Ranking the best desktop tripods for cameras in 2022

For those who earn as photographers, videographers and bloggers on YouTube, special equipment is simply necessary. Now let's talk about tabletops.

Using a tripod is an easy and affordable way to instantly improve the quality of your photos and videos. This improvement occurs due to changes in stabilization, composition, panning, etc. In this article, we'll break down the rankings of the best tabletop tripods for all budgets, cameras, and applications. Everyone has a chance to shoot at a professional level.

Top Best Desktop Tripods for All Budgets, Cameras and Uses

Professionals recommend using a tripod for the best shots. For avid photographers, this is an essential camera accessory to help you capture the perfect shot. When using a tripod, you can shoot from a distance without worrying about accidentally shaking the camera. Or set up group shots with the self-timer. There are so many ways to use the fixture when shooting, so we recommend that you pay attention to the rating of the most common models of tabletop tripods.

The range includes monopods, DSLR tripods, mini tripods and even trendy tripods from top brands. We recommend that you read reviews of various models and determine which option is right for your camera needs.

Whether you're looking for a monopod, a mini tripod, or a standard device, there's a great selection today from leading brands including Manfrotto and Velbon. The tripods of the latter are very popular. They are well-built and reliable, and in addition offer a number of features that make it easier to get the perfect picture as a result.

Best Travel Camera Tripod - Gitzo GT1544T Series 1 6X Traveler

Characteristics:

• Material: carbon fiber;
• Maximum load: 8 kg;
• Max. height: 142 cm;
• Folded: 42.5 cm;
• Leg sections: 4;
• Weight: 980 g;
• Price: about $600.

Gitzo is owned by the same parent company as Manfrotto and specializes in high quality tripods for amateur and professional photographers.

The GT1544T is for those who need a tripod with high load capacity without sacrificing durability or functionality. To that end, each of its leg sections is made up of 6-inch Gitzo carbon fiber, which provides excellent stiffness and helps keep the overall weight down.

Gitzo's patented design allows each leg to flex 180 degrees, allowing them to fully wrap around both the center column and a small tripod head (not included). It can support up to 8kg and has a maximum extended height of 142cm.

• Legs flex 180°;
• Withstands up to 8kg load;
• Suitable for both professional photography and beautiful amateur shots.

• Tripod head not included;
• No bubble level;
• Not always stable;
• Expensive.

Velbon Ultra 655

Characteristics:

• Material: Aluminum;
• Maximum load: 4kg;
• Max. height: 154 cm;
• Closed length: 37.2cm;
• Leg sections: 5;
• Weight: 1.3 kg;
• Price: about $160.

Velbon makes decent budget tripods well suited for use with lighter cameras and lens combinations.

The recently announced Ultra 655 is the flagship model in the "Compact System" line and is ideal for medium DSLRs and standard zooms.

It utilizes the patented Velbon Driven Roller System (TSS) where each leg extends the entire inside length of the leg's outer casing to provide a strong, stable maximum height of 154cm and also an impressively compact 37.2cm when folded.

The lower part of the center column can be removed, allowing you to set up a tripod only 13.3 cm, completely untie your legs.

• Patented Velbon Driven Roller System (TSS);
• the lower part of the center column can be removed;
• stable and reliable.

• Withstands up to 4kg load;
• Suitable for use with lighter cameras and lens combinations.

Sirui Easy Traveler ET-2204 - the best tripod

Characteristics:

• Material: carbon fiber;
• Maximum load: 12 kg;
• Max. height: 144 cm;
• Closed length: 43cm;
• Leg sections: 4;
• Weight: 1.37 kg;
• Price: about $300.

The ET-2204 comes with an E-20 ball head mount and uses toggle locks that are easy to open and close even when wearing gloves, such as on cold days.

Each leg can be set to one of three angles: 21, 52 and 81 degrees, while a shorter center column is also mounted, allowing shooting from a minimum height of 13.5cm.

The center column also features an equipment hook, non-slip rubber feet and two foam foot warmers for easier use in cold or wet weather. Legs can be rotated 180 degrees to cover the center column and E-20 ball head for a closed length of 43 cm.

Sirui also offers the ET-2004 in aluminum for a fraction of the price, but it's better to opt for a carbon fiber tripod as it's lighter and stronger.

