The best part of being a photographer is being able to take pictures everywhere you go, no matter what. The problem with that is there are times when you want to wait for just the perfect in-focus shot and standing there holding your camera can become tedious after a while, plus lead to less focused shots.
That’s why tripods were invented. However, your regular tripod can be bulky, heavy, and inconvenient, especially if you need to set one up in the woods for a beautiful nature shot. To help, manufacturers have created portable tripods that are a great option for any photographer.
To help, we thought we’d take a look at the best portable tripods for amateur and professional photographers so you can take all the pictures you have your heart set on.
How to Choose and Buy a Tripod
We know what you’re thinking. It’s a tripod and they are pretty much all the same, why would I need to consider anything? Because boyo, not every tripod is created equal. Each part of a tripod contributes to how light it is, how easy it is to use, its durability, and its usefulness while compact. These are the things you should think about before buying a portable tripod
Materials
Carbon fiber is usually considered top-tier because the material is stronger, lighter, and rust-resistant. Ideally, it is possible to find an affordable tripod made from carbon fiber, although it’s common to see tripods made from aluminum.
Height
You will want to consider the maximum height as well as how low a tripod can extend. A tripod that can get low is good to have but you should also have a tripod that extends above eye level.
Folding size
While they are compact, tripods still come in a bunch of different sizes. You’ll want to look at the size of the tripod folded up as well as how tall it can extend and its overall stability. Doing this comparison will help you pick the best option for your needs.
Easy set-up
If the tripod you choose is a pain to set up every time, you’re more likely to just leave it at home. A great and easy to set up tripod will use twisting locks on its legs instead of clips making set up a breeze
Lightweight
Having a tripod that weighs you down will keep you from wanting to go out and get incredible shots with your camera. A great portable tripod should be easy to carry around, either in a travel camera bag or with a strap and the weight should not be noticeable. You honestly shouldn’t realize it’s there until you need it.
Best Portable Tripods for Photographers in 2021 – Overview
So, based on the things we should consider, we’re looking for a lightweight, easy-to-set-up tripod, that comes with a great high and low height and is made from quality materials. We don’t know about you but we think our list below checks all those boxes.
- Vanguard VEO 2 GO 235CB – $128
- MeFoto GlobeTrotter – $369
- 3LT Punks Travis – $179
- Benro Travel Angel FTA28CV1 – $399
- Sirui 3T-35K – $51
- Zomei Z699C – $117
- Sirui T-005 travel tripod – $99
- 3LT Punks Corey – $199
- Peak Design Travel Tripod – $599
- Pedco UltraPod – $18
- Mefoto Roadtrip S – $169
- Gitzo Traveler Series 0 – $899
- Joby GorillaPod 5K – $350
- Manfrotto Befree Advanced Tripod – $169
- Manfrotto Compact Advanced Tripod – $99
Prices are approximate only.
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Best Portable Tripods for Photographers Compared
Comparison table coming soon.
Best Portable Tripods for Photographers in 2021
Vanguard VEO 2 GO 235CB
A small tripod with quality carbon fiber construction
Maximum load: 4kg | Maximum height: 143cm | Minimum height: 21cm | Folded length: 33cm | Number of leg sections: 5 | Weight: 1.06kg
Loaded with clamps that twist, the Vanguard travel tripod is a new-generation of the tripod with five sections per leg plus a dual-section center column that is telescopic. The tripod elevates to a height of 143cm, which means there is quite a lot of twisting to do. One of the best things is how small the tripod gets when folded. At just 33cm, and with its carbon fiber construction, makes for a lightweight tripod that you can take anywhere. The tripod also comes with a low-angle adapter that you can swap out the center column to use, giving you a great option for regular and low-level shooting.
