Anyone who’s interested in photography knows a good tripod is essential to the art and skill of it.
We understand looking for affordable tripods without compromising on quality is sometimes a little tricky.
Whether you’re looking for something made of carbon fiber or aluminum alloy, those with the best ball head, center column, or big maximum load, we got you. All budget-friendly too!
Without further ado, here are all of what we consider to be the best tripod under $100.
10 of the Best Tripods Under $100
- JOBY GorillaPod 5k Kit
- Bonfoto B671A
- UBeesize 71” Aluminum Tripod with 360° Ball Head
- Neewer 2-in-1 Aluminum Alloy Camera Tripod
- Dolica AX620B 100
- Manfrotto Compact Action Tripod
- K&F TM2324 Lightweight Travel Tripod
- SLIK Sprint 150 Tripod with Quick Release Plate
- ZOMEI Q666 Proline Tripod
- Victiv T72 Camera Tripod
Now let’s have a look at each tripod under 100 one by one!
1) JOBY GorillaPod 5K Kit: Best Overall
The Joby Gorillapod 5K comes from a company known to produce various tripods for their superhuman versatility and appropriately scaled to fit various camera bodies.
This is, by no doubt, an example of one of the most impressive tripods that allows you to take it anywhere with ease!
Because of its distinctive design, this tripod can grip and wrap around any surface. It’s great to work with for your DSLR camera, plus it is a great tabletop tripod.
Specifically, Its features Include:
- Works great for camcorders, DSLR cameras, mirrorless, pro DSLRs, and the like
- 11 lbs (5 kg) maximum load capacity
- Comes with the Ball Head 5k
- Rubber feet grips for uneven terrain
- Tripod weight at 1.6 lb (0.739 kg)
It’s a FEATHERWEIGHT tripod fusion made from rubber, stainless steel, plastic, and aluminum. With its tripod legs being bendable in the most useful of ways, it’s surely a budget catch.
Pros:
- Its unique design allows for leg locks and grips on any surface
- Ideal to use for any surface because of its stable build and feet
- It’s light and easy to carry anywhere, making it a great portable tripod
- It’s low-angle photography friendly
Cons:
- It’s not the most balanced tripod out there
- Heavier equipment and bigger cameras are not suited for this tripod and might cause it to be unstable
2) UBeesize 71” Aluminum Tripod with 360° Ball Head: Best Value Pick
Coming from the professional photographer himself, this tripod is “much higher quality than expected from its price.”
The UBeesize 71” Tripod is a tripod under 100 that HITS THE MARK similar to a professional tripod. Might we even say it’s the best camera tripod on the list with its nice little extras like its spring-loaded weight hook and can be inverted center column.
Here Are Its Specific Features:
- Made from aluminum alloy, weighing 3 lb (1.36 kg)
- Works great for DSLR cameras, SLRs, projectors, binoculars, tablets, GoPros, smartphones, even telescopes.
- 26.4 lb (12 kg) maximum load capacity
- 71 inch (180.34 cm) maximum height, 17.3 inch (44 cm) folded length
- 360° rotatable ball head with pan lock, headlock and center column lock as well as bubble level and panning scale.
Because of its awesome build, it’s a great travel tripod and the best camera tripod pick for us. All the parts fit together so smoothly from the screws to the legs and its clamps that prevent it from folding in use, even when using heavy cameras.
Like all best tripods under 100, it has its ups and downs. So let’s take a closer look.
Pros:
- Due to its load capacity, it can hold a heavy camera with large lenses easily.
- It’s a fantastic tripod for macro shots because you can invert its center column and get extra creative.
- You can set the legs at 3 different motions for special photography, like micro or low angle shots by adjusting its flip locks.
- It’s a lightweight tripod with extra stability even on uneven surfaces.
- Because of its amazing 360° ball head, it is super flexible for smooth and accurate movements, making it easy to execute panorama shots or time-lapse outputs.
- It comes with its own case that could double as a camera bag too!
Cons:
- Because of manufacturing issues, some tripods might have a wobbly head but should be safe to replace if brought back to the store immediately.
3) K&F TM2324 Lightweight Travel Tripod: Best Budget Pick
This great travel tripod allows you to take awesome panoramic pictures and even take some awesome videos too. We’ve picked out this great DSLR tripod for you.
Its super easy setup makes it great to use for intense and engaging shoots. It’s also super lightweight which makes it great for taking to different spots for taking the perfect shots.
Its Specific Features Include:
- Good for DSLR camera use such as Canon, Nikon, etc
- 16.14 inch (41 cm) minimum height, 62.2o inch (158 cm) maximum height
- 2.99 lbs (1.36 kg) tripod weight, 18.1 inch (46 cm) length when folded
- Comes with a 28 mm large ball head with a range of 360° rotation for panoramic shots
- Has center column inversion, suited for macro photography and creative special needs.
