13 Best Monopods for Cameras in 2023 (& What to Look for!)

Using a monopod for cameras will revolutionize the way you work. They provide extra stability when shooting. That stability reduces camera shake and gives you more exposure control. But you have more freedom of movement than using a tripod. Whether you’re shooting photos or videos, a camera monopod is exactly what you need.

The Altura Photo Camera Monopod tops our list. It folds down to a small and convenient size. It weighs next to nothing. But it’s strong enough for many DSLR and mirrorless cameras. It’s also an absolute bargain.

Our Top 3 Choices for The Best Monopod For Camera

Altura Photo Camera Monopod

Manfrotto XPRO+ Monpod with Fluid Head

3 Legged Thing Trent 2.0 Monopod

What is the Best Monopod For Cameras?

The best monopods for cameras give you extra stability when shooting. But they also allow you to move quickly and freely between shots. A camera monopod can’t stand freely like a tripod. But they are more convenient if you have to move around when shooting.

That’s why monopods for cameras are favored by sports photographers. The photographer has more control over exposure settings. They can use slower shutter speeds without worrying about camera shake. But they can still move with the flow of the game.

They can change positions when they need to. But they still get precision image quality with every shot. (You can also see our list of the best cameras for sports photography).

Monopods are also popular with wildlife photographers. They’re especially useful for capturing animals on the move, like migrating herds. Event and fashion photographers use monopods all the time. And photojournalists are often seen using monopods for their cameras. A camera monopod has become a must-have for any photographer who can’t stay still.

The table below looks at all the monopods for cameras in brief. Then we take a deep dive into each camera monopod in the following section. And we have a buyer’s guide for photography monopods at the end of the article.

Our Top Choice

Altura Photo Camera Monopod

Lightweight and compact design
Quick and easy setup with flip locks
Extendable to over 60 inches (1.5 m)
Supports up to 5 lbs (2.3 kg) of gear
Rubber foot with retractable spike

Best Photo and Video Monopod

Manfrotto XPRO+ Monpod with Fluid Head

Fluid head and control handle for excellent control
Maximum stability and smooth movements
Supports up to 11 lbs (5 kg)
Mini tripod base for fantastic stability
Universal head for all camera types

Most Durable Monopod

3 Legged Thing Trent 2.0 Monopod

Durable yet lightweight build
Supports up to 66 lbs (30 kg)
Twist leg locks for easy and secure adjustments
Non-slip rubber boot
Rubber handle for a secure hand grip

Best Video Monopod

Manfrotto Element MII Video Monopod

Supports up to 35 lbs (16 kg) of gear
Mini tripod base with ball joint for tilting
Features 4 leg sections with secure twist locks
Rubber handle and wrist strap for security
Extendable up to 62 inches (1.5 m)

Best Value Monopod

Neewer Extendable Camera Monopod

Lightweight and easy to carry
Adjustable from 20 to 66 inches (.5 - 1.67 m)
Non-slip rubber foot grips
Universal 1/4" screw for most DSLR cameras
Tripod legs can be adjusted independently

Best for Smartphones

Vanguard VEO 2S Monopod

Lightweight and compact
Smartphone holder included
Supports up to 13.2 lbs (6 kg)
Mini tripod base with angle adjustment system
Versatile and adjustable

Most Portable Monopod

SIRUI AM-326M 6 Camera Monopod

Lightweight and compact design
Supports up to 22 lbs (10 kg)
Wrist strap included for extra safety
6-section adjustable legs with twist locks
Non-slip rubber foot for grip

Best Carbon Fiber Monopod

Manfrotto 290 Carbon Fiber 4-Section Monopod

Lightweight and durable carbon fiber construction
Supports up to 11 lbs (5 kg) of gear
4-section rapid locking system
Ergonomic rubber grip handle
Retractable spiked feet for added stability

Best Lightweight Monopod

Koolehaoda 6-Section Compact Monopod

Lightweight and Portable
Maximum Height of 61 inches (1.56 m)
6-section leg locks
Removable foot spike
Carry case included

Best Heavy-Duty Monopod

3 Legged Thing Alan 2.0 Monopod

Enhanced stability for any camera setup
Durable aircraft-grade aluminum construction
Patented Tri-Mount plate for versatile positioning
Quick-release leg locks for fast setup
Extendable from 17 to 56 inches (.44 - 1.43m)