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- Reversed 4 section aluminium legs that fold flat for compact transport Swivel locking locks on the legs, easy to clean, disassemble and reassemble if necessary
- Robust t-45 ball head with large ergonomic knobs optimised to withstand workloads up to 3 kg
- Shoe qr-64 compatible with the arch system
- Ball joint locking system and central column top base
- Retractable hook to add weight to tripod when desired
MeFoto GlobeTrotter
A slick, well-made portable tripod
Maximum load: 12kg | Maximum height: 163cm | Minimum height: 41cm | Folded length: 42cm | Number of leg sections: 5 | Weight: 1.68kg
The GlobeTrotter from MeFoto has a design that will make it stand out among others when you’re traveling. Available in red, blue, and green finishes as well as black or titanium. A capacity of 12kg can handle all buy the heaviest DSLR cameras and the overall weight is a paltry 3.7 lbs. With a 64 inch reach, the tripod retracts to 16.5 inches, making it easy to carry around, and spiked feet and a ball head with adjustable friction add to its versatility.
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- The MeFOTO GlobeTrotter is a compact travel camera tripod that folds up inversely and turns into a monopod. When incorporated with the MeFOTO SideKick iPhone tripod mount (not included), the...
- 360-degree Panning: Accurate panoramas can be easily orchestrated using the graduated panning scale for accurate image alignment. Two Leg Angle Positions: For an extra measure of flexibility, tripod...
- Recessed Center-Column Hook: A spring loaded recessed hook, located in the bottom of the center-column, allows you to hang additional weight from the tripod's center of gravity for increased...
- Precision Matched Q Series Ballhead: Dual action heavy-duty ballhead with Arca-Swiss style compatible quick release plate. Integral Bubble Level: Allows adjustment to prevent uneven pans and head...
- Compact: The tripod legs can be inverted and folded back 180 degrees making it small enough to carry just about anywhere. Five Leg Sections: Get the height you need and ultimate versatility. Twist...
3LT Punks Travis
A great tripod built to hold a ton of weight
Maximum load: 18kg | Maximum height: 167cm | Minimum height: 19.5cm | Folded length: 45cm | Number of leg sections: 4 | Weight: 1.6kg
Tripod designer 3 Legged Thing is an innovative designer and with the Travis, with its 65-inches of height, along with a single piece center column that can be attached to one of the legs to create a monopod, the Travis is an easy-to-use tripod. Each leg comes with four sections and swings up for storage, reducing the folded length to 45cm. While the manufacturer offers other options, including the Corey, which we feature, later on, the Travis is a great tripod for all of your needs.
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- Extends to a maximum height of 1.65m / 65"
- Load capability of 18kg / 40lb
- Features a full-size detachable monopod.
- Has a removable and reversible centre column.
- Recommended for General Use.
Benro Travel Angel FTA28CV1
A bulky design, but a useful monopod
Maximum load: 10kg | Maximum height: 170cm | Minimum height: 47.5cm | Folded length: 47.5cm | Number of leg sections: 4 | Weight: 1.81kg
At a weight of 1.81kg, the Travel Angel from Benro is one of the heaviest tripods on our list but the 18-inch packed length provides you with a tripod that has the longest legs. While it may not win an award for the smallest tripod but it will raise your camera higher than many others with the four-section legs and center column extends to an incredible 67 inches. With its nine-layer carbon construction, the tripod can withstand up to 22 pounds and its most exciting feature is that one of the legs is removable and you can screw it into the center column for a very handy monopod.
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- Designed to offer compact and lightweight camera support. Weighing just 4 lbs. and able to hold up to 22 lbs., the FTA28CV1 can extend from a minimum height of 18.7" up to 66.9".
- The 4-section legs are held in place by twist locks and can be adjusted independently.
- Equipped with interchangeable screw-in rubber feet and stainless steel spiked feet for increased stability. In addition, a removable leg can be combined with the center column to create a full-size...
- Constructed from 9 layers of carbon fiber, these legs maximize the strength to weight ratio of the tripod legs.
- The V1E Ball Head has separate pan and ball locks, and an Arca-type compatible clamp with a quick-release plate.
