Best Tripod for DSLR Cameras

Every good photographer needs the proper equipment with them everywhere they plan on taking a photoshoot so that they can be prepared for anything. Even a beginner learns very quickly that you can’t just capture a masterpiece with a camera alone. On the contrary, you need a good lens, proper lighting, a unique perspective, a strap, tripod, or some other piece of equipment that just makes the overall picture-taking process easier and better. A tripod, especially for DSLR cameras, is one of the most popular accessories to bring with your camera to make your photography experience easier.

Dolica GX600B200 Proline GX Series 60-Inch Aluminum Tripod
Top Pick: Dolica GX600B200 Proline GX Series 60-Inch Aluminum Tripod

Tripods hold your camera steadier, they’re portable and easy to use, and they’re fairly affordable. While the Dolica GX600B200 Proline GX Series 60-Inch Aluminum Tripod is easily considered the best tripod for DSLR cameras, at least in our book, there are other specialized options, step-up choices, and budget alternatives to choose from. We’ve created this guide to give you the knowledge you need to pick the best tripod possible. It may not even be a tripod on this list – the important thing is that you have the tools available to find the best tripod available for your particular needs.

Reasons You Need a Tripod for DSLR Cameras

While some may argue that a tripod isn’t an absolute necessity, we feel it is a required piece of equipment if you’re wanting to get any degree of serious with your DSLR camera. In short, a tripod is a necessity, since it offers so much convenience and so many benefits in such a small frame.

Low-Lighting and Night Time Shots
The tripod is designed to reduce your camera’s movement to a still, improving picture quality and getting rid of unwanted blur. At night or in low-light situations, a camera’s shutter speed can be reduced so that it can be exposed to more light before capturing a photo each time. A tripod helps to enhance the general process of this.

Nature Photography
It is far less exhausting on your arms to have a camera positioned upright on a tripod while you wait out animals to capture photos of. If you’re trying to get the perfect shot, you don’t want to miss the moment by clambering the camera around in your hands. If you have it positioned on a tripod already so that you can just angle and get the right shot, you’ll be much more prepared for the flawless nature photographs you’re after capturing.

Action and Fast-Movement Pictures
Generally speaking, hands can be shaky, unsteady, and unable to pan as swiftly and smoothly as you’d be able to on a tripod with a reasonable field of view. Tripods are designed to help you pan across the action, capturing every second of the game without blur, missing out on something spectacular, and more. It’s simply a more fluid alternative to just using your hands.

Close-Up Photography
Close-up photos are designed to capture every single detail down to the cells beside each other on a leaf. Even a minor movement can disturb a close-up picture, blurring or otherwise disrupting a minute detail on the image. A tripod allows you to reduce any unwanted movement, making it a must-have for photographers who specialize in close-ups.

Utilizing a Telephoto Lens
When you’re using a telephoto lens, the focal length of any vibration caused by the photographer, wind, mirror, or camera shutter itself is magnified greatly. To top it off, telephoto lenses typically require a slower shutter speed in order to take in more light. The easiest and simplest solution is to simply sit your camera on a tripod, reducing the number of vibrations to almost none.

Composing Shots in General
Instead of looking up, seeing a good angle for a picture, holding up your camera to your eye and positioning it just ever so carefully in order to get the perfect angle without any shakiness or blur, you could just take all the time you need to compose each image with a tripod. Panning, zooming in, accessing any of the camera’s features, and much more is a breeze even when it’s equipped to a tripod, so you don’t have to worry about it getting in the way of your photo-taking experience. Overall, a tripod simply stabilizes each image to make it more fluid, vivid, and real.

How We Picked the Best Tripod for DSLR Cameras

Since we got a team of experts and photographers together to test our all of these DSLR camera tripods, we were easily able to come to a conclusion as to which tripod is the best. The Dolica GX600B200 Proline GX Series 60-Inch Aluminum Tripod ranks in at number one on our list, and there are a number of reasons as to why. This particular tripod happened to match up on all the variables we had laid out before it.

The first factor when called into play was the overall rating and reputation a tripod has. If it’s poorly rated or has no reviews, we’re more likely inclined to rule it out. On the other hand, if a tripod has a few hundred reviews with an average 4-star rating and up, we put that on the shortlist for the best so that it can be considered for later.

The second and most important factor of a tripod is the overall features that comes with it. The more a tripod is capable of, the more we’re inclined to consider that tripod over any other. For example, the panoramic angle capabilities of each tripod is different, and we looked at the ones that do a full 360-degrees when looking for the best. Likewise, if it’s too heavy to be considered a viable option as a travel tripod, we would prefer that be for a more specialized option.