• Withstands heavy loads (up to 12 kg);
• There is a hook for equipment;
• Legs turn 180°;
• Made with carbon fiber;
• ball head;
• Lever locks with lever mechanism.

• Not identified.

3 Legged Thing Evolution 3 Pro Roger Alloy

Characteristics:

• Material: magnesium alloy;
• Maximum load: 30 kg;
• Max. height: 165 cm;
• Folded: 40 cm;
• Leg sections: 5;
• Weight: 1.67 kg;
• Price: about $300.

Series 3 Legged Thing ‘Evolution’ consists of four models: Brian, Roger, Steve and Nigel. While Steve is primarily designed for studio use, the other three models are advertised as tripods.

Roger is the cheapest and still the most award-nominated Brian. The main difference is that Roger has magnesium alloy legs.

The same very strong ParaLock locking feet are available with reinforced TPR 80 clamps for use in all weather conditions. Also, the Roger model shares the same modular design as the other Evolution 3 models, so users can order additional accessories.

You can even unscrew one of the legs and use it as a monopod.

• There are strong ParaLock locking legs;
• You can use accessories from other Evolution 3 models;
• Can be used as a monopod;
• Withstands heavy loads.

• Leg material is magnesium alloy. Not practical, these tripods are often less durable than aluminum or carbon fiber tripods.

Best for Landscape Photography and Composition - Aluminum Vanguard Alta Pro 263AB

Characteristics:

• Weight: 2 kg;
• Rolled Height: 24.75";
• Extended Height: 65";
• Maximum load: 7 kg.;
• Price: about $200.

Pictures of breathtaking landscapes are, one might say, the main bread for every photographer. This is a great way to take your camera outside and learn how to take amazing pictures.

Bloggers and online sellers often take photos of layouts and compositions. But what exactly is the best tripod for such photos?

Our site offers to pay attention to the Vanguard Alta Pro model, which will serve its owner perfectly. What are its advantages? Unique legs that can be positioned on any plane, allowing you to shoot over a wide range of surfaces and landscapes.

• Unique legs;
• Professional, suitable for shooting indoors, and for excellent landscape shots.

• Heavy enough.

Best for iPhone - Manfrotto Mini Tripod

Characteristics:

• Weight: 230 grams;
• Rolled Height: 5.31";
• Extended Height: 5.31";
• Maximum load: 1kg.;
• Price: about $30.

In the last couple of years, smartphone users have become more serious about their cameras. You don't have to look far to see that the latest iPhone X has amazing sensors that capture pro-level photos.

So just like a professional camera, an iPhone or smartphone also deserves its own tripod. Manfrotto Mini is designed for smartphones and has a very lightweight design that can just fit in your pocket! Folding the legs together also makes it a great iPhone monopod.

• compact dimensions when folded;
• light weight;
• ergonomic shape;
• comfortable to hold in hand.

• poor set.

Best for Video - Magnus VT-4000 Tripod System with Floating Adjustable Head

Characteristics:

• Weight: 7.9 kg;
• Rolled Height: 27.2";
• Unfolded Height: 59";
• Maximum load: 3.6 kg;
• Price: around $150.

The modern world dictates different rules to the community, and today video is a priority format for promotion. If you want to shoot popular videos and clips, using a tripod is an absolute must!

After a lot of research on various models on the market, the choice fell on the Magnus VT-4000 Fluid Head, which is extremely functional and will not make a massive hole in the wallet.

If you're planning to record video that requires panning, tracking, or flipping frames, this tripod is a must have. It also features a rugged 59" aluminum body and a 3.6kg weight capacity so it can handle the largest DSLR cameras.

Surprisingly, this model is made of aluminum alloy and has three locking legs, a three-way head with 360-degree swivel function and a quick release plate. Which confirms the fact that a "budget" tripod doesn't necessarily mean a bad product.

• Budget due to the material used - aluminum alloy;
• There are three fixing legs;
• Triangular head with 360 degree swivel function;
• Quick release plate.

• Not detected.

The best tripod from Manfrotto - Manfrotto Befree Advanced

Characteristics:

• Material: Aluminum;
• Maximum load: 8 kg;
• Maximum height: 151 cm;
• Closed length: 40cm;
• Leg sections: 4;
• Weight: 1.59 kg;
• Price: around $180.

