How to choose a tripod for a camera - TOP-15 best monopods, floor and table models
What are camera tripods?
So, a tripod is a special device that fixes the camera for shooting at long exposures. Tripods are divided into three main groups - tripod, clamp and monopod. Let's see how each of the species looks like.
Tripod Is a tripod that, as the name suggests, has three legs. This is the most popular design and will suit most types of photography.
Monopod Is a type of tripod with one leg. The best option for travel, shooting reports, because it is easy to transport.
Clamp Is a device with which you can rigidly fix the camera to various objects.
Rating of the best tripods for the camera
The rating of the best models was created based on the following features of this equipment:
- tripod weight;
- its type;
- range of rotation of the mounting head;
- presence / absence of a removable platform;
- prices, consumer reviews, etc.
TOP 15 best camera tripods
TOP 6 floor tripods
No. 6. Fancier WT-3717
An inexpensive and high (1.65 m) floor tripod that attracts buyers for more than that. The model is made of durable and high-quality plastic, and therefore is able to withstand heavy cameras (up to 4 kg). The head changes position gently, so the tripod is also suitable for video recording. In short, a universal option.
pros
- affordable price;
- shooting height is acceptable for most people;
- there is a cover, a hook for cargo;
- high-quality assembly, no backlash;
- there are 2 liquid levels.
Minuses
- small peephole;
- the cover, according to the reviews, is too small.
No. 5. Rekam ZET-90
This model boasts stability of work on unstable soils (for example, on sand) and unpretentiousness. In the basic configuration there is a removable 3D head, a hook for attaching a weight, a cover, as well as a built-in level indicator
pros
- good quality, equipment, but at an affordable price;
- support for the vertical position of the camera;
- looks professional;
- high build quality;
- there is a compass;
- height.
Minuses
- impressive dimensions;
- a small range of unscrewing the legs.
No. 4. Velbon EX-640
The tallest of the floor-standing models is 170 cm. A camera weighing up to 5 kg can be securely fixed on the interchangeable unit. There is also one extremely useful option: the height of the tripod is smoothly changed due to the mechanism of raising the central rod, which makes it very convenient to work with the heaviest camera.
pros
- lifting mechanism;
- flexibility of settings;
- average price;
- the tripod is quickly disassembled and assembled;
- the camera is held securely.
Minuses
- impressive weight (3.7 kg).
No. 3. Manfrotto MKCOMPACTACN (Compact Action)
This tripod also boasts quite an acceptable cost for its class. The stylish look is ensured by the striking color combination. The tripod is lightweight, so it is ideal for travel or on-site photography: you can fit this 1.65 kg into any backpack.
pros
- build quality of the legs;
- lightness, small size;
- stylish appearance;
- height.
Minuses
- the lever for changing the direction of shooting is small;
- also in some modes there is a backlash of the head.
No. 2. Beike Q-999
An excellent option for SLR cameras, the maximum shooting height is 1.6 m. The spherical head is removable, and therefore the photographer can quickly change it if necessary (provided in the package bundle). The structure can withstand a very large weight (up to 15 kg), but it itself weighs little - only 1.49 kg.
pros
- legs have many parameter settings;
- light weight (the tripod is made of aluminum alloy);
- large basic equipment;
- the presence of a built-in level;
- folded length - only 43 cm.
Minuses
- high cost - from 8,000 rubles.
# 1. Benro A550FHD2
Aluminum alloy construction, 2.6cm diameter boom. Can support up to 6kg, making it suitable for professional photographers. The weight of the tripod itself is only 2.12 kg. A removable two-handed 3D head is included in the kit and allows you to hold the camera by turning it in 3 planes. When unfolded, the structure can be up to 155.9 cm high, ideal for landscape / architectural photography.
pros
- light weight;
- maintaining vertical shooting;
- stability, reliability;
- the basic equipment is complete (cover, head).
Minuses
- high price - from 10,000 rubles.
TOP 6 table tripods
These tripods, as the name suggests, are table-mounted. Let's get acquainted with the best models according to users.
No. 6. Continent TR-F10
A budget model ideal for macro photography - can hold the camera as close as 75mm. The maximum height is 27 cm. In an unassembled form, the dimensions of the tripod are 16 cm, but due to its diminutive size, the model can withstand light loads - no more than 0.5 kg.
pros
- affordable price;
- head 2D;
- ease;
- compactness (can be put in a small purse);
- ease of adjustment to a given height.
Minuses
- weak clamp;
- suitable for smartphones and webcams, but not for serious equipment.
No. 5. Yunteng YT-228
An inexpensive and compact tripod that attracts with its striking design. The camera can be set to a height of 13.5-18 cm. It is equipped with a ball head that can rotate 360 ° around its axis and rotate the lens up / down 35 ° (which is quite enough). This is enough for macro photography in nature, for capturing objects in the house.
pros
- affordable price;
- ergonomic plastic body;
- light weight;
- stability.
Minuses
- fragility;
- negative feedback on the assembly of parts.
