Best Tripods Under $100 – Top Budget Picks for 20212

Whether you are an amateur or professional photographer, a tripod is an essential part of any good photography kit. However, with hundreds of options on the market, it can be challenging to know where to start when choosing a new tripod, especially if you are a beginner. We’re here today to share with you everything you need to look for when choosing the best tripod under 100 dollars, as well as our recommendations on the best tripods under $100.

The Best Tripods under $100 in 2022

1 – UBeesize 71” Tripod for Camera Aluminum Tripod with 360 Degree Ball Head

Currently rated highest out of the best tripods under $100, this UBeesize tripod offers any photographer a reliable device to improve their skills on even the most difficult of terrains. With a 360 degree ball head, pan tilt actions will be easier than ever before.

Design & Materials

Made of lightweight aluminum alloy, you’ll appreciate how sturdy and hardwearing this tripod is, making it the best tripod under $100. It’s ideal for a vlogger, photographer or to use during live streams. You want to make sure that even when you’re purchasing a new tripod on a budget, that it can offer you everything you need for success. With a good build quality, you can set this tripod’s legs at three different motions for low angle shots or any other specialized photography requirements.

Collapsing & Carrying

Extending to a maximum height of 71 inches, this tripod can also collapse down to 17.3 inches. This makes it ideal for a wide variety of uses, including as a tabletop tripod. The payload capacity is 12 kg, which means it can hold a decent camera weight. However, the tripod itself only weighs 3 lbs, making it easy to carry around as a travel tripod. The ball head is hardwearing, and has multiple different controls for pan, tilt and headlock, allowing you to create fantastic work wherever you are in the world.

Pros

• 360 Degree ball head makes shooting even easier
• Highly rated as the best tripod under $100, with a high load capacity of 12 kg
• When fully extended, reaches up to 71 inches in height

Cons

• No negative tripod review comments for this device!

2 – JOBY GorillaPod 5K Kit

The Joby Gorillapod has a distinctive design, and the brand is renowned for its high-quality tripods. Its unique design offers flexibility, and it can grip and wrap around pretty much any surface. Regardless of where in the world you are planning to hold your next photoshoot, this is an ideal travel tripod for those looking for a portable and stylish design.

Design & Materials

Constructed from anodized aluminum, this is a hard-wearing yet lightweight tripod. The Joby Gorillapod features rubber foot grips, which make it ideal for shooting on uneven terrain. The unique design makes the legs flexible enough to wrap or grip onto almost any surface or railing. This allows for unique and artistic photography, and you’ll appreciate being able to use your camera in even the most difficult of circumstances. It features a ¼”-20 mount and can hold up to a 5kg camera and lens.

Collapsing & Carrying

The setup of this Joby Gorillapod tripod is very quick, thanks to the Arca-Swiss system. The device’s legs and ball head are flexible enough to allow you to set up your camera anywhere. You’ll find a numbered scale on the base of the tripod, which allows you to repeat your 360 degree pans with good accuracy. The whole device weighs 0.8 kg, and its dimensions are 6.5 x 6.5 x 38.5 cm, so it’s perfect for travel photographers.

Pros

• The Joby Gorillapod features a unique design that allows your tripod to affix to any surfaces or railings
• Ideal for use on any terrain
• It can hold up to a 5 kg camera and lens

Cons

• If you are using extremely heavy or valuable equipment, be very careful, as the design means that is can sometimes collapse or become unstable

3 – MACTREM 80″ Camera Tripod

Constructed using good quality aluminum, this MACTREM tripod makes our list of best tripods thanks to its functional and sturdy design. With a quick-release plate, swivel ball head and all the features you would expect to find on a tripod under $100, you’ll be in good hands for your next photo shoot with this tripod.

Design & Materials

Constructed from aluminum, this is a 2 in 1 device which can also be used a monopod and can even double as an alpenstock if you are hiking. The ball head will rotate 360 degrees to capture the perfect shot wherever you are. The non slip rubber feet are ideal for increasing the stability of your camera and for balancing the camera and tripod weight well. The quick-release plate has a 1/4 inch screw so it’s compatible with most cameras and you can even connect your phone with the phone mount.

