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10 Best Monopods 2025 in the United States

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Our Top Picks

#1

Winner

Gitzo GM4562 Professional Photography Monopod, Series 4, 6 Sections, for DSLR and Reflex Cameras, Camcorders, Video Cameras, in Carbon Fibre, Holds up to 35 Kg

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,482
Material
Maximum Load Capacity
Locking Mechanism

Most important from
20 reviews

Material
The build quality is outstanding, combining durability with a slim profile that is comfortable to grip during extended use.
Maximum Load Capacity
This monopod is incredibly lightweight yet strong enough to support heavy camera rigs, making it ideal for demanding photography scenarios.
Locking Mechanism
The locking system securely holds each leg section in place, ensuring steady support without slipping.
Weight
Its compact design and ability to collapse small enough to fit into backpack straps or luggage make it exceptionally portable for travel and outdoor use.
Foot Type
The rubber foot with a pivoting ball joint allows smooth movement and reliable contact with various surfaces.

The Gitzo GM4562 is a high-quality monopod made from carbon fiber, which makes it very light at about 670 grams (1.48 pounds) but still strong enough to hold heavy cameras or video gear up to 35 kg (77 pounds). This makes it a great choice for professional photographers or videographers needing reliable support for heavy equipment. It extends up to nearly 154 cm (about 5 feet) and collapses down to just 44 cm, making it compact and easy to carry in a backpack. The monopod has six leg sections and uses Gitzo’s G-Lock Ultra system, which firmly locks each section in place to prevent slipping and protects against dirt and moisture, adding to its durability and stability.

Its wider leg diameter also helps keep your camera steady, especially when using long lenses. Because it is designed for professionals and heavier gear, it might be overkill for casual users or those with smaller cameras. Also, the higher price point typical of Gitzo gear might be a consideration if you’re on a budget. The monopod doesn’t come with a specialized foot type like a spiked or rubber foot, but its solid build ensures good contact with most surfaces.

If you need a strong, stable, and lightweight monopod for heavy cameras and want something easy to carry around, the Gitzo GM4562 is a smart pick. For beginners or those using lighter equipment, simpler and more affordable options may meet your needs better.

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,482
Material
Maximum Load Capacity
Locking Mechanism

Most important from
20 reviews

Material
The build quality is outstanding, combining durability with a slim profile that is comfortable to grip during extended use.
Maximum Load Capacity
This monopod is incredibly lightweight yet strong enough to support heavy camera rigs, making it ideal for demanding photography scenarios.
Locking Mechanism
The locking system securely holds each leg section in place, ensuring steady support without slipping.
Weight
Its compact design and ability to collapse small enough to fit into backpack straps or luggage make it exceptionally portable for travel and outdoor use.
Foot Type
The rubber foot with a pivoting ball joint allows smooth movement and reliable contact with various surfaces.
#2

Gitzo monopod, Series 4, 4 Sections

Rating
9.4
Material
Height Range
Locking Mechanism

Most important from
4 reviews

Material
The monopod balances lightness with exceptional sturdiness, making it ideal for heavy camera and lens setups without any stability issues.
Height Range
Extending and locking the sections is quick and intuitive, allowing for smooth height adjustments in the field.
Locking Mechanism
Extending and locking the sections is quick and intuitive, allowing for smooth height adjustments in the field.
Weight
The monopod balances lightness with exceptional sturdiness, making it ideal for heavy camera and lens setups without any stability issues.

The Gitzo Series 4 monopod is a solid choice for photographers who need a stable and lightweight support for their professional DSLR cameras, especially when using long lenses. Made from carbon fiber and magnesium, it is both rigid and easy to carry, weighing just over half a kilogram (1.14 pounds). Its 4-section design allows the monopod to extend up to 63 inches, giving good height flexibility for different shooting situations. The G-lock Ultra system ensures the sections stay securely locked, which adds to its reliability during use.

With a maximum load capacity of 10 kilograms, it can handle most professional camera setups without worry. One standout feature is the innovative pivoting foot, which helps capture moving subjects by offering smoother tracking and stability on uneven ground. Additionally, the monopod's removable feet and standard 1/4” and 3/8” attachments make it easy to add accessories or customize.

Priced for serious users and potentially more than casual photographers need, the build quality and thoughtful design justify the investment for those who require dependable support. It is best suited for photographers who value portability, durability, and precision in a monopod.

