To efficiently use this buying guide, ask yourself what you need most out of a great tripod. Are you looking for a tripod of specific height and weight, or do you need a tripod that’s easy to take on the go for shots in the wilderness? Do you need a tripod with several quick-release options and adjustable height functions, or are you looking for a sturdy tripod that can grip any surface with ease? Some tripods are also functionally better for smartphones, built with lightweight materials to hold small objects. Other tripods are built tough, to support sturdy and expensive cameras with increased weight. Use this guide to find the perfect tripod for your needs and go out there to take the pictures you want!
This standard 50-inch tripod stand for cameras comes with its own bag and is made of lightweight materials.
This basic and lightweight tripod stand for cameras comes with its own zippered bag and has easy interlocking mechanics for fast transitions.
This 60-inch tripod stand is built of lightweight aluminum for professional camerawork and comes with a travel bag.
This option is a sturdy, 60-inch tripod stand with a complete rotation function and is easily collapsible for on-the-go camerawork.
Premium flexible cell phone tripod with wireless remote for smartphones and digital cameras.
Sturdy and lightweight smartphone tripod that’s perfect for selfies and landscape photos with remote control.
This lightweight phone tripod is adjustable with a panorama mode and carry bag.
This lightweight phone tripod is a great option for panorama modes, pitch angles, and landscape pictures.
This tripod kit is the perfect option for professional camerawork with its flexible grip legs and 360 panning.
This professional and sturdy tripod works well on a variety of surfaces and with many different types of cameras.
This travel tripod is made of lightweight aluminum and is easy to use with any type of camera.
This 60-inch camera tripod works great for Nikon DSLRs, and has a universal holder for smartphones.
A: There are a number of great features on any tripod that makes it the perfect supporting mount for your camera, but what features specifically should you look for while shopping? Most tripods are built with lightweight yet sturdy materials that make them both supportive for your camera and easy to break down, and standard tripods are equipped with quick-release plates for fast shot transitions. Your perfect tripod also needs to be the right height for you, to support the kind of shots and videos you want to take.
A: Tripods do what they advertise—they support your camera or smartphone so that you can take the best pictures possible, time after time. The best tripod for you is the one that meets your needs, but as with any functional piece of technology, different tripods are made with different materials and support various features. Some tripods are better for panorama views and quick transitions, others are built for easy storage and fast height adjustments to take seamless videos and snap the perfect shot. Many of the tripods on this list also come with convenient bonuses, such as travel bags or additional pieces.