Collapsing & Carrying

Including the ball head, this device has a 3.5 lbs tripod weight and a payload capacity of 15 kg. Folding down to just 18.5 inches, it’s easy to fit into a carry bag when you’re on the go. Stretching up to 80 inches in height and also doubling as a monopod, the four sections and the center column feature flip locks that allow for quick adjustment. The center column is upside-down, which makes it ideal for close-up shots.

Pros

• The quick release plate makes this tripod a good option for a vlogger or blogger
• Non slip rubber feet are ideal for shooting on difficult surfaces
• A fantastic load capacity of 15 kg

Cons

• The ball head is not as fluid as others on our list of best tripods

4 – KobraTech 70 Inch Tripod for a Phone and Camera Photographer

Compatible with a wide range of cameras and phones, this Apex A70 tripod from KobraTech is in our list of best tripods under $100 thanks to its reliability and mobility. Included in your purchase is a phone mount, Bluetooth remote and travel bag.

Design & Materials

Made from aluminum, this is a durable option on our list of best tripods under $100. Unlike carbon fiber tripod options, you’ll appreciate how lightweight this tripod is to take on your adventures and travels. It features a monopod, which you can access by removing the center column. The center column then expands up to 65″, acting as a monopod. This tripod is ideal for any phone or camera and included in your box you’ll find two quick release plates and a phone mount, which any size of phone will be compatible with.

Collapsing & Carrying

Coming in at just 4 lbs, this is a great option for travelers and photographers who are always on the go. The Bluetooth remote makes photography simple, and you’ll appreciate the included travel bag. The tripod itself reaches a maximum height of 70 inches, and the QuickClip design means expanding and collapsing this tripod is a breeze. A one year warranty is included in your purchase, and there’s also a sixty-day money-back guarantee.

Pros

• One year warranty included, so you can make your purchase with peace of mind
• 2 in 1 tripod – simply remove the center column, which will then act as a monopod
• The tripod weight is very low, making it easy for carrying around and ideal for a vlogger or travel photographer

Cons

• Not as sturdy or tight as other tripods under $100

5 – Victiv 72-inch Camera Tripod Aluminum Monopod

Victiv offers a fantastic tripod under $100 which is constructed from aluminum but has much thicker leg tubes than you would expect, making it quite comparable in stability to carbon fiber ones. It takes only five seconds to transform this tripod into a monopod, making it the best tripod option for new photographers looking for a tripod within this price range.

Design & Materials

Made from aluminum, this is another great lightweight option that’s easier to carry around than a carbon fiber tripod. It offers you thick leg tubes, which make it particularly sturdy for long exposure shots. Transforming from a monopod to a tripod in just seconds, the build quality of this tripod is excellent. The 360 degree head is one of its top features, and it will make sure that your angle shots are captured perfectly.

Collapsing & Carrying

Collapsing down to 21 inches, this tripod is perfect for travel photographers looking for a tripod with a good price point. Its maximum height is 72 inches, so at full size, you’ll be able to comfortably stand up while looking into the viewfinder. Included is an extra quick release plate, so if you are using two cameras, you can easily attach them to the 3-way swivel head.

Pros

• 3-way swivel head
• At full size, it reaches to 72 inches in height
• An additional quick release plate is included, so it’s quick and easy to change between cameras

Cons

• The monopod function is not as effective, especially when used with the maximum load capacity

6 – Torjim 60” Camera Tripod with Carry Bag

You won’t believe how great value for money this tripod is, which comes in at under $40. It’s the best tripod under $100 thanks to the unique inclusion of a Bluetooth remote control with your purchase.

Design & Materials

Made from aluminum alloy and plastic, the maximum height you can extend this device to is 60 inches. It features four leg sections, and the shortest height you can set it to is 17.6 inches. There’s a built-in bubble level, and the handle makes pan and tilt movements easy. Most DSLRs can be fitted to this tripod with no issues. For stability, the tripod weight is supported by rubber feet, and this is high on the list of best tripods under $100 as it can hold up to 11 pounds in weight.