The Manfrotto Befree series is a great option if you want to use a compact 4-section travel tripod. Here we're looking at the Befree Advanced, which is designed for serious amateur photographers on the move.

It features an excellent Manfrotto 494 ball head with three controls to lock the ball head, adjust friction and pan the camera 360 degrees. The 200PL Pro board is compatible with RC2 and Arca-swiss.

However, it doesn't attach as easily as old-fashioned Manfrotto quick release 200PL plates.

The locking lever on our sample proved to be very strong, holding each part of the leg tightly with no signs of slipping. The legs can be set to three angle positions, guaranteeing total shooting versatility for all the creative ideas that can come up outdoors.

All in all, the Befree Advanced is a sturdy 4 section aluminum tripod. This model won't take the lead as the lightest or cheapest travel tripod, but it's strong, durable and will certainly do the job of providing a stable base in all the different types of terrain a photographer might encounter while traveling.
With the ability to handle a maximum load of 8.8 pounds, this tripod is best suited for home DSLR camera use.While it's great for photography, it's also doubly suitable as a video tool. This tripod is equipped with a 360° panning head, great for panning or tilting shots.

Another little thing that users will definitely appreciate is the significant grip on the tripod legs and the adjustable head level.

• Good grip on legs
• Adjustable head level.

• The price is not cheap;
• Heavy enough.

The best from Benro - Benro Slim

Characteristics:

• Material: carbon fiber;
• Maximum load: 4kg;
• Maximum height: 146.3 cm;
• Closed length: 51 cm;
• Leg sections: 4;
• Weight: 1.01 kg;
• Price: about $140.

Reviewing this carbon fiber tripod at a very affordable price might seem too good to be true. But that's exactly what Benro has achieved with this Slim model (TSL08CN00). There are not many modern additions to the design, but the price primarily includes the stability and reliability of the fastening of the legs, as well as the excellent quality of the ball head.

So how did Benro achieve this incredible success? The answer lies in creating a simplified model that avoids many of the embellishments common to other manufacturers. You don't have reverse pleated legs for a shorter packaged length or a detachable monopod or foam grips on the legs. It's just an old fashioned tripod.

But that doesn't mean the design is simplistic. The carbon fiber quad legs can be installed independently at three corners, and the swivel leg locks can be opened together with one half-turn motion. All controls are large and short, so they are easy to close.

The supplied Benro ball head has a neat design, with two buttons to switch the camera to portrait format. However, the usefulness of the graduated panoramic base is somewhat compromised by the fact that it shares a lock with the main ball mechanism.

The design has a couple more flaws. Rectangular locks certainly look good in blue. However, not all users will be willing to handle them in cold weather - a rubberized finish would be more practical.

This set of Benro Slim carbon fiber tripods has a few negative points, but they are easy to forgive for the bargain price. Overall, this is a great budget option when you can get around them by shooting in natural light.

• Completed ball head;
• Stable and reliable.

• The main ball mechanism and the lock are separated by a graduated panoramic base - inconvenient;
• Not always practical rectangular locks;
• Neat but slightly old-fashioned design;
• More suitable for shooting in natural light.

Manfrotto 190 Go!

Characteristics:

• Material: Aluminum;
• Maximum load: 7kg;
• Max. height: 146 cm;
• Closed length: 45cm;
• Leg sections: 4;
• Weight: 1.67 kg;
• Price: about $200.

The Manfrotto 190 series has been around for years, but the 190 Go! the first model in which Manfrotto used twist toe locks instead of toggle locks.

190 Go! is also the lightest and smallest model to date. However, the model is still solid enough to support DSLR cameras and a 70-200mm f/2.8 lens.

On the other hand, it is equipped with an Easy Link connector that can be used to attach accessories such as an LED indicator or a reflector. 190 Go! also comes with an adjustable center column that can be set to 90 degrees to help create creative leans, as well as four separate leg angles that allow for more flexibility.

• Lightweight and practical model;
• Swivel legs are used instead of lever locks;
• Equipped with an Easy Link connector, can be used to mount accessories such as LED indicator or reflector;
• Adjustable center column - can be set to 90° and plus a 360° swivel function.

