When it comes to image quality, the one piece of gear everyone recommends is the tripod. A good-quality tripod is one of the most important accessories you can get for your camera, but with so many new brands and options out there, choosing the right one can be a challenge. For this article, I spoke to the experts at the B&H SuperStore and have put my hands on several different full-sized tripods and tripod heads and can share with you my opinions on why they are recommended.
If you aren’t familiar with many of the options or components on a tripod, feel free to get some background in The Tripod Explained. The information contained in that article may help you decode some of the terms I will be using here.
This list of recommended full-sized tripods will span a wide range of costs and are listed from highest to lowest price (as of press time). Rest assured, regardless of the price, these tripods come highly recommended by the sales staff at the B&H SuperStore for all photographic needs and budgets.
Really Right Stuff TVC-33 Versa Series 3 Mk2 Carbon Fiber Tripod and BH-55 Ball Head
The old expression was that the best of something was the “Cadillac” of its kind. Well, Really Right Stuff supports are the Rolls Royces of the tripod world. The TVC-33 Versa Series 3 Mk2 carbon fiber tripod is a beautiful unit with a diamond-pattern carbon veneer, twist-locks, and rubber ball feet. The RRS TVC-33 Mk2 has a ratcheting system for the leg angle locks that lets you keep your hands free of pinching once you pull out the stop. Nice! Also, the metal parts are made from a CNC milling process from a solid chunk of metal, not from a mold, for extra strength and durability.
The BH-55 Ball Head looks and feels like pure quality. Movements are silky smooth, and the base has panning marks for panoramic work, dual 90-degree cutouts for going vertical, as well as a separate tension adjustment. RRS has different clamp options, but this BH-55 has a screw knob to lock the Arca-type-compatible plate. Both the legs and head have a load capacity of 50 lb and reach a combined height of 62.3".
For those who do not need the full 50-lb capacity of the BH-55, the BH-40 Ball Head is a fantastic alternative. Really Right Stuff is all made in the USA. The best part of owning an RRS tripod? You will never have to suffer from tripod envy.
Really Right Stuff TVC-33 Versa Series 3 Mk2 and BH-55 Ball Head
Gitzo GT2532 Mountaineer Series 2 Carbon Fiber Tripod and GH1382QD Series 1 Center Ball Head
From another premium line of supports, the Gitzo GT2532 Series 2 Carbon Fiber Tripod features 8-layer Carbon eXact legs with a signature Gitzo veneer. The carbon portion of the center tube can be removed, leaving the shooter with a shortened center tube for low-angle shooting from a minimum height of 6.3". Fully extended, the legs and ball head will reach 69.8" and support 31 lb. The GT2532’s chassis is made of magnesium and is powder-coated—again with that signature Gitzo look. Leg-angle adjustment tabs are spring-loaded and Gitzo placed O-rings on the tops of the G-Lock Ultra leg twist locks for extra sealing from the elements.
The GH1382QD Series 1 Ball Head is a beautiful unit with a unique curving design, Gitzo powder coating, and brushed accents. The metallic ball is coated with a tungsten disulfide. I’m not sure what that is, but it sounds pretty cool and it gives the ball gorgeously smooth movement. A co-axial friction knob allows the main ball control to be adjusted, and there is a separate panning lock. The plate is Arca-type compatible, as well.
Gitzo GT2532 Mountaineer Series 2 Carbon Fiber Tripod and GH1382QD Series 1 Center Ball Head
Robus RC-5570 Vantage Series 3 Carbon Fiber Tripod with Triple Action Ball Head Kit
Designed to compete directly with tripod royalty (see No. 1 and 2 above), Robus has a series of rugged, heavyweight tripod options for professional photographers. The RC-5570 Vantage Series 3 Carbon Fiber Tripod features grippy rubber grips (no deteriorating foam to worry about), an interchangeable top-plate system for customizable flexibility, three options for foot pads/spikes, and many more well-thought-out features.
This particular kit comes with the Robus RTH-1050 Triple Action Ball Head, which combines good looks—a nice two-tone metal finish—and an impressive 55-lb load capacity with smooth, precise action.
The all-carbon fiber Robus lineup features the larger Series 5 models with a higher load capacity, as well as 3- and 4-section versions of the Series 3 models.
Robus RC-5570 Vantage Series 3 Carbon Fiber Tripod with Triple Action Ball Head Kit
FEISOL CT-3472LV Elite Rapid Carbon Fiber Tripod with Leveling Center Column and CB-40D Ball Head
Another heavyweight option in our lineup, the 33-lb capacity of the FEISOL CT-3472LV Elite Rapid carbon fiber tripod and CB-40D ball head can support a lot of camera. The three-position leg-angle locks are unique to FEISOL and feature a release tab that protrudes from the chassis at the top of the legs. Anti-leg rotation technology keeps the legs tightly in place when the twist locks are tightened down. The twist-locks feature a minimalist design with smooth, but grippy rubber. A leveling center column allows for minor leveling adjustments and it can be removed and replaced with an included mount base to allow shooters to mount the head or camera directly to the aluminum chassis plate.
