My favorite Tripods for Smartphones in 2023
One way to take your smartphone photography to the next level is by using a tripod. You will get supersharp pictures in almost any circumstance. In this blog, I talked about tripods: “Can I put my smartphone on a tripod?” Now we will dive in even further and answer the most common questions about using a tripod. Furthermore, we will give you alternative tripods and some DIY advice to make your own.
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Which tripod is best for mobile?
There are many tripods on the market. Most of them are designed with a DSLR camera in mind, but you can also use these pods for your phone with a universal smartphone mount. I have tested several tripods and done some additional research to develop a top 3 smartphone tripod for beginners or more advanced smartphone photographers looking for small, lightweight, yet flexible options. In addition, we made a list of my top 3 professional yet affordable tripods.
Lightweight Tripods
My top 3 affordable tripods are excellent for smartphone photographers who want a lightweight, versatile and foldable one.
My absolute favorite tripod, the Joby Gorillapod, costs between $40 and $50 and is available on Amazon.
ProfessionalTripods
My top 3 professional tripods are excellent for smartphone photographers who want a reliable, versatile, and adjustable tripod.
They are easy to set up, have quick release flip-lock, and smartphone mount to get you going on your next photography assignment.
Endurax 66″ Tripod
The Endurax 66″ tripod is light, quick, and easy to set up. Yet it has many handy features for photographers, like non-slip rubber feet, a quick-release flip-lock to adjust the height, and a smartphone mount. In addition, a hanging hook can be used to add extra weight to the set-up during windy or wobbly conditions.
Check the latest prices here. Typically, you can pick one up between $35 and $40 on Amazon.
Mactrem Professional Tripod
The Mactrem Tripod offers a high level of stability using an excellent quality level of aluminum material. The maximum load is 33 lbs (15 kg), so you use it for your smartphone, DSLR camera, projector, and telescope. There is a smartphone mount with a 1/4″ screw included, so you can start using it right away.
Check the latest prices here. Usually, you can pick one up between $65 and $80 on Amazon.
JOBY RangePod Smart Tripod
The Joby RangePod Smart Tripod has it all! It is easy to use, very sturdy and has many features. A Joby Phone Clamp is included, so this set-up is ready for smartphone photographers. You can use your smartphone camera horizontally and vertically. A detachable hook on the center column helps you stabilize your equipment by adding weight.
You can find your Joby Tripod between $140 and $160 on Amazon. An excellent gift!
How do you mount a smartphone to a tripod?
Some tripods come with a universal smartphone mount, and some don’t. No worries, you can find these phone mounts on Amazon for a couple of dollars. You can read more about these tripod mounts in this article. We give you a step-by-step guide to finding a suitable mount for your tripod.
What is the best tripod for my iPhone?
Most tripods with a universal smartphone mount can be used for iPhones. You just have to check the maximum weight capacity of the tripod and the dimensions of your phone. In this article, Apple recommends different Joby tripods, like our premium pick in the top 3 tripods for smartphones.
Can a tripod hold a phone?
That depends on your phone’s weight and size and the tripod’s maximum weight capacity. Some small and light tripods might not be able to hold your phone firmly. Find the sPod’s specs on the seller’s website and weigh your phone.
What can I use instead of a tripod?
1. Monopod
A monopod is not a replacement for a tripod, but it can be more useful in some places. Monopods are lighter and take up less space than tripods. It can support the weight of your smartphone camera. You can even use the monopod to extend your arm for high shots or low shots without bending your bag. You do need a remote shutter in these cases.
Neewer has a very affordable yet good quality monopod on the market for under $50 on Amazon.
2. Beanbag
You can use a beanbag to stabilize your camera phone in uneven places. Make sure that you do not block the lens or lenses of your smartphone. A good quality and kind of fancy beanbag is The Pod Camera Platform. It is a very durable, universal beanbag and compact, only 5.1 x 5.1 x 2 inches. De Pod comes in an all-black variation as well.
While taking images, you can utilize the beanbag on a fence post, the ground, a rock, or any reasonably dry spot you find. You can make your beanbag or buy one online. If you are ready for a little DIY project, make sure you choose a waterproof fabric for outdoor use. You can find the latest prices here.
3. Human Tripod
The cheapest way to create a tripod is by using your own body. We call it the Human Tripod. Take your phone in one hand, let it rest on your thump, and do not cover your phone’s lenses. Put your elbow of this arm on your side to steady the phone. You can further steady this arm with your other hand by holding your elbow. You will need a remote shutter to take pictures this way. Keep your legs shoulder-width apart, breathe in and out, and take the shot.
4. Use the surroundings
Lean on something in your environment. Or put the smartphone on a branch, bench, or any solid, flat, and stable object. It is not rocket science but can significantly enhance your image quality.
5. Use a cardboard coffee cup
Please do not throw the cup away after having some coffee or tea on the go; it can be your next DIY tripod. Instead, cut a slit in the bottom of the cup. You should use the width of your camera for reference. Put the smartphone in the slit, and instant stabilization is a very cheap, handy, and lightweight solution. Do not cut away the cardboard at the back of the phone. It makes it less stable, and the phone can fall off your DIY tripod.
How can I make my tripod more stable?
First of all, you have to check the maximum weight capacity of your tripod. It has to be able to carry your smartphone without tipping over. If you have an extendable pod, extend the legs correctly. Start with the thickest, uppermost section. You can add some extra weight in windy conditions by using the hook or ring at the base of the central column. If your tripod does not come with a ring or hook, try stabilizing the legs with a bean bag or sandbag.