For any serious video shooter, getting hold of one of the best video tripods is a must. You might think that the requirements would be the same as one of the best tripods for photography — however, video users have a different set of priorities. One of the key characteristics for a good video tripod is movement. While a photographer’s tripod needs to be as still as possible, a videographer’s tripod needs to facilitate smooth movement of the camera for panning shots and subject tracking.
As such, a good video tripod isn’t just a set of legs, but will also include a smooth fluid head. It should also be capable of supporting a decent amount of kit — video rigs tend to be heavier than pure photography setups, both because of heavier cameras and because of a greater number of mounted accessories like monitors and microphones.
While video tripods can get quite pricey in the professional realm, they don’t have to be, and there are plenty of affordable options as well as the high-end tripods. We’ve included a mixture in this guide, to ensure there’s a great video tripod here for you.
Our top picks
SmallRig FreeBlazer Heavy-Duty Carbon Fibre Tripod Kit - 3989
Extremely lightweight and versatile, the SmallRig FreeBlazer Heavy-Duty Carbon Fibre Tripod Kit is a professional-grade tripod gear set designed for photography and videography. Including various tools and accessories, this tripod offers stable and smooth performance on different terrains. Its lightweight carbon fibre construction provides durability for long-lasting, reliable use.
£399.00 View
Pros:
- Strong carbon fibre construction
- Suited to video and photography
- Smooth panning head
Cons:
- Still a little bulky when folded down
As more and more content creators are expected to supply both video and photography these days, it can be a good idea to invest in a tripod that’s well-suited to both. The SmallRig FreeBlazer Heavy-Duty Carbon Fibre Tripod Kit is just that — constructed from strong carbon fibre, it can support plenty of kit (up to 10kg of weight), with spiked feet and individual leg locks that allow it to be positioned with ease on rough surfaces.
The head supports smooth panning movement, but can also be locked securely in place when required. An adjustable central column makes it easy to vary the height of your shots, and there’s also the option to remove a leg and convert it to a monopod. Plus, this may not sound like the most exciting thing in the world, but any travelling videographer or vlogger will appreciate that the tripod comes with its own carry-bag for easy transportation. At a reasonable price, this is an ideal tripod for the solo or small-crew video shooter and if you already have the head, you can buy just the legs for a great price.
Libec LX5M Tripod System
As part of Libc’s ‘LX’ range, the LX5 is a triumph of professional-level features and incomparable cost-effectiveness. This strong and reliable aluminium construction offers outstanding rigidity with a payload of up to 4kg and a maximum height of 166cm and a minimum height of 56cm. It features an impressive, super-smooth torque system that allowed for ultimate control and smooth movement, rivalling other professional, industry-grade tripods. The kit comes equipped with a sliding plate (sliding range of +/-40mm) and overall is designed for small to mid-sized DV and HD video cameras.
£539.00 View
Pros:
- Smooth torque for precise movement
- Maximum height of 166cm
Cons:
- Not as light as carbon fibre
- Max 4kg payload
While many of the tripods on this list are constructed from strong and lightweight carbon fibre, the Libec LX5M Tripod System is made from aluminium. It supports a lighter payload of 4kg, making it suitable for entry-level and mid-range setups, however it also comes at a reasonable price, and offers plenty of other features that make it attractive to video shooters.
For camera movement, the Libec LX5M Tripod System excels. It provides an excellent torque system that offers highly precise control of movement, making it easy to achieve professional-looking camera panning. It also has a mid-level spreader, which is handy for ensuring total rigidity even when working on uneven surfaces, and this can also be removed if so desired. Libec’s LX5M video tripod system is just the thing for those looking to achieve professional-looking results on a budget.
SmallRig Video Tripod Kit CT210 - 4475
Designed for travel videography, the SmallRig 4475 Video Tripod Kit CT210 features a removable leg for monopod applications, a snap-on quick-release plate for easy mounting, and a reversible centre column for low-angle shooting. With its durable and lightweight aluminium alloy construction, the CT210 can carry up to 3kg at a weight of just 2.53kg. Thanks to the reverse folding legs, the tripod can be folded down to just 61cm, making it easy to transport in the included carrying bag.
£134.00 View
Pros:
- Ultra-affordable and travel-friendly
- Weighs just 2.53kg
- Manfrotto snap-on quick-release plate
Cons:
- Lower payload capacity than others (rated to 3-6kg)
If you’re on a shoestring budget, the SmallRig Video Tripod Kit CT210 is a great choice. Available for a wallet-friendly price, it still delivers a solid level of support for up to 6kg of camera kit, and comes with a fluid head that includes a Manfrotto snap-on quick-release plate for easy camera mounting. It’s constructed from aluminium and weighs just 2.53kg, so you can take it on your travels without worrying about it weighing you down too much.