Rating
9.4
Material
Height Range
Locking Mechanism

Most important from
4 reviews

Material
The monopod balances lightness with exceptional sturdiness, making it ideal for heavy camera and lens setups without any stability issues.
Height Range
Extending and locking the sections is quick and intuitive, allowing for smooth height adjustments in the field.
Locking Mechanism
Extending and locking the sections is quick and intuitive, allowing for smooth height adjustments in the field.
Weight
The monopod balances lightness with exceptional sturdiness, making it ideal for heavy camera and lens setups without any stability issues.
#3

Gitzo GM4532 Professional Photography Monopod, Series 4, 3 Sections, for DSLR and Reflex Cameras, Camcorders and Video Cameras, for Photographers and Videographers, in Carbon Fibre, Holds up to 35 Kg

The Gitzo GM4532 Professional Photography Monopod is crafted from high-quality carbon fiber, which contributes to its extreme strength and lightweight design. Weighing only 670 grams (1.48 pounds), it is easy to carry yet robust enough to support a maximum load of 35 kg (77 pounds). This makes it suitable for heavy professional DSLRs, camcorders, and video cameras.

The monopod features three leg sections with the G-Lock Ultra system, ensuring secure and quick setup while protecting the joints from moisture and dirt. The height range is quite versatile, extending from a minimum of 66 cm to a maximum of 163 cm, accommodating various shooting needs and styles. Additionally, the wider tube width enhances stability, even when using long lenses.

The practical design and ease of use make the Gitzo GM4532 ideal for photographers and videographers who need reliable support for their equipment during fast-paced shoots. However, the monopod's premium build and features come at a higher price point, which might not be justifiable for casual users or hobbyists. Despite this, the Gitzo GM4532 offers exceptional performance and reliability for professional use.

Buying Guide for the Best Monopods

Choosing the right monopod can significantly enhance your photography or videography experience. A monopod is a single-legged support used to help stabilize your camera, making it easier to capture sharp images and smooth videos. When selecting a monopod, it's important to consider several key specifications to ensure it meets your needs and preferences. Understanding these specifications will help you make an informed decision and find the best monopod for your requirements.
MaterialThe material of a monopod affects its weight, durability, and stability. Common materials include aluminum and carbon fiber. Aluminum monopods are generally more affordable and durable but can be heavier. Carbon fiber monopods are lighter and more resistant to vibrations, making them ideal for travel and long shooting sessions, but they tend to be more expensive. Choose a material based on your need for portability versus durability.
Maximum Load CapacityThe maximum load capacity indicates how much weight the monopod can support. This is crucial because it needs to hold your camera and any additional equipment like lenses or external flashes. Monopods with higher load capacities are typically more robust and stable. If you use a lightweight camera, a monopod with a lower load capacity will suffice. However, for heavier DSLR or mirrorless cameras with large lenses, opt for a monopod with a higher load capacity.
Height RangeThe height range of a monopod determines how tall it can extend and how compact it can be when collapsed. This is important for both usability and portability. A taller monopod is useful for shooting from higher perspectives or for taller individuals, while a more compact monopod is easier to carry and store. Consider your shooting style and physical height to choose a monopod with a suitable height range.
Leg SectionsMonopods are divided into sections that can be extended or collapsed. The number of leg sections affects the monopod's stability and portability. Monopods with fewer sections are generally more stable but less compact when collapsed. Those with more sections are more portable but may sacrifice some stability. If you prioritize stability, choose a monopod with fewer sections. For travel and ease of carrying, a monopod with more sections might be better.
Locking MechanismThe locking mechanism secures the leg sections in place. Common types include twist locks and flip locks. Twist locks are generally more compact and can be adjusted quickly, while flip locks are easier to operate and provide a more secure lock. Your choice depends on personal preference and how quickly you need to adjust the monopod. If you need fast adjustments, flip locks might be more convenient. For a more streamlined design, twist locks are preferable.
WeightThe weight of the monopod affects how easy it is to carry around. Lighter monopods are easier to transport and handle, making them ideal for travel and long shooting sessions. Heavier monopods, while more cumbersome, can offer better stability and support for heavier camera setups. Consider how much you are willing to carry and balance it with the need for stability when choosing the weight of your monopod.
Foot TypeThe foot type of a monopod can affect its stability on different surfaces. Common types include rubber feet, spiked feet, and retractable feet. Rubber feet provide good grip on smooth surfaces, spiked feet are better for outdoor and uneven terrains, and retractable feet offer versatility for different environments. Choose a foot type based on where you plan to use the monopod most frequently.

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