Finding the best camera tripods under $100 can be challenging at first glance. However, with a little research, you’ll be able to find a tripod that meets your needs. The key is finding the balance of features, such as weight, load capacity, stability, height, ease of use, etc.
A reliable tripod protects your valuable camera from unexpected slips, minimizing the risk of damage. Over the years, I’ve used my trusty tripods to capture stunning shots of sports, landscapes, smooth videos, sunsets/sunrises, and more. And finally, I found the Manfrotto Compact Action Aluminum 5-Section Tripod to be the best tripod for under $100, which offers great value for the price.
I love this tripod because it’s not only stable and reliable but also lightweight and compact, making it easy to pack and take everywhere.
I also like its smooth, easy-to-use features. It delivers crisp and sharp photos, both self-portraits and long exposures, even in low lighting conditions such as capturing stars or light trails.
That said, I also discovered other top contenders, including great options for landscape photographers, travel photographers, and videographers, so there’s a good fit for your needs on this list. And best of all? They’re all under $100.
Keep reading to discover why Manfrotto Compact Action Aluminum 5-Section Tripod is my favorite, and what alternative options I recommend.
List of Top 14 Best Camera Tripods Under $100
- Overall Best Camera Tripods under $100: Manfrotto Compact Action Aluminum 5-Section Tripod
- Best for landscapes and night photography: Manfrotto Compact Advanced Aluminum Tripod
- Best for Travel: Manfrotto PIXI Evo 2 Section mini tripod
- Best for Videography on an uneven surface: JOBY GorillaPod 3K Kit, Black
- Best for DSLR: JOBY Gorillapod 5K
- Best Affordable, Lightweight Tripod: JOBY Gorillapod 1K
- Best for Lightweight Camera or Phone: Neewer Carbon Fiber 66″ Camera Tripod
- Best Middle-level Camera Tripod under $100: Neewer 77-Inch Tripod
- Best Price/Performance: AmazonBasics Lightweight Mini Tripod
- Best Compact Tripod under $100: Slik Sprint Pro II Tripod
- Best for Small Camera: BONFOTO B690A Camera Tripod
- Best for Video: Magnus VT-300 Tripod
- Best Entry-level Camera Tripod under $100: Dolica AX620B 100
- Best for Professional Photographers: Zomei Q555 Lightweight Tripod
14 Best Camera Tripods Under $100 Reviewed
Without further ado, here are 14 of my favorite tripods for under $100. Let’s get started!
1. Overall Best Camera Tripod Under $100: Manfrotto Compact Action Aluminum 5-Section Tripod
Manfrotto is well-known in the camera accessories world. This Italian tripod manufacturer is famous for its workmanship and quality products, and the Compact Action Tripod Kit is no different.
For me, one of the best tripods for under $100 is the Manfrotto Compact Action Aluminum 5-Section Tripod. This series is best for both hobby and professional photographers.
The first thing I love about this tripod is its fluid head for smooth panning and tilting. It gives me exceptional stability, and enables better shot composition. Capturing high-quality footage and pictures becomes easier.
The next feature I appreciate about this tripod is its maximum load capacity of 3.3 lbs/1500 g. With this feature, I was able to easily mount a Sony A6400 camera and a Tamron 70-180mm lens.
I also like the feature of a quick switch between photo and movie modes. The seamless transitions not only save my time, but I can also be more creative with videos and photos, making it ideal for vloggers, filmmakers, iPhone photographers, and travel photographers.
Speaking of design, this tripod is made of aluminum and feels well-built in hand. It’s lightweight enough to travel easily, and takes up little space in my bag.
The height-adjustable legs can extend to a maximum of 61 in/155 cm. I can adjust the legs quickly and easily with one hand, which is great for quick setup.
Additionally, the tripod comes with a unique adaptor for higher-end cameras, providing a more secure connection for gear. The quick-release plate ensures that my camera stays securely attached to the tripod.
Conclusion
I am delighted with my experience using the Manfrotto Compact Action Aluminum 5-Section Tripod. It has allowed me to capture unique shots with both my entry-level SLR camera and phone that I would have missed out on due to shaky hands or unsteady footing.