Made of magnesium-aluminum alloy and being that lightweight, it’s almost as good as easy to bring along as a carbon fiber tripod. Not only is it sturdy, but it’s a great reliable tripod.
Click here and check out this cool YouTube video we found giving it a closer look and review.
In the meantime, let’s check out the ups and downs of one of the best tripods under 100.
Pros:
- Because it’s both reliably sturdy and lightweight, it really makes for a good travel tripod.
- Its strong quick flip leg lock gives extra support when taking shots, especially when using heavy cameras.
- Because of its 360° range ball head, panoramic shots and even filming for videos has never been smoother and more convenient.
- It has a spring self-locking tube angle adjustment knob which is perfect for on-the-go photography.
- Its magnesium-aluminum alloy build makes it durable, while reliable because of its built-in head that can carry heavier cameras.
- It fits into a camera bag the size of a messenger bag when the tripod folds.
Cons:
- Cameras with telephoto zoom lenses aren’t supported alone, and you have to buy a tripod mount ring to operate them.
- The ball head is plastic so you have to be extra careful with it.
If you wanna check out the price of this one of the best tripods under 100 pick see below.
4) Bonfoto B671A
With fancier features normally in pricier options, the Bonfoto B671A is an excellent catch for getting those on a budget.
Plus, we personally think it’s a very sexy-looking tripod.
It has multiple bubble levels and even a compass to help you know what direction you’re shooting in. It’s a great lightweight tripod for working in nature.
Here Are Some Key Features:
- Aluminum build tripod with 4-section legs and ball head
- Can be used for point and shoot cameras, digital cameras, DSLRs, Mirrorless, 360° Video Cameras and Smartphones
- 17.6 lb (8kg) maximum load capacity
- 15.35 inch (39 cm) minimum height, 55.12 inch (140 cm) maximum height
- Can turn center column into a monopod
While some reviews say this is great for hunting because of its cool compass feature and non-slip rubber feet, we have to agree because of how easy it is to carry.
Here’s a YouTube video we found on a review of the tripod.
Pros:
- It’s easy to use and navigate with features like quick-release flip locks and spring hook.
- It has a ball head design with two lock knobs and a 360° panoramic panning scale, which is awesome for horizontal panoramic shooting.
- Its easy screw-up and quick release plate make it simple to place and remove your camera onto the tripod.
- Because of its lightweight aluminum build, it’s easy to carry around with you wherever.
- One of the tripod’s legs can be unscrewed and work alone as a monopod along with its center column for extra length.
Cons:
- Its screw size might affect how your camera will be mounted and be difficult to utilize, depending on what camera you’ll use.
If you want to check out the Bonfoto B671A’s price, see below.
5) Victiv T72 Camera Tripod
The brand Victiv offers one of the best tripods under 100 constructed from aluminum but with thicker leg tubing. It’s similar to carbon fiber tripods with its thick legs and stability.
Though this can be considered a portable tripod, this pick is especially for studio shots, vlogging, and YouTubers because it’s on the heavier side.
Its Specific Features Include:
- Can be turned into a monopod
- 4 lb (1.8 kg) item weight with flip locks
- Thick aluminum alloy tripod legs for extra stability
- 21 inch (53.34 cm) minimum height, 72 inch (182.88cm) maximum height
- Comes with a three-way swivel head, with a 360° range for panning and tilting both horizontally and vertically
With its great two functions, which is great for vlogging, it’s great for beginners to professionals.
Here’s a YouTube video we found giving this tripod a closer look and review.
Pros:
- Its tripod legs are so versatile for stretching out and setting as the tripod extends to the right height that it can be used with even binoculars or setting up for family pictures.
- Because of its sturdy aluminum build, it’s good for using outdoors too!
- It is easy to change directions at different angles when shooting or filming because of its fluid head.
- It comes with a free phone tripod mount, as well as an extra Universal Arca Swiss mounting plate for easier camera swapping on the go.
- It comes with its own carrying bag too!
Cons:
- The monopod is not as effective as it is used with heavier cameras and equipment.
If you wanna check out the price of the Victiv T72 Camera Tripod, see below:
6) Neewer 2-in-1 Aluminum Alloy Camera Tripod
Looking for the best tripod under 1oo, you might think this list is just full of tabletop tripods.
But do not fear! One of the best tripods is here!
The Neewer 2-in-1 Aluminum Alloy Tripod is camera gear that gets your creative juices flowing.
Its center column can be adjusted to be great from macro photography to low angle photography and other genres of photography in between.
