When shopping for the best tripod under $200, I recommend checking out its height, weight, and load capacity. I’ve suggested the top five items on the market based on these features. Continue reading to learn why these factors matter.
I used to try the cheapest tripods on the market. However, I always end up buying another one after a few months because they always break easily.
Fortunately, I found out that I can choose to invest in a durable yet still cheap tripod. This way, I can save money in the long run and ensure that my thousands of dollars worth of camera equipment is secure and safe.
In this article, I will include the five best tripods under $200. I scoured the web–including various articles and product reviews–to come up with these top picks. Rest assured, I only listed products that are sturdy and reliable.
And if this is your first time investing on a tripod, or you have been disappointed with your past purchases, I also included a buying guide below to help you make a wise purchasing decision.
A Quick Comparison of Our Favorites
| IMAGE | PRODUCT | |
|---|---|---|
Editor's Choice  |
| View On Amazon →Read Our Review |
Runner-up  |
| View On Amazon →Read Our Review |
 |
| View On Amazon →Read Our Review |
 |
| View On Amazon →Read Our Review |
 |
| View On Amazon →Read Our Review |
5 Best Tripods Under $200
1. Neewer 72.4-Inch Aluminum Camera Tripod Monopod – Editor’s Pick
- Maximum Height: 72.4 inches
- Maximum Load Capacity: 33 lb / 15kg
- Head Type: Ball Head
- Material: Aluminum Alloy
- Weight: 4.76 lb / 2.16kg
The Neewer 72.4-Inch Aluminum Camera Tripod Monopod is among the best tripods under $200.
It is incredibly sturdy, owing to the aluminum alloy construction and larger tube diameter. There is also an option to hang a sandbag or other heavy subjects on the carabiner. Thus, you can enjoy increased stability if necessary.
Meanwhile, the panoramic ball head securely holds your camera in place while still enabling you to change composition quickly using the three adjustment knobs.
What’s more, the multi-angle center column offers versatility. Whether you want to shoot at a vertical or horizontal angle, this tripod allows you to do so. Thus, it is perfect for different kinds of photography (including macro photography) and videography.
The four-section legs can extend to a height of 72.4 inches and fold down to 26.4 for convenient storage. You can even remove one of the legs and use it as a monopod.
However, some users said that the tripod is quite tricky to set up due to the individual twist locks. A few also reported that the ball head is loose, which can affect panning and tilting ability.
The pros far outweigh the cons, though.
For this reason, the Neewer 72.4-Inch Aluminum Camera Tripod Monopod is our top pick for the best budget tripod.
Pros:
- Sturdy tripod with option to add a sandbag
- Multi-angle center column offers versatility
- Superior load capacity
- Adjustable tripod legs
- It can be used as a monopod
Cons:
- Individual leg twist locks are not as easy to set up
- A few users reported that the ball head is loose
2. Cayer BV30L Professional Heavy Duty Aluminum Twin Tube Tripod – Easiest to Set Up
- Maximum Height: 72.7 inches
- Maximum Load Capacity: 13.2 lb / 6 kg
- Head Type: Fluid Head
- Material: Aluminum Alloy
- Weight: 8.82 lb / 4 kg
If you are looking for a tall tripod that is easy to set up, consider getting the Cayer BV30L Aluminum Twin Tube Tripod.
It features a rotating lever leg lock type so that you can extend it to 72.7 inches with ease. When not in use, you can quickly fold the tripod down to 35 inches for convenient storage inside the included carrying case.
The legs of the tripod are also individually adjustable for versatility. They even include a mid-level spreader to ensure stability on uneven ground.
Meanwhile, the two-way fluid head uses a side lock system, which houses the panhandle, quick-release plate, and integrated bubble level. It offers smooth 360° panning and +90°/-70° tilt. There is also an integrated flat base with a universal thread, making it compatible with most sliders, jibs, or cranes.
Furthermore, the Cayer BV30L Tripod Kit can handle camera equipment weighing up to 13.2 lb (6 kg). It is an ideal choice for photographers with camcorders, DSLRs, or mirrorless cameras.
Most customer reviews for this product were positive. However, the joints and knobs are made of plastic, which can affect overall durability. Some users also said that the legs always slide down because the twist-lock does not stay tight. A few users even reported that panning and tilting is a little wobbly.
Nevertheless, the Cayer BV30L Aluminum Twin Tube Tripod is still among the highest-quality tripods under $200.
