

Manfrotto MVMXPRO500

Premium monopod for video shooting with a maximum load of up to 5 kg.

The floor-standing device for videographers has a robust design: the main parts are made of aluminum, and most of the body is made of high-quality plastic.

The kit includes a replaceable head with up, down and 360 degree swivel angles.

The device itself weighs 2.8 kg and has a length of 77 cm.

Specifications:

• height: 20.5-77 cm;
• assembled length: 77 cm;
• Max. load: 5 kg;
• weight: 2.8 kg;
• rod diameter: 35.4 mm.

Advantages

• build quality;
• pleasant to the touch plastic;
• mobility;
• suitable for video cameras up to 5 kg;
• Replacement pad included.

Flaws

• price;
• heavy weight;
• inconvenient location of the adjusting screw.

FUJIMI FM222V

Video monopod with adjustable head, built-in level and maximum height of 147 cm.

Stable aluminum monopod with 3-point support.

Designed to install video cameras weighing up to 4.5 kg, and it is very lightweight: it weighs 1 kg and has an assembled length of 58 cm.

The base can be used as a tripod.

The camera mount size is 1.4 inches.

Specifications:

• height: 58-147 cm;
• Max. load: 4.5 kg;
• weight: 1 kg;
• rod diameter: 26 mm.

Advantages

• light weight;
• made of aluminum;
• there is a built-in level;
• replacement pad included;
• supports cameras up to 4.5 kg.

Flaws

• rubber backing on the shoe;
• shallow level;
• price.

The best monopod tripods

The most mobile type of holder looks like a long retractable rod with a camera mount at the top. Most people use them for selfies. Pros often use such sticks for filming from hard-to-reach angles.

GreenBean HDV Elite-317

4.9

★★★★★

editorial assessment

97%

buyers recommend this product

The simplest floor-mounted mono tripod for photo and video cameras weighing up to 3 kg. Minimum height 68 cm (folded), maximum height 177 cm.

There is a quick-release movable platform with a safety latch to prevent the camera from slipping. The monopod leg consists of four aluminum sections firmly connected to each other.

For greater stability, there is a footrest attached with a movable hinge screw. With its help, you can adjust the tilt angle of the gadget to the sides, and 360° panoramic shooting is also possible.

The set includes a 2D head with a comfortable handle and a belt with a belt clip for comfortable transportation.

Pros:

• Durable foldable aluminum construction;
• Built-in bubble level at the base of the head;
• Relatively light weight (1.5 kg);
• Foam cover with zipper.

Minuses:

• High price;
• The minimum height is still quite large.

A tripod is good to use during outdoor professional filming, such as wedding ceremonies or sports competitions.

Sony VCT-AMP1

4.9

★★★★★

editorial assessment

94%

buyers recommend this product

The best retractable mono tripod for Sony action cameras is suitable for filming even in very harsh conditions. The monopod has a special water- and dust-repellent coating. The body is made of very durable aluminum alloy, but at the same time it weighs little (200 g).

The length of the accessory when folded is 30 cm, extends to a maximum of 93 cm. But even this height does not interfere with taking wide-angle images.

Pros:

• Compact dimensions;
• Minimum weight
• Strong and very tenacious;
• Additional protection against dust and water.

Minuses:

• Only suitable for Sony cameras.

The device is indispensable when traveling, during extreme filming, and is also good for home videos and selfies.

Rekam RM-120

4.8

★★★★★

editorial assessment

90%

buyers recommend this product

A tripod from the Canadian manufacturer Rekam offers the best value for money. The monopod is simple and easy to use - suitable for both professional photographers and beginners.

The model is used with cameras weighing up to 3 kg and with smartphones. Four telescopic sections made of durable carbon fiber make it possible to extend the pole up to 171 cm. This height allows you to take pictures from hard-to-reach angles.

Pros:

• The structure is quickly assembled;
• Easy;
• Good maximum shooting height;
• Affordable price;
• Case included.

Minuses:

• Not the most reliable case.

A budget mono tripod will help amateur photographers take clear and bright photos or videos in concert halls, where it is inconvenient to shoot standing, and will also provide professional photographers with quick assembly in order to capture the most important things.

Manfrotto MMCOMPACT (Compact Monopod)

4.8

★★★★★

editorial assessment

87%

buyers recommend this product

The lightest monopod in the Manfrotto brand line weighs only 330 g. The mount fits many cameras weighing up to 1.5 kg and is protected by a lid. The body is made of aluminum and consists of 5 sections.