Best All-in-One Monopod for Video

Avella CD324 Carbon Fiber Monopod Kit

Lightweight and durable carbon fiber construction
Quickly and easily extendable to 6.2ft (1.9 m)
Includes a carrying case and adjustable wrist strap
Supports up to 13 lbs (6.2 kg) of camera equipment
Perfect for outdoor photography and videography

Best for Action Cameras and Vlogging

Manfrotto Compact Extreme 2-in-1 Monopod & Pole

Compact and lightweight design
2-in-1: use as a monopod or a hiking pole
Stable and secure with a maximum load of 6.6 lbs (3 kg)
Adjustable height from 14.2" to 63" (36 - 160 cm)
Non-slip rubber foot for added stability

Best for DSLR Cameras

Benro MSD46C SupaDupa Monopod

Lightweight aluminum construction
Load capacity up to 17.6 lbs (8 kg)
4-section adjustable legs
Non-slip rubber feet for stability
Quick-release twist leg locks for fast setup

13 Best Monopods for Cameras

This is our selection of the best monopods for cameras. We have monopods for photography and video shooting. There are monopods for cameras of different sizes. And we’ve included camera monopods to suit all budgets. You will definitely find the monopod you need for your next shoot.

1. Altura Photo Camera Monopod

Brand	Brand Altura Photo
Build Material	Build Material Aluminum
Item Weight	Item Weight 0.6 lb / 300 g
Retracted Height	Retracted Height 16.7 inch / 42.5 cm
Max Extended Height	Max Extended Height 62 inch / 1.57 m
Max Load Capacity	Max Load Capacity 5 lb / 2.3 kg
Other Key Features	Other Key Features 4 leg sections, flip locks, spiked foot
Best For	Best For Beginner to enthusiast photographers

The Altura Photo Camera Monopod is the best place to start with camera monopods. It’s tough and reliable. And it can support a decent amount of camera gear. But it’s compact and lightweight. And the affordable price means it’s an absolute bargain. You can’t miss this camera monopod.

It measures only 16.7 inches (42.5 cm) when it’s folded down. And it weighs nothing more than 0.6 lb (300 g). It easily fits in your camera backpack. And it won’t weigh you don’t when traveling from shoot to shoot.

The quick-release leg locks make it easy to extend and fix in position. And the four leg sections allow you to find the perfect height for comfortable shooting. You get a max height of 62 inches (1.57 m), which is enough for most photographers. The foot is attached to a ball joint, giving you a good range of movement. And the rubber foot has a retractable spike for extra grip.

The strength might surprise some users. Despite its compact size and light weight, it can carry a load of up to 5 lb (2.3 kg). That’s enough for APS-C DSLR cameras with telephoto lenses. And it’s strong enough for full frame mirrorless cameras with large lenses attached.

The upper section has a foam handle for extra grip and comfort. You also get a wrist strap for extra security. This stops the monopod from toppling over if it slips out of your hand. That’s a lifesaver when you’re using expensive equipment. And it’s vitally important when shooting in wet weather.

The universal thread mount works with a wide range of cameras. You can attach Nikon, Canon, and Sony Models. You can even use it with Fujifilm and Olympus Cameras. The Altura Photo monopod is a practical and versatile camera monopod. And the more-than-reasonable price makes it the best monopod for cameras right now.

2. Manfrotto XPRO+ Monpod with Fluid Head

Brand	Brand Manfrotto
Build Material	Build Material Aluminum
Item Weight	Item Weight 3.3 lbs / 1.5 kg
Retracted Height	Retracted Height 30.7 inches / 78 cm
Max Extended Height	Max Extended Height 79.9 inches / 2 m
Max Load Capacity	Max Load Capacity 11 lbs / 5 kg
Other Key Features	Other Key Features Fluid head, quick-release plate, control arm. mini tripod base
Best For	Best For Professional photography and videography

The Manfrotto XPRO+ is the best camera monopod on the market right now. It isn’t the cheapest. But it offers the best balance in quality and price. It’s a multipurpose monopod, supporting DSLR, mirrorless, and video cameras. It’s a professional-standard monopod for photography and videography.

Manfrotto has been making a name for itself as one of the best manufacturers of camera accessories. And this XPRO+ monopod is a prime example. The build quality is excellent with a strong aluminum body. There’s a bit of heft to it, which adds stability and security. But it’s not so heavy you’ll feel fatigued when you need to move.

