Best Budget Tripod

17 Best Budget Tripods

Many manufacturers offer really decent and low-cost devices. But I would like to warn you that it is possible to come across products of terrible quality. This list will help you avoid that. To compile it, I tested a variety of cheap tripods. Here is the collection of 17 monopods and best tripods for DSLR cameras.

1. Dolica AX620B100

Weight: 4 lbs
Product’s Dimensions: 24 x 5 x 5 in

The tripod was developed specifically for digital SLR and point-and-shoot cameras. It may handle up to 13.2 lbs and has quick release leg locks and plate, non-slip feet made of rubber, ball head and bubble level. The Dolica aluminum alloy model is considered to be the best travel tripod under 100, as it can help you realize all the possible outdoor photography ideas and shoot at long exposures at night. What is more, the tripod will handle indoor photo shoots excellently.

• Check this post if you’re looking for the best travel tripod.

2. Bonfoto B671A

Weight: 2.91 lbs
Product’s Dimensions: 17.5 x 4.6 x 4.2 in

Cheap price doesn't always imply poor quality and this best budget DSLR tripod is the proof. It is very stable thanks to the securely locked legs, which are very useful if you take photos in the mountains. They are multi-functional, meaning that they may be extended and set up without any difficulties, in each and every way you choose. Besides, the tripod impresses us with the sturdiness for its size.

3. JOBY Gorilla Pod 5K Kit

Weight: 1.6 lbs
Product’s Dimensions: 2.5 x 15 x 2.5 in

As the legs of this best professional tripod are wrapped with some special material, the photographer is able to attach his or her piece of equipment to almost at any type of the surface. More than 20 joints with rubberized rings and foot grips give it the ability to flex or swivel. As a result, it can be easily used even in challenging terrain. There are some features that make this cheap tripod similar to the top-quality models. For example, the knobs have a grippy, mild touch to the rubber, and the adjustments are smooth and flexible. The parts do not look low-quality or shaky.

4. Flip Tripod

Weight: 3.2 ounces
Product’s Dimensions: 2.2 x 7 x 7 in

Take a look at this versatile and compact tripod which can be used with any type of the Flip Video camcorder. Many amateur photographers like that this camera makes it easy to capture all the action. It doesn’t matter whether the user is standing or on the go. At the same time, the device performs the function of a stationary tripod that allows for making steady video or photo shoots. All you need is to unfold the legs and place them. If you want to record action-packed video, use the attachable straps to attach the tripod to your bike handlebars, helmet or any other gear.

5. Breffo Spiderpodium

Weight: 5 ounces
Product’s Dimensions: 1 x 9 x 7 in

Although this device isn’t suitable for heavy professional equipment, it’s surely one of the best camera tripods that cost less than $100. This is the best choice for those who prefer taking photos with their smartphones. It is called the octopod, because it is equipped with eight legs. Helping to attach your equipment at any angle, this tripod gives you a chance to take wonderful pictures and realize your experimental ideas.

• Read about the best iPhone tripod if you use your smartphone for photography.

6. UBeesize 55-Inch Lightweight Aluminum Travel Tripod

Weight: 2.7 lbs
Product’s Dimensions: 23 x 5 x 4.5 in

Although it costs less than $30, it has excellent construction. The manufacturer used high-quality aluminum alloy tubes to make the tripod ultra-sturdy and long-lasting. Pay attention to its self-adjusting rubber feet. In combination with a counterweight hook at the bottom of the center column, it makes this device perfectly stabilized. The four section column legs have fast lever-locks. This gives the user the ability to choose heights from 21” to 55” in only a few moments. This model is especially suitable for travel lovers because you can carry it in an ordinary suitcase or backpack without any problems. As a pleasant bonus, there is a special case to take this tripod on various trips.

7. ESDDI TP30 55inches Tripod

Weight: 3.3 lbs
Product’s Dimensions: 19.9 x 4.2 x 4.2 in

The tripod is suitable for video and digital cameras, smartphones and GoPro gadgets. Thanks to its professionally designed handle, you are free to carry the tripod to outdoor photo sessions or even travel without problems. Moreover, it can be adjusted for any type of surface and takes the appropriate position with the flexible ball joint. The model can handle up to 11lbs and will give you beautiful panoramic views with its 360-degree swivel feature. All the functions mentioned above certainly make it the best lightweight tripod for backpacking.

8. Velbon CX-300

Weight: 2.42 lbs
Product’s Dimensions: 21.3 x 4 x 57 in

This model is equipped with a center column that moves smoothly up and down and can handle up to 3.3 pounds of various gear. The aluminum Velbon CX-300 is absolutely superb for owners of video camcorders and small 35 mm cameras. The stability and quick setup are ensured due to the side-lever leg locks.

