In a world of built-in stabilization and high-tech gimbals, it’s easy to forget or overlook having a solid video tripod with you on a job. No matter what type of creator you are, there will always be a use for having a tripod in the field. There are plenty of options out there, so deciding which one is best for you can be tough. This article discusses the best video tripods currently on the market and which one might be a good fit for your type of creativity.
Best Video Tripods
Sachtler Ace M Fluid Head with Ace MK II
Why We Chose It: The Sachtler Ace M + Ace MK II tripod ensures stable and smooth footage with its precision-engineered fluid head and aluminum body.
Key Features:
- Material – Aluminum
- Extended height – 66.5″
- Folded height – 33.4”
- Load capacity – 8.8 lbs
- Weight – 9.7 lbs
The Sachtler Ace M Fluid Head coupled with the Ace MK II Aluminum Tripod emerges as one of the best tripods for video. This system is special for delivering broadcast-level output while maintaining a light and easy-to-manage profile. Designed specifically with the needs of filmmakers or any corporate video professionals in mind, the Ace M system excels in providing swift and stable setup changes, regardless of the ground it stands on.
What sets the Ace M fluid head apart is its fine-tuned features: a quintet of counterbalance steps and a sliding plate boasting a generous 4.1″ of adjustment leeway. This meticulous attention to balance is augmented by the groundbreaking SA drag system exclusive to Sachtler. It ensures fluid, repeatable movements with three distinct levels of drag intensity, alongside the capability to nullify damping altogether for shots that demand a raw, unfiltered touch.
Drawing from over fifty years of expertise in Sachtler, the Ace M head is complete with thoughtful design elements, including a secure spot for those easy-to-lose spare screws and an expansive sliding range on the camera plate.
Benro Rhino Zero Series 5-Section Carbon Fiber Tripod/Monopod w/VX20 Ball Head
Why We Chose It: This tripod is known for its versatility and compact size, making it perfect for video creators who often travel for work.
Key Features:
- Material – Carbon Fiber
- Extended height – 54.9”
- Folded height – 20.4”
- Load capacity – 22. lbs
- Weight – 2.73lbs
The Benro Rhino Carbon Fiber tripod is the lightest tripod on this list. Its carbon fiber design, paired with a reverse folding design makes it a compact option for travel creators without sacrificing durability and load capacity. The legs are reversible for inverted shooting as well as easier storage. If you want an even more fast-paced setup, you can easily convert this into a full-featured monopod.
The Dual Panoramic ball head allows a panning head from its base and also from the quick release. It features easy-to-use controls and has ball friction adjustment built into the main lock knob.
This is also a pretty affordable tripod when you consider how expensive video tripods can get. When you factor in how durable and versatile it is for the price, it’s a great option for beginner or expert-level videographers.
Manfrotto Befree Live Advanced 4-Section Al Travel Tripod with 3-Way Fluid Head
Why We Chose It: The aluminum version is light enough to carry and small enough to attach to your backpack, and there is a carbon fiber version that’s even lighter.
Key Features:
- Material – Aluminum
- Extended height – 59.4”
- Folded height – 15.7”
- Load capacity – 13.2lbs
- Weight – 4.4lbs
Designed for mirrorless cameras, the Befree is a compact solution for both photography and videography. It features a foldable three-way fluid head for full shooting mobility. This is a high-performance, dual-purpose photo and video kit that comes compact. The tripod legs are made of aluminum alloy, and the head reaches 59.5” in height. Each leg is composed of four sections, which are placed and secured with lever locks found on each segment.
An Easy Link attachment at the top of the leg section allows the user to attach external accessories and an integrated hook is also included so you can add weight to increase the stability when shooting in difficult conditions.
This tripod would be a great option for traveling creators, vloggers, Youtubers, and even avid hobbyists.
Peak Design 5-Section Aluminum Travel Tripod with Ball Head
Why We Chose It: The Peak Design 5-Section tripod has quickly become known as the ultimate travel tripod, gear for both photo and video users. The tripod packs down to the size of a large water bottle, without sacrificing height, stability, or features.