The adjustable central column can be reversed for low-to-the-ground shooting, and one of the legs can be removed and converted into a monopod if necessary. If you do some of your shooting on a phone, the SmallRig Video Tripod Kit CT210 also comes packaged with its own smartphone holder, as well as a carrying bag for transportation and a weight to hang for extra stability.
Sachtler Flowtech 75 MS Carbon Fibre Video Tripod
Built to save the professional videographer time and effort, the flowtech™75 is a premium carbon fibre tripod by Sachtler and Vinten. Set up the system in seconds thanks to a mechanism that allows users to deploy all 3 legs simultaneously. The versatile hinge lock makes shooting at extremely low angles (26cm) possible while still allowing the legs to be extended to over 150cm.
£1,455.00 View
Pros:
- Ultra-rapid deployment
- Amazing durability and longevity
- Durable, lightweight and strong
Cons:
- Professional price
Professional videographers and serious filmmakers need the best of the best in all aspects of their gear, and video tripods are no exception. The Sachtler Flowtech 75 MS Carbon Fibre Video Tripod is a professional-grade tripod designed for such a user. Its rapid deploy system allows it to go from folded to fully set up within seconds. With the versatile hinge locks, you can take the tripod quickly down to its minimum height of 26cm or up to its maximum height of 153cm, and the payload rating of up to 20kg means it can support video rigs of all configurations.
A quick attach/release foot mechanism makes it easy to swap from spiked feet to rubber feet as the situation requires. It’s priced for professionals rather than hobbyists, but if you need top-end quality then Sachtler is one of the best choices you can make in video accessories.
Camgear Elite 8 MINI CF MS (75mm Bowl) System
The Camgear Elite 8 MINI CF MS (75mm Bowl) System is a tripod kit designed for lightweight camcorders, film cameras, and DSLRs. The Elite 8 fluid head ensures precise shots and incredible balance, offering four steps pan and tilt drag, counterbalance with a total of 10 levels, and an illuminated touch level bubble. The 10kg payload supports devices with a 1/4” and 3/8” screw for attachment.
£1,341.00 View
Pros:
- 75mm bowl is widely compatible
- Well-engineered counterbalance system
- Touch-illuminated bubble level
Cons:
- Professional price
- 10kg max payload
Another impressive tripod for pros and serious filmmakers, the Camgear Elite 8 MINI CF MS is designed for versatility. With a 360° pan and +90/-75° tilt range, it makes it easy to get the angle you need, while the counterbalance system offers ten levels of tuning for precision and stability. The drag for panning movements can be adjusted depending on how fast or slow you want the movement to be, and there’s also a handy bubble level that can be illuminated with a touch — useful when shooting in low light.
The 10kg payload means the tripod is designed for lightweight to mid-range systems. It sets up quickly, folds down small, and the height range runs from 64cm to 154cm, giving you a good level of flexibility.
FAQs
What should I look for in a video tripod?
When choosing a video tripod, you’ve got to look for stability and smooth panning. You want to look for sturdy construction, adjustable legs, a fluid head for seamless movement, and a good load capacity to support your camera. Quick-release plates and easy height adjustments are also essential.
Why is a fluid head important for video tripods?
A fluid head allows for smooth, controlled movement when filming, which is essential for professional-looking footage. It ensures that pans and tilts are steady without jerky or sudden movements, making it easier to capture cinematic shots.
How tall should my video tripod be?
The ideal height for your video tripod should be adjustable to at least eye level. A tripod that extends beyond your own height gives you flexibility for high-angle shots, but it's equally important that it can collapse to a low level for low-angle filming.
What material is best for video tripods?
Tripods made from aluminium are durable and affordable, while carbon fibre options are lighter but more expensive. The choice depends on whether you prioritise portability or robustness, especially for outdoor filming.
Can I use a photography tripod for video?
While some photography tripods can work for video, they may lack a fluid head, which is essential for smooth camera movement. If you're serious about video production, investing in a dedicated video tripod will provide better results.
How do we decide?
Our in-house photography experts, store staff and partners all work collaboratively to pour over our guides and tips articles. We also consider emerging trends and customer feedback to make sure our guides are always up-to-date and reflective of what people are truly looking for. By curating only the best products, our guides provide trustworthy recommendations, making it easier for customers to make informed choices with confidence.
If you would like more advice on any purchase our contact centre staff are here to help. Alternatively, you can reach us via email or social media. And don't forget. If you were to purchase anything based on our recommendations you'll be covered by our full returns policy
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