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Best Overall
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Best for Beginners
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Best for Flexibility
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4.4
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4.6
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4.6
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$176.59
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$35.99
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$168.80
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We get it – you’re tired of capturing those perfect moments only to realize your photos are as shaky as a leaf in a storm and now you want to invest in a good-quality tripod. But you don’t want to spend too much, of course.
No more embarrassing, blurry selfies. No more squinting at crooked horizons. Just crisp, clear, envy-inducing photos every time you click!
Yes, that’s what you’ll be able to get after reading our guide for best tripods under 100 dollars, so dive into our top 12 picks.
What Is the Best Tripod Under $100?
- Manfrotto Compact Action: Best Overall
- Amazon Basics 60-inch: Best for Beginners
- Vanguard Alta Pro 263AB: Best for Flexibility
- Joby GorillaPod 5K: Best for Vlogging
- MeFoto RoadTrip: Best for Travel
- Benro Slim Aluminum: Best for Bad Weather
- Zomei Compact Aluminum: Best for Versatility
- Neewer Carbon Fiber: Best Budget-Friendly Option
- Sirui T-004X Travel: Best Lightweight Option
- Manfrotto PIXI Mini: Best Tabletop Option
- Dolica AX620B100: Best for Affordability
- Davis & Sanford EXPLOERV: Best for Mid-Range Cameras
1. Manfrotto Compact Action: Best Overall
- Ergonomic joystick head for easy control
- Compact yet sturdy design
- Scroll-wheel locking mechanism for stability
- Adjustable height
- Some users might find the joystick head a bit tricky to get used to
- While it's a great option for entry to mid-level photographers, professionals might need something a bit more robust
Overview
Every photographer has probably heard of Manfrotto, and yes, they make some awesome tripods for under $100. For us though, the best one is the Manfrotto Compact Action, which is an ideal entry-level tripod. It’s designed to support DSLR cameras and accessories up to 3 lbs.
Key Benefits
- Ergonomic joystick head allows for easy-to-use, intuitive control, making the tripod extra sturdy.
- It may be small, but this tripod can hold its own. It’s sturdy enough to keep your camera secure.
- Scroll-wheel locking mechanism ensures maximum sturdiness, so you don’t have to worry about your camera wobbling.
- It’s compatible with entry-level DSLR cameras with a 1/4″ mounting thread.
- This tripod extends from 17.3″ to 61″, giving you plenty of flexibility.
Pricing
The Manfrotto Compact Action is priced at just around $100.
2. AmazonBasics 60-Inch Lightweight Tripod: Best for Beginners
Lightweight tripod with adjustable height legs and rubber feet. Extends from 25 to 60 inches when the center post is fully extended. Two built-in bubble view levels and a 3-way head to allow for tilt and swivel motion. The quick-release mounting plate helps ensure fast transitions between shots.
- Adjustable height for flexibility
- Rubber feet for added stability
- 360-degree rotation for versatile shooting
- Very affordable
- Its maximum weight capacity is 6.6 lbs, so it might not be suitable for heavier DSLR setups
Overview
This tripod is a fantastic choice for both beginners and seasoned photographers alike. It’s lightweight, adjustable, and compatible with most cameras, GoPro devices, and even some smartphones.
Key benefits
- As its name suggests, this tripod is extremely light, making it perfect for on-the-go photography.
- You can easily adjust the height of the legs to fit your shooting needs.
- Rubber feet provide stability and prevent slipping, which is especially useful for outdoor photography.
- 360-degree rotation allows for versatile shooting from all angles.
- You won’t have to fumble around with complicated setup instructions with this one.
Pricing
It’s a part of the Amazon Basics line so it’s quite affordable, currently going for around $35.
3. Vanguard Alta Pro 263AB: Best for Flexibility
- Durable construction
- Stable, even in challenging conditions
- Flexible with plenty of angle options
- High weight capacity
- Heavier than similar tripods, which might not be ideal for on-the-go photographers
- One of the more expensive ones on this list
The Vanguard Alta Pro 263AB tripod is a solid, sturdy, and flexible option that’s perfect for both mirrorless and DSLR cameras. It may be a bit heavier than some other tripods, but that extra weight gives it a lot of stability. It’s a perfect choice if you’re looking for something robust for your studio photography.
Key benefits
- This tripod is built to last with its aluminum legs/column, magnesium canopy, and anti-shock ring.