Here Are Its Specific Features:
- 4-section aluminum legs can be adjusted easily through flip locks
- 25 inch (62 cm) minimum height, 71.2 inch (181 cm) maximum height
- Can be converted into monopod with a height range from 20 inches (51 cm) to 56 inches (144cm)
- Load capacity of 26.5 lb (12 kg) max
- Comes with fluid head, rotating range 360° horizontally and -70° to 90° vertically
With this being one of the best aluminum tripods on our list, we thought to share with you a YouTube video we found giving this one a great review.
Though a definite best tripod, let’s also take a look at its ups and downs.
Pros:
- It is great and durable with efficient shock absorption and corrosion resistance.
- Its center column can be inverted to give you the option for low-angle shots and unleashing extra creativity.
- Its adorable and useful bubble level helps you find an even position quicker for better accuracy when shooting.
- Its 18 inch (45.5 cm) folded length and 3.17 lb (1.44 kg) weight is easy for carrying anywhere.
- Because it’s convertible to a monopod, it really is a great budget tripod under 100
Cons:
- It’s not the most ideal pick out there for 360° panoramic shots because its head is not as smooth when moving side to side as compared to a tilt head.
7) Dolica AX620B 100: Best Pick for Beginners
Made from lightweight aluminum alloy, the Dolica AX620B 100 is awesome if you’re looking for a nice budget tripod when just getting into photography.
Strictly a camera tripod only, this pick is best utilized for still picks only, and not for making video content.
Its Specific Features Include:
- Works great for small camcorders, DSLRs, and mirrorless cameras
- 13.2 lb (6 kg) load capacity
- 18.5 inch (47 cm) minimum height, 62 inch (158 cm) maximum height
- 22.5 inch (57.15 cm) folded length, 2.9 lb (1.32 kg) tripod weight
- Comes with a ball head, quick release plate, and bubble level
With its sturdy tripod head and rubber feet, it’s a total best tripod under 100, nay, 50 catch.
Here’s a YouTube video review on this tripod if you want to take a closer look.
Pros:
- Its rubber feet make it easier to shoot in uneven terrain.
- You can play the legs out and get close to the ground to do close-up or macro photography thanks to three variable leg angles.
- You can take the tripod outdoors because it’s absolutely lightweight and easy to bring along.
- Because of its maximum height, you’ll get to practice some awesome shots the same as from pricier options.
- Its rapid center column has a spring-loaded weight hook on the bottom to hang anything for added weight and making it extra stable.
Cons:
- Its load capacity is not as heavier as other picks on this list, making it a difficult choice for bigger and heavier cameras.
- It works better as a photo tripod than a video tripod as its panning isn’t smooth enough for great moving shots.
If you want to check out the price of this budget tripod, see below:
8) Manfrotto Compact Action Tripod: Best Compact Tripod
The company of Manfrotto is known to produce excellent tripods on the pricier side. So when we heard about this tripod under 100, we absolutely had to check it out.
And it does check out! The Manfrotto Compact Action Tripod is one of the best tripods under 100 out there.
From it being super easy to cary to its “joystick” grip, it’s a great tripod for travel and great to play around with when being creative or building your photography skill.
Some of Its Key Features Are:
- Works great with entry-level SLRs, compact cameras, and standard lenses
- 3.3 lb (1.5 kg) capacity load
- 17.3 inch (44 cm) minimum height, 61 inch (155 cm) maximum height
- 17.8 inch (45 cm) folded length, 2.65 lb (1.2 kg) tripod weight
- Comes with an ergonomic joystick head and quick release plate
We love that this is such a premium tripod at a great, affordable price. It’s awesome when you’re starting to try out travel photography and cinematography.
Check out this YouTube video we found giving this compact tripod pick a review for closer inspection.
In the meantime, we can check out its pros and cons.
Pros:
- With its photo/movie selector, you can switch from photo to movie mode really quickly, which is absolutely useful.
- It includes a special adapter for higher-specification cameras, making it really versatile.
- It’s very well constructed making it a durable and stable tripod that helps take very precise videos and photos.
- It’s user-friendly, easy to operate, and easy for beginner photographers and videographers.
- It’s a lightweight model that’s great for travel but also great for indoor use.
Cons:
- It’s not the best investment for you professionals out there, as you might want more advanced features.
- It has a smaller maximum capacity compared to other tripods on this list and might become shaky if it weighs more than what is suggested.
9) SLIK Sprint 150 Tripod with Quick Release Plate
We have a lot of favorites in this list of best tripods under 100, but this one has to be top tier.
The SLIK Sprint 150 is a budget-friendly option for budding professionals.
It’s made of aluminum meaning this tripod is tough for travel or outdoor use. It’s also super lightweight and comes with features similar to ones made from carbon fiber. Let’s take a closer look.
Its Specific Features Include:
- Great for DSLRs and even heavier lenses
- 4.5 lb (2.04 kg) load capacity
- 4.7 inch (12.07 cm) minimum height, 64 inch (162.56 cm) maximum height
- Has 4-section aluminum legs that have flip lock leg locks
- 19. inch (50.55 cm) length when folded, and 2.3 lb (1.04 kg) item weight
We love that it’s truly the best tripod to get when you’re a budding professional! And trust us, we’re not the only ones!