2. Best for Landscapes and Night Photography: Manfrotto Compact Advanced Aluminum 5-Section Tripod
As a photographer, I always look for new gear. When it comes to tripods for landscape and night photography, I want something lightweight yet sturdy, easy to set up, and can handle any terrain.
After much research, I decided on the Manfrotto Compact Advanced Aluminum 5-Section Tripod with a smart foldable three-way head.
The highlight of this tripod is its great stability and portability. Its five sections are made from strong aluminum alloy that can handle heavy equipment with enhanced stability. And the legs can extend to a maximum of 65 in/165 cm, making it easier to shoot from a higher angle.
Plus, it weighs only 2.9 pounds so it’s easy to carry around when shooting in different locations, such as lakes, national parks, and deserts.
I love how quickly and easily I can set this tripod up! In just under two minutes, I’m all set to capture stunning sunrises and sunsets – without any concerns about complicated adjustments or stability in unstable positions, like on a bridge or near a cliff.
And when not in use, there’s a unique mechanism that allows me to fold the levels away compactly into its padded carrying bag – which means it takes up minimal space in my bag or car trunk.
The added bonus? This tripod includes a smart foldable three-way head that allows me to adjust my shots with ease – I can shoot from different angles and positions on uneven terrain, making it perfect for capturing stunning landscapes or dramatic night shots!
I’m stunned at how smooth and accurate the movements are when I’m using this tripod – thus enhancing image quality.
Conclusion
Overall, I am very satisfied with my purchase of the Manfrotto Compact Advanced Tripod with Three-Way Head! This lightweight but sturdy tripod has allowed me to take my landscape and night photography skills up a notch by delivering quality results every time!
3. Best for Travel: Manfrotto PIXI Evo 2 Section Mini Tripod
I was intrigued when I heard about the Manfrotto PIXI EVO 2-Section Mini Tripod. The idea of having a lightweight, portable tripod that offers a full 90° tilt and endless framing possibilities for travel photography was too good to pass up.
So, I decided to test one out and see if it lived up to its reputation. Here’s what I found out.
The first thing that stands out is how lightweight and small this tripod is—it weighs in at just 0.6 lbs and measures 8 inches when folded. Its short legs allow me to put it on tables and benches.
This small dimension makes it convenient to fit in my bag or backpack, and there’s always space in my bag. I love this feature because I often try to save space and weight on hiking, and camping trips.
Another perk of its small size is it allows me to easily shoot in low-light conditions or tight spaces, such as dense forests, narrow alleys, or slot canyons.
Furthermore, its ability to tilt up to 90° enhances stability in my vertical shots, enables capturing of unique perspectives, and gets better low-angle shots. With this, I can be more creative when shooting selfies or videos.
On the downside, it lacks a quick-release plate, which could attach my camera and switch back to the handheld quickly. Apart from that, I can use this tripod for my phone as well as my camera.
Thanks to its price, this tripod has received more than 25,800 reviews on Amazon. It’s durable and lightweight, making it a great choice for travel enthusiasts.
Conclusion
If you’re looking for a lightweight yet reliable mini tripod that offers great flexibility in terms of tilt angle and portability, look no further than the Manfrotto PIXI EVO 2-Section Mini Tripod!
4: Best for Videography on an Uneven Surface: JOBY GorillaPod 3K Kit, Black
I was overjoyed with how the JOBY GorillaPod 3K Kit tripod has been recording travel vlogs for me recently.
The highlight of this small but powerful tripod is its flexible legs. This allows me to easily wrap it around any object, whether it’s a branch, a bike handle, or a railing. I was thrilled that I can capture videos from countless angles. As long as the built-in bubble level is level, I can be sure my videos will appear symmetrical and sharp.
I also like Its lightweight but sturdy, thanks to its medical-grade ABS plastic and TPE joints. I love how it can hold up to 3 kilos(6.6 lbs.) of weight. It makes me feel comfortable knowing my mirrorless camera is kept safe no matter where I take it.
Other than that, the rubberized ring and foot grips make sure my shots look great even on uneven surfaces. With these features, I feel confident that my footage will turn out perfectly every time!
Last but not least, the 360° panning bed and 90° tilt give me exact angles for every shot. This is great for videographers and photographers who want reliable stability in their shots.