The maximum height is 79.9 inches (2 m), so it’s suitable for photographers of all sizes. And you can even shoot above your head if necessary. And you can keep the camera attached when retracted, using it as a camera stabilizer for shooting video.

The stereoscopic leg is adjusted using quick power locks. They provide a secure grip when attached, so the head doesn’t slip down. But they’re quick and easy to release when you need to make a change.

The Manfrotto XPRO+ monopod has mini tripod legs at the base for extra stability. It won’t support a full load on its own. But it keeps your shots steady and avoids unwanted camera shake. The tripod base is connected with a ball joint, making it adaptable to uneven surfaces. It also allows you to move and adjust the shooting angle while shooting.

3. 3 Legged Thing Trent 2.0 Monopod

Brand	Brand 3 Legged Thing
Build Material	Build Material Magnesium Alloy
Item Weight	Item Weight 2.1 lbs / 960 g
Retracted Height	Retracted Height 23.6 inches / 60 cm
Max Extended Height	Max Extended Height 79.5 inches / 2 m
Max Load Capacity	Max Load Capacity 66 lbs / 30 kg
Other Key Features	Other Key Features Rubber boot, twist leg locks, rubber grip
Best For	Best For Full frame cameras and heavy gear

The 3 Legged Thing Punks Trent 2.0 gives you one of the longest extended ranges. But it’s also one of the most lightweight monopods for its size. It gives you excellent bang for your buck, with a reasonable price tag and fantastic stability. The Punks Trent 2.0 is worth considering if you’re looking for the best monopod for photography.

This monopod is stripped-down and simple. But I mean that as a positive. You position your camera directly on top and the four-piece monopod allows you to get stable shots. It can support a staggering 66 lbs (30 kgs) of gear. That’s more than enough for heavy camera bodies and big lenses. You can use it with full frame cameras and telephoto lenses for wildlife photography.

The height is easily adjusted using the twist locks found at the bottom of each leg section. The starting height is 23.6″ (60 cm), which is expandable to a massive 79.5″ (202 cm). That gives you incredible scope and flexibility for getting the high-angle shots you want. And despite the height, the magnesium alloy frame is light and easy to carry.

The base of the monopod has a detachable rubber foot. It gives you additional grip on slippery surfaces. And it can be swapped for other foot accessories if you need something different. This allows you to adapt to any situation you find yourself in. You could be pitch-side in the rain or in the arctic tundra.

The 3 Legged Thing Trent 2.0 is simple in design but highly effective in application. It gives you tremendous height and can support any camera you need to use. It’s durable, portable, and helps you get sharp shots in trying conditions. It’s a durable monopod for sports and wildlife photographers with heavy gear. And if you love animal photography, our Wonderful Wildlife ebook is a must-read.

4. Manfrotto Element MII Video Monopod

Brand	Brand Manfrotto
Build Material	Build Material Aluminum
Item Weight	Item Weight 1.5 lbs / 700 g
Retracted Height	Retracted Height 17 inches / 43 cm
Max Extended Height	Max Extended Height 62.6 inches / 1.5 m
Max Load Capacity	Max Load Capacity 35 lbs / 16 kg
Other Key Features	Other Key Features Mini tripod base, wrist strap, twist locks
Best For	Best For Video and cinematography

There’s no surprise that Manfrotto is again featured so highly on our list. Their equipment is some of the best on the market. And the Manfrotto Element MII is another superb camera monopod. It’s more affordable than the XPRO+ model. But you still get quality and stability.

The aluminum body is lightweight, compact, and easy to transport. It weighs only 1.48 lbs (700 g), making it perfect for travel photography or landscape expeditions. And it’s small enough to fit in your backpack when reduced to its smallest form.

The central column is made of five sections. And you adjust them for height using the waterproof twist locks. The twist locks are uncomplicated, making changing the height a straightforward and quick operation. That’s helpful if you need quick mobility to capture the pictures you need.

The base has three foldable feet that give you extra stability for sharp shots. The three feet each have their own rubber foot for grip. And the base is attached to the main pole with a pivoting ball joint. It can cope with any terrain and gives you the flexibility you need as a busy photographer.