Watch this YouTube video review on the tripod, and even take a while to read its comments and numerous positive feedback.
We love its 360° pan and lightweight build, and a great plus since it’s also a reliably sturdy tripod. But, like all good things, we should take a closer look at its ups and downs.
Pros:
- It’s ideal for starting travel photographers on a budget since it’s both affordable and super lightweight.
- It has non-slip rubber feet which makes it extra secure when working and taking shots.
- Its center column allows the tripod to reach its 4.7 inch (12.07 cm) minimum height, perfect for low-angle filming that’s close to the ground.
- It’s good for working with compact cams, and great because the tripods legs are efficiently adjustable and easy to work with.
- It comes with its own carrying case!
Cons:
- The load capacity is only 4.5 lb (2.04 kg), so it might not be the best option if you prefer using heavier cameras.
10)ZOMEI Q666 Proline Tripod
Made to grab the attention of every single photographer out there, this is one sexy tripod under 100.
Like all of the best tripods on this list, it’s made for indoor and outdoor use.
It’s an awesome budget pick that can be inverted and folded to 180°for EXTRA CREATIVITY. But we’re getting ahead of ourselves.
Its Specific Features Include:
- Good for action cameras, point and shoot cameras, 360° video cams, mirrorless cameras, and DSLRs
- Comes with a 360° Swivel Fluid Head (28 mm)
- 22 lb (10 kg) capacity to load cameras
- 14.17 inch (36 cm) folded length, 60.63 inch (154 cm) maximum length
- Comes with four additional shooting angles and pan and head locking
While you can take our word with how awesome this tripod pick is, watch this YouTube video we found giving it a closer look and review.
Because this is one of the best tripods under 100, we want to let you know its ups and downs too.
Pros:
- It’s versatile and can be inverted into a monopod when needed.
- It encourages creative shots because of its four additional shooting angles, whether that’s low-angled shooting or the like.
- Like carbon fiber builds, it’s compact and light, easy to bring along on-site projects and outdoor photography even if it’s made of high-quality aluminum.
- It has a spring-loaded hook in the center column of the tripod to add extra weight to your tripod for maximum stability.
- It comes with its own carrying case for extra protection when bringing it anywhere!
Cons:
- It has no extra pockets for extra parts, which can sometimes be a hassle if you’re filming or shooting on the fly.
How Do I Choose the Best Tripod?
After giving you all these picks, we want to be sure you pick the best one for you. So without further ado, here is how to choose the best tripod under $100 for you.
Features to Look Out For
Based on this list, there are a number of key features we always want to include to make sure you’re getting your money’s worth. With this guide, you’ll know what to watch out for when taking your pick.
1) Material
Traditionally, tripods will be made out of three key builds: aluminum, carbon fiber, and wood.
Wood tripods are not usually found on the market because it’s the most common and traditional material. So let’s focus on the two former ones.
- Aluminum – traditional, less expensive, and heavier; can blend with other metal alloys. Almost all of the tripods on this list are made of aluminum since it’s a cheaper but sturdy option.
- Carbon Fiber – stable, durable, and lightweight; undoubtedly a little pricier. Because carbon fiber is more expensive, none of the tripods on this list are made from them and the ones you might find from this material are above 100.
These materials affect the stability and weight of your tripod, made for ensuring the best results from shooting or filming as possible.
2) Head Type
Tripod heads give you smoother panning and tilting options. The more fluid the head, the easier it is to pan and tilt.
The heads of a tripod are on top of their center columns and use a hand crank or a locking collar to raise it depending on how you want to film or shoot.
3) Legs
Here’s the quick rule for tripod legs:
The MORE SECTIONS, the MORE PORTABLE it is. But also! The more sections, the less stable it might be. Tripods in general usually come with either 3 section legs or 4 section legs.
4) Feet
The feet on a tripod are like their final foundations for security when using them. There are two types of feet popularly found in tripods.
- Rubber Feet – great for indoor use and slippery surfaces to ensure your tripod won’t move while using it.
- Spiked Feet -great for outdoor use, as you can use the spikes to secure the tripod into the ground so that it won’t move even during strong winds.
Related
Wrapping Up
In this whole list for best tripod under 100, it’s hard to pick out an absolute favorite pick. They’re all excellent in their own ways, not painful on your budget, and easy to utilize.
But if you really had to make us choose our top pick, it would be the Victiv T72 Camera Tripod.
Remember when picking the best tripod under 100 for you, it’s all about what’s a great investment for now and what’ll help you build up your skill in your filming and shooting agenda.
We hope this helped you figure out your best bet for a great tripod under 100!