Conclusion
With features like adjustable legs, a spherical head, bubble levels, joint locks, rubberized ring & foot grips for terrain stability, and medical-grade ABS plastic & TPE for long-lasting joints – this tripod has everything a videographer or photographer needs!
5: Best for DSLR: JOBY Gorillapod 5K
The JOBY Gorillapod 5K has many features that make it an excellent choice for DSLR cameras.
At my first touch, I quickly realized this tripod could help me deliver high-quality results. This tripod is specially designed for professional photographers and videographers, journalists, vloggers, as well as demanding amateurs.
The highlight of this tripod is its flexibility. I can grip it, wrap it, or stand it. The wrappable legs maintain a firm grip on my DLSR on any surface, whether it’s a ledge or around a pipe.
Moreover, the anodized aluminum construction provides seamless movement when adjusting the tripod, ensuring I get a smooth shot every time.
I’m stunned at how easy it is to attach my camera to the Arca-Swiss compatible quick-release plate on the BallHead 5K. And with its rubberized ring and foot grips providing extra stability in tough terrain, I’m very satisfied with how secure my camera always feels on this tripod.
The JOBY Gorillapod 5K is also incredibly versatile for any photographer or videographer. It has a 14 “-20 mount, which means that it can be used for cameras, flashes, and other devices. Plus, with a 1/4″ to 3/8” adapter, I can attach a telephoto lens or professional tripod head to this tripod.
With its five-section legs, high load capacity of 11 lbs, and adjustable ball head, I have complete control over my shots while still feeling safe that my equipment won’t slip or fall over, thanks to its sturdy grip on whatever surface I am on!
Conclusion
With its flexible legs, anodized aluminum construction, Arca-Swiss compatible quick-release plate on the BallHead 5K, as well as its rubberized ring and foot grips providing extra stability in tough terrain – you will have complete control over all of your shots while feeling confident that your DSLR camera won’t slip or fall!
6: Best Affordable, Lightweight Tripod: JOBY Gorillapod 1K
If you don’t carry bulky camera gear and simply want a lightweight, affordable travel tripod, look no further than JOBY Gorillapod 1K. It’s designed for compact cameras up to 1 kg. But it also supports smartphones, flash, video cameras, or directional microphones.
I’m stunned at how sturdy and secure the JOBY Gorillapod 1K tripod is, considering its size and weight. It has flexible legs that grip onto any surface, and a removable ball head with a 360° panning base and 90° tilt for position control, enabling me to capture any view with minimal effort.
I love how the rubberized ring and foot grips improve grip; it prevents my camera from slipping and avoids potential damage. This is great for taking pictures in slippery or wet conditions, such as rain or snow days.
Furthermore, the Gorillapod 1K is also easy to use and set up – which is great when I’m dealing with limited time or space constraints. It only takes a few seconds to set up before I am ready to capture breathtaking images of my trip.
With its portability and flexibility, this nifty little tripod quickly became one of my favorite travel companions, allowing me to capture beautiful moments worldwide!
Conclusion
Whether going on a hike in the woods or exploring a new city, the JOBY GorillaPod 1K will ensure that your shots turn out exactly as you planned. I’m very satisfied with my own experience using this product – it has allowed me to capture unforgettable moments from my travels without having to lug around bulky camera gear!
7: Best for Lightweight Camera or Phone: Neewer Carbon Fiber 66″ Camera Tripod
The Neewer Carbon Fiber 66″ Camera Tripod is one of the most durable tripods I’ve ever used; I was stunned at how sturdy yet lightweight it was when I handled the tripod for the first time.
The highlight of this tripod is its carbon fiber body, unlike the ones mentioned above. Carbon fiber tripods are typically slighter, and have great rigidity than their aluminum counterparts.
I was thrilled that I can use one leg of the tripod as a monopod if needed. This feature is beneficial when I shoot in tight spaces where I can simply and quickly set up and adjust it more than normal tripods.
When folded, it measures 28 inches/58cm, making it easy to carry even when I am hopping from one tourist spot to another.
When unfolded, it can be extended to 66 inches/168cm, giving me enough latitude to shoot portraits, landscapes, and self-portraits.
