Ever wondered what the best tripods under 200 are? Although shutter speeds and ISO functionalities have vastly improved over the last few years, the tripod’s versatility and stability have made it a staple part of every photographer’s kit.
Regardless of whether you are a seasoned photographer or a casual hobbyist, this list will give you a concise overview of the top 10 best tripods under 200.
This article will also go over a few essential considerations to keep in mind before purchasing a tripod that suits your needs.
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Best Tripods Under 200: Our Top Three
Main Features of the Best Tripods Under $200
Height: As a rule of thumb, the maximum height of the tripod should be at least 9 to 12 inches taller than the photographer. This will allow you to snap photos or shoot videos while standing on a raised platform or slope. A tall tripod will also facilitate high-angle shots. Remember that the maximum height of the tripod is not representative of how high your camera can potentially be placed. The height of the ball head should be factored into the equation. Although it might seem trivial, the minimum height of the tripod is quite important as well. Tripods that are more compact when fully folded are easier to fit into travel bags.
Material Used: Most classic tripods are made of aluminium or carbon fiber. Aluminium tripods tend to be bulkier and less portable than carbon fiber tripods. However, carbon fiber tripods are generally more expensive. Depending on your budget, you will have to make a cost vs. functionality analysis before going ahead with a purchase.
Maximum Load Capacity : Maximum load capacity (MLC) is an important characteristic for every tripod. It indicates how much weight the tripod can bear without losing stability. Manufacturers sometimes tend to overstate the MLC of their accessories. It is prudent, therefore, to purchase a tripod which has a load capacity that is a few pounds higher than the weight of your camera and lens combined. You might also consider using these tripods with lightweight mirrorless cameras for best stability.
If you are looking for the best affordable mirrorless camera, you can also read: The Best Cheapest Mirrorless Camera
Best Tripods Under 200
1. Vanguard Alta Pro 2+ 263CT Carbon Fiber Tripod
Specifications:
- Length of the folded tripod: 24.6”
- Fully extended height: 63.8”
- Weight: 3.6 lbs (1.63 Kg)
- Max load capacity (MLC): 15.4lbs (7 Kg)
Salient Features:
- Multi-angle center column (MACC) for an unlimited range of shooting angles
- Sturdy hexagonal center column that is easy to set up and use
- 4 position angles (20°, 40°, 60°, and 80°) for the 3 section legs, with a unique twist leg-lock system for easy locking and unlocking
2. Manfrotto Compact Light Aluminum 4-Section Tripod
Specifications:
- Length of the folded tripod: 15.35”
- Fully extended height: 51.57”
- Weight: 2.03lbs (1.63 Kg)
- Safety payload: 3.3 lbs (1.5 Kg)
- Material: Aluminium
- Fixed top plate with ¼-20” screw
- Single knob-operated ball head
- Lever leg locks
3. GEEKOTO 77” Tripod
Specifications:
- Length of the folded tripod: 19.7”
- Fully extended height: 55.3”
- Weight: 3.37 lbs (1.63 Kg)
- Max Load Capacity (MLC): 17.6lbs (8 Kg)
- Two modes of operation (4 legs) – tripod and monopod
- Ball head
- Material used: Aluminium
- Pull buckle leg locks
4. Vanguard VEO 2 235CB Carbon Fiber
Specifications:
- Length of the folded tripod: 12¾ ”
- Fully extended height: 56½ ”
- Weight: 2.33 lbs (1.05 Kg)
- Max Load Capacity (MLC): 8.8lbs (4 Kg)
- Material: Carbon fiber
- Independent ‘twist’ leg locks at three angles – 21°, 50°, and 80°
- Retractable hook to weigh down and stabilize the tripod
- T-50 ball head with a QS-64 quick-release plate
5. SLIK Pro 700 DXQ Tripod
Specifications:
- Length of the folded tripod: 15.35”
- Fully extended height: 51.57”
- Weight: 2.03 lbs (1.63 Kg)
- Safety payload: 3.3lb (1.5 Kg)
- Ball head with lever leg locks
- Material: Aluminium, titanium, and magnesium alloy
6. Vanguard Alta Pro 263AB
Specifications:
- Length of the folded tripod: 28⅛ ”
- Fully extended height: 69⅛ ”
- Weight: 5.38 lbs (2.44 Kg)
- Max load capacity: 15.4lb (7 Kg)
- Material used: Aluminium
- SBH-100 ball head with QS-39 quick release plate
7. MeFOTO BackPacker Classic
Specifications:
- Length of the folded tripod: 13.2”
- Fully extended height: 54.7”
- Weight: 2.6 lbs (1.63 Kg)
- Max load capacity: 8.8lb (4 Kg)
- Ball head with recessed center-column hook
- Twist leg-locking with anti-rotation and dust resistance
- Material used: Aluminium
8. MACTREM Professional Camera Tripod with Phone Mount
Specifications:
- Length of folded tripod: 17.5”
- Fully extended height: 62.5”
- Weight: 2.9 lbs (1.32 Kg)
- Max load capacity: 33lb (15 Kg)
- Ball head with recessed center-column hook
- Twist leg-locking with anti-rotation and dust resistance
- Material used: Aluminium
9. Sirui ET Series Tripod
Specifications:
- Length of folded tripod: 16.5”
- Fully extended height: 62.5” (with the center column extended)
- Weight: 3 lbs (1.36 Kg)
- Max load capacity: 18 lbs (8.16 Kg)
- Ball head with center-column hook
- Flip leg-locks
- Material used: Aluminium
10. Zomei Professional Carbon Fiber Tripod
Specifications:
- Length of folded tripod: 18.11”
- Fully extended height: 62.5”
- Weight: 3.3 lbs (1.5 Kg)
- Max load capacity: 35.27 lbs (16 Kg)
- Ball head with center-column hook
- Quick-release leg-locking
- Material used: Carbon fiber
Best Tripods Under 200 Summary Table
In Conclusion
Choosing the right tripod for your camera is not a simple task, especially if you have a low budget. Hopefully, this list of the top 10 best tripods under $200 has armed you with the knowledge to weigh your options carefully and look for features and dimensions that fit your requirements.