Sirui 3T-35K
The best tabletop tripod
Maximum load: 4kg | Maximum height: 10.1 inches | Minimum height: 4.5 in | Folded length: 6.2 inches | Number of leg sections: 4 | Weight: 8.8 ounces
From Sirui, a high-quality manufacturer of tripods comes a unique and innovative tabletop tripod that comes with three configurations with a fixed-length center column that can extend up to 13 inches tall. Even more impressive is that the head can be attached to the legs for low-level shooting and even used as a camera handle for shooting video. Supporting up to 5.3 pounds of weight, the Arca Swiss-type release clamp comes with a sprung safety catch to keep your camera from falling off and rubberized feet keep the tripod stable.
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- Small table top or handheld tripod with ball head
- 10cm long feet that can be folded up or down by 180°
- Centre column can be extended by 8. 5cm or removed altogether
- Height: 27, 2cm - Weight: 0, 25kg - max. Load: 4kg
- SIRUI 3T-35 Table Top / Handheld Video Tripod black, SIRUI 3T-35 Ball Head black with TY-C10 Plate, short center column 10cm, Carabiner, bag
Zomei Z699C
A super-lightweight portable tripod
Maximum load: 33lb | Maximum height: 60 inches | Minimum height: 3.7 in | Folded length: 15 inches | Number of leg sections: 5 | Weight: 3.3 lbs
Compact enough to fit into just about any camera bag, the Zomei Z699C, when at full extension, is tall enough for you to use comfortably and still retain rigidity. The legs can be locked at multiple angles or even splayed close to the ground for low-angle or even close-up photography. Each leg slides smoothly and the locks on each leg can be deployed all at once. While the grips could be larger and have a better grip for cold weather, the good rigidity and center column hook for additional stability make up for it.
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- Dual Use: 2-in-1 tripod which could be converted into a full size monopod by screwing together the center column and the removable tripod leg.
- Compact & Light Weight: Made of carbon fiber which is well-designed and folded up wonderfully for travel; allowing height ranging from 13.8" to 60", it is portable and compact once collapsed.
- Sturdy & Strong: Despite of its light weight, the legs perform very sturdy and can independently lock in different positions, so it's worry-free for uneven surfaces; there's also a hook for hanging...
- Temperature-resistant: Carbon fiber won't get hot or cold easily as it is temperature resistant, therefore, you are free to shoot outside regardless of season or climate.
- Quality Assurance: We promise 12 months worry-free warranty and 45 days money back guarantee; 24-hr customer service are always ready to help (reply within 12 hours); for more information, please...
Sirui T-005 travel tripod
A unique design that folds up nicely
Maximum load: 5kg | Maximum height: 141cm | Minimum height: 8 cm (without column) | Folded length: 32cm | Number of leg sections: 5 | Weight: 1.1kg
The T-005 travel tripod from Sirui is an oddball in the world of tripods. While it has legs that swing up vertically when collapsing the tripod and the T-005 is very compact when folded up but unlike most tripods, the center column stays fully extended at all times. Plus, it can extend even further thanks to its dual-section telescopic build plus in addition to each leg having five sections. While the maximum height is 141cm, the center column can be detached for low-level shooting down to 8cm. Overall, the tripod is lightweight at 1.1kg with a respectable 5kg max load rating and is rigid enough even at its maximum extension.
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- T-004S Traveler Light Aluminum Tripod - B-00 Ball Head with TY-C10 Removable Plate - Short Center Column (9. 5cm) - Transport Bag - Sirui 6 Year Limited
- T-004S Tripod Features
- Material: Aluminum & Magnesium
- Legs can be folded 180 Degree upwards
- Center column extendable and exchangeable for short (included)
3LT Punks Corey
A lightweight tripod that’s incredibly strong
Maximum load: 14kg | Maximum height: 147.5cm | Minimum height: 18.5cm | Folded length: 35cm | Number of leg sections: 5 (+2 section column) | Weight: 1.5kg
As referenced above, the Corey tripod is manufactured by 3 Legged Things, a company that specialized in multi-functional tripods and accessories. The Punks Corey is a lightweight, compact portable tripod that is incredibly strong. With an extended height of 58 inches, the tripod is tall enough for use at a comfortable height while still maintaining solid rigidity. Weighing just over three pounds, the tripod is light enough to take anywhere while the aircraft-grade magnesium alloy offers incredible durability.