Collapsing & Carrying

You’ll find a 1/4″ quick release plate included as is standard with most tripods, which makes moving around between shots and packing away quick and simple. You’ll also appreciate the phone holder that’s included, as well as the Bluetooth remote control which works with your smartphone. For ease of carrying, there’s a carry bag included which has a zipper to secure your new high quality tripod.

Pros

• At under $40, this is one of the cheapest and best tripods under $100
• Constructed from aluminum alloy, this is a lightweight device that is easy to carry around in the included carry case
• Includes a Bluetooth remote control
• Built-in bubble level

Cons

• Not the tallest aluminum alloy tripod on the market, as it only extends to 60″

7 – Magnus VT-350 Video Tripod with Fluid Head

This traditional tripod is similar to the Magnus VT 300 and features a lightweight and portable design. It’s ideal for your DSLR, camcorder or another device. It has a professional appearance that makes it perfect for a professional photographer or a beginner just starting out in the industry.

Design & Materials

This sturdy tripod from the Magnus VT 300 series is one of the best tripods under 100 dollars and features everything you would expect from a device of this type. The center column of the tripod can be raised with the crank arm, and extends by up to 1 foot in height, to a maximum of 82 inches in height. The legs will remain sturdy even when the device is being adjusted, thanks to a mid-level spreader. The Magnus VT 300 series tripods feature a built-in video head for fluid effect, which ensures your pan and tilt movements are smooth. There’s a quick release plate with a 1/4″-20 camera size mounting screw.

Collapsing & Carrying

This is a four-section tripod which can easily be collapsed or expanded to suit your needs. The extension of the legs is done with the flip locks, which are quick and easy to use when you are traveling. For use on uneven surfaces, you’ll appreciate the foot spikes and rubber feet which can be used on any surface. When you are shooting on somewhere like a beach, use the rounded spike covers. Included in your purchase is a carry case, which has a comfortable shoulder strap for carrying the tripod around with you.

Pros

• Carry case with shoulder strap included in your purchase
• Magnus VT 300 series tripods are of a high quality and are perfect for aspiring professional photographers
• Foot spikes and rubber feet are included, so you can shoot on any surfaces

Cons

• A lot of this compact tripod is made from plastic, which wears down after extended use or with heavy cameras

8 – AmazonBasics 60-Inch Lightweight Tripod with Bag

This is one of the lowest-priced tripods on the market, coming in at under $30 in price. AmazonBasics have created an incredibly lightweight and sturdy tripod that’s of a high-quality even at such a low price. It’s compatible with most devices including GoPros, video cameras and digital cameras.

Design & Materials

Made from lightweight aluminum, this tripod is remarkably sturdy and lightweight for its price. You can use it with almost any device, and it has a recommended maximum load weight of 6.6 lbs or 3 kg. The 3-way head will allow you to enjoy a tilt and swivel motion while shooting, and it even comes with the option to switch between portrait and landscape modes. The feet of this budget tripod are made from rubber, which is sturdy on hard and uneven surfaces.

Collapsing & Carrying

When collapsed, the height of this video tripod is 25 inches, and it extends up to 60 inches when the center post is extended to its full length. You’ll find a carrying case included with your delivery, making it easy to transport around. For quick transitions between various shots and locations, you’ll appreciate the quick release plate. The legs of this tripod extend from 20 inches to 48 inches thanks to the leg locks which are easy and smooth to use.

Pros

• One of the best budget tripod options, coming in at under $30
• Features a 3-way head
• Compatible with many different devices include GoPros

Cons

• Not the tallest of aluminum tripods on the market
• The attachment between the head and the body is quite flimsy

9 – GWNNSH Camera Lightweight Travel Tripod

If you are looking to make a good first impression with your new budget tripod and photography equipment, this is a great piece of gear to add to your camera kit. With a 30-day return policy, you can purchase with confidence from GWNNSH.