- The extra weight lends itself to extra stability.
- Plenty of angle options make this a versatile choice for all kinds of shoots.
- It supports up to 15.4 lbs, so it can handle heavier camera setups.
Pricing
Depending on the retailer, the cost of the Vanguard Alta Pro 263AB tripod is usually just above $100.
4. Joby GorillaPod 5K: Best for Vlogging
- Compact and versatile
- Flexible legs for varied shots
- Ball head mount for easy adjustment
- High weight capacity
- While it's great for vloggers, it might not be the best choice for traditional photographers.
Overview
The Joby GorillaPod 5K tripod is popular among the vlogging community, and it’s designed to support professional-grade cameras up to 11 lbs. Its flexible legs and ball head mount make it easy to secure your camera gear anywhere.
Key benefits
- It’s small enough to take with you on any adventure and sturdy enough to hold pro-grade cameras.
- Flexible legs allow you to secure your camera on just about any surface.
- Ball head mount ensures that you can adjust your camera to get the perfect angle.
- With a capacity of up to 11 lbs, this tripod can handle even heavier camera setups.
Pricing
At the time of writing this guide, the Joby GorillaPod 5K is priced between $50 and $60.
5. MeFoto RoadTrip Lightweight Tripod: Best for Travel
- Compact and lightweight
- Versatile with a good height range
- Monopod feature for added flexibility
- High weight capacity
- Despite its features, some users found the overall package uninspiring
Overview
This compact travel tripod is both sturdy and lightweight, making it a fantastic choice for photographers on the go. It even converts into a full-sized monopod without any extra tools needed. And with its ability to support up to 17.6 lbs, it’s versatile enough for a range of camera setups.
Key Benefits
- Weighing in at just 3.6 lbs, this tripod is easy to carry around.
- It extends up to 61.6″, making it flexible for a variety of shooting situations.
- The tripod can convert to a full-size monopod without the need for any extra tools.
- With a capacity of up to 17.6 lbs, it can support a wide range of cameras.
Pricing
The Aluminum version of the MeFoto RoadTrip costs around $189, but you can get used ones for under $100.
6. Benro Slim Aluminum Tripod: Best for Bad Weather
- Lightweight and compact
- Durable in mild weather conditions
- High weight capacity
- Some users noted that it can be shaky in wind with legs fully extended
Overview
This bad boy is ideal for mirrorless and compact DSLR cameras, supporting up to 8.8 lbs. It’s particularly useful for those travel photography sessions where you need a sturdy, yet portable setup.
Key benefits
- This tripod weighs less than 3 lbs, making it perfect for travel.
- With its slim profile shoulder, it’s more compact when folded, which means it’s easy to pack in your bag.
- It’s built to tolerate light rain, so you don’t have to worry about a bit of bad weather.
- Supporting up to 8.8 lbs, this tripod can handle mirrorless and compact DSLR cameras.
Pricing
The price of the Benro Slim Aluminium Tripod is around $80.
7. Zomei Compact Aluminum Tripod: Best for Versatility
- Lightweight and compact
- Made from durable material
- Versatile in terms of the devices it can support
- Can't support heavier setups
This lightweight tripod is designed for easy portability, making it a great companion for outdoor photography or travel. It’s made of high-quality aluminum and can support small cameras or smartphones up to 4.4 lbs.
Key benefits
- The Zomei tripod weighs less than 3 lbs, making it easy to carry around.
- It folds into a pretty neat package, allowing it to fit into most carry-on luggage with ease.
- Made of high-quality aluminum, it promises durability and longevity.
- It’s able to support both smartphones and small cameras.
Pricing
The price for the Zomei Compact Aluminium Tripod is between $59 and $64.
8. Neewer Carbon Fiber Tripod: Best Budget-Friendly Option
- Versatile with its 2-in-1 tripod/monopod design
- Lightweight and portable
- High weight capacity
- Quick-release mounting plate
- Some users have reported issues with the tripod's durability over time.
Overview
This budget-friendly tripod can transform from a tripod into a monopod with a detachable leg and removable center column. It’s made from durable, lightweight carbon fiber and comes with a quick-release mounting plate for fast transitions between shots. The tripod has a sturdy head and is capable of holding camera equipment weighing up to 26.5 lbs, making it suitable for a range of photography needs.
Key Benefits
- With the ability to hold up to 26.5 lbs of camera equipment, this tripod is robust and reliable.