The aluminum construction might be lightweight, but it’s also robust and reliable. It has a maximum capacity of 35 lbs (16 kg). That’ll support a full frame DSLR or mirrorless camera. And you can use the best lenses for landscape photography. You can shoot sports, nature, or action photography. But when it comes to shooting video, you can’t go wrong with this Manfrotto Element monopod.

Videographers should also check out our article on the best DSLRs for video.

5. Neewer Extendable Camera Monopod

Brand	Brand Neewer
Build Material	Build Material Aluminum Alloy
Item Weight	Item Weight 1.3 lbs / 600 g
Retracted Height	Retracted Height 20.4 inches / 52 cm
Max Extended Height	Max Extended Height 66 inches / 1.67 m
Max Load Capacity	Max Load Capacity 11 lbs / 5 kg
Other Key Features	Other Key Features Mini tripod base, twist locks, 15-degree tilt in foot joint
Best For	Best For Photographers on a budget

Neewer is another brand that’s built a solid reputation for photography accessories. And the Neewer extendable monopod is definitely worth your consideration. It’s a well-made piece of equipment with an affordable price tag. It doesn’t break any records for height or capacity. But it’s a versatile and reliable piece of photography gear.

The five central poles are carbon fiber. And they’re adjusted with their waterproof and dustproof twist locks. When fully extended, you get a maximum height of 66 inches (1.67 m). And it’s quick and easy to make adjustments when shooting. You attach your DSLR or mirrorless camera directly to the top. And there’s a foam grip and wrist strap for security.

The 11 lb (5 kg) weight limit is strong enough for most photographers. It’ll hold an APS-C or full frame camera. And you can use large lenses and extra gear.

The base has three foldable feet for extra-stable support on all terrain. They’re strong aluminum stands with rubber feet for grip. And the flexible joint between the base and the pole gives you 15 degrees of tilt. It’s supportive and flexible enough to get the shots you need.

6. Vanguard VEO 2S Monopod

Brand	Brand VANGUARD
Build Material	Build Material Aluminum
Item Weight	Item Weight 1.96 lbs / 890 g
Retracted Height	Retracted Height 21.5 inches / 54.6 cm
Max Extended Height	Max Extended Height 64 inches / 1.62 m
Max Load Capacity	Max Load Capacity 13.2 lbs / 6 kg
Other Key Features	Other Key Features Angle adjustment system, mini tripod base, smartphone holder
Best For	Best For Mirrorless cameras and smartphones

The Vanguard Veo 2S AM-264TR combines fantastic build quality and versatility. It’s durable and lightweight, built for the hardworking life of a professional photographer. This camera monopod offers excellent value for money. It has an action-orientated design and a reasonable price tag.

The central pole is made of aluminum, which is both strong and lightweight. The telescopic leg gives you an excellent height range, making it a suitable monopod for photographers of all ages. And the easy-twist leg locks are a simple and reliable solution for adjusting the height. There are no fiddly locks, so you can erect or retract your pole in seconds.

The Vanguard Veo 2S AM-264TR has tripod legs at the base for extra stability. The legs are retractable so you can fold them away when moving to your next shot. And the main pole is connected to the base with a flexible joint for pivoting the monopod. This gives you the stability you need when working on uneven surfaces.

The maximum load weight is 13.2 lbs (6 kgs). That’s enough for a professional-grade mirrorless camera and a large lens. And the monopod adds less than 2 lbs to the total weight, making it easy to move when shooting. The lightweight and retractable frame also makes it perfect for travel photography. And the camera wrist strap is another handy feature. This monopod is a great alternative to travel tripods.

This option from Vanguard is also a great monopod for smartphone photographers. There’s a smartphone connector that holds your phone in place. And the light weight of the phone means the monopod can stand unaided. Or you can use it as a selfie stick. And with the Bluetooth remote, it’s perfect for selfies or travel blogs and vlogs.

7. SIRUI AM-326M 6 Camera Monopod

Brand	Brand Sirui
Build Material	Build Material Carbon fiber
Item Weight	Item Weight 0.9 lbs / 400 g
Retracted Height	Retracted Height 15.6 inches / 39 cm
Max Extended Height	Max Extended Height 61 inches / 1.55 m
Max Load Capacity	Max Load Capacity 22 lbs / 10 kg
Other Key Features	Other Key Features Wrist strap, 6 leg sections, rubber foot
Best For	Best For Travel photography

This compact and portable monopod from Sirui offers excellent value for money. It’s small and light enough for your travel camera bag. But it has a robust construction, so you know it will survive the trip intact. It’s an ideal monopod for travel and adventure photographers.