The all-black CB-40D ball head is a clean design featuring a separate pan lock knob, and a friction adjustment opposite the main knob. The quick-release is Arca-type compatible. With a load capacity of 55 lb, the alternate CT-3342 Tournament Rapid carbon fiber legs give you a larger capacity.
FEISOL CT-3472LV Elite Rapid Carbon Fiber Tripod with Leveling Center Column and CB-40D Ball Head
FLM CP30-L4 II 10X Carbon Fiber Series II Tripod
Featuring an impressive load capacity for its weight, the German-manufactured FLM CP30-L4 II 10X Carbon Fiber Series II Tripod is a 4-section, twist-lock-equipped, carbon fiber beauty with a stylish cork-padded center chassis. The FLM tripod does not have a center column, which allows for extremely low-angle shooting (3.6") with the legs fully spread.
The CP30-L4 II pairs nicely with the Really Right Stuff BH-55 Ball Head with Full-Size Lever-Release Clamp that slightly exceeds the load capacity of the tripod. And with its black body and satin chrome accents, it’s easy on the eyes.
The FLM tripod family also contains a few super heavy-duty models with triple-digit load capacities along with some slimmer options.
FLM CP30-L4 II 10X Carbon Fiber Series II Tripod (legs only)
Benro TMA38CL Long Series 3 Mach3 Carbon Fiber Tripod and VX25 Two Series Aluminum Ball Head
The Benro TMA38CL Long Series 3 Mach3 tripod is constructed from super tough nine-layer carbon fiber to achieve an impressive 35.3 lb load capacity while the legs themselves are only 4.3 lb. That’s perfect for travel photographers and anyone who wants to stay light and nimble even with heavier lenses. A carry case is included, as well as swappable spiked and rubber feet, plus a shorter center column you can use to get as low as 14”.
The beautiful Benro VX25 Two Series Arca-Type Aluminum Ball Head is elegant and purposeful with a fresh design language and huge 55-lb load capacity. It features a silver ball enclosed in a smooth gray body. The Arca-type-compatible quick release rides on top of a rare dual-panning head that allows you to level the quick release and then pan separately from the bottom—very useful for serious panoramic photography.
The aluminum alternative to the carbon TAD37C would be the Benro Benro TMA38CL Long Series 3 Mach3 Carbon Fiber Tripod and B3 Triple Action Ball Head, featuring a heavier capacity, twist locks, and taller maximum height.
Benro TMA38CL Long Series 3 Mach3 Carbon Fiber Tripod and VX25 Two Series Ball Head
Manfrotto MT055CXPRO4 Carbon Fiber Tripod with MHXPRO-BHQ2 XPRO Ball Head with 200PL Quick-Release System
Fans of flip-lock leg tripods should look no further than here. One of the latest in the 055 line of Manfrotto tripods is the MT055CXPRO4 Carbon Fiber Tripod with MHXPRO-BHQ2 XPRO Ball Head with 200PL Quick Release System. With a 72" maximum height and a weight capacity of 19.8 lb, this setup has a few unique Manfrotto features, as well as a modern look with its red and brushed-aluminum accents. The leg locks hold the legs at one of four different angles, and the lock levers are large and an easy-to-use, press-to-release affair. The flip-locks have the hinge position at the 1/3 point on the locks, instead of at the end. This allows the photographer to get better leverage on the lock—pushing and pulling simultaneously—for ease of actuation. The center column can extend and then rotate (with its own ball-head-type design) to the 90° position for lateral shooting. Housing a rotating bull’s-eye level, the head is oblong-shaped and cleverly integrates the Manfrotto logo into its top. The chassis’ EZ Link 3/8"-16 access thread allows numerous accessories to be mounted on the side of the unit.
Ball-head fans will enjoy the paired MHXPRO-BHQ2 XPRO ball head with 200PL quick-release plate. It has a separate lock for panning and a friction adjustment with detents. But, if you like 3-way heads, the MHXPRO-3W head is another example of Manfrotto design and thoughtfulness. Helping to keep the overall size compact for travel, the two handles retract and fold—very cool. While not quite as compact as a ball head, here you have the convenience and precision of a three-way head with a much-reduced footprint. Also, there are friction adjustments for two of the axes. Cleverly mounted on one corner of the unit are three bubble levels—one for each axis.
One important thing to mention about Manfrotto and Gitzo tripods: Manfrotto and Gitzo make all their parts available for purchase. So, if one part of your favorite tripod wears out or fails, you can replace just that part and keep on shooting.
For aluminum lovers, you can substitute the popular MT055XPRO3 tripod that has all the same features on aluminum legs.
