10 Best Ultralight Tripod 2025 in the United States

The SIRUI ST-124+VA-5 is a strong contender in the ultralight tripod category, especially for photographers and videographers who prioritize portability without sacrificing stability. Made from carbon fiber, it’s lightweight at about 4 pounds and easy to carry on trips. The tripod can extend up to 62.2 inches tall, which is suitable for most standard shooting needs. One standout feature is its unique triangular center column, which makes the tripod more compact and adds sturdiness, helping it stay steady during use. The legs have rubber grips and retractable spikes, so it can hold firm on different surfaces, including slippery or uneven ground.

Its fluid video head, made from tough aluminum alloy, allows smooth camera movements, which is great for capturing video. The maximum load capacity is 6.61 pounds, so it’s best suited for lighter camera setups rather than heavy professional rigs. Also, the head type is a fluid head tailored for video, which might be less ideal if you mainly shoot still photos and want quick adjustments. The tripod supports standard mounting screws and is compatible with many camera types thanks to its Arca-Swiss compatibility. It represents a reliable and well-built choice for those who need a portable yet stable tripod for travel or outdoor shooting, provided their camera gear stays within the weight limit.

The Gitzo Tripod Traveler Alpha is a high-quality ultralight tripod designed especially for photographers who travel light but want reliable performance. It weighs just 1.43 kg (about 3.15 pounds), making it easy to carry around without adding much bulk to your gear. The tripod is built from carbon fiber, which provides excellent strength and durability while keeping it light. It supports up to 10 kg, so it can hold heavy camera setups, including long lenses, which is great for serious photography.

The tripod folds down compactly and reaches a maximum height of 165 cm, and it can also be set very low (43 cm) for close-to-ground shots. It uses a medium ball head with a Sony Alpha-specific plate but also works with standard Arca-Swiss mounts, offering some versatility. A standout feature is the Travel G-Lock system that adds extra stability, important when shooting on uneven terrain or with heavy lenses. While the 180° leg angle and foldability are excellent for compactness, the price may be higher compared to basic tripods.

This tripod is suited for photographers who prioritize portability without sacrificing strength, especially those using Sony Alpha cameras and needing a dependable travel companion.

The Gitzo Lightweight Series 0 Traveler Carbon Fiber Tripod is a solid choice for anyone needing a portable yet sturdy tripod for travel photography. Weighing just 2.8 pounds, it is impressively light, making it easy to carry around without adding much to your load. The use of carbon fiber material adds to its durability, providing strong support while keeping the weight down. With a maximum load capacity of 22 pounds, it can handle most cameras and equipment comfortably, which is quite impressive for its size.

The tripod features a ball head that is Arce-type compatible, adding versatility as it supports various brand plates, making it a flexible option for different setups. The reverse-folding legs and Traveler G-Lock system enhance its compactness and make it easy to set up and pack away quickly. Its height of 36.5 centimeters might be on the lower side for some users, limiting its reach in certain situations. However, the inclusion of a short center column and a shoulder strap are thoughtful touches that improve usability and transportation.

Stability is generally good though the lightweight design might struggle in very windy conditions or with extremely heavy setups. Made in Italy, it also carries a premium feel which might be appealing to those valuing craftsmanship. This tripod is best suited for photographers who prioritize portability and convenience over maximum height and who often work with lighter camera setups.