- It can switch from a tripod to a monopod, providing flexibility for various shooting scenarios.
- Made from carbon fiber, this tripod is both durable and light, perfect for travel photography.
- Quick-release mounting plate ensures fast transitions between shots, saving you valuable time during shoots.
Pricing
Costing just above $100, the Neewer Carbon Fiber Tripod has one of the best price-to-value ratios.
9. Sirui T-004X Travel Tripod: Best Lightweight Option
- Extremely lightweight and easy to carry
- High weight capacity for its size
- Compact and travel-friendly
- Quick setup with the C-10S Ball Head
- Some users have reported that its height might be a bit limiting (49" legs only, 58" with column).
Overview
This lightweight, aluminum tripod is an excellent companion for travel photographers or those who need to set it up quickly. Weighing just 2.5 lbs, it can support cameras up to 13.2 lbs, a pretty impressive feat for such a compact device. It also has reverse-folding legs that enable it to close down to a small size, making it super portable.
Key benefits
- The Sirui T-004X weighs only 2.5 lbs, so it won’t add much weight to your gear bag.
- Despite its feather-light weight, it can support equipment up to 13.2 lbs.
- Thanks to its reverse-folding legs, it compresses to a very convenient size for travel.
- It comes with a C-10S Ball Head for fast setup and adjustments.
Pricing
The Sirui T-004X Travel tripod goes for around $99 with some models selling for higher prices. That’s a pretty good deal for a versatile and lightweight tripod like this one.
10. Manfrotto PIXI Mini Tripod: Best Tabletop Option
- Portable and lightweight, ideal for travel
- Sturdy and stable, providing reliable support for your camera
- Versatile use as a tripod or handheld grip
- It doesn't have extendable legs
Overview
Here is another Manfrotto tripod on our list of best tripods under 100 dollars. You simply cannot go wrong with Manfrotto. This little guy is a lightweight, compact tabletop tripod that’s portable and perfect for on-the-go use. It has an elegant design and is pretty solid, making it a great travel companion. Despite its durable build, keep in mind that the PIXI Mini isn’t designed for all camera types.
Key Benefits
- The PIXI Mini is easy to carry around, weighing just 6.7 ounces.
- This tripod is ideal for both cameras and camera phones, offering a lot of flexibility.
- The PIXI Mini Tripod comes with a universal attachment fitting, making it quite versatile as it can accommodate a wide range of devices.
- It also doubles as a comfortable handgrip for capturing great videos.
- The push button locking mechanism ensures quick and easy setup, so you can get shooting in no time.
- The PIXI Mini Tripod also boasts a stylish Italian design that not only looks good but is also functional.
Pricing
Given its small stature and features, the Manfrotto PIXI Mini Tripod is an affordable option and usually goes for around $35.
11. Dolica AX620B100 Aluminum Tripod: Best for Affordability
- Lightweight and sturdy
- Versatile with its 62-inch maximum height
- Quick-release plate for easy camera attachment
- Functional design features for comfortable and stable use
- Some reviews mention that the plastic lock knobs on both feet and head might not be of the best quality
- While it's great for beginners, professionals might find the Dolcia AX620B100 lacking in some areas.
Overview
This is a budget-friendly yet high-quality tripod with a sleek aluminum finish. It’s lightweight, making it great for photographers on the move, and its 62-inch height can accommodate a variety of shooting scenarios. The tripod comes with a ball head and a quick-release plate for easy camera attachment.
Key features
- Made from aluminum alloy, this tripod is both light and durable.
- With a maximum working height of 62 inches, it’s suitable for a variety of shooting situations.
- Quick-release plate feature that provides fast transitions between your shots.
- The tripod has foam cell comfort grips, a weight hook, leg locks, a reversible locking center column, and non-slip rubber feet for stability.
- Integrated bubble level helps to ensure that your shots are level, which is especially useful in landscape photography.
- The tripod comes with a carrying case for easy transport.
Pricing
The Dolcia AX620B100 goes for up to $70, so it’s a fantastic choice if you’re looking for quality at an affordable price.