Design & Materials

With a maximum load of 22 lbs, this is a heavy-duty tripod constructed from aluminum. With four legs, a quick release plate and a 360 degree ball head, you’ll have everything you need to shoot at eye level or lower to the ground. The release plate is a universal 1/4 inch size, meaning it can fit most cameras with no issue.

Collapsing & Carrying

This is a 2 in 1 device which can act as a tripod or monopod. The maximum height this tripod extends to is 55 inches, and it collapses down to 20 inches. It’s incredibly quick and easy to collapse when you’re in a rush, making it the ideal option if you are comparing travel tripods.

Pros

• A maximum load capacity of 22 lbs
• 2 in 1 monopod and tripod
• 30-day return policy included

Cons

• The maximum length it can extend to is 55 inches, so for many users, it’s not ideal for shooting at eye level

10 – KingJoy 66” Camera Tripod

With a maximum load of 10 kg, this is a great option for most camera users and provides a firm grip on any surface. The flip locks allow you to smoothly adjust the height of this tripod in just seconds.

Design & Materials

Featuring a quick release plate, this camera is compatible with most DSLRs as well as GoPros and vlogger cameras. With a lifetime guarantee, you will be in safe hands with this option on our list of best tripods under $100. Made from aluminum, you’ll have a stable yet lightweight tripod. The ball head features a professional drag pan, and the various settings allow you to work with different shutter speeds and use the built-in bubble levels.

Collapsing & Carrying

Included in your purchase is a carry bag, and you’ll appreciate how easy this tripod is to collapse. You’ll want to make sure you don’t exceed the maximum load of 10 kg, but this should be suitable for most cameras. It’s an ideal video tripod which can extend from 24 inches to 66 inches. The flip locks allow you to quickly and smoothly adjust the maximum height, making it ideal for entry level photographers who want a simple device to add to their kit.

Pros

• Aluminum tripod that’s rugged as well as being moisture and dust proof
• It has a maximum load capacity of 10 kg
• Includes a carry bag, and thanks to the flip locks, this is one of the quickest compact action tripod options on the market to collapse when on the go

Cons

• Not the most stable tripod when mounted with a high load capacity
• Maximum height is only 66 inches, so not one of the tallest maximum height tripods on this list

11 – K&F Concept 62” DSLR Tripod

For a sturdy tripod, this is a great option on our list of best tripods under $100. It’s incredibly lightweight but sturdy and folds down to be one of the smallest tabletop tripods at just 18.1 inches.

Design & Materials

This aluminum tripod is practical and portable, with a maximum height of 62 inches. For better stability, its recommended to shoot at 52.4 inches, but of course, it’s up to personal preference. When you need a good tabletop tripod, it can reduce down to 16.1 inches, which is ideal for indoor use. The ball head ensures your camera is stable regardless of what you are shooting, and it’s a good device for taking panoramic shots on.

Collapsing & Carrying

Weighing just under 3 lbs, this is an extremely light tripod weight that’s ideal for travelers and also for use as a tabletop tripod. Folding down to just 18.1 inches, it’s easy to carry around when you’re on the go. The center column and flip locks make collapsing this tripod quick and smooth, and you’ll be on the move within seconds. There’s a knob to adjust the angle of the three tubes, which can be done quickly and easily when in a rush to get the perfect shot.

Pros

• A very lightweight option on our list of best tripods under $100, at under 3 lbs including the ball head
• Quick release plate
• Another great thing about this tripod is that it collapses down to just 18.1 inches, making it compact for carrying

Cons

• Maximum height when extended is only 62 inches
• As aluminum is lightweight, you may find this is not as sturdy as carbon fiber tripods when a heavy camera is used on it

12 – Moman Monopod Tripod

The monopod is a unique concept which allows for greater portability than your regular tripod. As you can see, this device from Moman folds down into a tiny portable size, which makes it ideal for travel photographers. Featuring a universal mounting plate, this is the perfect option for any DSLR or professional camera.