The total weight is only 0.9 lbs (.4 kg), so you’ll barely feel it in your backpack. But the carbon fiber frame is strong enough to burden a max load of 22 lbs (10 kg). That’s not the strongest on the list, but definitely enough for your travel cameras.

The six sections have twist-leg locks. And a half-turn twist of the lock gives you a controlled release so you can get the exact length you need. The foam grip on the upper section makes the monopod a pleasure to use. And the rubber foot at the bottom allows you to get a steadier shot indoors and outdoors. The wrist strap is another thoughtful feature.

8. Manfrotto 290 Carbon Fiber 4-Section Monopod

Brand	Brand Manfrotto
Build Material	Build Material Carbon Fiber
Item Weight	Item Weight 1.1 lbs / 500 g
Retracted Height	Retracted Height 19.3 inches / 49 cm
Max Extended Height	Max Extended Height 59.4 inches / 1.5 m
Max Load Capacity	Max Load Capacity 11 lbs / 5 kg
Other Key Features	Other Key Features Quick-release locks, wrist strap
Best For	Best For Photographers wanting a carbon fiber monopod

The 290 camera monopod is one of the simpler designs from Manfrotto. But this simplicity is precisely what some photographers are looking for. It’s usable and uncomplicated. And the build quality is as good as you’d expect from Manfrotto.

There are aluminum and carbon fiber models of the monopod and both are excellent. But while the aluminum Manfrotto 290 option is cheaper, the overall quality of the carbon fiber model is worth the extra cost.

The 290 camera monopod can carry a weight of 11 lbs (5 kg). That’s not the heaviest load, but it’ll support professional standard cameras with lens attachments. The height range isn’t record-breaking. But a max extension of 59.4 inches (1.5 m) is more than enough for most photographers.

The individual leg sections are tightened and released with aluminum flip locks. They’re quick to release and easy to tighten when you need to readjust for your next shot. It also has a rubber leg warmer design and a wrist strap for extra security. And the bottom of the pole has a rubber foot that grips uneasy surfaces.

If you like the Manfrotto 290 monopod, you should also see our list of the best carbon fiber tripods.

9. Koolehaoda 6-Section Compact Monopod

Brand	Brand koolehaoda
Build Material	Build Material Aluminum
Item Weight	Item Weight 0.94 lbs / 430 g
Retracted Height	Retracted Height 15 inches / 38 cm
Max Extended Height	Max Extended Height 61.4 inches / 1.56 m
Max Load Capacity	Max Load Capacity 22 lbs / 10 kg
Other Key Features	Other Key Features Carry case included, removable foot spike, wrist strap
Best For	Best For Easy transportation

The Koolehaoda Compact Monopod is a great option if your budget is tight. It’s an affordable option for all types of photographers. It’ll hold a surprising amount of gear. You can use pro-grade DSLRs. And it can manage some telephoto lenses.

It’s a lightweight piece of gear, weighing only 0.94 lbs (430 g). And it gives a reasonable max height of 61.4 inches (1.56 m). That’s enough for most photographers to get a comfortable shot. The maximum load weight is 22 lbs (10 kg). That’s plenty of support for adding heavier lenses to your camera.

It folds down to 15 inches (38 cm), which is small enough for your camera bag. The upper section has a foam grip area for comfort. And the base has a rubber foot and metal spike to grip the ground.

The Koolehaoda Compact Monopod is a lowkey but reliable monopod for camera bodies of all kinds. It also comes with a handy carry case for easy transportation.

10. 3 Legged Thing Alan 2.0 Monopod

Brand	Brand 3 Legged Thing
Build Material	Build Material Carbon Fiber
Item Weight	Item Weight 1.35 lbs / 620 g
Retracted Height	Retracted Height 17.3 inches / 44 cm
Max Extended Height	Max Extended Height 56.3 inches / 1.43 m
Max Load Capacity	Max Load Capacity 132 lbs / 60 kg
Other Key Features	Other Key Features Twist locks, rubber grip, spring-loaded camera thread
Best For	Best For Heavy-duty equipment

The Alan 2.0 monopod from 3 Legged Thing is a beast. It doesn’t have the highest expandable reach. But it does have a load capacity of 132 lb (60 kg). That’s genuinely impressive for a monopod. And it’s much more than most photographers and videographers need. It’s also a solid piece of kit you can rely on.

