10 Best tripods 2025 in the United States

The Amazon Basics 50-inch Lightweight Portable Camera Mount Tripod is a solid choice for casual photographers and travelers. Made of lightweight aluminum, it weighs only 1.23 pounds, making it highly portable and easy to carry on trips, hikes, or camping. Its height is adjustable from 16.1 inches to 50 inches with 3-section lever-lock legs, allowing for quick and simple adjustments. The tripod includes a 3-way head that supports tilt and swivel motions, catering to both portrait and landscape shots.

Added features like the built-in bubble level ensure precise positioning, and the quick-release plate aids in fast transitions between shots. A zippered storage bag enhances its portability further. However, this tripod is not recommended for use with heavy, high-end DSLR cameras or equipment exceeding 4.4 pounds, which could limit its utility for professional photographers with heavier gear. While its lightweight nature is a boon for travel, it may compromise stability in windy conditions or on uneven surfaces.

With a best-seller ranking and positive reviews, it’s clear this tripod is well-regarded for its affordability and convenience. Potential buyers should consider their camera's weight and shooting environment before making a purchase.

The ULANZI Camera Tripod is a compact and flexible option, ideal for casual photographers and vloggers who want versatility in a small package. Made from metal and rubber, it feels sturdy enough despite its light weight of just 250 grams (about half a pound). Its flexible legs can wrap around poles or branches, adding to its stability on uneven surfaces—a big plus for outdoor use or creative angles. The ball head offers smooth 180° rotation, making it easy to switch between vertical and horizontal shots, which is perfect for smartphone video or photography. It supports devices up to 450 grams, so it fits most smartphones and some lightweight cameras like DSLRs, but it won’t hold heavier professional gear securely. The maximum height is 310 mm (around 12 inches), so it’s more of a tabletop or low-level tripod rather than one for full-height shots.

It includes a hidden phone holder that adjusts to fit a range of phone sizes (65-95mm wide), and the cold shoe mount lets you attach accessories like microphones or LED lights, enhancing its usefulness for vloggers. However, the tripod doesn’t have traditional extendable legs or multiple sections, limiting height adjustment and stability compared to standard tripods. Also, while flexible legs add versatility, they might not be as stable as rigid ones on flat surfaces. For those seeking a lightweight, portable stand primarily for smartphones and light cameras, especially for on-the-go or creative mounting, this tripod meets those needs effectively. Those requiring taller height, higher load capacity, or professional-grade stability might prefer larger, more traditional models.

The JOBY GripTight ONE GP is a compact and versatile small tripod designed for smartphones. One of its main strengths is its flexibility, thanks to the GorillaPod legs that can be adjusted to almost any angle, allowing for creative photography and video recording. Additionally, the rotating ball head adds to the versatility, making it easier to find the perfect shot. Its compact and foldable design ensures it is portable and convenient to carry around, making it an excellent choice for travel and on-the-go use.

The universal phone holder fits most smartphones, even with cases, which adds to its practicality. The stainless steel spring-loaded design ensures a secure grip and quick release, which is very user-friendly. However, the tripod's maximum load capacity is only 1 pound, which means it might not support heavier devices or additional equipment like external lenses or microphones. The height is limited to 30 centimeters, so it may not be suitable for all photography needs, particularly those requiring higher elevation.

Made from ABS plastic, stainless steel, and TPE, it is durable but might not be as rugged as some other materials. Weighing only 0.05 pounds, it is extremely light, but this could affect its stability, especially in windy conditions or on uneven surfaces. The JOBY GripTight ONE GP is best suited for casual smartphone photography and videography, particularly for users who need a lightweight and portable solution.