12. Davis & Sanford EXPLORERV: Best for Mid-Range Cameras
- Lightweight and portable
- Provides good height
- Comes with a three-way head for versatility
- Quick-release leg locks for easy setup
- Most affordable tripod on our list
- While it's light and portable, its weight capacity is only up to 4 lbs, which may not be sufficient for heavier camera setups
- Some users have mentioned that the plastic parts may not be very durable
Overview
A big name delivering big performances. The Davis & Sanford EXPLORERV Vista Explorer tripod is a handy camera support that weighs in at under 3 lbs, and it’s rated to support up to 4 lbs. It’s an ideal pick for general use with mid-range digital cameras. The tripod stands tall at 60″, offering good height for various shooting scenarios.
Key benefits
- The Vista Explorer tripod weighs less than 3 lbs, making it easy to carry around
- With a maximum extension of 63″, it provides ample height for your photography needs.
- The tripod comes equipped with a three-way head for versatile shooting options.
- Quick-release leg locks ensure a quick and hassle-free setup.
- The geared elevator center column allows for easy and precise height adjustments.
- The Vista Explorer tripod comes with a free carrying bag, adding to its portability and convenience.
Pricing
The Vista Explorer Tripod is quite a steal, priced at under $30. Now, that’s a bargain!
Why is a Good Tripod Important in Photography?
Whether you’ve just purchased your first camera or you’re a seasoned photographer, a good tripod makes all the difference – and it doesn’t have to be expensive. But why do you need it?
The primary purpose of a tripod is to provide stability. No matter how steady your hand might be, it’s nearly impossible to match the rock-solid support a tripod offers. Even the slightest tremble can introduce blur to your photos, especially in low-light conditions or with slow shutter speeds.
Also, when you’re striving for that perfect composition, a tripod can be your best friend. It allows you to frame your shot precisely and make fine adjustments to your camera’s position. This precision is especially useful in landscape and architectural photography where getting every detail just right matters.
How Can the Best Tripods Under 100 Dollars Benefit You
Are the best tripods under 100 dollars even worth the money? Yes, they are! Even a low-cost tripod provides the stability required to eliminate camera shake. This means your photos will be sharper no matter what.
A budget-friendly tripod is an excellent choice if you enjoy taking self-portraits or group photos. It allows you to be in control of your shots without relying on someone else.
Many low-cost tripods come with adjustable heights, enabling you to get the perfect angle for your photos. You can also confidently tackle low-light photography, explore nightscapes, and capture stunning long-exposure shots without compromising quality.
For videographers on a budget, a cheap tripod is a MUST-HAVE. It provides the stability needed to shoot smooth and steady videos, whether it’s for vlogs, interviews, or other video projects.
Buyers Guide: How We Conducted Our Research
Here is how we researched the best tripods under 100 dollars so you don’t have to:
- Checking out the market: We scoured the market to see what was out there. We wanted to know what people were buying and liking in 2024.
- Price check: We then went through the prices of each tripod. We had to make sure they all fell within the budget of around $100.
- Features: After the prices, we looked at all the cool features. Things like how much weight they could hold, what they were made of, how tall they could get, and any extra bells and whistles.
- Limitations: We didn’t stop at the good stuff. We also wanted to know what each tripod wasn’t good at or where it might fall short.
- User opinions: Real people matter, right? We went through user reviews to see what people who’d used these tripods had to say about them.
Who’s behind it: We also looked into the companies that made these tripods. We wanted to know if they had a good reputation, and what kind of support or refund policies they offered. - Side-by-side comparison: We put all the info together and compared the tripods. It was like a pros and cons face-off.
Wrapping Up
That was our top 12 picks for the best tripods under 100 dollars. No matter what you’re going to use them for, we’re sure you’ll find just what you need here. We’ve done the heavy lifting, sifted through the options, and found the best deals out there.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I get a good tripod without breaking the bank?
Yes, you can get a great tripod without spending too much! The prices of tripods vary from $10 to hundreds of dollars, but even if you’re a seasoned photographer, you can find a decent tripod for under $100.
Should I pay attention to the tripod head?
Yes, you should pay attention to the tripod head. It’s not advisable to spend a lot on a camera body only to skimp on the tripod head. The head controls the camera’s movement and positioning, so make sure it’s of good quality and suits your needs.
What should I look for when buying a cheap tripod?
When buying a cheap tripod, you should consider its material, weight, height, and head type. Aluminum tripods are often cheaper and more durable but heavier than carbon fiber ones. Make sure it’s light enough to carry around but sturdy enough to support your camera. The height should be suitable for your shooting style, and the head type (ball head, pan-tilt, etc.) should allow for the movements you need.