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- Ultra-compact - folds to just 35 cm / 13.67 "
- Recommended for travel photography
- Full size detachable monopod
- Load capacity 10kg/ 22lb
- 5 year global warranty
Peak Design Travel Tripod
One of the best travel tripods available
Maximum load: 9kg | Maximum height: 153cm | Minimum height: 14cm | Folded length: 39cm | Number of leg sections: 5 | Weight: 1.56kg
Peak Design wowed everyone in the photography community with the release of its Travel Tripod. Famous for their Everyday Backpack, their entry into the tripod market is an innovative and highly functional creation, that while it comes with a premium price tag, the features help it stand out. One of the most impressive features is the ability to collapse into a tubular unity, which is similar in diameter to a can of beans. Typical tripods tend to have ‘dead space’ when they are folded and this isn’t the case with Peak Design’s tripod. Relatively lightweight, the tripod comes in two different materials: aluminum and carbon fiber. While the carbon fiber option is lighter, the price difference between them might not be worth it to some. Designed to handle the elements, the Travel Tripod comes with a lifetime guarantee, making it the perfect choice for any outdoor adventurer.
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- The Travel Tripod brings you pro-level stability, load capacity, and deployed height, yet packs down to the diameter of a water bottle.
- Unique design allows quicker, easier setup/takedown. Secure, fast, and ergonomic camera quick release. Fast-locking, low profile leg cams.
- 20lb weight capacity (optimized for a full-frame DSLR + telephoto lens). Low and inverted modes position your camera inches off the ground . Integrated load hanging hook . Nonslip, shock-absorbing...
- Built-in and stowable mobile mount. Securely grips any phone/case .
- Weather and impact-resistant materials. All parts are serviceable, cleanable, and replaceable. Includes a padded, weatherproof case. Guaranteed for life.
Pedco UltraPod
The best portable tripod for unique camera angles
Maximum load: 2.7kg | Maximum height: 15.2cm | Minimum height: N/A | Folded length: 17.8cm | Number of leg sections: 1 | Weight: 119g
The Pedco Ultrapod, produced by Industrial Revolution is a table-top tripod that has a unique form all to itself. With a velcro strap, the tripod can be secured to objects for a wide variety of placement options. Best as a backup tripod, the UltraPod is small and light enough to go with you on every trip. With an extended height of only six inches, you’ll need to squat behind the camera for taking low-level shots or secure it higher for a more comfortable height. The overall cost of the UltraPod makes it a must-have for any nature photographer or someone looking for a quality backup.
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- Lightweight and compact tripod with fold-out legs and non-slip vinyl feet
- Position camera at any angle with U-ball and socket mount assembly
- Removable Velcro "one wrap" strap allows attachment to posts, tree limbs, railings, pack frames, or any sturdy object
- Weighs two ounces; folds down to four inches for easy packing
- Use with small cameras, camcorders, or optic scopes; lifetime warranty against manufacturer's defects
Mefoto Roadtrip S
A high-quality tripod at a great price
Maximum load: 8kg | Maximum height: 150.8cm | Minimum height: 35.5cm | Folded length: 35.5cm | Number of leg sections: 5 | Weight: 1.55kg
Known for their budget-friendly portable tripods, the Roadtrip S from Mefoto is a newer iteration of the manufacturer’s popular Classic line. Available in both aluminum and carbon fiber, the tripod has been refined, making it a great choice for any traveling photographer. With a maximum height of almost 5 feet, the Roadtrip will feel right at home in most situations. Considered to be a budget tripod, the Roadtrip S is built with enough quality to make you feel like you didn’t pay enough.
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- The MeFOTO RoadTrip is a compact travel camera tripod that folds up inversely and turns into a monopod. When incorporated with the MeFOTO SideKick iPhone tripod mount (not included), the RoadTrip...
