These days, just about everyone has some experience with shooting photos and video. Sometimes professional photographers and those that shoot video have to stand out from the pack and find things that not only interest them but would also interest others. Taking your gear with you out on the road especially if you are a professional is a fun way to see the great outdoors and sharing it with others. When taking your gear out on the road, you should find ways to protect it. Or to set it up so you can end up getting the perfect angle or shot. You can do this by incorporating a monopod into your shooting gear.
We pride ourselves on having a vast range of knowledge on particular products. If you’re trying to enhance your shooting experience, read the list and guide below to help you decide on the perfect monopod for you.
- The 10 Best Monopods
- AmazonBasics Camera Monopod
- Sirui P-204SR P Series Monopod
- Vivitar 67-Inch Monopod
- Benro Aluminum 3 Series Flip-Lock Monopod
- Koolehaoda Professional 65-inch Camera Aluminium Monopod
- Altura Photo 62-Inch Camera Monopod
- Neewer Extendable Camera Monopod
- SIRUI AM-326M Camera Monopod
- K&F Concept 4-Section Monopod
- Dolica WT-1003 67-Inch Lightweight Monopod
- Monopods Buyer’s Guide
- Features to look for in Monopods:
- How to use a Monopod:
- Frequently Asked Questions:
- How Do I Choose a Monopod?
- Do Monopods Really Help?
- What is a Monopod Used For?
- Are Monopods Good for Video?
The 10 Best Monopods
| Award | Design | Retailer | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Quality Performance On a Budget |  | Check Price | |
| Sturdy, Durable, and Lightweight |  | Check Price | |
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| Function of a Monopod, Spirit of a Tripod |  | Check Price | |
| The Ultimate Hiking Companion |  | Check Price | |
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AmazonBasics Camera Monopod
Quality Performance On a Budget
If you’re looking for a monopod, you should consider the AmazonBasics Camera Monopod. With the ability to support DSLRs, point-and-shoots, and any telescope up to 6.6 pounds, you can take this monopod with you anywhere. Sometimes monopods and camera equipment get a little uncomfortable with extended use, but this model has a built-in cushion grip and adjustable wrist strap for increased comfort even during longer shoots. There are four legs that extend out to 67 inches. There is also a 1/4 inch universal thread mount. This is a great option for those looking to save money while ensuring you get a great product that you can take with you comfortably wherever you go.
| Load Capacity | 6.6 lbs. |
| Max. Length | 67 in. |
| Weight | 1 lb. |
Pros
- Carrying bag included
- Lightweight aluminum construction
- Comfortable cushion grip
- Easy to adjust
Cons
- Can be slightly wobbly when fully extended
Sirui P-204SR P Series Monopod
Sturdy, Durable, and Lightweight
The Sirui P-204SR P Series Monopod is a great option to consider for those that are comfortable spending a little more money for guaranteed quality. With the ability to tilt up to 20 degrees and a 360-degree panning function, this is the perfect tool for videographers looking for a great product to use on the go. What’s more, this monopod is simple to carry, with a tube diameter of only 19-28 mm. Made from durable aluminum, it’s also highly sturdy and lightweight. For those that enjoy taking their gear on the likes of intense mountain hikes, this could be the perfect addition to your equipment.
| Load Capacity | 25 lbs. |
| Max. Length | 67 in. |
| Weight | 3.09 lbs. |
Pros
- Perfect for hiking
- Lightweight aluminum construction
- 360-degree panning function
- 20-degree tilt
Cons
- A littler pricer than other options
Vivitar 67-Inch Monopod
If you’re a little more budget-cautious, you may want to consider the Vivitar 67-Inch Monopod. This accessory has a built-in wrist strap and hand grip. The maximum height of this monopod is 67 inches, and its rubber foot includes a spike for added stability on rough terrain, making it the ideal companion for any budget-minded traveling photographer. You also get a free carrying case with your purchase. Ensure your shots are stable and your gear secure without breaking the bank with this Vivitar monopod.
| Load Capacity | 25 lbs. |
| Max. Length | 67 in. |
| Weight | 14.4 oz. |
Pros
- Affordable
- Built-in wrist strap
- Carrying case included
- Lightweight aluminum construction
Cons
- Mounting head could be better
Benro Aluminum 3 Series Flip-Lock Monopod
Function of a Monopod, Spirit of a Tripod
The Benro Aluminum 3 Series Flip-Lock Monopod would be a great addition for anyone that is passionate about their camera equipment. This model is really something special in that it gives you the stability of a tripod while still serving primarily as a monopod. With this lightweight piece of equipment weighing in at only 2.1 pounds, you can benefit from a maximum height of 62 inches. You also don’t have to worry about wasting your money on a faulty product, as you are entitled to a 3-year warranty. In fact, the manufacturer stands behind their product so genuinely that you can also register it online to extend that warranty to 5 years.
