Best Tripods Under $40 for Phones and Cameras

A tripod is one of those purchases that feels optional until you use one. Suddenly your videos aren't shaky, your group photos don't require asking strangers, and your time-lapses actually work. The good news: you don't need to spend $200 to get a stable, functional tripod. Here are the best options under $40 that work with both phones and cameras.

What Makes a Tripod Worth Buying

Before the recommendations, here's what separates a usable budget tripod from a frustrating one:

Stability: The tripod shouldn't wobble, drift, or topple in light wind. Test: extend it fully, mount your device, and tap the leg. If the image shakes for more than one second, the tripod is too flimsy.

Height: For video calls and standing shots, you need at least 55 inches of height. For tabletop product photography, a mini tripod (6-12 inches) works. Most versatile tripods reach 50-65 inches.

Head type: A ball head lets you angle the camera in any direction with a single knob. A pan-tilt head uses separate knobs for each axis — slower to adjust but more precise for video panning. Ball heads are better for photography; pan-tilt heads are better for video.

Weight capacity: Budget tripods typically support 5-11 pounds. Your smartphone weighs 7 ounces. A mirrorless camera with lens weighs 1-3 pounds. Unless you're mounting a professional cinema camera, weight capacity on budget tripods is rarely an issue.

1. Amazon Basics 60-Inch Tripod — $17

The Amazon Basics 60-inch tripod is the best value in tripods, period. It extends to 60 inches, includes a phone holder, has a three-way pan-tilt head, and weighs under 3 pounds. The quick-release plate makes switching between phone and camera fast.

Is it as smooth and stable as a $150 Manfrotto? No. But at $17, it's stable enough for indoor video recording, outdoor photography in calm weather, and group photos. The legs are aluminum and the locks are reliable. For the price, it's difficult to find a meaningful complaint.

Best for: First-time tripod buyers who want something functional without overthinking it.

2. UBeesize 67-Inch Tripod with Remote — $22

The UBeesize 67-inch tripod adds Bluetooth remote shutter capability and extra height over the Amazon Basics model. The included phone mount and Bluetooth remote let you take group photos and selfies without a timer. The remote works with both iPhone and Android.

At 67 inches, it's tall enough for standing shots and overhead angles that shorter tripods can't reach. The carrying bag is a nice addition for travel.

Best for: Content creators who film themselves and need remote shutter control.

3. Joby GorillaPod 1K — $30

The Joby GorillaPod 1K is fundamentally different from standard tripods. Its flexible legs wrap around poles, branches, railings, and uneven surfaces, letting you mount your camera anywhere a traditional tripod can't go.

At 10 inches tall, it's not a replacement for a full-size tripod — it's a complement. Use it for tabletop shots, attach it to a fence post for unique angles, or wrap it around a tree branch for elevated perspectives. The ball head smoothly positions the camera in any direction.

The 1K model supports up to 2.2 pounds, which handles smartphones and compact cameras. For heavier mirrorless cameras, step up to the GorillaPod 3K ($40-50).

Best for: Travel photographers, outdoor content creators, and anyone who needs creative mounting options.

4. Sensyne 62-Inch Phone Tripod — $24

The Sensyne 62-inch tripod is designed specifically for smartphone content creation. It includes a phone mount with a built-in ring light (three brightness levels), Bluetooth remote, and extends to 62 inches. The ring light isn't powerful enough to be your primary light source, but it adds a flattering catchlight to your eyes for selfie-style video.

The build quality is adequate but not exceptional — this is a smartphone tripod, not a camera support system. For phone-only users who want an all-in-one vlogging kit, it's hard to beat at $24.

Best for: Smartphone-only content creators who want lighting and remote in one package.

5. Neewer 77-Inch Camera Tripod — $36

The Neewer 77-inch tripod is the most capable tripod on this list. At 77 inches fully extended (including center column), it reaches heights that budget competitors can't match. The aluminum construction supports up to 11 pounds, handles heavy cameras without wobbling.

The pan-tilt head includes a separate handle for smooth video panning. The quick-release plate works with standard 1/4-20 camera mounts. Two bubble levels ensure your horizon is straight. At $36, it offers features that typically appear in the $60-80 price range.

Best for: Users who want the most capable budget tripod for both photography and video.

How to Get the Most From a Budget Tripod

Budget tripods have limitations. Here's how to work around them:

• Hang weight from the center hook. Most tripods have a hook at the bottom of the center column. Hang your camera bag from it to add stability in wind.
• Don't fully extend the thinnest leg sections. The bottom-most, thinnest leg sections are the least stable. Use only the top two sections when stability matters more than height.
• Use a 2-second timer. Even pressing the shutter button on a tripod-mounted camera introduces vibration. A 2-second delay or remote shutter eliminates this.

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