Pros:
- Leg twist-lock system for easy set-up
- Maximum height of 72.7 inches
- Impressive load capacity
- Fluid head for panning and tilting
- Integrated flat base is compatible with most tripods, sliders, jibs, or cranes
Cons:
- Heaviest tripod on this list
- Plastic joints and knobs
- Legs always slide down
- A few users said that panning and tilting is not as smooth
3. Manfrotto 290 Xtra Aluminum 3-Section Tripod Kit with Ball Head – Best Compact
- Maximum Height: 63.2 inches
- Maximum Load Capacity: 13.2 lb / 6 kg
- Head Type: Ball Head
- Material: Aluminum Alloy
- Weight: 3.9 lb / 1.8 kg
Are you a travel photographer? Or perhaps, you need something easy to pack and carry? If so, a compact tripod like the Manfrotto 290 Xtra with Ball Head might meet your needs.
At only 3.9 lb (1.8 kg), it is the lightest full-sized tripod on our list. It also has a folded length of 23.4 inches.
But do not let its weight and size fool you!
This Manfrotto tripod can handle a maximum load of 13.2 lb (6 kg) and extends up to 63.2 inches. Meanwhile, the aluminum construction ensures sturdiness.
Additionally, the legs of the tripod feature rubber grips to keep it stable on slippery or uneven surfaces. They are also adjustable so that you can position the tripod in various ways.
Moreover, the tripod comes with a compact ball head with a quick-release plate. This head offers smooth pan-and-tilt control.
The whole package even comes with a shoulder bag, so it is more convenient to bring the tripod on your trips.
Despite these great features, some users reported that the camera falls over when the ball head is not tightened enough. The leg locks are also made of plastic, which can loosen over time.
Plus, it is a little over our budget of $200.
We think the Manfrotto 290 Xtra with Ball Head is worth the cost, though. It is compact and lightweight yet still sturdy.
Pros:
- Lightweight and easily portable
- Stable and high-quality aluminum build
- Adjustable legs with rubber grips
- Impressive load capacity
Cons:
- A little over $200
- Leg locks are plastic
- Some users said that the camera falls when the ball head is not tightened
4. SIRUI AM-223 ProfiLegs Carbon Fiber Mini Tripod – Best Mini Tripod
- Maximum Height: 16.6 inches
- Maximum Load Capacity: 33 lb / 15 kg
- Head Type: Ball Head
- Material: Carbon Fiber
- Weight: 1.62 lb / 0.72 kg
The SIRUI AM-223 ProfiLegs Carbon Fiber Mini Tripod is another excellent compact yet sturdy travel tripod. It only weighs 1.62 lb (0.72 kg), making it easy to carry during your trips.
Besides travel photography, this carbon fiber tripod also shines in macro photography. It features shorter legs, ideal for mounting on a table. This way, you can take advantage of the tripod positioning and capture small objects, such as food, insects, and plants, with ease.
What’s more, the flexible ball head allows you to pan and tilt the camera smoothly. It can even handle weights up to 33 lb (15 kg).
On top of all these features, the legs have removable rubber feet. You can replace them with stainless steel spikes for additional versatility.
However, this carbon fiber tripod only extends up to 16.6 inches, making it a mini tripod. This maximum height can limit the type of photography that you do. Some users also complained about the short design as it is hard to adjust the tripod height, especially if you are tall.
This carbon fiber tripod also does not include a hook for sandbags, which can help in stabilizing the tripod.
But if you look past that, you can see that the SIRUI AM-223 is still great in its own right. It is one of the best mini tripods on the market today.
Pros:
- Lightweight and easy to carry
- Robust carbon fiber construction
- Superior load capacity
- Ball head for pan-and-tilt ability
- Removable rubber feet
Cons:
- This mini carbon fiber tripod might not be tall enough for some people
- Some users said that tripod height is hard to adjust
- Lack of hook for extra stability
5. Magnus VT-300 Video Tripod with Fluid Head – Best for Filmmaking
- Maximum Height: 64.3 inches
- Maximum Load Capacity: 15 lb / 6.8 kg
- Head Type: Fluid Head
- Material: Aluminum
- Weight: 4.5 lb / 2 kg
The Magnus VT-300 Video Tripod with Fluid Head is one of the best and cheapest tripods on the market.
It features an aluminum build to ensure stability. The tripod legs with replaceable rubber feet offer additional grip on slippery or uneven ground. There is also a mid-level spreader to keep legs steady when adjusting the height. And speaking of height, this video tripod can extend up to 64.3 inches.