The central poles are tough carbon fiber. And the upper section has a rubber grip area making it easy and comfortable to handle. Each leg section has a twist lock to release and tighten. The twist-action on the leg locks is smooth, making height adjustments easy even when you’re in a hurry.

The Alan 2.0 comes with a detachable rubber boot. It provides the grip you need in any environment. And it can be replaced by other 3 Legged Thing accessories. You also have the tri-mount plate at the top for your camera.

The Alan 2.0 isn’t cheap, but it’s one of the toughest photography tools you’ll find. If you use heavy camera equipment, you also need to see our list of the best heavy-duty tripods.

11. Avella CD324 Carbon Fiber Monopod Kit

Brand	Brand AVELLA
Build Material	Build Material Carbon Fiber
Item Weight	Item Weight 5.95 lbs / 2.7 kg
Retracted Height	Retracted Height 27.5 inches / 70 cm
Max Extended Height	Max Extended Height 71 inches / 1.8 m
Max Load Capacity	Max Load Capacity 13.2 lbs / 6 kg
Other Key Features	Other Key Features Fluid head with control handle, mini tripod base, quick-release locks
Best For	Best For Videography and cinematography

The Avella CD324 Monopod isn’t the lightest option. Nor is it the smallest monopod on this list. But it’s a solid piece of photography gear. And definitely worth your consideration if you make videos.

The central leg sections are made of carbon fiber. And you have strong flip locks that release the sections when you need to make a change. The head has a quick-release plate for your DSLR or mirrorless camera. The fluid head is perfect for filmmakers. And there’s a control handle for effortless tilting and panning.

The base has aluminum tripod legs you can unfold for additional support on tough terrain. The legs are connected to the central column with a ball joint. You can rotate and tilt the monopod without losing stability. You can also attach the quick-release plate onto the tripod base to make a mini tripod for a lower shooting angle.

It can stand freely provided the weight isn’t too heavy. You also have a wrist strap for added security, so there’s no fear the monopod won’t topple over. Videographers also need to see the best video tripod list.

12. Manfrotto Compact Extreme 2-in-1 Monopod & Pole

Brand	Brand Manfrotto
Build Material	Build Material Aluminum
Item Weight	Item Weight 0.7 lbs / 320 g
Retracted Height	Retracted Height 16.1 inches / 41 cm
Max Extended Height	Max Extended Height 51.5 inches / 1.3 m
Max Load Capacity	Max Load Capacity 2.2 lbs / 1 kg
Other Key Features	Other Key Features All parts are adjustable, rubber grip, wrist strap
Best For	Best For Vlogging and small cameras

The Compact Extreme 2-in-1 Monopod from Manfrotto is perfect for small and lightweight cameras. It has a max weight capacity of 2.2 lbs (1 kg), meaning it can’t support heavy cameras and large lenses. But it’s perfect for compact cameras, smartphones, and action cameras.

Despite the weight limitations, you still get plenty of reach with the 51.57-inch (1.3 m) maximum height. And the four leg sections have a quick-release flip lock for rapid changes. The top section has an aluminum ball head for smooth panning and tilt movements. This is ideal for filming with 4K cameras or vlogging cameras.

The Compact Extreme is one of the most affordable Manfrotto monopods if you want to shoot video or stills. The price is very reasonable and the build quality is excellent. It’s not a monopod for professionals. But it’ll give amateurs the enhanced stability they need.

13. Benro MSD46C SupaDupa Monopod

Brand	Brand Benro
Build Material	Build Material Carbon Fiber
Item Weight	Item Weight 1.3 lbs / 590 g
Retracted Height	Retracted Height 16.5 inches / 45 cm
Max Extended Height	Max Extended Height 72 inches / 1.82 m
Max Load Capacity	Max Load Capacity 88 lbs / 40 kg
Other Key Features	Other Key Features Flip and twist leg locks, rotating foot, waterproof leg joints
Best For	Best For DSLR cameras and all-weather photography

The SupaDupa monopod from Benro is another versatile option for enthusiasts and professionals. It sits in one of the middle price brackets, so it’s not the cheapest monopod. But the robust construction means that the SupaDupa monopod is worth the money.

