The Best Camera Tripods of 2025

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Best Overall Camera Tripod

https://rei.pxf.io/c/381569/1448521/17195?tt=cl&mi&pw=7185&u=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.rei.com%2Fproduct%2F180077%2Fpeak-design-carbon-travel-tripod&subId1=gjbgtechcameratripod" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener noreferrer">Peak Design Carbon Fiber Travel Tripod

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               traveling.One of our favorite features, which we use often to capture social content, is the built-in smartphone mount. This lets us quickly capture video and stills of ourselves in action, which is especially useful for quick interviews and standups. We've recommended the Peak Design Carbon Fiber Travel Tripod to many for many years and continue to do so today. Plus, it comes with a ball head, mount, and all the tools you need so you're ready to hit the ground running once it arrives.We have found no better tripod for travel, event, and outdoor action sports photography. If your photo/video endeavors include frequent travel, this is the tripod you should invest in.">
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               9.3/10 Rating

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https://schema.org/Offer">https://rei.pxf.io/c/381569/1448521/17195?tt=cl&mi&pw=7185&u=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.rei.com%2Fproduct%2F180077%2Fpeak-design-carbon-travel-tripod&subId1=gjbgtechcameratripod" class="avantlink-buy-button" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener noreferrer">$600 at REIhttps://schema.org/InStock">

https://schema.org/Offer">https://www.amazon.com/dp/B085BQTQMN?/ctc=gjbgtechcameratripod-20" class="amazon-buy-button" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener noreferrer">$600 at Amazonhttps://schema.org/InStock">

https://backcountry.tnu8.net/c/381569/358742/5311?u=https%253A%252F%252Fwww.backcountry.com%252Fb%252Fpeak-design-travel-tripod" class="regular-buy-button" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener noreferrer">check price at Backcountry

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Best Budget Camera Tripod

https://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/1835929-REG/vanguard_veo_5_264cb160s_carbon_fiber_tripod_with.html?ctc=gjbgtechcameratripod" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener noreferrer">Vanguard VEO 5 264CB-160S Carbon Tripod

               https://s3.us-east-1.amazonaws.com/images.gearjunkie.com/uploads/2024/12/vanguard-veo-5-264cb-160s-carbon-tripod-w-dual-axis-head.jpg">            https://schema.org/Review">
               slope.Like many tripods on our list (except the Gitzo GT5543LS, which is bomber no matter what), this isn't the most stable system with legs fully extended and a heavier camera setup, so be mindful of weighing it down when you're at max height. When fully extended and weighted with our long lens (the Canon R5 and the Sigma 60-600), it is more stable than the Peak Design Carbon Fiber Travel Tripod due to its sturdy legs, but we wouldn't step too far away in a strong wind either.Our only other gripe is that we would like a less complicated way to remove the center column so we could easily take advantage of the lowest setting on the fly. To do this, you need tools and a few steps, so it's not something you can decide to do at the last minute when an animal is moving or when you're trying to capture the last fading moments of sunset.If you're looking for a versatile and affordable entry into tripods that will grow with you and meet your needs in the studio or the wild, the Vanguard VEO 5 delivers stability and solid features in an easily transportable package.">
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               7.8/10 Rating

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https://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/1835929-REG/vanguard_veo_5_264cb160s_carbon_fiber_tripod_with.html?ctc=gjbgtechcameratripod" class="regular-buy-button" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener noreferrer">Check price at B&H Photo Video

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Best Camera Tripod for Nature and Wildlife Photography

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07376ZKNN/?tag=gjbgtechcameratripod-20" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener noreferrer">Gitzo GT5543LS Series 5 Systematic Long Carbon Fiber Tripod

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               9.0/10 Rating

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https://schema.org/Offer">https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07376ZKNN/?tag=gjbgtechcameratripod-20" class="amazon-buy-button" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener noreferrer">$1,560 at Amazonhttps://schema.org/InStock">

https://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/1328236-REG/gitzo_gt5543lsus_systematic_tripod_ser_5_4s.html?ctc=gjbgtechcameratripod" class="regular-buy-button" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener noreferrer">Check price at B&H Photo Video

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Best Phone Camera Tripod

https://rei.pxf.io/c/381569/1448521/17195?u=https%253A%252F%252Fwww.rei.com%252Fproduct%252F241104%252Fpeak-design-mobile-tripod" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener noreferrer">Peak Design Mobile Tripod

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               accessories.At around $80, it's not cheap. Premium materials, sleek design, and seamless integration are worth it, but it's a significant investment compared to other mobile tripods. Like all pocket tripods, it's only a few inches tall, so it needs to sit on a raised surface or be combined with a stand for eye-level use. It's fantastic for tabletop work, but not a replacement for a full-height tripod. The magnets are strong for general use, but we don't rely on them alone during activities like running or biking (add the Peak Design locking system for that). While the tripod technically works with MagSafe, it performs best with the Peak Design Case, so there's that additional expense as well, but it's worth it. The Peak Design Mobile Tripod is a beautifully designed, thoughtfully crafted tool for anyone serious about smartphone content creation. It's minimalist, ultra-portable, and extremely useful. If you're tired of flimsy mobile stands and want something that looks as good as it performs, this is it.">
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               8.8/10 Rating