• Durable, but not for heavy loads;
• Not always stable;
• The price could have been lower.

Best Carbon Fiber - ZOMEi Z669C

Characteristics:

• Weight: 3.4 kg;
• Rolled Height: 14";
• Extended Height: 6";
• Maximum load: 7.3 kg;
• Price: about $140-150.

As experience shows, when a user switches to carbon fiber, there is no going back. Some of the most useful benefits of using a carbon fiber tripod are that they are extremely light, stronger than aluminum and metal, and can hold a lot more weight. At the same time, they tend to be a little more expensive, but it makes sense to pay a little more in our opinion.

Compared to others on this list, the ZOMEI Z669C Monopod Portable Carbon Tripod weighs similarly, but has a maximum load capacity of 7.3kg, which is pretty remarkable for a device that only weighs 3.4kg.

Also like all good tripods, the Zomei has a reversible center column, 5 swivel legs, a 360-degree metal head with a level, and it can also turn into a full round monopod.

• Material - carbon fiber;
• Good load capacity;
• Metal head with level;
• Converts to a round monopod.

• Not identified.

Best for Astrophotography - Dolica GX600B200 Proline GX Series

Characteristics:

• Weight: 3.4 kg;
• Rolled Height: 20";
• Extended Height: 60";
• Maximum load: 11.3 kg (15 lbs);
• Price: $50.

When it comes to capturing stars in the sky, there are only two things you need from a tripod. The first of these is an extremely stable base, and the second is the movement of the ball head. One large tripod that has both of these features is the Dolica GX600B200.

It also features a retractable center hook which is great for hanging a sandbag or backpack for added stability. A very valuable tool for any photographer!

• Stable on all surfaces;
• Retractable center hook;
• Large load capacity;
• Ball head rotates 360°.

• A little heavy.

Best for blogging videos - Joby GorillaPod

Characteristics:

• Weight: 455 grams;
• Rolled Height: 11.4";
• Extended Height: 11.4";
• Maximum load: 3 kg;
• Price: up to $25.

There is no doubt that Vloggers have taken the world by storm in the last 2 years. Generally, to start Vlogging, you need a flip screen camera and preferably a tripod.

After a few tests, the Joby GorillaPod stainless steel model is sure to be a real find and you will get an extremely valuable tool. In essence, this tripod provides a wider shooting angle, and also allows you to position the camera in an infinite number of positions. The presence of connecting seams also allows this tripod to be attached to almost any surface.

• Compact dimensions;
• Quick preparation for work;
• High strength and stability even with heavy cameras;
• Transition screw included (for installing a professional head);
• 360-degree flexible legs that can cling to anything.

• Not identified.

Best for real estate and architectural photography - Manfrotto MK290XTA3-3WUS 290

Characteristics:

• Weight: 2 kg;
• Rolled Height: 24";
• Extended Height: 58";
• Maximum load: 3.6 kg;
• Price: about $150.

Architectural photography requires certain technical equipment.

One tripod that is perfect for this type of shooting is the Manfrotto MK290XTA3.

This model has an extremely solid build quality that provides a stable platform suitable for real-time shooting. This unit also features 3-axis movement, allowing for micro-adjustments that are essential for indoor and outdoor photography or portrait shots.

• The Manfrotto MK290XTA3 can be very finely tuned thanks to its 3-axis movement;
• Stable;
• There is a stable platform;
• Sturdy build.

• So many additional settings are not always needed.

Dolica AX620B100 62" - ideal for people photography

Characteristics:

• Weight: 1.8 kg;
• Rolled Height: 22.5";
• Extended Height: 62";
• Maximum load: 7.25 kg;
• Price: up to $50.

Users should like the excellent balance between functionality and good build quality. The price of this model is also quite affordable and competitive. The device is used for a wide range of purposes such as landscape photography, portrait photography, astro photography and wedding photography.

That is why the Dolica AX620B100 easily earns a place as a favorite among the common people for photography, video, YouTube and more. Dolica is also a reputable brand, so you can be sure that you are getting a quality product!

• Ideal for photographing people;
• Affordable price;
• Perfect for both photo and video shooting;
• Fast installation and packing back.

• Not detected.