Plus, leg locking with a quick release makes handling more effortless than ever before. It takes just seconds to set up and break down my tripod now!
I’m also very impressed with the versatility that this product offers. The universal ball head with two lockings and 360° dial allows me to alter angles freely and rapidly to capture shots without moving my tripod around.
Additionally, having eight layers at various angles helps ensure my camera stays secure while mounted on top—no matter what direction or angle I’m shooting from.
Conclusion
Overall, I love how easy it is to use this Neewer Carbon Fiber 66″ Tripod for both cameras and phones alike—not to mention how durable it is. So If you’re searching for carbon fiber tripods for your phone or camera, this one definitely deserves a look.
8: Best Middle-Level Camera Tripod Under $100: Neewer 77-Inch Tripod
When I was searching for a new tripod for my Sony a6400 recently, I was looking for something reliable, affordable, and adjustable. After some research, I found the Neewer 77-Inch Tripod to be the perfect fit for my needs.
First off, this tripod is made of an aluminum alloy structure, making it both sturdy and durable. This also gives the tripod a high-quality feel, especially for this price range.
Speaking of numbers, I love that It has an adjustable height range from 24-77 inches, folding to a compact 19-inch storage size with a net weight of 3.53 pounds. I am amazed at how easily it folds down into such a small size for storage or travel purposes!
The maximum load is 17.6 Pounds/4 kg. That makes it suitable for carrying DSLR or mirrorless cameras and lens combos. When using telephoto lenses, be careful not to exceed the load capacity.
I love its advanced panorama ball head built to easily rotate 360 degrees; I’m very satisfied with how smoothly its ball head rotates so I can get the best angles while capturing images of jewelry.
Plus, its 3-position angle adjustment system provides three different angles. With that, I can always find the best angle for my shots.
The non-slip rubber feet keep the tripod firmly planted on the ground, I am happy that there are no unexpected slips or falls outdoors.
Conclusion
If you need a middle-level camera tripod that won’t break your budget but still delivers quality results, look no further than the Neewer 77-Inch Tripod!
9: Best Price/Performance: Amazon Basics Lightweight Mini Tripod
Amazon Basics offers a good balance between quality and affordability. And the price of this camera tripod is hard to beat.
When I first saw the Amazon Basics Lightweight Mini Tripod, I was a bit skeptical about its performance—especially considering its price tag. But after using it for a few weeks, I am stunned at how well it works!
The Amazon Basics tripod supports small digital cameras (not DSLRs), GoPro gadgets, and smartphone adapters (not included), making it perfect for taking webcams on my desk.
When it comes to numbers, the maximum load of the camera tripod is 1.1 lbs/3 kg, which is great for smartphones as well as most entry-level cameras. However, larger cameras or lenses can quickly exceed the weight limit of the tripod.
And it stretches from 4.76 to 7.5 inches, which makes it ideal for various types of photography or video shooting scenarios. So whether I shoot in a studio or outdoors in nature, this lightweight mini tripod has got me covered!
On top of that, the 360-degree rotation and 90-degree tilt little ball head allow me to get more creative while shooting food and drink for menus.
The best part about this tripod is that it is small and light enough for traveling. And given its low price point compared to other tripods on the market, I don’t have to worry about breaking the bank either.
On the downside, as to be expected at this price, the processing quality of the tripod is very cheap, and almost all parts are made of plastic. This may lead to damage while out shooting.
Conclusion
From capturing special occasions like weddings or birthdays to filming family reunions or outdoor adventures, this tripod helps me capture those moments without sacrificing quality due to an unstable camera stand.
10: Best Compact Tripod Under $100: Slik Sprint Pro II Tripod
I love how The Slik Sprint Pro II is packed with features that make it stand out from its competitors. Currently, I’m using this tripod for a table setup.
One of those features is the aluminum legs and center column, which provide stability and durability without adding extra weight to the tripod. This makes it perfect for long days of shooting or carrying around in my bag.
Additionally, three adjustable leg angles allow me to get creative with my shots no matter shooting videos or stills. I can get plenty of unique shots without buying additional equipment.