No. 4. Cullmann Magnesit Copter (50080)
This model can fix the camera at a height of 10 cm. And if you use a special lens and proper settings, you can take very high-quality macro photos using a tripod. In short, a great option for fans of subject shooting. The tripod is very light (only 180 g), but it can hold cameras up to 4 kg, and therefore can be used with any lens. Small and the size of the tripod - only 16 cm.
pros
- compactness, light weight;
- fast and easy assembly;
- durable metal body;
- the ability to use with heavy DSLRs.
Minuses
- there is no mechanism for adjusting the length of the tripod legs.
No. 3. Fancier WT-3235D
The difference with this tabletop tripod is that it can rise to a height of 137 cm, but at the same time, certain difficulties will already arise when shooting objects that are below 50.2 cm. There is a removable platform in the design, allowing you to quickly replace the camera. Also included is a head.
pros
- built-in level;
- withstands up to 3 kg;
- excellent stability;
- availability;
- light weight.
Minuses
- considerable dimensions - with folded legs, the tripod has a length of 60 cm.
No. 2. Velbon EX-Mini
Miniature model of the middle price segment. Drops to 19 cm in two planes, weighs only 467 g, is flexible and stable. It can be used on sloping areas, in the field.
pros
- affordable price;
- smooth movement of the head (low resistance);
- lightness, ease of transportation;
- no backlash, all connections are strong and reliable.
Minuses
- lifting capacity is relatively small - not enough for large cameras.
# 1. Manfrotto PIXI EVO MTPIXIEVO
This tripod has not the most affordable price, but it has a good package. Weighs only 167 g, but is capable of supporting cameras weighing up to 2.5 kg. The set also includes a ball adjustment element.
pros
- lightness, small size (disassembled - 23 cm);
- pictures can be taken at a height of 6 cm;
- two boom sections provide stability;
- components are made of aluminum.
Minuses
- high price;
- legs unfold in two directions.
TOP 3 best monopods
No. 3. HAMA Star-78 Mono (04178)
The level allows the camera to be aligned with the horizon. The set includes a cover and a swivel head. When transporting the monopod has a height of 61 cm. The legs are equipped with rubber tips, making the tripod stable even on slippery floors. The aluminum alloy body is durable, will not be damaged if dropped.
pros
- affordable price;
- swivel tower;
- lack of backlash at the rack.
Minuses
- the plastic head needs careful use, as it can quickly deteriorate.
No. 2. Rekam RM-120
Another inexpensive monopod that folds out to 171 cm. Can be used with cameras up to 3 kg. Ease of use is ensured by a handle made of ergonomic foam. An excellent option for shooting at various public events in which the framing point should be located above the heads.
pros
- the tripod quickly unfolds to a working condition;
- there is a comfortable cord on hand;
- ease of use;
- light weight.
Minuses
- unassembled monopod is long.
# 1. Manfrotto MMCOMPACT (Compact Monopod)
Compact model with a comfortable handle with a rubberized anti-slip surface. Tripod weight - 330 g. A universal mount is provided for cameras, which is additionally equipped with a special cover. The wrist strap eliminates the risk of accidentally dropping the camera. Several spectacular colors are available.
pros
- the height is enough to shoot full-length;
- The optimum ratio of price and quality;
- the knees are securely fixed in the clamps.
Minuses
- only small digital cameras and lightweight camcorders can be used.
Secrets of choosing a tripod
To choose the right tripod for your camera, you need to consider conditions of future operation and nature of shooting... So, weight and size do not matter if the tripod will be used in a studio or at home (it will not be transported over long distances). But for outdoor events, you will need a compact model. In some cases, a traditional tripod is inappropriate. In short, when choosing a tripod, consider the parameters of the camera itself and personal needs.
Important! Don't forget about the characteristics of the tripod itself. Let's get acquainted with the parameters that are among the most important.
Table. What to look for when choosing a tripod?
| Parameter | Short description |
|---|---|
| Head type | The head is an element that allows you to adjust the position of the camera - it can be ball, 2D, 3D. With the help of the first, you can very quickly change the position; a special lever is used for adjustment. But on the other hand, such heads are less durable and do not allow panoramic shooting. |
| Load | This parameter specifies the weight of the camera that can be mounted on the tripod. Models for professional use are capable of supporting up to 15 kg. Manufacturers often equip the structure with a special hook that provides additional load. |
| Replaceable head | The photographer will work much faster if the head is removable. And such an option is the prerogative of professional models, because different shooting conditions may require different types of heads. |
| Height | And the minimum shooting height will depend on the height / number of leg sections, which is especially important for table tripods. But the more short sections, the less stable the tripod and the less load it can handle. Therefore, professional models are usually equipped with long segments. |
Important! A bubble level is useful if the tripod is set up on uneven surfaces. This will keep the horizon level.
It is also helpful to have a hook on the main column. This hook can be used to hang a load to further stabilize the structure in windy conditions.
Finally, it is worth paying attention to tripod kit... Most often, products are completed with a bag, a warranty card and instructions for use.In addition, the kit may include a key with which the clamps on the leg are tightened.