- Converts to monopod - the center column connects to the tripod leg to form a full size monopod.
- Telescoping 2 section center column - the column can be extended for additional height.
- Accessory mount - a 1/4"-20 mount is located on the shoulder for attaching additional Accessories.
- Arca-Swiss style camera plate - this camera plate will work with Most other Arca-Swiss style heads.
Gitzo Traveler Series 0
The best high-end portable tripod
Maximum load: 22 lbs | Maximum height: 60.2 inches | Minimum height: 8.6inches | Folded length: 16,7 inches | Number of leg sections: 5 | Weight: 2.3 lbs
Made from carbon fiber, the Traveler Series 0 from Gitzo could be considered a dream tripod by many photographers, not because of the features it comes with but because how well made it makes it one of the best options in the business. Incredibly lightweight, the tripod extends to about 5 feet in height and can hold up to 22 pounds of camera and lens. With its patented G-lock system, the Traveler is unbelievably easy to stow away when you’re traveling. For easy carrying, the tripod comes with a shoulder strap and while the price is certainly top-of-the-line, you’re getting incredible quality for such a price.
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- Carbon exact Tubes; Reverse-Folding Legs
- Traveler G-Lock Leg Lock System
- Space-Saving Feet
- Short Center Column & Shoulder Strap
- Made in Italy
Joby GorillaPod 5K
A great tripod for YouTubers
Maximum load: 11lbs | Maximum height: 15.1 inches | Minimum height: N/A | Folded length: 15.1 inches | Number of leg sections: 1 | Weight:1.74lbs
Known for their use by YouTubers and with one-handed filming, the GorillaPod 5K is a great tripod for any videographer. Thanks to its design, it’s portable, flexible, and can hold everything from a traditional camera to even larger DSLRs. The build quality makes them extremely durable and built to last and the flexible legs allow photographers to take photos from many different and new perspectives. With the GorillaPod 5K from Joby, you can get a new angle on the world.
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Manfrotto Befree Advanced Tripod
A quality tripod with monopod functions
Maximum load: 8kgs | Maximum height: 150cm | Minimum height: 40cm | Folded length: 41cm | Number of leg sections: 4 | Weight:1.6kg
Manfrotto manufactures a wide variety of travel tripods under their Befree brand name in both basic and advanced options. The advanced tripod stands out because it’s the only one where you can remove a leg to use it as a monopod. This monopod setup can give you an operating height of 156cm, which is more than the standard maximum height of the tripod, which at 150cm is not too shabby. Made from aluminum, the tripod the marketed to those who have a preference between clip or twist lock and the tripod is available with either. The tripod even comes with Manfrotto’s “Easy Link” socket that makes attaching things like an LED lamp easy.
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Manfrotto Compact Advanced Tripod
A great lightweight tripod at a great price
Maximum load: 3kg | Maximum height: 165cm | Minimum height: 44.5cm | Folded length: 44cm | Number of leg sections: 5 | Weight:1.4kg
Famous for its knack for creating innovative and unique accessories for your camera, Manfrotto has done it again with their Compact Advanced Tripod. The 3-way head comes with a unique foldable mechanism that provides excellent stability while providing you with the mobility you need to keep your target in frame. Light enough to carry along with you, the tripod is strong enough to support an entry-level DSLR with a standard zoom lens, weighing about six pounds. The head has been designed with a mechanism that lets you fold the levers when collapsing the tripod making transport and storage even easier than some more expensive options that are out there.
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- Quick release
- Foldable 3-Way Pan/Tilt Head
- Supports up to 6.6lbs
Best Portable Tripods for Photographers in 2021
Having the right tools for any profession can make all the difference and nowhere is that more true than with a tripod for your camera. Whether you’re a professional or just an amateur, having a great portable tripod can make all the difference when it comes to a great shot. We hope our guide for the best portable tripods for photographs in 2021 helps you choose the one that will help get you started!
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