| Load Capacity | 39.7 lbs. |
| Max. Length | 61 in. |
| Weight | 2.1 lbs. |
Pros
- Stability of a Tripod
- Easy setup
- 3-leg locking base
- 3-year warranty
Cons
- Mount may not be large enough for larger cameras
Koolehaoda Professional 65-inch Camera Aluminium Monopod
The Ultimate Hiking Companion
The Koolehaoda Professional 65-inch Camera Aluminium Monopod is another option to consider if you’re searching for a monopod. Sometimes holding your professional-grade camera equipment can wear your hands down after a while, but the foam grip on this monopod provides the utmost level of comfort. This device extends up to 65 inches so you can take pictures from several yards away. What’s more, not only is this monopod lightweight, but it’s also extremely durable and very suitable for regular use on the go. And should you choose to take it hiking, it can easily double as a hiking stick to help you keep your balance on rougher terrain. For the cherry on top, you get all of this for a very respectable price.
| Load Capacity | 25 lbs. |
| Max. Length | 65 in. |
| Weight | 2.23 lbs. |
Pros
- Affordable
- Comfortable grip
- Lightweight and durable
- Highly stable
Cons
- May struggle in windy conditions
Altura Photo 62-Inch Camera Monopod
A serious price-to-performance ratio is the name of the game with the Altura Photo 62-Inch Camera Monopod. For a very affordable price, you get a heavy-duty monopod capable of supporting just about any camera. Adjustable from a compact 16.75 inches to a full 62 inches, this is a seriously versatile piece of equipment. Its aluminum construction ensures it’s lightweight enough to carry with you without hassle, while at the same time being sturdy and durable enough to withstand any battering it may come across on the road.
| Load Capacity | 5 lbs. |
| Max. Length | 62 in. |
| Weight | 9.4 oz. |
Pros
- Lightweight and durable
- Highly compact when retracted
- Easy to operate
- Affordable
Cons
- Hand strap could be a little better
Neewer Extendable Camera Monopod
The Neewer Extendable Camera Monopod is perfectly simple in form and highly effective in function. Built from durable aluminum and with a maximum adjustable height of 66 inches, this is an accessory that’s as durable, lightweight, and versatile as they come. Capable of supporting loads of up to 11 pounds, this is a suitable option for most mainstream camera types. A 15-degree tilt and 360-degree panoramic rotation allow for greater flexibility for your shots, while the removable tripod base offers a level of stability comparable to a traditional monopod. Coming in at a very respectable price point, this is certainly not an option to sniff at.
| Load Capacity | 11 lbs. |
| Max. Length | 66 in. |
| Weight | 1.3 lbs. |
Pros
- Respectably affordable
- Easy to operate
- Removable tripod base
- Compact and lightweight
Cons
- Tripod base could be more flexible
SIRUI AM-326M Camera Monopod
The SIRUI AM-326M is a monopod to be reckoned with. For a bit more of an investment than some of the more budget-friendly options on this list, you get an accessory that really takes its job seriously. With a maximum load capacity of 22 pounds, the AM-326M can support just about any camera type while weighing only 1.1 pounds itself. And that’s the kicker – for all that this monopod can do, it’s incredibly lightweight and compact, retracting down to just 15.6 inches to fit comfortably into your bag. It can then be adjusted to a full 61.4 inches for those wider-angle shots. And to back it all up, it’s made from highly durable carbon fiber, ensuring it will withstand just about anything it might come up against on the road. For just a slightly higher investment, you get a monopod that can really give the competition a run for its money
| Load Capacity | 22 lbs. |
| Max. Length | 61.4 in. |
| Weight | 15.8 oz. |
Pros
- Lightweight and compact
- Durable carbon fiber construction
- Quick and easy retractability
- Comfortable foam grip
Cons
- Takes some time to adjust height
K&F Concept 4-Section Monopod
As with many of the options we’ve listed so far, the K&F Concept 4-Section Monopod is straightforward and simple in its function, and that allows it to perform exceptionally well at what it does. This is yet another highly durable, versatile, and affordable option ideal for a wide array of photographers and videographers. It offers an impressive maximum extended length of 67.32 inches while weighing only 12.3 ounces, making it ideal for taking on the go. And for an added bit of utility, this monopod can also double as a hiking stick for those long treks in pursuit of the perfect shot.