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https://rei.pxf.io/c/381569/1448521/17195?u=https%253A%252F%252Fwww.rei.com%252Fproduct%252F241104%252Fpeak-design-mobile-tripod" class="regular-buy-button" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener noreferrer">Check price at REIhttps://backcountry.tnu8.net/c/381569/358742/5311?u=https%253A%252F%252Fwww.backcountry.com%252Fpeak-design-mobile-tripod" class="regular-buy-button" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener noreferrer">Check price at Backcountry

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Best Monopod for Travel

https://www.amazon.com/Legged-Thing-Legends-Carbon-Monopod/dp/B0CGDTTSCJ/?tag=gjbgtechcameratripod-20" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener noreferrer">3 Legged Thing Legends Lance Carbon Fibre Monopod

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               today.At just over 1 pound, it's incredibly light, but according to the manufacturer, it can support a whopping 132 pounds — more than enough for heavy DSLRs and long lenses. We'll admit we never tested the weight limit to its fullest extent since even our heaviest camera setup only weighs about 20 pounds. We were surprised at the stability and support it offered, even with this heavy load.At about 80 inches tall when extended and just 24 inches packed down, we found the Lance ideal for travel and shooting on uneven terrain, or over fences and other people. This came in handy at bear jams in the Tetons, which can get fairly busy. It's easy to strap to a backpack or slide into a carry-on, making it a top travel tripod choice; we brought it to film brown bears in Alaska, where space and weight were limited by float plane restrictions. The twist-lock O-Pads are quick, grippy, and glove-friendly, and the dual-thread mount makes it compatible with virtually any gear.It's worth noting that this monopod isn't designed for hands-free use — it doesn't come with tripod feet (like some video-focused monopods). However, the rubber base holds firm on most terrain, and the thread accepts spikes or accessories if needed. Plus, the Docz Foot Stabilizer, which we also tested, adds many options and stability to this already excellent option.The Lance Carbon Fibre Monopod is designed for outdoor shooters, sports photographers, and anyone needing reliable support on the move. Whether you're tracking wildlife in the field or filming a fast-moving event, the Lance provides a nimble and stable support solution without weighing you down. It may not be the cheapest on the market, but its build quality and lifetime warranty make it a worthy long-term investment.">
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               8.5/10 Rating

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https://schema.org/Offer">https://www.amazon.com/Legged-Thing-Legends-Carbon-Monopod/dp/B0CGDTTSCJ/?tag=gjbgtechcameratripod-20" class="amazon-buy-button" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener noreferrer">$150 at Amazonhttps://schema.org/InStock">

https://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/1788819-REG/3_legged_thing_lancekitdark_lance_carbon_fiber_monopod.html/" class="regular-buy-button" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener noreferrer">Check Monopod with Feet price at B&H Photo

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Best Overall Camera Tripod

9.3

How we rate products ⓘ

Specifications

Material:
Carbon fiber

Extended Height:
60"

Minimum Height:
5.5"

Folded Height:
15.5"

Weight:
2.81 lbs.

Leg Sections:
5

Max Load:
20 lbs.

Ball Head Included:
Yes

Pros

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                                    Lightweight

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                                    Compact

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                                    Can support a range of set ups

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                                    Easy and intuitive to deploy

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                                    Rugged

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                                    Built-in smartphone mount

Cons

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                                    Decreased stability when weighted & extended fully

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                                    Only two leg angle positions

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Read Review: https://gearjunkie.com/technology/camera/peak-design-travel-tripod-review">Peak Design Travel Tripod Lives Up to the Hype

The https://rei.pxf.io/c/381569/1448521/17195?tt=cl&mi&pw=7185&u=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.rei.com%2Fproduct%2F180077%2Fpeak-design-carbon-travel-tripod&subId1=gjbgtechcameratripod">Peak Design Carbon Travel Tripod ($599) offers utility and versatility in a very compact and transportable package. Oh, and it’s also impressively rugged. While there is an aluminum model, the carbon fiber version is the one to get and the one we've used for years all over the planet.

This tripod offers so much in a small package that it’s hard to even talk about all the goodness packed into its sub-three-pound design. While it packs down super small (15.5″ x 3.25″), it can expand up to 60 inches, which is plenty for nearly every shooting situation.

Though it can be used to shoot from just a few inches above the ground, we wish there were some intermediate leg angles, like the Vanguard VEO 5 264CB-160S Carbon Tripod has, for increased versatility. The aluminum cams (aka flip locks) that lock the five leg sections are secure and allow for super quick deployment and stowage of the tripod.

