When it comes to photography and videography, there are literally hundreds of accessories to choose from. When I first started my photography journey, I thought I needed them all. I picked up everything from lens hoods, remotes, bags, filters and the list goes on.
But one essential pice of kit that I neglected to look at was the humble tripod.
After picking up a tripod, I then realised how important and critical a tripod is to a photographer or film maker. As I was shooting with my new Canon 80D, I begged the question of what are the best tripods for Canon 80D’s plus other Canon EOS models like the 60D and the 70D.
So after a lot of testing and using half a dozen tripods, I feel like I have now come to a conclusion of what important features are important for Canon EOS cameras. Ok, lets get stuck in!
How I Found The Best Tripods For Canon DSLR 60D, 70D & 80D Cameras
There is no denying that the 80D has quickly become a cult hit amongst photographers. This popularity was made possible with the previous models of the 60D and 70D which have become crowd favourites for mid level photographers and even Vloggers. So after using these cameras for a couple of years, here are they things I look out for.
- Stability: When it came to tripods for the Canon EOS 80D, I wanted a very stable platform as the camera and lens combo can be around the the 2 pound mark. So having a stable and rigid tripod was critical for sharp images.
- Weight: As we tend to go on different locations for different types of photography, having a light enough tripod, preferably of carbon fiber was a bonus.
- Portability: Having a stable and light tripod doesn’t always transfer to a portable tripod unfortunately. So I kept my eye out for tripods that had a small footprint that was travel friendly for a suitcase or camera bag.
- Compatibility: I have picked tripods that are compatible with pretty much all Canon EOS models and DSLR’s with the use of the 1/4″ threaded male screw with quick release plate.
- Price: Unfortunately money doesn’t grow on trees unless you are Warren Buffet. Because of this I have keep the price to a minimum while factoring in the above checklist.
Top 5 Best Tripods For Canon 60D, 70D & 80D Cameras
1. Vanguard Alta Pro 263AB 100 Aluminum Tripod Kit
Vanguard Alta Pro 263AB 100 Aluminum Tripod Kit Specifications
Weight: 5.38lbs
Collapsed Height: 28.12″
Extended Height: 68.12″
Maximum Load: 8.8 lbs
Price: Click here to find the latest price
Vanguard Alta Pro 263AB 100 Aluminum Tripod Kit Review
I have a pretty old school mentality when it comes to purchasing equipment. I am a great believer in “purchase right and purchase once”. If you are unfamiliar with this saying, it essentially means that if you buy a great and reputable piece of equipment, you likely won’t have to purchase a replacement for years to come.
So when I came across this Vanguard Alta Pro 263AB, I knew that this tripod definitely fell into that category. While it’s not the cheapest tripod on the market, it was a great contender for my Canon EOS 80D as it easily crossed all the things on my checklist.
Once I unpacked the tripod, I could tell instantly tell that this tripod was made out of high quality materials with an ABS plastic and aluminum construction. Also combined with the very sturdy legs is a stainless steel ball head with a 360 degree movement. There is also a standard 1/4 inch thread with quick release plate and a bubble level.
As with any tripod, the legs on this unit are very standard with a maximum height of 68.12″. But what I really liked about this setup was the ability to use the central column as a over arching arm which was great for unique composition and over head shots.
While this tripod is on the heavier side, I still think it easily earns my number one spot for the best tripod for my Canon 80D for its stability, high load capacity and various functions. Can’t got wrong with this one!
2. ZOMEi Z669C Portable Carbon Tripod/Monopod Kit
ZOMEi Z669C Portable Carbon Tripod/Monopod Kit Specifications
Weight: 3.08lbs
Collapsed Height: 18.1″
Extended Height: 68.0″
Maximum Load: 7.4 lbs
Price: Click here to find the latest price
ZOMEi Z669C Portable Carbon Tripod/Monopod Kit Review
Next up on my list is the uber functional Zomei tripod/monopod combo. While Zomei is a relatively new brand, their lineup of tripods is worth looking at.
For me this tripod really served me well when using my Canon DSLR 70D while on my recent over seas travels. I opted for this particular unit because of its light weight of 3.2lbs. That is 40% lighter than the above Vanguard while still having the same height!
This major weight difference is put down to the carbon fiber construction which makes this tripod incredibly light while making it almost indestructible. When it came to the ball head, it is almost the same as the Vanguard, but I did notice that it was less smooth and on the jerky side. Nonetheless still good.
The only thing I wish was different about this tripod was the twist locks. I find they are slower to setup, but considering the price, I really shouldn’t complain! Overall a great pick!
3. Manfrotto MKBFRA4-BH BeFree Compact Tripod
Manfrotto MKBFRA4-BH BeFree Compact Tripod Specifications
Weight: 3.08lbs
Collapsed Height: 13.38″
Extended Height: 56.69″
Maximum Load: 8.8 lbs
Price: Click here to find the latest price
Manfrotto MKBFRA4-BH BeFree Compact Tripod Review
Last but not least on my list of the best tripods for Canon cameras is the well renown Manfrotto BeFree Tripod. To be honest, I had this tripod long before I owned my Canon 70D, but it has become one of my goto tripods for almost any photography situation.
What made me purchase this tripod in the very beginning was the small collapsed height of 13.38 inches which was great for throwing into the pack. I have taken this tripod on countless hikes and carry on only plane trips.
While it’s not the cheapest tripod on the market, I find that whenever I purchase Manfrotto products, I never get disappointed. The same goes for this one. If you’d like to earn more about this brand, check out my post on the best Manfrotto tripods!