As far as benefits go, this tripod does not disappoint! One of my favorite features is the included arca-swiss compatible quick-release plate that allows me to quickly set up and take down my camera without having to fiddle around with screws and knobs. That alone saves me a lot of time, and makes it easy to switch between tripod and handheld shooting.
Plus, since this product comes at such an affordable price point, I don’t have to worry about breaking the bank when investing in one of these tripods – which leaves more money in my pocket for other photography accessories!
When using my Slik Sprint Pro II tripod, I’m always stunned at how smooth and steady my shots come out due to its built-in fluid-dampening system; this feature helps reduce shake when capturing video footage or long exposures!
Moreover, it’s lightweight (1kg) yet sturdy enough for professional-grade cameras (up to 3kg). And according to one of the users, they were able to easily mount Canon EOS 6D with the 24-105mm L lens on it in windy situations. This enables me to focus on image quality while shooting.
I’m very satisfied with how much functionality this tripod offers while still being light enough for easy transport – perfect for anyone who needs a reliable and portable companion while traveling.
Conclusion
If you’re looking for a versatile yet lightweight tripod under $100, then look no further than the Slik Sprint Pro II Tripod; this product offers tons of features such as aluminum legs, adjustable leg angles, quick release plate at an unbeatable price point!
11: Best for Small Camera: BONFOTO B690A Camera Tripod
The first thing that struck me about the BONFOTO B690A Camera Tripod is its telescoping shaft.
The double shaft design makes it more compact when folded. I can easily carry it on and set it, or store it in my travel backpack without wasting space. This makes it very convenient to switch between tripod and handheld shooting when needed.
Not all cameras are compatible with all tripods. Sometimes it’s difficult to find the right one I need. Because of this, I love its broad compatibility. The mounting plate has a 1/4″ standard screw suitable for DSLRs, smartphones, projects, telescopes, and other devices – giving maximum versatility in terms of what I can use with the tripod.
With this feature, I can use a single tripod with multiple cameras. This can save me money in the long run, as well as make things convenient for me.
This tripod also features an upgraded leg lock system, substantially improving the tripod’s stability while allowing for quick changes. It gives me peace of mind knowing that there is always stable support for my camera.
Finally, its precise ball head allows for a 360-degree horizontal swivel and 90-degree vertical platform with a 3-way head. With these, I can shoot images from any angle – either capturing stunning landscape shots or close-ups of wild animals.
Conclusion
Overall, I am delighted with the BONFOTO B690A Camera Tripod; it is both lightweight and stable, so I can capture stunning shots without worrying about the camera shaking or blurring my photos due to lack of support.
12: Best for Video: Magnus VT-300 Tripod
The Magnus VT-300 Tripod is a reliable, stable, and fluid tripod for videography with a fluid head for smooth panning and tilting.
The highlight of this lightweight but portable tripod is its 15 lb weight capacity, which allows me to easily mount DSLRs, small camcorders, and large camcorders on it.
The full 64-inch/163cm height ensures I can take on any scene and landscape without using tables or benches.
I love its built-in pan/tilt video head which can be locked independently for added precision and control when shooting time-lapse videos of night traffic.
Tripods can be time-consuming to set up, especially when I am in a hurry. For this reason, I love this tripod comes with a quick-release camera plate. It lets me instantly attach or detach my camera from the tripod if needed. With this feature, I can save time between shots. This alone makes using this tripod worth every penny.
In addition, two leg stages with three sections, plus flip locks, make it easy to adjust the tripod’s height securely while shooting on location.
And finally, there’s an integrated center column and mid-spreader, enhancing stability while adding to its overall versatility.
Conclusion
Considering all the features packed into a compact package, this tripod earned its place among my favorite tripod when shooting video on location because it makes setting up shots quick, easy, and efficient.
13: Best Entry-Level Camera Tripod Under $100: Dolica AX620B 100
After researching, I stumbled across the Dolica AX620B 100 Tripod. Not only does it check all the boxes, but it’s also surprisingly affordable!
I recommend this tripod to anyone just starting in photography or video production and looking for an affordable yet reliable tripod.
Speaking of load capacity, the Proline 62″ Aluminum tripod is made of aluminum alloy construction that supports up to 13.2 pounds—which is more than enough for most entry-level DSLR cameras and camcorders.