Moreover, it includes a built-in fluid video head. It can pan a full 360° pan as well as tilt up and down. Both controls are independent from one another, making it possible to lock down shots.
Most customer reviews for this tripod were positive, with many praising the high-quality material and smooth panning. However, some users reported that fluid from the tripod head could randomly leak. A few also said that it is not sturdy enough if you mount a larger camera.
But for its price of less than $100, the Magnus VT-300 Video Tripod is hard to beat. We recommend checking it out, especially if you are into filmmaking.
Pros:
- Cheapest tripod on our list
- Durable aluminum construction
- Smooth pan and tilt motion
- Replaceable rubber feet for better grip
Cons:
- Plastic tripod head
- Tripod head fluid can leak out
- Jerky tilt for larger or heavier cameras
How to Choose the Best Tripods Under $200
When looking for the best tripods under $200, there are some considerations you need to think about to ensure that the product will meet your requirements.
Height
The tripod height will depend on your preferences and needs.
Most photographers and videographers will need a full-size tripod with a max height of at least 60 inches. However, some prefer using a mini tripod for specific subjects and overall convenience.
Weight
Another factor to consider is the weight of the tripod.
If you are a travel photographer or a vlogger, it is more likely that you will prefer a lightweight one. This is because they are easier to carry and set up during your trips.
But if you are a studio photographer or have multiple cameras with additional accessories, weight is not necessarily important.
Load Capacity
Before buying a tripod, ask yourself how much weight you are planning to mount on your tripod. Will you attach a mirrorless camera or a bulky DSLR with heavy lenses?
Regardless of your equipment, it is vital to choose a model that can handle that estimated load. In general, lightweight tripods can only carry limited weight, while heavier ones can bear hefty devices.
Material
If you do not want to replace your tripod every year or so, it is best to look for one made of robust material.
Avoid plastic ones as they can easily be disfigured or broken. Instead, choose tripods that use aluminum, carbon fiber, or galvanized rubber. These materials are durable and can last you a long time.
Stability
No one wants a tripod that stumbles or wobbles at the slightest adjustment or wind. Buy a tripod that uses secure connections at all joints and rigid materials to ensure stability, no matter what you are shooting.
Tripod Head
There are various types of tripod heads, and each one comes with pros and cons. It is up to you to choose which tripod head suits your preferences and needs.
In this article, we only listed ball head and fluid head tripods as we prefer them. The former allows you to position the camera in almost any way, but it can be quite tricky to make minor adjustments. In contrast, the latter lets you pan or tilt the camera independently, perfect for video work. But it can take up more space.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does a tripod make a difference?
A tripod keeps your camera still. There is no need to worry about camera shake when shooting at a slower shutter speed or in low-light conditions. It can help you achieve sharper images.
A tripod is also useful for long exposure shots, such as astrophotography, or time-lapse videos, when it is necessary to maintain the same camera position over time.
So yes, a tripod does make a difference if you want to achieve more creative freedom and the highest image quality.
How much does a good tripod cost?
It depends on your definition of “good.”
Some photographers, especially professionals, will find that a budget tripod will not meet most of their needs. They tend to spend a lot of money, and they get what they pay for more often than not.
However, we firmly believe that you can still find a high-quality tripod for less than $200. Our list of the best budget tripods is proof of that.
What is the best tripod brand?
There is no one absolute best tripod brand. It will entirely depend on your preferences and needs.
Top manufacturers, like Manfrotto, Gitzo, Benro, Induro, are known for their quality yet expensive models. But lesser-known brands, such as Neewer and Sirui, also offer inexpensive tripods that deliver reliable performance.
Will a tripod fit any camera?
The better question to ask is if a tripod can fit any type of tripod head. After all, you attach your camera to the head and not to the tripod (legs) itself.
Fortunately, almost all tripod heads come with a universal 1/4-inch screw, and most cameras (not smartphones) have that same thread size on the bottom. So it is likely that you can fit any camera on a tripod.
Conclusion
There you have it–our list of the best tripods under $200.
We highly recommend each product on this list. But our top choice is the Neewer 72.4-Inch Aluminum Camera Tripod. It is sturdy with adjustable legs and a multi-function ball head. Moreover, it can handle weights up to 33 lb (15kg), making it suitable for both hobbyists and semi-professional shooters.
