Use this chart to determine the kind of tripod that’s best for your needs.
| Typical Tripod Specifications | Tabletop | Travel | Medium Duty | Sturdy Duty/Studio | |
| Size Collapsed (inches) | 7 inches or less | 7-10 inches | 10 to 20 in | 20 to 30 inches | More than 30 in |
| Weight (pounds) | Less than 1 lbs | Less than 3 lbs | 3 to 7 lbs | 7 to 12 lbs | More than 10 lbs |
| Maximum Height Extension (inches) | 10 inches or less | Up to 20 in | Up to 72 inches | 48 to 60 in | Over 60 in |
| Maximum Load Capacity (pounds)(These are averages — Don’t Overload!) | Up to 2 lbs | Less than 3 lbs | Up to 18 pounds | 7 to 20 lbs | More than 15 lbs |
| Head Type Available | None or Ball | Ball, 3-way Ball, Pan | Ball, 3-way Ball, Pan | 3-way Ball, Fluid, Pan | 3-way Ball, Fluid, Pan |
| Feet | Rubber Non-slip | Rubber Non-slip | Rubber, Spike | Rubber, Spike | Rubber, Spike, Custom |
| Leg Locks | Friction | Friction, Twist | Twist, Lever | Twist, Lever | Lever, Custom |
| Common Material | Plastic, Aluminum, Carbon Fiber | Plastic, Aluminum | Aluminum, Carbon Fiber, Titanium | Aluminum, Carbon Fiber, Titanium | Aluminum, Carbon Fiber, Titanium, Wood |
Learn More About Tripods at the Adorama Learning Center:
- Ban the Blur: What You Need To Know When Buying A Tripod
- Buying Guide: What’s the Best Travel Tripod?
- Buying Guide: Tripod Heads
- Ready, Steady, Go: Why Monopods are a Great Solution for Travel Photography
