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Best Monopods In 2022

This product guide was written by GearHungry Staff
Last Updated April 23, 2019
GearHungry Staff
GearHungry Staff posts are a compilation of work by various members of our editorial team. We update old articles regularly to provide you the most current information. You can learn more about our staff here.
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The monopod is one of the lesser known items in a photographer’s arsenal. They strike the perfect balance between the stability of using a tripod and the portability of shooting free-hand. If you don’t know what a monopod is, it’s basically a tripod with one leg. It can be used to extend the camera above your head, stabilize it quickly to take a perfect shot, or just to take the weight of the camera on a long shoot. Once you get one, you won’t look back.

We’ve been scouring the internet to find the best monopods on the market, and we’ve narrowed it down to ten. Plus, at the bottom of this article, we’ve created a Buying Guide section to answer any questions you might have about monopods.

The Best Monopod

1
AmazonBasics 67-Inch Monopod

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The first monopod on our list is the AmazonBasics 67-Inch Monopod. It’s actually also the cheapest monopod and we couldn’t decide whether to have it as our Best Value or Best Choice. We ended up selecting it as our Best Choice product because we couldn’t believe how good this thing is for the price. It’s 67-inches tall, which is about 5.6 feet, so it should be tall enough for most photographers. And it supports video cameras, still/ mirrorless cameras, and scopes that weigh up to 6.6lbs.

Of course, as you’d expect for the price, it’s not the best quality monopod on the market. But, it’s pretty sturdy. It’s made from lightweight aluminum and actually weighs less than a pound. On the bottom of the monopod, it’s got a non-skid rubber foot and retractable spikes to make it easy to stabilize your shot. And, it even comes with a carrying bag. This monopod is absolutely ideal if you’re just starting out in photography, or if you want to try it out. But, if you’re a professional you’ll want to spend some more money and get something a bit better quality.

Key Features:

Extends to 67”

¼ inch universal thread mount

Includes carrying bag

Cushion grip and wrist strap

Retractable spikes and non-skid foot

Specification:
  • BrandAmazonBasics
  • ModelWT1003
  • Weight15.7 ounces
Pros

Impressive height.

Lots of features.

Cons

Feels cheaply made.

Thread mount not deep enough.

BUY ON AMAZON

2
SIRUI P-326 6 Section Carbon Fiber Monopod

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The Sirui P-326 is definitely a more serious piece of kit. It basically does all of the same things as the Amazon Basics monopod, it just does them better. The main selling point of this camera monopod is that it’s made out of carbon fiber, which means it’s ultra-lightweight. It weighs just 0.9lbs but is one of the sturdiest monopods on this list.

It’s comprised of six sections, which extend to an impressive working height of 62.4 inches. To extend it you simply loosen the silicon twist lock and then tighten it again when you’ve found the perfect height. This twist lock makes it super easy to extend it out fast and it prevents the monopod from inadvertently collapsing. To help you grip onto the monopod, it’s got a wrist strap and a comfortable, insulated foam grip with the brand name emblazoned on the side. Other than that, it has a high-quality metal spike to help you secure it into the ground and it comes with a compass carabiner so that you can attach it to your belt. All-in-all, this is one of the best mid-range monopods. The only problem is that it doesn’t have any feet, but if you really wanted that level of stability, you could buy a tripod.

Key Features:

Extends to 62.4”

Reversible 1/4″-20 & 3/8″-16 screw on the mounting plate

Insulated foam grip & wrist strap

Silicone twist locking system

Floor spike

Compass carabiner

Specification:
  • BrandArgraph
  • ModelP-326
  • Weight14.1 ounces
Pros

Really lightweight.

Well-made.

Easy and quick to extend.

Cons

Silicone locking system can fail after a few years.

BUY ON AMAZON

3
Benro Aluminum 4 Series Flip-Lock Monopod

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The Benro Aluminium 4-Series Monopod is one of our favorite monopods for traveling videographers. It’s actually suitable for pretty much any photographer, but we think it has a few key features that make it great for YouTubers, professional videographers, and anyone else who makes their own videos. It’s actually a bit heavier than the first two products we’ve featured, at 2.4lbs. But that extra weight and aluminum construction mean that it can support up to 44.1lbs. So, if you’re looking for a monopod with feet for an HDDSLR camera, this might be the one for you.

The feet in question are actually mounted on a 3-leg locking base. This is a fantastic system that gives it almost as much stability as a tripod. So, you can get all of the stability for shooting video, without having to carry around a massive piece of kit. Aside from that, it extends to 64.6 inches, has a reversible thread mount and a comfortable foam grip, and it even comes with a limited 3-year warranty that you can extend to 5-years. It makes a perfect gift for photographery lovers.

Key Features:

Extends to 64.6”

Reversible 1/4″-20 & 3/8″-16 screw on the mounting plate

Comfortable foam grip

3-leg locking base

Limited 3-year warranty

Specification:
  • BrandBenro
  • ModelA48FD
  • Weight2.4 pounds
Pros

Great for videographers.

Supports a lot of weight.

3-leg locking base provides stability.

Cons

Heavier than most monopods.

BUY ON AMAZON

4
Sirui P-204SR P Series Monopod

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If you like the last video monopod, you’ll definitely like the Sirui P-204SR P Series Monopod. Like the Benro monopod, it’s designed with videographers in mind. In fact, Sirui has really taken it to the next level with this product. It has a similar base system that has three fold-down feet, to turn it into a mini tripod. You can either let them stand on their own or put your weight on them to provide even more stability. But the best feature about this monopod is the fact that it can pan 360º and tilt up to 20º, without the monopod moving out of position. This gives you the same amount of control over the shot as a full-sized tripod would.