9. Regetek Camera Tripod

Weight: 3.63 lbs
Product’s Dimensions: 23.4 x 4.5 x 4.5 in

This model comes with all the possible functions for your convenience: a large handle for easy transportation, the ability to be converted into a monopod, knobs and flip-locks to adjust leg height. For extra stability, the manufacturer included a hood for hanging the bag. By the way, a gift box and a portable case come with the package. The users particularly admire the ability to remove the pole and make the tripod even more compact. The solid legs provide constant steadiness. All in all, it is the best travel tripod under 100 which could be your faithful companion during outdoor photo sessions.

10. Vanguard Alta Pro 263AB 100 Aluminum Tripod Kit

Weight: 5.38 lbs
Product’s Dimensions: 30.7 x 5.1 x 4.7 in

This tripod has everything you could ever wish for – good steadiness, flexibility and top quality. Alta Pro designed functions well, like an ample variety of shooting angles that will surely please any photography enthusiast. Undoubtedly, Alta Pro is the best affordable tripod that will ensure successful work, even in the most extraordinary shooting conditions.

• Find more best tripods for DSLR that you may use in the studios.

11. XILETU T284C+FB1

Weight: 5.7 lbs
Product’s Dimensions: 20.3 x 5.5 x 5.5 in

We can consider this piece of equipment the best value tripod because it is made of high-quality, durable materials. The device shows a successful combination of carbon fiber legs and the lightest elements. Therefore, we receive an ultra-strong tripod with minimal weight. You will enjoy the flexibility of this tripod and will be able to take photos in even unusual or extreme locations. Remember that the safety lock system for the ball head protects it from slipping off or falling off the camera. Using the 360-degree panning function, you will be able to take fantastic photos of landscapes or cityscapes.

12. Geekoto 75 Aluminum Alloy 360 Degree Ball Head Tripod

Weight: 5.75 lbs
Product’s Dimensions: 20.8 x 5.2 x 5.2 in

The process of taking panoramic shots is simplified due to the specifically integrated ball head with the ability to rotate 360° and get desirable angles. In case you need to quickly convert it into a monopod, just detach the central axis screw in one swift motion. The DSLR camera steadiness and security during photo shoots are ensured, as the tripod can handle up to 22.04lbs and has a wide aluminum alloy tube. Therefore, it is the best tripod for real estate photography which efficiently satisfies the needs of photographers.

13. Avella VD501L

Weight: 11.45 lbs
Product’s Dimensions: 39 x 15.1 x 6.1 in

The best affordable tripod has a lightweight design, which is suitable for traveling. You will pay only $170 for it and enjoy its excellent functionality. Pay attention to the fact that the net weight of the device is 3.7kg, while the maximum weight capacity is 6kg. That means you can use really heavy professional photo equipment without any risks. The two-way fluid head has a tilt range of -70-degrees/+90-degrees. You can stabilize your equipment on any surface because the feet of the best budget DSLR tripod has removable rubber pads. Moreover, there is a nice bag that protects the device during transportation.

14. MeFoto Roadtrip Carbon Fiber Travel Tripod Kit

Weight: 3.1 lbs
Product’s Dimensions: 15.4 x 3 x 3

The RoadTrip model definitely belongs on the list of good but cheap tripods that are capable of folding down to approximately 15". It is a sort of a transformer, as you can add a foam-cushioned detachable leg to the center column and turn the device into a monopod in one swift motion. The model is characterized by steadiness, compactness and the ability to handle up to 17.6lbs and extend to 5.1', which makes it the best tripod for travel.

15. Manfrotto Befree Compact Travel Carbon Fiber Tripod

Weight: 2.43 lbs
Product’s Dimensions: 15.75 x 5 x 5 in

The tripod is often praised for its compactness as you can fold the legs around the ball head to 15.75". This particular feature makes it the best budget travel tripod. Aside from its portability, it is steady, may handle 8.8 lbs and capable of extending to 56.7". With two-position leg angle stops, you may expand the legs separately if necessary. Top-quality pictures are guaranteed if you use this model.

16. Manfrotto MK190XPRO3-BHQ2 Aluminum Tripod 

Weight: 6.61 lbs
Product’s Dimensions: 5.51 x 5.51 x 28.35 in

Manfrotto is widely known as the best company that produces professional tripods of top-grade quality. You would be satisfied with the steady performance and rotatable bubble level that is clearly visible in any position of the tripod. It can withstand any harsh weather conditions thanks to the rubber leg warmers. The Quick Power Lock System ensures full extension of the tripod using only one hand and, as a result, a swift setup. It is undoubtedly the best value tripod with a fantastic visual design.

17. Oben AC-1441 4-Section Aluminum Tripod 

Weight: 11 lbs
Product’s Dimensions: 24.1 x 5 x 4.9 in

This tripod provides you with the ability to adjust the angles at each leg joint from extremely low (24°) to low (55°) and normal (80°). The aluminum three-section legs and BA-111 Ball Head contribute to the tripod’s flexibility, sturdiness and reliability. Furthermore, the Oben AC-1441 4-Section Tripod is an ideal match not only for DSLRs, it is also the best tripod for video and point-and-shoot cameras up to 11 lbs.