Key Features:
- Material – Aluminum
- Extended height – 60”
- Folded height – 15.4”
- Load capacity – 20lbs
- Weight – 3.4lbs
Traditional tripods have always suffered from unnecessary bulkiness, wasted space, and needless weight. Peak Design created this travel tripod which features ergonomic adjustment points, built-in mobile compatibility, and thoughtful details that other companies haven’t considered. It is built tough and is 100% serviceable by Peak Design with a lifetime guarantee.
When folded, the tripod is roughly the size of a water bottle and weighs only 3.4 lbs. When fully extended, it reaches a height of 60”. The five-section aluminum legs can be released at the same time for fast deployment. The center column is also easily reversible for ground-level shots. An easy-to-use ergonomic ball head replaces the need for knobs and uses locking and adjustment rings instead. The head is complete with a Peak Design standard plate that also fits most Arca-type plates. Remove the safety pin inside the plate to utilize most Arca-type L-brackets.
This tripod is geared toward the avid traveler. No matter what type of content you create, if you are looking for a tripod that can fit in your carry-on but maintain a high level of durability, this tripod is for you.
Manfrotto 504X Fluid Video Head w/CF Twin Leg Video Tripod & Mid-Level Spreader
Why We Chose It: The Manfrotto 504X is a carbon fiber, video-centric tripod that offers versatile shooting, smooth camera pans, and a robust, durable system that will last a lifetime.
Key Features:
- Material – Carbon Fiber
- Extended height – 66.5”
- Folded height – 29.5”
- Load capacity – 26.4lbs
- Weight – 11.6lbs
This video system includes both the Manfrotto 504X Fluid Video Head and the carbon fiber twin leg with the middle spreader. The fluid head features the new Manfrotto fluid technology which allows smoother operation and unparalleled stability while panning and tilting the head. It has a four-step counterbalance system that can take a payload of up to 14.3 lbs. The head is made from aluminum and has a maximum payload of 26.4 lbs.
For what it offers, this head is lightweight and compact with a flat base that allows the user a wide variety of shooting options. It features two ⅜” Easy Link connectors equipped with an anti-rotation function to attach external monitors or other accessories.
The carbon fiber twin leg with middle spreader is extremely rigid, but light at the same time. Set angles accurately with the mid-level spreader and telescopic arms. Leg locks are secure and reliable and are capped with spiked feet with rubber overshoes to ensure your tripod remains stable on the ground.
Sachtler flowtech 75 aktiv 3-Section Carbon Fiber Tripod with Mid-Level Spreader
Why We Chose It: The Sachtler Flotech 75 is a carbon fiber tripod, optimized for enhanced performance and speed when paired with the Sachtler Aktiv Fluid Head.
Key Features:
- Material – Carbon Fiber
- Extended height – 60.2”
- Folded height – 10.2”
- Load capacity – 44lbs
- Weight – 7.7lbs
This tripod kit offers lightning-fast SpeedSwap technology, a Touch & Go camera plate, and stable support for camera rigs weighing up to 26.5 lbs The fluid head itself features 15 steps of counterbalance and seven steps of pan-and-tilt drag adjustment.
The SpeedLevel technology replaces a traditional head screw and tie-down design with a strong clamp built into the head bowl and a stud component that clamps onto your tripod bowl or other mounting platform. Use the large level to quickly mount, level, and lock the head on your tripod or other base.
The Flowtech carbon fiber tripod with spreader and rubber feet weighs just under 7 lbs and can still support a payload of 44 lbs. Each leg features a clamping lever that locks and unlocks at each section. Each leg extends or retracts independently and can pivot without affecting the other legs.
This tripod is pretty heavy-duty and is meant for high-level videography. Though it isn’t the most compact or lightweight, you can still travel with this tripod without too much trouble.