It gives you plenty of height with a maximum reach of 72 inches (1.82 m). That’s enough for even the tallest photographers. And it folds down to a portable size to easily fit in your travel bag. The main leg sections are made of ultra-lightweight carbon fiber. And even though there are stainless steel elements, the overall weight remains low.

The central legs have waterproof twist locks for easy tightening and loosening. And leg locks are also dustproof, giving you extra protection. This protection prevents the threading from becoming blocked with grit and sand. This keeps the twist-action smooth. You also have a fast-action flip lock for the main leg section for more security.

Woman taking a photo with a camera on a monopod — © Teo Lazarev (Depositphotos.com)

Buyer’s Guide for Best Monopod for Cameras

This section looks at the benefits of using a camera monopod. We’ll look at why you might choose a monopod over a tripod. And we’ll look at the specific features you need to look for in the best monopod for photography and videography.

Monopod For Camera vs. Tripod

Monopods and tripods both serve the same purpose in photography. They give a photographer stability with their camera, giving them more control over their camera settings. Monopods and tripods act as a platform for the camera. This means the photographer doesn’t have to support the camera with their hands while shooting.

The main physical difference is that a tripod has three legs and a monopod has one. The three-leg system allows the tripod to stand independently, holding the camera in place. A monopod has one vertical leg and can’t balance on its own.

While a tripod gives you excellent stability when taking a photo, erecting it and taking it down again can be a nightmare. And this is especially true if you have to move a lot to take pictures. You can move it erected with the camera attached, but this is far from an ideal solution.

The monopod gives you the stability you need to get the shot. But you don’t lose any mobility. The vertical leg stabilizes the camera while you take a picture. And then you’re free to easily move your position when you need to.

Tripods remain popular with landscape, portrait, and fine art photographers. But sports, action, and wildlife photographers need to be more mobile when shooting. And the monopod has provided them with the perfect solution.

The monopod has become an essential piece of camera gear for photographers in these fields. Sports photographers can shoot night events, with the monopod allowing them to use slower shutter speeds. They can keep their ISO low. And they can move about with the action on the field.

It’s the same with wildlife photographers working at dawn and dusk. They need more freedom with the exposure settings. And it’s also about supporting the weight of the camera. These types of photography also require telephoto lenses. These are bulky pieces of equipment. And the monopod takes the weight so your arms don’t feel fatigued.

Man in a bucket hat taking pictures of a sports even with a telephoto lens — © Miflippo (Depositphotos.com)

What to Look For in a Monopod

The budget is the first thing you need to think about when buying any camera gear. And the monopod is no different. Thankfully, there are high-quality monopods in every price bracket. There is a difference in quality between the top and bottom of the scale, but there is something for everyone.

Your camera is your most valuable piece of equipment. You need to make sure the monopod you buy can support your camera and the different lenses you use. Look at the maximum weight limits. And go for monopods made from strong and durable materials. Avoid cheap plastic models. Trying to save money here could cost you dearly in camera damage later.

Consider the type of photography you do. Do you need something lightweight and mobile for moving around a sports field? Or do you want something more sturdy for more precise shooting? Knowing this will help you choose the weight and the material of the monopod.

Many monopods have features some photographers will like. There are ball-head joints for changing shooting angles. Some have quick-adjust telescopic legs for changing height and position. And some have padded feet so the monopod doesn’t slip. They’re all features you may want in your monopod.

Conclusion: The Best Monopod For Cameras

The use of monopods is on the rise. They give you extra stability to get perfect shots every time. But they don’t restrict your movement the way a tripod does. You have more camera control and better options with your exposure settings. And you can move freely between shots. They’ve beloved by sports and wildlife photographers. Photojournalists love them. And more and more filmmakers are using camera monopods.

The Altura Photo Camera Monopod is the best monopod for cameras right now. It’s compact and lightweight. It can hold pro cameras and lenses. And the price is hard to argue with. It’s the best place to start if you’re looking for a quality all-around monopod.

Our Top 3 Choices for The Best Monopod For Camera

Altura Photo Camera Monopod

Manfrotto XPRO+ Monpod with Fluid Head

3 Legged Thing Trent 2.0 Monopod

What is the Best Monopod For Cameras?