Manfrotto MT055CXPRO4 Carbon Fiber Tripod with MHXPRO-BHQ2 XPRO Ball Head Kit
Explorer Photo & Video EX-EXP Expedition Carbon Fiber Tripod with Monopod and BX-33 Ball Head
Explorer Photo & Video is fairly new to the tripod game, but the company has rolled out an impressive family of tripods right out of the gate. The EX-EXP Expedition Carbon Fiber Tripod with Monopod and BX-33 Ball Head is Explorer Photo & Video’s smallest full-sized model, and it comes equipped with some of the best features of its storied competition. Rare, but not unique to this list, one of the tripod legs is detachable for use as a monopod.
The design is modern and sleek and the metallic hardware of the kit contrasts very nicely with the attractive 10x carbon fiber veneer. One leg features a rubber grip for comfortable holding.
The sister EX-EXPRO version has a heavier capacity of 44 lb and, if you like the modern looks of this EX-EXP, Explorer Photo & Video’s line features some great looking optional ball heads as well as the impressive Ascent Professional Carbon Fiber Tripod.
Explorer Photo & Video EX-EXP Expedition Carbon Fiber Tripod with Monopod and BX-33 Ball Head
3 Legged Thing Leo 2.0 Carbon Fiber Tripod with AirHed Pro Lever Ball Head
If you are looking for a tripod as colorful as your photos, look no further than the bronze-and-blue 3 Legged Thing Leo 2.0 Tripod Kit with AirHed Pro Lever Ball Head. The Leo 2.0 is one of the most uniquely designed tripods in the lineup, due to its color combinations—though you can opt for the subtler gray version—and leg lock grip design alone. The leg locks have oval-shaped grips that are very pleasant to adjust. One possibly unique feature is that the leg locks have a secondary locking system that prevents you from loosening the locks and completely removing a leg section. Many photographers new to twist-locks often have anxiety-filled moments when they accidently disassemble the tripod while trying to extend it! Also, the legs have anti-rotation fittings to keep them from spinning while extending and retracting. Rare for a full-sized tripod, the legs can fold to the inverted position for more compact storage. Need a monopod or heavy-weight selfie stick? One of the Leo’s legs detaches and can serve a multitude of purposes. A maximum height of 57.7" and a high load capacity of 66 lb makes the Leo 2.0 ready for many tasks.
Matching the Leo 2.0’s colorway, the AirHed Pro Lever Ball Head features a quick release lever that can be reversed for right- and left-handed users—a rare accommodation for southpaws in the world of photography!
3 Legged Thing Leo 2.0 Tripod Kit with AirHed Pro Lever Ball Head
Oben AC-1351 3-Section Aluminum Tripod with BA-113 Ball Head
Versatility is one of the hallmarks of the Oben AC-1351 3-Section Aluminum tripod and BA-113 Ball Head. The black legs are standard, with easy to operate flip locks. The unit’s versatility comes to the fore when we look at the center column. The column is telescoping, but can be removed entirely, and the BA-113 head attached directly to the chassis for low shooting and maximum stability. The gear hook at the bottom is removable and the entire column reverses for extreme low-angle shooting. Up top, the BA-113 ball head has a single lever control for fast operation. The quick-release plates are proprietary, and the head has a special safety lock to prevent accidental release of the plate (and your gear!).
The ball head has a nice, smooth feel, and the top plate is adorned with three bubble levels (two tubes and one bull’s-eye) for leveling on any axis. A single notch allows 90-degree rotation of the head. Both the legs and head have matching load capacities of 13.2 lb, and the unit extends to 65.3". Also, the kit comes with a padded storage/transport bag and the two of the legs are padded.
A four-section alternative to this kit would be the Oben AC-1451 legs with the PD-117 head..
Oben AC-1351 3-Section Aluminum Tripod with BA-113 Ball Head
Slik Pro 700 DX AMT Tripod with 3-Way Pan-and-Tilt Head
“Tall and sturdy” is how the Silk Pro 700 DX AMT Tripod with 3-Way Head was described to me. And, at a maximum height of 75", it is one of the taller tripods on the market. All three A.M.T. (aluminum, magnesium, titanium) legs sport foam pads and allow three-position angle adjustment. The blended metal legs offer a 40% strength gain over standard aluminum. The center column has a dual-lock system and is designed so that it cannot rotate accidently, and it can be shortened for low-angle shooting. Most flip-locks have hex bolts that can be tightened if the locks loosen over time. This Slik has riveted flip-locks that cannot be adjusted, but the 700DX that I handled has been abused in the store for more than three years and the flip locks show no signs of being anything but tight. This is a very solid piece of kit, suitable for any photographer, and it has a 19.8 lb load capacity.
The three-way head is characterized by a simple and straightforward design, but the round quick-release plate is unique in the world of tripod heads. The advantage to the circular plate is that you can attach your camera or lens at any horizontal angle—there is no need to turn the head (or tripod) to get the camera to face the correct way. All you need to do is point your camera in the direction you want, and click it into place.
Slik Pro 700 DX AMT Tripod with 3-Way Pan-and-Tilt Head
Feel free to check out our favorite travel tripods if you are looking for a lightweight tripod to bring on your next trip. Did we leave out your favorite tripod? Let us know in the Comments section, below.