Best for Hiking - Neewer Carbon Fiber 66"

Characteristics:

• Weight: 1.8 kg;
• Rolled Height: 21";
• Extended Height: 66";
• Maximum load: 11.8 kg (26 lbs);
• Price: up to $100.

If you have been looking for your tripod for a long time or choosing among various manufacturers’ offers for a long time, then you will surely agree that there is a monopod, tripod, tripod for each application. In many ways, a user needs almost the same features from a tripod for landscape photography as it does for hiking. However, the added ability to turn the tripod into a monopod is a very important feature for hiking and photography.

When reviewing, it is the Neewer Carbon Fiber Tripod/Monopod that catches the eye, which has a wide range of features, including carbon fiber construction, swivel legs, studded feet, rubber grip and a ball head that provides 360-degree range. Combine these characteristics in one and you have one multipurpose tripod!

• Carbon fiber construction;
• Swivel and studded legs;
• Rubber grip;
• Ball head with 360 degree range.

• Not identified.

Best Travel - JOBY GorillaPod SLR Zoom

Characteristics:

• Weight: 340 grams;
• Rolled Height: 12.5";
• Extended Height: 12.5";
• Maximum load: 3 kg;
• Price: up to $50.

Next on our list is the JOBY GorillaPod. The design is rather strange, it looks like some kind of octopus. In fact, this is one of the best lightweight travel tripods on the market as it comes with a weight of 340 grams. A true light weight that packs a pro punch!

This device can literally attach itself to any surface, including trees, poles, rocks, benches, which also makes it extremely functional. It can also work with DSLR cameras weighing up to 3kg.

Our website highly recommends this tripod for Vloggers, Bloggers, Travelers and other hobbyists as its small footprint and adaptability are unmatched.

 

• Lightweight and compact, with good load capacity - can withstand cameras up to 3kg;
• Attach to any surface - very functional;
• Flexible legs.

• Not detected.

Best for GoPro - JOBY GPod Mini Magnetic

Characteristics:

• Weight: 40 grams;
• Rolled Height: 6.7";
• Extended Height: 6.7";
• Maximum load: 310 grams;
• Price: up to $50.

Like the iPhone, GoPros also deserve their tripods. If you own a GoPro, you know the variety of accessories for your camera, but where do you start?

One accessory that stands above the rest is the JOBY GPod Mini, specially designed for the GoPro. Just like the Joby tripods mentioned above, this one can be attached to almost any surface. It also has magnets built into the base of the legs, allowing you to attach it to any stainless steel surface.

• Flexible and lightweight tabletop tripod;
• There are magnets at the base of the legs;
• Easily attaches and holds steady;
• Affordable price.

• Not identified.

conclusions

First of all, you need to understand that there is no ideal tripod for everyone. Each professional photographer or amateur chooses his ideal model among the many available on the market. There are three main characteristics - stability, lightness and reasonable price, but at the same time a tripod can combine no more than two of them. That is, in any case, you need to clearly understand the place of use of the tripod and then choose your model. By the way, often for the same reason, professionals usually have several tripods for different occasions.

Models - a great variety and also a lot of manufacturers. Mostly Chinese. But in order to minimize the error when buying, it is recommended to pay attention to three - Gitzo, Manfrotto and specialized Joby GorillaPod. Most likely, it is the last two, since these tripods are the most popular now and are 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, it makes no sense to risk buying a cheap gadget of dubious quality.

If we talk about the material, then most often the choice is between aluminum and carbon tripods. Aluminum tripods are cheaper, more stable and heavier. Carbon fiber - significantly lighter, usually less stable and more expensive. Aluminum tripods are less susceptible to wind due to their greater weight. But carbon absorbs vibration more efficiently, which means it behaves better with telephotos.

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

Choosing a tripod for your camera

So what should you pay attention to when choosing and what characteristics should a camera tripod have in order for it to become an indispensable assistant to a photographer? The choice of a tripod should begin with determining the list of its tasks. For example, when working in a studio or when shooting at home, the weight of a folded tripod and the length are not so significant, but for location shooting and, especially, for travel, where all grams of weight are calculated, this is an important point. It is worth paying attention to the height of the device in the most unfolded form and the maximum load in order to choose the right model both “for growth” and for your equipment. The case included in the kit will be very useful for fans of location shooting, if you do not have a backpack with the appropriate mounts.