List of Best Budget Tripods

Image	NAME	DETAILS
	Dolica AX620B100 OUR CHOICE	Aluminum alloy 4 lbs 24 x 5 x 5 in	Check PRICE →
	BONFOTO 671A BEST UNDER $100	Aluminum 2.91 lbs 17.5 x 4.6 x 4.2 in	Check PRICE →
	Vanguard Alta Pro 263AB 100 Tripod SBH-100 FOR DSLR	Aluminum 5.38 lbs 30.7 x 5.1 x 4.7 in	Check PRICE →
	Manfrotto Befree Compact Travel Tripod	Carbon Fiber 2.43 lbs 15.75 x 5 x 5 in	Check PRICE →
	Manfrotto MK190XPRO3-BHQ2 Aluminum Tripod BEST MANFROTTO	Aluminum 6.61 lbs 5.51 x 5.51 x 28.35 in	Check PRICE →
	Velbon CX-300	Aluminum 2.42 lbs 21.3 x 4 x 57 in	Check PRICE →
	Oben AC-1441 4-Section Aluminum Tripod	Aluminum 11 lbs 24.1 x 5 x 4.9 in	Check PRICE →
	MeFoto Roadtrip Carbon Fiber Travel Tripod Kit HEAVY LENSES	Carbon Fiber 3.1 lbs 15.4 x 3 x 3	Check PRICE →
	ESDDI Camera Tripod	Aluminum 3.3 lbs 19.9 x 4.2 x 4.2 in	Check PRICE →
	Regetek 70" Camera Tripod & Monopod FOR TRAVELLING	Aluminum 3.63 lbs 23.4 x 4.5 x 4.5 in	Check PRICE →
	Geekoto 75’’ Tripod	Aluminum alloy 5.75 lbs 20.8 x 5.2 x 5.2 in	Check PRICE →
	JOBY GorillaPod 5K Kit	ABS Plastic, Aluminum, Rubber, Stainless Steel, Steel, TPE 1.6 lbs 2.5 x 15 x 2.5 in	Check PRICE →
	UBeesize 55-Inch Tripod BEST UNDER $30	Aluminum 2.7 lbs 23 x 5 x 4.5 in	Check PRICE →
	Avella VD501L	Carbon Fiber 11.45 lbs 39 x 15.1 x 6.1 in	Check PRICE →
	XILETU T284C+FB1	Carbon Fiber 5.7 lbs 20.3 x 5.5 x 5.5 in	Check PRICE →
	Flip Tripod	Plastic 3.2 ounces 2.2 x 7 x 7 in	Check PRICE →
	Breffo Spiderpodium	Steel, rubber 5 ounces 1 x 9 x 7 in	Check PRICE →

How to Choose the Best Budget Tripod?

When looking for the best budget tripod, you risk buying a bulky or unstable piece of equipment. That’s why you should attentively examine the list of factors. It will help you purchase a really durable and easy-to-use budget tripod that will meet your requirements.

1. Type of material

It influences the price and durability of equipment, its weight and mobility. The most widespread material for cheap tripods is aluminum. This metal isn’t expensive and provides good handling of all details. You may notice that aluminum is weaker than carbon fiber from the technical point of view. But it is still sturdy enough. As a result, if you want to buy a tripod for a reasonable price, you are more likely to find an aluminum one.

2. Payload

The main rule is that it’s impossible to find a multi-purpose tripod that will suit all types and genres of photography. That means you should consider your purposes when choosing the best budget tripod. The first thing to do is check the weight capacity. If you need a sturdy device, then find an option with higher weight capacity. At the same time, the capacity shouldn’t exceed your heaviest gear. This means the weight of accessories, for example, flashes. For photographers who have a small and lightweight piece of equipment, it’s better to buy a compact low-priced tripod.

3. Number of leg sections

If you are interested in the best tripod under 100, it’s a good idea to choose legs that have fewer sections. Of course, such equipment isn’t very convenient for transportation, but provide better stability for your camera.

4. Tripod Head

People often ask those, who write camera tripod reviews, “Do tripods work for any camera?” You should understand that they do not mean the tripod, but the mount on the device. This is the reason why this detail is crucial. In most cases, the mounts are usually standard. So, the tripod can be used with any model of amateur or professional camera. If you choose a model with a basic head, you will pay a reasonable price and enjoy good stability. But if you plan to make videos, it’s better to find a tripod with a ball head. In any case, video heads are costly.

5. Quick Release Plate

A mounting screw allows for attaching a camera by screwing it into a hole found at the bottom of your camera. If the platform is quick, you can easily attach or detach the camera in seconds.

I hope that you will be able to select the ideal model among the aforementioned tripods without investing heaps of money. Save money and spend the rest of of it on necessary camera equipment rather than on unnecessary tripod functions!

Ann Young

Hi there, I'm Ann Young - a professional blogger, read more