| Load Capacity | 6.6 lbs. |
| Max. Length | 67.32 in. |
| Weight | 12.3 oz. |
Pros
- Lightweight and durable
- High adjustable range
- Doubles as a hiking stick
- Includes carry bag and shoulder strap
Cons
- Latches feel a little flimsy
Dolica WT-1003 67-Inch Lightweight Monopod
The Dolica WT-1003 67-Inch Lightweight Monopod is another option highly worth consideration. Equipped with a carrying bag, you can pack up this monopod and take it with you everywhere with ease. Adding to this convenience are the adjustable wrist strap and the firm and comfortable grip. This monopod is compact, lightweight, and constructed from aluminum alloy for greater durability. It’s great for just about any occasion and provides you with the stability you need while you film and shoot photos outdoors. You should definitely consider implementing this accessory into your camera equipment.
| Load Capacity | 6.7 lbs. |
| Max. Length | 67 in. |
| Weight | 0.8 lbs. |
Pros
- Lightweight construction
- Easy to assemble
- Super portable
- Carry bag included
Cons
- Not as durable as some other models
Monopods Buyer’s Guide
If you’re a photographer, chances are high that you already own a monopod. These essential tools are great to bring with you on the go to provide greater stability for your camera or device. While they aren’t tripods, they offer a level of stability you wouldn’t normally get without one. Below are some of the key features to look for if you are in search of one of these tools.
Features to look for in Monopods:
- Height: When shopping for monopods, you need to keep two things in mind in terms of height. First, you should make sure your device is tall enough that your camera can be positioned high enough from the ground without needing to look for a raised surface. Second, you need to make sure the device is tall enough for you to lift over your head comfortably for taking aerial and high-angle pictures and videos. The minimum height should be at least 72 inches.
- Grip: With monopods, your grip is a very important factor to keep in mind. Above all, the grip is what you hold on to. If you lose your grip on your monopod, you could risk dropping your camera. Most monopods offer a rubber or foam grip.
- Lock: The lock simply serves to keep your monopod locked into a certain height adjustment into place. Once you find your ideal shooting height, simply lock it into place and you’re good to go.
- Mount: This refers to the fixture that allows you to attach your monopod to your camera. Most monopods will offer a threaded screw mount as standard, but other options are available.
- Feet: The feet of a monopod serve to keep it stable and in place. These feet are most often rubberized for optimum grip.
How to use a Monopod:
- Attach your camera: First, you need to attach your camera to your monopod using the mount at the top.
- Find the right position: Finding the right position is extremely important when using monopods. Adjust the legs and firmly grasp onto the hand grip.
- Find the right angle: Play around with the height adjustment and the rotation of the mount, if your monopod allows.
- Take the shot: Once you’re all set up, simply take the shot.
Frequently Asked Questions:
How Do I Choose a Monopod?
The main consideration to keep in mind when shopping for a monopod is how you intend to use your camera. If you’re shooting video, you should go for a monopod that is specifically designed for that purpose. In many cases, a carbon fiber monopod may be your best bet. If you shoot pictures and are using a device for shooting photos, there are many different options to choose from, depending on your shooting style and preferences.
Do Monopods Really Help?
Depending on your load capacity, monopods can offer a lot of versatility and support for shooting both photos and videos. Stability is arguably the most vital factor to a successful shoot. Simply adjust each leg, set up your camera, and take the shot. Make sure each rubber leg is in a stable position if your camera is heavy, otherwise it could be a little top-heavy.
What is a Monopod Used For?
Monopods provide a source of stability for your camera gear. All you do is connect your camera to the monopod, set it up straight, and shoot away. These accessories are small, compact, and lightweight. Usually, manufacturers include a carry bag with the device so you can take it with you wherever you decide to go.
Are Monopods Good for Video?
Monopods are great for helping you shoot video. There are a number of models that are better suited than others for shooting video, so be sure to read reviews online when trying to decide on the perfect model.
Conclusion
If you’re a photographer, a high-quality monopod is vital for securing your camera into place for a stable shot. Monopods are a great option for professional photographers and cameramen because they provide a source of stability for their equipment. The comparatively low cost of a good monopod is entirely worth paying to keep your expensive camera stable and secure.
Incorporate a monopod into your camera equipment to take with you on the go and shoot high-quality photos and videos. If you’re on the hunt for a high-quality monopod, we hope that our guide and reviews above help you narrow down your search a little more.
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