There’s not a lot you have to be picky with when it comes to tripods for DSLR cameras. When you know what you’re looking for and what list of variables you find important for your specific tripod, it becomes a breeze to find one that you consider the best – which is exactly what we did when we chose the Dolica GX600B200 Proline GX Series 60-Inch Aluminum Tripod.

Our Pick for the Best Tripod for DSLR Cameras

Dolica GX600B200 Proline GX Series 60-Inch Aluminum Tripod
Top Pick: Dolica GX600B200 Proline GX Series 60-Inch Aluminum Tripod

While we weren’t that picky with our tripod considerations because of the limited number of factors in play, that’s not to say it was easy. On the contrary, we had to rule out a multitude of tripods because they lacked the ratings, number of reviews, and overall features that we had our eye on. The Dolica GX600B200 Proline GX Series 60-Inch Aluminum Tripod came out number one because it simply fit the picture we had already drawn on the page.

As far as features go, this particular tripod has the horizontal 360-degree panoramic angle at our disposal, along with a variety of other features. Features like a reversible locking center column, non-slip rubber feet that have retractable spikes, and a maximum height column count of a cool 60 inches make the Dolica GX600B200 Proline GX Series 60-Inch Aluminum Tripod a definite favorite. After we tested it out with 8 different DSLR cameras, we were satisfied that we had selected the right one.

Sometimes, the tripods or other piece of equipment you try out for your camera aren’t going to match up the way you hope they’re going to. In fact, sometimes, you may just get a purchase that you regret altogether. The solution for this is to stick to products that have reliable warranties, or at the least, money-back guarantees. The Dolica GX600B200 Proline GX Series 60-Inch Aluminum Tripod wins out with an impressive 5-year warranty, so you can be reassured that you’ve made the right decision when you walk away with this tripod.
While we did base the majority of our decision off of the main two factors on our list (reputation and features), prices is also a factor that comes into consideration. We didn’t want the most expensive tripod out there, but we also weren’t looking for the cheapest. Instead, we tried for somewhere right in the middle. This is a tripod that’s high-quality and also fairly priced.

Our Second Pick

Q666C Professional Compact Carbon Tripod
Q666C Professional Compact Carbon Tripod

Because we set a range for our budget to help find the best tripod for DSLR cameras, quite a few cameras didn’t make the mark simply for the price alone, either priced too low or too high for us to consider. The Q666C Professional Compact Carbon Tripod is one of the particular tripods. We consider it our step-up pick because the dollar is honestly worth it for those looking for the best quality with the money to throw around.

Pulling out all the stops, this handy tripod is corrosion resistant, heat resistant, high-efficiency shock absorbent, and it has an intense rigidity that holds true no matter the weight burden. The Q666C Professional Compact Carbon Tripod has a universal head handle with a secured clip. This will enable you to double-secure your camera in the event of an accidental drop on your part.

The carbon fiber tripod can separate into 5 sections, and you don’t just receive the tripod when you purchase it. The package comes with the tripod, a carrying bag, a hexagon wrench, and a holster for the monopod. For the quality of the tripod, the accessories that comes with it, and the one-year warranty it’s sent with are all great reasons to spend the extra money on this particular tripod.

Budget Tripod for DSLR Cameras Pick

Ravelli APLT2 50 Inch Light Weight Aluminum Tripod
Ravelli APLT2 50-Inch Light Weight Aluminum Tripod

We wanted to put together a good list that everyone can look at and find a tripod that fits their needs – and that includes the needs of those on a budget. The Ravelli APLT2 50-Inch Light Weight Aluminum Tripod is an excellent budget alternative for DSLR cameras. It’s a lightweight aluminum tripod that has built-in portrait and landscape orientation along with full pan and tilt motion. The lever leg locks, and the tripod as a whole can reach up to 50 inches and has a minimum height of 16.5 inches.

While this is one of the most affordable options we’ve found, we knew before we even tested it that it wasn’t going to sacrifice the quality we were also looking for. The thing about shopping frugally is you never have to sacrifice quality for the price tag. When we actually did test the tripod to see if it met the rest of our requirements, we were not disappointed. As a bonus, it also comes with a tripod carrying bag so you can put the one-pound tripod behind you on your shoulder when it’s not in use.

Specialized Picks

We built this guide to walk you through all of the best tripods for DSLR cameras that the market has to offer. We decided to compile a list of specialized options, fitting for photographers and hobbyists alike, to better fulfill certain needs in relation to a tripod for a DSLR camera. While they may not be the specialized cameras you choose for the category you go for, they will still point you in the right direction of comparable tripods for DSLR cameras like them.