Design & Materials

This monopod uses aluminum in its construction, making it an extremely strong device which is also lightweight. A monopod is surprisingly stable, even with only one main leg. It features five sections and can extend up to a height of 65 inches. This is a low-maintenance monopod option as it uses anti-dust technology. This prevents any dirt or dust from getting inside the tube, which will save you hours of cleaning time and make it last for years to come.

Collapsing & Carrying

The five sections are a maximum diameter of 1″, and a minimum of 0.5″, making this a tiny device to carry around in your bag. The tripod base can easily be adjusted to the perfect angle, depending on the ground you are shooting on at the time. Its minimum height is just 18.5 inches, making it perfect for low angle photography. The monopod and base combined weight only 1.4 lbs, so it’s one of the best travel tripods and is incredibly easy to use and carry. The maximum payload is 22 lbs, so it is still sturdy enough for most DSLR cameras.

Pros

• Unique monopod design, which makes it the ideal travel tripod
• Made from aluminum and features anti-dust technology
• Its weight is only 1.4 lbs in total

Cons

• The monopod option may not appeal to everyone, especially those with heavy DSLR cameras
• A monopod is more likely to fall over than your typical tripod

13 – Manfrotto Compact Action Aluminum 5-Section Tripod Kit

This Manfrotto compact action tripod is ideal for active photographers and is constructed from durable aluminum. If you use a high-specification camera, it also includes an adapter for this type of camera. This is one of the most portable yet robust tripods under $100 and has a wide range of features that you’ll appreciate having without spending a fortune.

Design & Materials

Made from aluminum, this Manfrotto compact action tripod is a lightweight model and is ideal for any level of photographer. There are three different models to choose from when you purchase from Manfrotto, and you can select a lightweight or advanced design if you prefer. The tripod is designed with DSLR and CSC cameras in mind, although it is best for an entry-level camera with a standard lens. In an instant, you’ll be able to switch between video and photo modes, so it’s perfect for photographers who use a variety of mediums during a shoot.

Collapsing & Carrying

The structure of this Manfrotto tripod is particularly sturdy, and the legs are designed to give you precise and sharp results with every photo you take. It’s easy to collapse when needed, and the quick release plate will support a huge range of cameras. For safe transportation of your new compact tripod, you’ll appreciate the included carry bag which is padded to keep your travel tripod safe while on the move. The maximum height when extended is 61 inches, it has a safety payload of 3.31 lbs, and its total weight is 2.56 lbs.

Pros

• The Manfrotto compact action tripod is ideal for entry-level cameras and also has a lightweight or advanced option
• Very lightweight model
• Sturdy legs which will give you precise results

Cons

• Only extends up to 61 inches, so if you are taller you may find you have to bend over a lot to use this compact tripod

14 – Neewer 2-in-1 Aluminum Alloy Camera Tripod

Made from aluminum alloy, this is a solid and versatile tripod which has good shock absorption. It’s a 2-in-1 tripod and monopod, so you can use it as you desire while on the go. The removable leg allows this conversion to take place with ease and the device extends to a good height regardless of which way you have it set up.

Design & Materials

Made from aluminum alloy, this versatile tripod converts between a monopod and a tripod to fit all your photography needs. It has a ball adaptor included for this conversion and a removable leg. If you are working as a photographer at low angles, you’ll appreciate the center axis which can be inverted. You’ll be able to use the bubble level to find balance, and this will give you the perfect position for your photography work. The standout feature is the wide variety of adjustable parts, which allow you to shoot at various angles and offer a 360 degree horizontal option.

Collapsing & Carrying

Complete with four leg sections, the flip leg locks make collapsing this tripod easy when you’re on the go. The length of the tripod is adjustable to a maximum height of up to 71.2 inches, allowing most people to shoot at eye level. It will collapse down to a length of 17.9 inches, making it compact for storage and traveling. At just 3.17 pounds in weight, this is one of the best tripods under $100 thanks to its lightweight and versatile nature. It has dual convertible mounting screws, which are 1/4″ – 3/8″ in size.