The ergonomic handle comes with a rubberized anti-slip coating. The wrist strap will prevent the camera from falling. The gadget allows you to shoot from a height of 39 to 146 cm - more than enough for interesting selfies.

Pros:

• Very light;
• The knees are securely fixed with clamps;
• Prevents camera shake when shooting;
• Four color options (black, white, red, pink).

Minuses:

• For light cameras only;
• The kit does not include a head.

An ideal option for photography and filming while traveling, as well as if you want to take group selfies or film yourself against some interesting background, and have everything included in the frame.

READ ALSO

8 best professional cameras

Table tripods

Tabletop tripods are compact and portable, well suited for panoramic shooting , for example, from a window, but they have a low shooting height.

HAMA Flex 2in1 (04314)

Lightweight, versatile aluminum tripod with bendable legs and adjustable shooting height.

The model is suitable for various photo and video recording devices and has a shooting height from 10 to 26 cm.

The device is transportable due to its light weight and compactness, so it is well suited for travelers and bloggers.

The kit includes a replacement head.

Specifications:

• height: 10-26 cm;
• weight: 145 g;
• number of rod sections: 1;
• material: aluminum alloy.

Advantages

• light weight;
• price;
• bendable legs;
• replaceable two-axis head included;
• Can be attached to various bases.

Flaws

• quality of the platform for mounting the device;
• main elements made of plastic;
• The head is adjustable in two directions.

Joby GorillaPod 1K Kit

Reliable tabletop tripod with replaceable ball head and maximum load up to 1 kg.

The model is made of steel, plastic and aluminum, has flexible legs and can support devices up to 1 kg.

The maximum working height is 26.5 cm. The tripod is very light, compact and easy to transport.

The kit includes a tripod ball head.

Specifications:

• Max. load: 1 kg;
• Max. working height: 26.5 cm;
• weight: 200 g;
• folded length: 26 cm.

Advantages

• light weight;
• price;
• bendable legs;
• replaceable two-axis head included;
• Suitable for shooting in vertical format.

Flaws

• price;
• can withstand a maximum of 1 kg;
• legs bend tightly.

Joby GorillaPod 3K Kit

Reliable tabletop fixture with adjustable ball head and load capacity up to 3 kg.

The original desktop device, made of aluminum and plastic, is a reliable tripod designed for mounting photo and video equipment weighing up to 3 kg.

The model has a laconic black body, flexible legs, height adjustment, stable rubber tips on the legs, a tripod head and a replaceable pad included.

Specifications:

• Max. load: 3 kg;
• height: 6-24 cm;
• weight: 390 g;
• assembled length: 30.5 cm;
• material: aluminum alloy, plastic.

Advantages

• build quality;
• adjustable working height;
• flexible legs;
• replacement pad included;
• built-in level.

Flaws

• price;
• quick-release mechanism (heavy gadgets may fall out);
• tight mechanism for bending the legs.

How to choose the right tripod? 12 main parameters

First of all, you need to understand that there are no perfect tripods. There are three main characteristics - stability, lightness and reasonable price, but a tripod can combine no more than two of them at the same time. That is, in all cases you will be forced to compromise. By the way, this is why professionals usually have several tripods for different occasions.

Material

Here we choose between aluminum and carbon fiber. Aluminum tripods are cheaper, more stable and heavier. Carbon ones are significantly lighter, usually less stable and more expensive. The lower exposure to wind of aluminum tripods is precisely determined by their greater weight. But carbon absorbs vibration more effectively, which means it behaves better with televisions.

Equally important is how far and for how long you have to carry the tripod on you. Don't overestimate your strength.

Manfrotto 055 carbon fiber 3-section tripod view

Number of sections

Varies from 2 to 5. It goes without saying that the more sections, the more compact the tripod when folded. But you should understand: each additional section worsens its stability. In addition, a tripod with a large number of sections is inferior in reliability. But there are times when compactness is most important.

Manfrotto 117B Video/Movie tripod Inox Legs

Leg diameter

The diameter of the widest part of the tripod is fundamentally important in terms of stability. The larger the diameter, the higher the stability. For some unknown reason, both sellers and buyers avoid this option. And in vain.