It also comes with a ball head, fast-release plate, and bubble level. I like this feature because I have everything to get started without buying additional accessories. The leg locks are designed with quick release, making setup and breakdown easy.
Despite its lightweight, I’m stunned at how stable this tripod is; I was expecting a flimsy piece of equipment given its price point, but that couldn’t be further from the truth! I’m very satisfied with my purchase; this is one of the best entry-level tripods.
And lastly, the non-slip rubber feet provide a secure grip on any surface, allowing me to focus on shooting.
Conclusion
With its lightweight construction and durable features like leg locks with quick release and non-slip rubber feet, this tripod will become one of your go-to pieces of equipment for any shoot or project you take on!
14: Best for Professional Photographers: Zomei Q555 Lightweight Tripod
A heavy and bulky tripod is difficult to transport and set up on location. For this reason, the first thing that struck me about the Zomei Q555 Lightweight Tripod was its weight. At just 2.7 pounds (1.2 kilograms), it’s lightweight enough for anyone to carry around. But don’t let the weight fool you—it is incredibly sturdy and stable.
With its load capacity of 17.6 pounds (8 kilograms), it can handle any camera or lens out there. It also features non-slip rubber feet, which provide stability on a variety of surfaces, as well as a center column hook at the bottom for hanging extra items (like bags or reflectors).
The second feature that impressed me was the 360-degree ball head design. It provides effortless movement so I can easily adjust shots without struggling with locking mechanisms or levers.
Plus, the ball head has two independent locks, making it possible to adjust both pitch and panoramas without difficulty, making this tripod ideal for capturing stunning panoramic views.
Conclusion
The Zomei Q555 Lightweight tripod provides professional quality results at an affordable price. It is lightweight yet stable enough for any camera or lens setup while allowing for effortless adjustments.
If you are looking for a reliable tripod that won’t break your budget but will still deliver excellent results, this tripod is worth checking out!
6 Things To Consider When Buying Camera Tripods Under $100
When purchasing a camera tripod, the following features you should consider before purchase.
Materials and Build Quality
Before buying any tripod, make sure it is made from quality materials that can withstand the weight of your equipment and any wear and tear it might incur. Look for carbon fiber or aluminum tripods – they are lightweight yet strong, so you know your gear is safe on them.
Weight
The last thing you want is a heavy, bulky tripod that will weigh down your bag as you travel around, trying to capture those perfect shots. Instead, look for tripods with adjustable legs and center columns – this will help reduce the overall weight and provide stability when shooting in different terrains.
Tripod Head Types
Not all tripods have heads included, so make sure you factor in this cost when shopping for one under $100. If you’re going to be shooting videos often, get yourself a ball head or pan/tilt head, giving you more control over your angles and movements while shooting.
Height
Consideration should be given to the tripod’s height, depending on what type of photography or Videography you’re doing.
Some tripods can extend to over six feet, while others may not even reach three feet off the ground, so make sure you find one based on what kind of shots you need to take and how tall (or short) they will need to be at their highest point of extension.
Portability
If portability is a top priority when choosing a budget-friendly tripod, look for collapsible legs or detachable components that make them easier to transport without sacrificing stability or rigidity when extended out.
General Stability
Make sure the tripod has rubberized feet to provide extra grip if placed on an uneven surface such as sand or rocks; this will help keep it stable while shooting in varying terrain conditions outdoors.
Additionally, always check its load capacity before purchasing – this will let you know precisely how much weight it can handle without compromising its stability or the quality of the photos taken!
Conclusion
Most photographers and videographers, whether hobbyists or professionals, will need a tripod at some point. Camera tripods allow flexibility in photographing subjects and objects, giving crisp images and functional benefits.
For my needs, the Manfrotto Compact Action Aluminum 5-Section Tripod became a quick favorite and my trusted go-to camera tripod. And the best part? The price tag comes in under the budget-friendly price of $100.
If you’re ready to take your photography to the next level, consider the tripod’s material, weight capacity, height, and portability before deciding the best camera tripod for you. Purchase a camera tripod under $100 through any of the above links, and you’ll be shooting with one of these budget-friendly camera tripods in no time.
