Best Monopod for Camera Owners in 2024

In this guide, I’ll be showcasing what I consider the best bang-for-buck monopods that I’ve tried, as well as highlighting why you’d want one in the first place. Are monopods better than tripods?

Let’s find out.

What is the Best Monopod for Camera Owners in 2024?

1. NEEWER Professional Camera Monopod

Extended: 179 cm (70.5 inches)
Retracted: 65 cm (25.5 inches)
Max Load: 6 kg (13.2 lbs)
Weight: 1.5 kg (3.3 lbs)
Material: Aluminium

First on the list is an Amazon’s Choice Overall Pick – and for good reason.

The NEEWER Professional Camera Monopod is an excellent choice for photographers and videographers who need flexibility.

What drew me to this monopod is the detachable tripod base.

This makes it a sort of monopod/tripod combo that allows flexibility in whatever shooting situation I find myself in.

The modular design also makes it ultra-portable.

I simply collapse it into its compact form, detach the tripod base and I chuck it into my camera bag!

The included fluid video head sets it apart from many of the choices in the market today.

It allows for a complete 360-degree pan and -70°/+90° of tilt, which is respectable.

It also has a counterbalance system paired with a dampened control that lets me effortlessly make amazingly smooth pans.

With its high compatibility across different camera types and easy setup via flip locks, this monopod is designed for professionals who value quick adjustments and stability.

Overall, this was a solid buy for me, and apparently, a lot of people on Amazon agree.

2. IFootage Cobra 3

Extended: 181 cm (71.3 inches)
Retracted: 70 cm (27.2 inches)
Max Load: 8 kg (17.6 lb)
Weight: 1.27 kg (2.75 lbs)
Material: Carbon Fibre

The Cobra 3 has to be one of the most versatile monopods I’ve tried so far.

It’s modular and can easily be changed from a monopod to a tripod and stabiliser within seconds.

The base is carbon fibre so it’s relatively light but carries an 8 kg payload capacity that’s impressive, all things considered.

What I like most is the quick-release system.

Attaching/detaching the camera is smooth, and it really saves me lots of time when I’m on the go.

This has allowed me to be more mobile during my shoots as it cuts the time spent on gear changes.

And like the NEEWAR, the detachable feet also give that extra stability, which is a real plus whenever you need a bit more stability.

It’s tall, too. No more shaky footage and the fear of dropping my camera when taking high-angle shots.

The downside? It’s a bit bulkier when fully extended.

But for the stability and versatility it gives you, it’s worth it.

Another solid pick if you’re looking for something that can do a bit of everything.

3. Benro Adventure 4 Series

Extended: 191 cm (75.2 inches)
Retracted: 54 cm (21.3 inches)
Max Load: 18 kg (39.7 lbs)
Weight: 0.84 kg (1.85 lbs)
Material: Aluminium/Carbon fibre

The Benro Adventure 4 Series is a beast load carrier.

It carries as much as 18 kg, quite a lot more compared to most monopods in its class.

I tried it on some serious stuff- heavy gear – and it did not wobble, not once.

Plus, it’s made from aluminium and carbon fibre; light enough to lug around all day.

These five-section legs extend to an incredible 191 cm, easily the tallest on this list and certainly one of the tallest monopods I’ve tested.

I especially liked the flip locks; they’re fast and secure, and I never felt like they’d slip.

I also liked the swivelling foot, which makes it quite nice for adjusting angles, especially for video work.

The only bummer about that? When folded up, it is a little lengthy, so putting it into smaller bags can be quite a bother.

But for that stability and extra height, I’d say it is worthwhile to find space for it.

4. Leofoto Travel Monopod MP-366C

Extended: 165 cm (65 inches)
Retracted: 44 cm (17.3 inches)
Max Load: 10 kg (22 lbs)
Weight: 0.45 kg (1 lb)
Material: Carbon fibre

This one is about portability.

It tips the scales at just under a kilogram and is super easy to carry around.

It collapses down to 44 cm so easily it slips right into a backpack.

I’ve taken it on a few trips, and it doesn’t weigh you down, which is a huge plus if you’re travelling light.

It’s stiff and takes 22 pounds (10 kg) of gear; I was surprised it’s not too light.

Carbon fibre feels really premium, twist locks are smooth but locked in tight.

Personally, I have a love-hate relationship with twist locks but Leofoto’s implementation on this is quite decent.

It extends up to 165 cm, which isn’t the best but is fine for most uses.

However, I found it isn’t as stable in windy conditions as I’d hoped. It feels like it’s going to be all over the place when it’s windy.

Thankfully, the rubber foot keeps it grounded for the most part.

For travel photography, this thing is gonna be hard to beat.

It’s small, solid, and super portable.

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5. Manfrotto 290 Monopod

Extended: 151 cm (59.5 inches)
Retracted: 49 cm (19.3 inches)
Max Load: 5 kg (11 lbs)
Weight: 0.5 kg (1.1 lbs)
Material: Carbon fibre

I’ve been using a lot of Manfrotto gear and I have to say this really sticks with the rest and keeps its quality up.

