Top 10 Tripod Recommendations

Buying a tripod is one of the most difficult tasks for a budding photographer. The tripods came in several models and price ranges that it becomes a chore for the user to actually select one and buy it. Here are a few points to remember while you make your purchase

1. Invest in a good tripod, they usually outlast your camera!
2. Pair a tripod with an appropriate head for best results.
3. Carbon fiber tripods are sturdier and lighter than aluminum ones.
4. Choose your tripod depending on the type of photography, like travel tripods need to be compact and lightweight.

For more tips on what to look for when buying a tripod, please click here.

Now it's time to make the selection, we have narrowed down some of the best value tripods currently available on the market to help you make an informed decision. These selections were made on features and cost ratio, so they should offer you the best value for your money. Hope you find your next tripod here!

Manfrotto 190XPROB 3 Section Aluminum Pro Tripod

This is a 3 section aluminum tripod from Bogen/Manfrotto and is one of the best selling models currently. The tripod weighs in at 4 pounds, has very good build quality and provides sufficient stability for most photography situations. Comes with quick action leg locks that are easy and sturdy providing the required safety and stability for digital SLRs. The center column can also be tilted to a complete 180 degrees, providing great comfort in shooting macros. The included bubble-level is a nice add-on to adjust the tripod on uneven locations. The unit does not ship with a head though is compatible with several popular heads from Manfrotto and third parties. The Manfrotto 190XPROB retails for about $160 and is one of the best purchases for the money spent.

Manfrotto 055XPROB Pro

The 055xProB is yet another best selling tripod model from Bogen/Manfrotto. It is very much similar to the above mentioned 190xProB with a few exceptions. The unit weighs around 5.3 pounds and provides some improvements on the centre column usage. The quick lock legs can be set at different angle allowing great dexterity in composition. The Manfrotto 055xProB retails for about $180 and can be found for less if you have to the time to search around.

Manfrotto 190CXPRO3 3-Section Pro Carbon Fiber Tripod

The Manfrotto 190CXPRO3 is a 3 section tripod made of carbon fiber. This is the elder cousin to 190xProB model that we talked about before. The carbon fiber frame provides a sturdier build to the tripod as well as efficiently dampens the slightest of vibrations. The unit has almost all the features of the 190xProB. The tripod can be extended to a max. height of 57.5 inches and can hold a load of 11 lbs. The tripod weighs about 2.8 lbs and the legs makes use of the Manfrotto flip lock system. The center column provides complete flexibility of movement. There is a bubble level for correcting placement positions and the magnesium coated tubes make the movement of the legs a breeze. The tripod is a wonderful purchase for anybody looking to get into the world of light weight carbon fiber tripods. The significant change in weight is noticeable. The tripod is available from Amazon for $300.