Pros

• This 2 in 1 tripod offers a variety of features for any level of photographer at a good price point
• Can be used as a monopod or tripod to fit your requirements as a photographer
• Good shock absorption

Cons

• Not ideal for 360 degree panoramic shots, as it’s not as smooth when moving side to side as it is using the tilt head

15 – SLIK Sprint 150 Aluminum Tripod with Quick Release Plate

For a budget friendly option from the makers of the Slik pro, you’ll appreciate their addition to our tripods under $100 best devices list. Ideal for those on a lower budget but looking for a professional piece of equipment, this full size tripod is best for lightweight DSLRs.

Design & Materials

Made from aluminum, this tripod is tough enough for traveling and offers all the features you would expect from a tripod, with the weight that’s associated with ones made from carbon fiber. It has a lower load capacity than other devices, so it is best for lightweight DSLRs or mirrorless cameras. The quick release plate makes taking your camera on and off speedy and easy, and you’ll find this to be one of the best tabletop tripods thanks to the built-in short column.

Collapsing & Carrying

Weighing just 2.1 lbs, this is one of the lightest budget tripods on the market. Extending to a length of 64.4 inches, it is good for quick photoshoots and travelers. You can work at just 6.4 inches thanks to the short column, making it ideal for shooting at a low angle. The flip locks mean you’ll have this tripod collapsed quickly, and you’ll be on the move in just seconds.

Pros

• Ideal for travel photographers on a budget, thanks to its weight of just 2.1 lbs
• You can work at just 6.4 inches from the ground, which is perfect for low angle shots
• Non slip rubber feet

Cons

• Load capacity is only 4.5 lbs
• The maximum length it expands to is 64.4 inches

How to Choose the Best Tripod Under $100?

A tripod is a three-legged device which is used to stabilize your camera. The better quality and build of your new tripod, the more reliable its stabilization will be. Below you’ll find the most important things to look for when making your new purchase.

Material

Generally, tripods under $100 are made from aluminum or carbon fiber. You’ll find that carbon fiber creates really long-lasting products that can last for many years of use. On the other hand, aluminum is lighter in weight but is likely to only last a maximum of five years. It will depend on how long you are expecting this purchase to last as to which material is best for your new travel tripod.

Head Types

In our product recommendations below, you’ll see many different head types mentioned including a ball head, tilt head, joystick head and fluid head. Most tripods come with a ball head as part of the design, and if you are a beginner, this will be the easiest type for you to use. I’d recommend finding one with a detachable head if you don’t go with a ball head. The head type is down to your preference, so it’s up to you to decide which is the best option for your needs.

Weight

Are you planning to carry your new device around as a travel tripod, or will you just use it closer to home? These are important things to consider, as they will impact the weight of the device you purchase. Travel tripods should be lightweight and easy to carry around, especially if you are planning to take it on a plane. As well as the physical weight of the tripod, consider the maximum payload that the device itself can take without collapsing or breaking. If you have a particularly heavy DSLR camera, you’ll need to ensure the load capacity is adequate for your device. Add together the weight of your camera and the heaviest lens that you use, and then try and find a tripod that supports at least that load capacity.

Height or Length

For the optimum photography setup, try to find a tripod that will allow you to stand with your camera at eye level without having to slouch over or round your back too much. You’ll see a wide range of heights mentioned in our recommended tripods under $100 below, so find one that suits your height and is adjustable to also shoot lower to the ground when needed.

Tripod Legs

The tripod legs are an integral part of the device, and these vary between models. If you find a tripod with multiple leg sections, it will be more portable and adjustable than other options. However, adjustable legs and sections can make for less stability. Tripods with four or five sections are the best for portability, but if stability is your number one concern, reduce this by a section or two. The leg locks on the tripod legs will also vary greatly, but the most reliable option is a flip lock. These also make setting up in a hurry much easier.

Feet

Before making your purchase, you should decide where and when you are planning to use your new tripod. The feet are essential for stable photography, so if you plan to use your camera and tripod outdoors, then you’ll want to find a tripod suitable for those needs. Rubber feet are good for indoor use but aren’t the best option for uneven surfaces. If you are planning to use your tripod outside or abroad, look for spiked feet for greater stability on a wide range of surfaces.