It’s light in weight at just shy of a kilogram yet sturdy and carries a max load of 5 kg.

This has a premium feel due to its 4-section carbon fibre legs.

Folding it into almost less than 50 cm makes it easy to carry around with you.

The padded grip and wrist strap make it great to use when out shooting for long hours.

I also found the flip locks to be quick, reliable, and easy to use.

It doesn’t have the extra stabilizing feet like some others, but it’s more than capable if you’re just going to use it in straightforward applications.

I would recommend this to users who want something light and simple without too many extra features.

It’s reliable, portable, and has a comfortable grip, which is always a win.

6. Vanguard VEO 2S

Extended: 162 cm (64 inches)
Retracted: 54.6 cm (21.5 inches)
Max Load: 5.9 kg (13.2 lbs)
Weight: 0.8 kg (1.75 lbs)
Material: Carbon fibre

I have used a few monopods with feet, like the ones on this list, but the VEO 2S really stands out.

While the folding feet are by no means rock solid, they are strong enough and make a huge difference in shooting video.

The monopod is lightweight but has a decent load capacity of 5.9 kg, which is quite solid for its size.

Its design feels sleek, and it’s compact enough when folded up so it can be easily taken around.

What I really liked is that it came with a Bluetooth remote and a smartphone connector. It can become really bothersome running back and forth trying to set the camera’s timer.

It’s not the lightest option available, but the additional stability from the feet pays off, especially if you’re doing a lot of video work or need a steady shot in unusual conditions.

Overall, quite a solid choice, in my opinion.

7. Amazon Basics 67-Inch Monopod

Extended: 170 cm (67 inches)
Retracted: 53.3 cm (21 inches)
Max Load: 3 kg (6.6 lbs)
Weight: 0.4 kg (0.9 lbs)
Material: Aluminium

This is the budget-friendly option that does not skimp on the basics (despite the name).

The Amazon Basics Monopod is the monopod for people who want something that just works at an affordable price.

It’s super light and it’s easy to carry around with the included bag.

It extends to 170 cm, which is more than enough for most uses, and the four-section leg makes it easy to adjust.

I really like that it comes with retractable spikes and a non-skid rubber foot to stabilize it on different surfaces.

I’ve found this perfect for getting a stable foothold on unstable and slippery terrain.

It’s not made for big cameras, so the max load is 6.6 pounds, but for a smaller rig it’s more than enough.

If you’re a beginner, you’ll need a very affordable, simple monopod to get you started, which this one is guaranteed to do without bugging you one bit.

It’s so simple, not too heavy, and most importantly, pocket-friendly.

How to Choose a Camera Monopod

I believe function and use should be the primary factors (ahead of even budget) when investing in equipment.

When choosing a monopod to add to your arsenal, there are two things that you must consider: the type of gear you currently have, and the kind of shoots you want to do.

First up, as something made to carry weight, when you choose a monopod, make sure that it can handle the majority of the gear you want to use it with.

This is usually determined by the rated capacity as per manufacturer specifications.

Second, you would want to get the monopod that suits the kind of shots you want to make.

If you want to do quick and nimble action shots, you might want to get a lightweight one.

If you’re doing nature photography in some less-than-ideal terrain, maybe get a heavy-duty one.

After you figure these two out, then it’s time to figure out a budget and get the gear.

Frequently Asked Questions on the Best Camera Monopod

What is a camera monopod used for?

A monopod is used to stabilize a camera to achieve a steady shot when taking a photograph.

It can also be used to help distribute the weight of a heavy lens, or even to ‘pan’ the camera when photographing a subject in motion.

What is the best monopod?

Depending on your needs, there are different monopods to suit every photographer.

Some may require extra-long monopods, lightweight monopods, or even monopods with feet.

Our number one all-round choice is the NEEWER Professional Monopod.

Why do I need a monopod?

If you need to stabilize your camera but don’t have the space for a fully extended tripod, a monopod can be the perfect compromise.

Monopods are also smaller and lighter than tripods, and often cheaper too.

Does a monopod really help?

Monopods are one way to achieve a steadier shot than simply hand-holding your camera.

You can use a slower shutter speed, lower ISO, or smaller aperture.

While not as stable as a tripod, a monopod is great when you don’t have space or time to extend a tripod’s three legs.

Final Words

A monopod is one of those tools you thought you didn’t need, but once you use one, you won’t want to do without.

From stabilizing your shot in a crowded place to providing a much-needed rest for your muscles when using long lenses and heavy camera bodies, monopods are handy tools to have around.

Monopods are so compact and lightweight that you can leave one stashed away under the seat of your car, ready to deploy in an instant.

I hope this guide helped you find the best one for you. Happy snapping!

HIGHLY RECOMMENDED

NEEWER Professional Camera Monopod

Solid yet ultra portable monopod with the added versatility of a removable tripod base.