Best Tripod for Family Photos
Professional Camera Tripod Portable NOSTON Monopod
Professional Camera Tripod Portable NOSTON Monopod

A sturdy tripod that’s lightweight without being flimsy, the Professional Camera Tripod Portable NOSTON Monopod is the perfect companion to a DSLR camera when it’s time to take family portraits. Whether it’s for a holiday card, you’re just updating the family pictures on the walls, or you’re trying to add to the family photo album, the Professional Camera Tripod Portable NOSTON Monopod is the perfect choice since it’s easy to use, easy to carry, and it has 5 leg sections for ultimate height adjustment capabilities.
The easy height adjustments make taking pictures of all the kids, with all of their different heights as they grow up before your eyes, much easier. There’s even a safety lock on the base plate for each leg on the tripod, making it impossible to accidentally release the plate and cause it to slide off or twist a tripod leg.

Best Tripod and Monopod Combo
ZOMEI Z688 Tripod Magnesium Alloy Monopod with Ball Head for DSLR Camera
ZOMEI Z688 Tripod Magnesium Alloy Monopod with Ball Head for DSLR Camera

The ZOMEI Z688 Tripod Magnesium Alloy Monopod with Ball Head for DSLR Camera is an excellent tripod, but it also has another use. One of the legs of the tripod can be used as a single monopod, standing up on its own, or it can be used as alpenstock. It’s got an intuitive leg section locking system with a clockwise rotation for easy and secure locking each time. It’s lightweight, coming in at just over 5 pounds, and it’s easy to carry around with you anywhere.

While it works as a tripod, monopod, and alpenstock for both DSLR cameras and digital cameras.

Best Tripod with All-In-One Kit
AmazonBasics 60-Inch Lightweight Tripod
AmazonBasics 60-Inch Lightweight Tripod

While there are a variety of tripod bundles on our list, the AmazonBasics 60-Inch Lightweight Tripod is best in class. The tripod comes with a carrying case, but it also has all of the features you need in a tripod already built in. The 3-way head, two built-in bubble view levels, and fully extendable center post are just a few convenient features that it comes equipped with that show it off as the best complete tripod unit.

Not only is it compatible with DSLR cameras, but it’s more of a one size fits all kind of tripod. It’s compatible with digital cameras, still cameras, most camcorders and video cameras, smart phones, GoPro devices, and much more. It’s a versatile device unlike a lot of comparable tripods of similar quality, especially when examining the price along with it. The AmazonBasics 60-Inch Lightweight Tripod is a super affordable option.

Best Tripod for Business
Adjustable Pro 60-Inch Tripod
Adjustable Pro 60-Inch Tripod

When you need a sturdy, reliable tripod that looks professional and sleek enough for a business setting, the Adjustable Pro 60-Inch Tripod from the Access Store through Amazon is a reliable device. It’s made out of a durable aluminum material, lightweight but high quality, and it can measure up to 60 inches. In order to prevent any accidental slips of the release plate, there’s a safety lock for each base plate of the legs. There are 5 leg sections designed for height adjustment.

Overall, the qualities put together for this tripod make it the perfect companion for interviews, meetings, and much more. Equip it to the best DSLR camera and you’ll be able to take it with you into a work environment whenever the need arises.

Best Tripod for Full 360-Degree Control
Albott 63-Inch Professional SLR Camera Aluminum Travel Tripod
Albott 63-Inch Professional SLR Camera Aluminum Travel Tripod

As you’ve seen from the rest of our list, the majority of the high-quality tripods only have a max 180-degree pan before it comes to a stop. With the Albott 63-Inch Professional SLR Camera Aluminum Travel Tripod, the control is in your hands and you never have to miss a second of the action happening literally all around you with the capable 360-degree panning feature. You’ll never be able to make a more accurate panorama than with this type of tripod.

Not only does it do a full 360, but the Albott 63-Inch Professional SLR Camera Aluminum Travel Tripod also has a recessed center-column hook, which means you can put extra weight on the tripod’s center of gravity without damaging it. In fact, it’s designed to increase the overall stability of the tripod and the camera on top. This travel tripod comes with a durable carrying case, as well as a one-year warranty for peace of mind. It’s a bargain to boot.

Best Tripod for Extra Flexibility
ZOMEI Q111 55-Inch Flexible Camera Tripod
ZOMEI Q111 55-Inch Flexible Camera Tripod

The ZOMEI Q111 55-Inch Flexible Camera Tripod is made out of the highest quality aluminum, recommended most for its versatile flexibility and sleek movement. The 3-way swivel fluid head is easy to put together and a breeze to work with, and it also come with a compatible Arca Swiss clamp that’s simple to get on and off. It’s even lighter than most comparable tripods, weighing in at only a meager 2.75 pounds, and it comes equipped with a convenient carrying case.