With a capacity of up to 20 pounds, the Peak Design Travel Tripod has been a solid companion for our full-frame DSLR and pro-level telephoto lens setups. However, it isn’t the most stable at max height. For instance, we experienced leg flexion when fully extended and weighted with a 60-600 telephoto lens.

The lowest section of the legs is rather skinny and spindly, so if we use a heavy setup, we prefer to use the tripod partially extended. Overall, it does provide impressive stability for such a lightweight, small, easy-to-use tripod, but we would be aware of shake when weighted or in windy situations. A load hook on the tripod also creates more stability if you add a hanging weight.

We've carried this tripod on shoots on three continents, on adventure motorcycles, in whitewater kayaks, on snowmobiles, and so much more. Its small size makes it easy to toss in a carry-on or attach to the outside of a backpack for hiking or backpacking adventures.

While it’s been covered in mud, sand, snow, and ice more than a few times, it still looks nearly new after many years. When on the go, we transport it in the included soft case, which has helped protect the carbon legs from abuse while traveling.

One of our favorite features, which we use often to capture social content, is the built-in smartphone mount. This lets us quickly capture video and stills of ourselves in action, which is especially useful for quick interviews and standups. We've recommended the Peak Design Carbon Fiber Travel Tripod to many for many years and continue to do so today. Plus, it comes with a ball head, mount, and all the tools you need so you're ready to hit the ground running once it arrives.

We have found no better tripod for travel, event, and outdoor action sports photography. If your photo/video endeavors include frequent travel, this is the tripod you should invest in.

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Best Budget Camera Tripod

7.8

How we rate products ⓘ

Specifications

Material:
Carbon fiber

Extended Height:
67"

Minimum Height:
9.4"

Folded Height:
23.9"

Weight:
3.9 lbs.

Leg Sections:
4

Max Load:
33 lbs.

Head Included:
Yes, VEO BH-160S Dual-Axis Ball Head

Pros

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                                    Lightweight

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                                    Packable

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                                    Legs adjustable to 3 angles open up options for shots

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                                    Retractable spiked feet increase stability on sketchy terrain

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                                    Can support a range of setups, including long lenses

Cons

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                                    Not the sturdiest when extended and heavily weighted

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                                    Can't remove center column easily/on fly

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Vanguard has been making solid tripods for almost 4 decades. Still, we're extremely excited about the recent release of the VEO 5 tripod series, the first update to its flagship VEO tripod line in several years. One product in the line, the https://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/1835929-REG/vanguard_veo_5_264cb160s_carbon_fiber_tripod_with.html?ctc=gjbgtechcameratripod">Vanguard VEO 5 264CB-160S Carbon Tripod w/ Dual-Axis Head ($350), stands out as an affordable, lightweight, high-performance tripod with thoughtful features sure to impress pros and hobbyists alike.

Designed with portability in mind, the Vanguard VEO 5 264CB-160S weighs just 3.9 pounds and folds up to under 2 feet, so we could fit it in a bigger carry-on for a flight or in/on our backpack for hikes. But, this compact package also delivers excellent stability. Simple and secure twist lock legs deploy quickly and hold up to 33 pounds, ensuring that even heavier camera setups stay stable.

Another feature we often take full advantage of is the adjustability of these legs. Being able to vary the tripod leg position to 3 different angles (23, 50, and 80 degrees) allows for greater versatility and creativity since it provides varied shooting options without having to move our feet.

This is especially helpful when capturing images of geothermal features in Yellowstone National Park, where we need to stay on boardwalks and can't move exactly where we want to get our ideal shot. It's also helpful when capturing images of wildlife in Grand Teton National Park, where we may need to set up on a steep incline or when we want to capture an eye-level image. In both instances, when we can't necessarily move our entire setup to a different location, the VEO 5 adapts to our needs.

The VEO 5 has another added bonus: retractable spiked feet that dig into the snow, ice, or dirt to increase stability on sketchy terrain. We take full advantage of these daily, especially in winter, when shooting images of moose in a frozen creek or the mountains from a slippery slope.

Like many tripods on our list (except the Gitzo GT5543LS, which is bomber no matter what), this isn't the most stable system with legs fully extended and a heavier camera setup, so be mindful of weighing it down when you're at max height. When fully extended and weighted with our long lens (the Canon R5 and the Sigma 60-600), it is more stable than the Peak Design Carbon Fiber Travel Tripod due to its sturdy legs, but we wouldn't step too far away in a strong wind either.

Our only other gripe is that we would like a less complicated way to remove the center column so we could easily take advantage of the lowest setting on the fly. To do this, you need tools and a few steps, so it's not something you can decide to do at the last minute when an animal is moving or when you're trying to capture the last fading moments of sunset.

If you're looking for a versatile and affordable entry into tripods that will grow with you and meet your needs in the studio or the wild, the Vanguard VEO 5 delivers stability and solid features in an easily transportable package.

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