Manfrotto Digi Mini 4-Section Tripod with Quick Release plate

Manufacturer

In general, there are a great many of them. Mostly Chinese. But, in order to minimize mistakes when purchasing, it is recommended to pay attention to only three - Gitzo, RRS and Manfrotto. Most likely, it is the latter, since Manfrotto tripods are the most famous and best represented in stores. A good tripod cannot be cheap: really high-quality models from Chinese manufacturers are not much cheaper than the mentioned “big three”. Therefore, there is no point in taking risks by buying a cheap tripod of dubious quality.

Manfrotto Super Professional Tripod Mk2

Central column

In short, a center column is useful in situations where height, rather than stability, is a primary concern. For example, in the studio. But when it is important that the tripod is installed reliably and firmly, for example, during architectural or landscape photography, the central column will simply get in the way. And even a rotating column will not solve the problem, since it is extra weight, and for most amateurs it has no practical benefit. Again, it will get in the way when trying to lower the camera as low as possible. Therefore, it is advisable to recommend a tripod without a central column as the only and universal one.

Manfrotto MTT2-P02

Tripod height and shooting

These are important parameters that determine the range of operation in the vertical plane. The height of the tripod itself is important primarily for tall people and in cases where, for example, you need to shoot an eye-to-eye portrait. In other situations, it’s more likely to be excess weight and problems during transportation. Plus, with LiveView and a rotating display, you don't necessarily have to lean toward the viewfinder. Using a tripod makes it easier to focus on the display.

Manfrotto Triman Camera Trpod black without Head

But the minimum height is critical when doing macro photography or landscape photography. And, in fact, it is determined by the opening limit of the tripod legs (as well as the presence of that same central column). If you plan to regularly shoot landscapes, then you should make sure the minimum shooting height from a specific tripod. By the way, if you have already settled on a tripod with a central column, then take a closer look at models that allow it to be rotated, because this directly affects the minimum frame height.

Manfrotto Table Top Tripod

Diameter of base for tripod head

As a rule, few people pay attention to this parameter. Meanwhile, it can significantly complicate the work. A small diameter of the base (especially if it is smaller than the future tripod head) has a bad effect on stability, and too large can become an obstacle when rotating the camera on a tripod by 90 degrees - the camera will simply rest against the base. So the base and head need to be chosen simultaneously and very thoughtfully.

Manfrotto Neotec

Folded tripod dimensions

It will be unpleasant to purchase a tripod and find that when folded it is not very compact and can hardly fit even into a large suitcase. Meanwhile, a tripod is not a useful thing when traveling, so if you plan to regularly take it with you, then consider the size.

Manfrotto MY Carbon Fiber Tripod

Cargo hook

Many tripods are equipped with it, and this is a very noticeable plus. Not only does this hook allow you to hang your camera bag instead of leaving it on the ground, but it also increases stability with the added weight. So, all other things being equal, choose a model with a hook. It will come in handy.

Manfrotto Pocket Support Small

Leg tips

They come in different types: rubber or steel; spikes or platforms, as well as combined models. The use of one or another type of tips is determined by the shooting conditions: sticking spikes into parquet is not very common, and rubber pads will be less stable on soft ground. In general, studs are better for soft surfaces, and rubber tips for hard surfaces.

Tripod leg lock

The lock does not significantly affect the quality of shooting, but it is very important for your convenience. There are three types of locks.

1. Latch lock - primitive, but quick and convenient to unfold and assemble the tripod. True, the latches do not clamp the tripod legs very securely. Overall, not the best option, despite the maximum convenience.

2. Ring lock - has no protruding parts, so it is very convenient for transportation. Securely clamps the tripod legs. But, alas, the tripod with it is the slowest to unfold.

3. Wing lock - very inconvenient to transport, as it often clings to something. But it is considered the most reliable in terms of the degree of clamping of the tripod legs.

Manfrotto MPRO Carbon Fiber 3-Stage Video Tripod

Level platform

A very nice thing. Its purpose is to fundamentally speed up the installation of the camera parallel to the surface plane. Literally in one motion. This is quite useful for landscape or architectural photography. It seems like an obvious idea, but, unfortunately, it is not implemented so often. However, the level platform can be purchased separately, so if you plan to actively film the world around you, we highly recommend purchasing this useful additional accessory.

conclusions

When buying a camera tripod, you need to know several main features of this device.

• The key parameter when choosing is the design of the device : it can take the form of a tripod, monopod, clothespin, etc.
• For shooting outdoors or in extreme conditions, it is better to choose an aluminum model. It is heavy and will allow the tripod to stand even in windy conditions.
• Be sure to check all adjusting screws, heads and mechanisms. There should be no play, creaking or feeling of a flimsy structure.