Vanguard VEO 3+ 263CP Professional 3-Section Carbon Fiber Tripod with Pan Head
Why We Chose It: The Vanguard VEO 3+ is a highly sought, premium carbon fiber tripod with an innovative Arca compatible 3-way pan head that includes a Multi-Angle Central Column — ideal for both photo and video applications.
Key Features:
- Material – Carbon Fiber
- Extended height – 68.3”
- Folded height – 30.5”
- Type of plate – QS-65
- Load capacity – 13.2lbs
- Weight – 5lbs
- Leg sections – 3
This all-in-one tripod is designed to be sturdy, yet stylish. It’s fairly compact and easy to travel with. It delivers versatility and stability in every shooting scenario. The MACC can be moved almost 360 degrees in any direction and is combined with three easy-to-set leg angles. The locks are simple and easy to twist and only need a half turn to release or tighten the locking mechanism, allowing you to deploy the tripod in just seconds. Not only that, they are very easy to clean. A tripod like this is often used in an outdoor setting with harsher conditions.
The tripod canopy also includes a ⅜” thread for an additional support arm to be attached. This then allows access to a wide range of accessories to be mounted on the tripod. The handles on the head mean you can accurately aim at your frame to get that perfect shot in an instant. Twist the handle to quickly unlock the pan in a second, ensuring you never miss a moment.
It’s worth mentioning the tripod bag is also designed with every detail in mind. The padded shoulder bag keeps your tripod safe and ensures quick access, along with an internal pocket for tools and accessories. It also has two carry handles along with the shoulder strap, making it easy and comfortable to take anywhere.
How to Choose Your Video Tripod
The tripod industry is extremely saturated with plenty of options. That being said, it is possible to find the perfect tripod for you. Through research on specific specs, reviews, and possibly in-person inspection, you can start to figure out what type of tripod is right for you. There are a few things to consider during your search…
Stability and Durability
If you’re like me and do a lot of traveling and shooting in harsher environments, having a sturdy and durable tripod is important. Both carbon fiber and aluminum tripods are usually sturdy, so pay more attention to leg sections, payload weight, and if the tripod has a hook to hang a bag when shooting in windy conditions.
Size
How often will you be traveling with the tripod? If you’re creating content close to home, more often than not, the size of your tripod won’t make too much of a difference. But if you’re a travel creator and often put the tripod on your carry-on or in your check bag, having a more compact tripod will be a necessity.
Weight
Similar to the issue of size, travel creators will want to invest in a more travel-friendly tripod in terms of weight. If this is you, make sure to focus more on a carbon fiber design. Carbon fiber tripods are often much lighter than aluminum alloy tripods.
Performance
Once you know the particular size tripod that is right for you, find out which one performs well in the field. The best way to research this is to check out first-hand reviews of the tripod. Almost every retailer or tripod brand will have online reviews with verified buyers. Find out if the tripod lives up to the hype.
Budget
Lastly, make sure the tripod fits your budget. It is always tempting to go above your budget? But, in the end, the gear won’t necessarily make you a better creator, so get the tripod that fits your budget. That tripod is an investment and could lead to you getting a better tripod in the future that might be outside your budget right now.
Best Video Tripods FAQs
It is important to remember that there is no such thing as the “perfect” tripod. However, if you are a travel videographer, Peak Design’s tripods might be the best for you. If you are often working with larger camera rigs and need to rely more on a heavier payload, consider Sachtler’s tripods.
A fluid head is often considered the best type of tripod head for video. They are essentially pan-and-tilt heads but are geared for smooth movement. If you need a head that offers a simple and fast transition, pistol grip heads might be a better option. With the twist of your wrist, you can move this tripod head in almost any direction and ensure you never miss a subject.
The biggest difference will normally be the size of the tripod, and the size of the head. Video tripods are designed with movement in mind, while photo tripods are meant to keep still as you are more likely to shoot with a slow shutter speed or a fixed subject.
Conclusion
There is a plethora of video tripod options, and choosing the one that is right for you can be difficult. There is no particular formula for finding the right one, but using the tips and information provided in this article should make it easier to narrow down your options.