It comes in three different colors (black, blue, or red), and the ZOMEI Q111 55-Inch Flexible Camera Tripod has three different adjustment knobs in order to dampen the overall panhead effect whenever it’s actually applicable. This allows for you to better shoot pictures at just about any angle with the utmost in efficiency and precision. Overall, this particular tripod is not just flexible with its legs and capabilities, but it’s also flexible with the types of cameras that it’s compatible with.

Best Tripod for Travel
Albott 70-Inch Professional SLR Camera Aluminum Travel Portable Tripod

Albott 70-Inch Professional SLR Camera Aluminum Travel Portable Tripod

When you’re out on the road traveling, capturing in as many beautiful sights along the path, it comes as no surprise that you want to have a tripod and other camera equipment that’s going to be easy to travel with and won’t weigh you down. Additionally, if it’s for travel, you need a tripod that’s going to be capable of taking flawless nature and action shots, since that’s the majority of what we see when traveling (unless you’re traveling through a city instead). The Albott 70-Inch Professional SLR Camera Aluminum Travel Portable Tripod is specifically designed to be taken on the road with, and it comes equipped with a special carrying bag just for the occasion.

The Albott 70-Inch Professional SLR Camera Aluminum Travel Portable Tripod has 360-degree panning using a graduated panning scale, and it’s perfect for both travel and outdoor photography for all of the features combined. It also comes with a one-year warranty, so you can be rest assured that it’s protected even when you take it out camping, hiking, or traveling with you.

Best Tripod for Smart Phones
Davis & Sanford EXPLORERV Vista Explorer 60-Inch Tripod
Davis & Sanford EXPLORERV Vista Explorer 60-Inch Tripod

The Davis & Sanford EXPLORERV Vista Explorer 60-Inch Tripod through Amazon comes with a smart phone adapter as a bonus, which allows for you to attach your phone to the tripod and capture photos that way. It comes equipped with a 10-year warranty, to boot, so you can be rest assured that you’re in good hands when you utilize this particular tripod.

Outside of the smart phone adapter, tripod carrying bag, and generous 10-year warranty that the Davis & Sanford EXPLORERV Vista Explorer 60-Inch Tripod comes equipped with, the tripod itself only weighs three pounds, with a geared center post and quick-release lock legs for an easy tripod experience. It also has a bubble level, so that you can ensure your camera is perfect straight and level to the ground, along with a 3-way pan head, for panning in different directions.

Best Tripod for Other Cameras
Polaroid 50-inch Photo and Video Travel Tripod
Polaroid 50-inch Photo and Video Travel Tripod

The Polaroid 50-inch Photo and Video Travel Tripod is specifically compatible with the majority of digital cameras and camcorders on the market. The 3 section tripod can retract to less than 17 inches and it weighs in at under 2 pounds, making it a convenient companion to bring along with you no matter how far the journey is.

The Polaroid 50-inch Photo and Video Travel Tripod can reach up to 50 inches, but there are also models of the same tripod that you can get at 57 inches, 60 inches, 72 inches, 75 inches, and more. Each model is fully adjustable with capable safety snap lock legs that make for fast and easy height adjustments.

Commonly Asked Questions About Tripods for DSLR Cameras

What is a Tripod System?
All a tripod system consists of is each component of the individual tripod in question. Each tripod is, generally speaking, going to come equipped with a head (the piece the camera equips to), the center column or centerpost (the leg that runs straight through the middle), legs (made out of different materials like steel, carbon fiber, basalt, or aluminum), and feet.

What are Disadvantages of Having a Tripod?
A tripod isn’t going to fit every situation that photography can capture. On the contrary, a tripod is inconvenient in particularly crowded environments, and many of them are too heavy to take with you anywhere. While there are tripods that are made with lighter materials now, as well as specialized options for crowded places, it’s important to note that they won’t always be useful. They are still considered a necessity for most photographer’s needs, however.

Why Do You Need a Tripod?
A tripod is generally a good idea, especially if you have a high-quality DSLR camera to equip it to. It not only greatly enhances the depth of field and sharpness of each image, but it’s also preferred for low-light settings and fast-paced action situations. A tripod is useful for holding reflectors, slaves, flashes, and other pieces of equipment when they’re not in use. On top of everything, tripods make handy weapons for the lone photographer to defend themselves with in a pinch.

Wrapping It Up

While we did come to the conclusion of the Dolica GX600B200 Proline GX Series 60-Inch Aluminum Tripod being our top pick for the best tripod for DSLR cameras, this guide is proof that it’s not the only one out there. We gave you our specific reasons as to why we believe it’s number one, but other photographers may come to other conclusions. Whether you decide on our top pick, another tripod on the list, or you took the information we provided and used it to find a tripod elsewhere, at least you have the tools and knowledge necessary to find the best tripod for DSLR cameras possible.