The only place where this monopod falls down is the weight. It weighs over 3lbs, which makes it the heaviest monopod yet, and it has a maximum load capacity of 17lbs. This makes it both heavier and weaker than the last monopod. So, the decision to buy this product should be based purely on its ability to pan and tilt. If that is something that you know will come in handy in your video shoots, it’s probably worth the extra money. Just make sure your camera isn’t too heavy. Make sure you also check our guide to the best selfie sticks.

Key Features:

Extends to 63”

Reversible 1/4″-20 & 3/8″-16 screw on the mounting plate

Comfortable foam grip

3-leg locking base

Can tilt to 20º

Can rotate and pan 360º

Specification:
  • BrandSirui
  • ModelP-204S
  • Weight3.09 pounds
Pros

Great for videographers.

Can tilt 20º and pan 360º.

3-leg locking base provides stability.

Cons

Too heavy and not that stable.

BUY ON AMAZON

5
Polaroid 72 Monopod

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Polaroid is one of the most famous and most trusted names in photography. They don’t just make instant cameras either, the Polaroid 72-inch monopod is one of the best monopods around. The first thing you might notice about it is that it’s a lot simpler than some of the monopods we’ve featured. It doesn’t have any additional features to make it more complicated and do the job of a tripod. Instead, the company has focused on making it the best monopod camera stand it can be.

The second thing you’ll notice about it is the height. At 72-inches long, it’s the second tallest monopod on this list (and the other one is much more expensive). This makes it the perfect option for the tall photographers out there. It means that you don’t have to stoop down to take the shot, which will save your back on a long day. Don’t be fooled into thinking it’s oversimplified though. It’s still got a universal thread, no-sweat foam grip, stay-set locking mechanism, and a retractable spike. They’ve still ticked all the boxes as far as we’re concerned. You may also be interested in some of the best camera holsters from our list, so check them out.

Key Features:

Extends to 72”

Standard tripod mount

No-sweat foam grip

Stay-set locking mechanism

Retractable spike

Specification:
  • BrandPolaroid
  • ModelPLMON72
  • Weight1.03 pounds
Pros

Simple and easy-to-use.

Perfect for tall people.

Affordable.

Cons

Not suitable for heavy cameras.

BUY ON AMAZON

6
AmazonBasics Carbon Fiber Monopod

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Next up is another monopod from AmazonBasics. It’s considerably more expensive than the first AmazonBasics product that we featured as our Best Choice, but that’s because it’s made from tougher stuff. Firstly, the tube is made of carbon fiber, which means it weighs just 0.95lbs but can hold up to 22 pounds. Plus, it measures from 17.5 to 61 inches long and has 5 separate extendable sections with rubber twist locks. Everything on this monopod feels high-quality, especially when you consider it’s an Amazon own-brand product.

It’s got a reversible screw on the mounting plate that will fit any SLR, compact, or action camera around. The whole thing comes in a high-quality carrying case and it’s got a useful strap to make it easy to secure on your wrist. Plus, the hand grip is made from super comfortable foam and you can screw a stainless-steel spike into the bottom for added stability. In short, this Carbo  Fiber monopod does the job of a much more expensive monopod without costing the earth. Sure, it’s not going to last as long as the more expensive options, but it’s really good quality for the price. And, it’s backed by an AmazonBasics 1-year limited warranty, so if you don’t like it you can get your money back. Be sure to also check out our list of the best smartphone tripods for more great items like this. 

Key Features:

Extends to 61”

Reversible 1/4″-20 & 3/8″-16 screw on the mounting plate

Comfortable foam grip

Removable spike

Carrying case included

AmazonBasics 1-year limited warranty

Specification:
  • BrandAmazonBasics
  • ModelHJ-C315M
  • Weight1 pound
Pros

Simple and easy-to-use.

Lightweight and strong.

Cons

Extendable sections aren’t secure.

Expensive for AmazonBasics.

BUY ON AMAZON

7
DIGIANT MP-3606 Professional Video Monopod

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The DIGIANT MP-3606 is a monopod for DSLR cameras, SLR cameras, and camcorders weighing up to 11lbs. It’s not the best quality monopod we’ve selected, but we thought it deserved a place on our list because it has so many features. It has an operating height of up to 70-inches, and it has all the normal features like a foam grip and a wrist strap. Like all monopods designed for videographers, it has a base with three feet that have teeth on to help them bite into soft ground. However, it’s probably not strong enough to hold a decent sized video camera without you supporting the structure, so the base is really there just for added support.

Like the Sirui P-204SR, it has an awesome 3-way pan head that gives you loads of movement to bring your videos to life. It can pan 360º and tilt an impressive 15º in any direction. On top of this, it’s got a quick-twist lock system, so it’s easy to set up in a hurry. And it comes with a well-made carrying bad. Our handy guide to the best selfie sticks features more great products like this. 

Key Features:

Extends to 70”

Reversible 1/4″-20 & 3/8″-16 screw on the mounting plate

3-way pan head

3-leg locking base

Can tilt to 20º

Can rotate and pan 360º

2-year warranty

Specification:
  • BrandDIGIANT
  • ModelMP-3606
  • Weight3.97 pounds
Pros

Great for videographers.

Can tilt 20º and pan 360º.

Lots of features.

Cons

The base isn’t stable enough.

BUY ON AMAZON

8
Manfrotto Element Aluminum 5-Section Monopod

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The Manfrotto Element Aluminium 5-section Monopod is one of the simplest monopods on this list. In fact, we think it would make the perfect travel monopod because it blends simplicity, quality, and portability. It only weighs around 1lb and it only extends to 59-inches. So, it’s pretty clear that it’s not the biggest and most versatile monopod, but it’ll easily fit into your travel bag.

Plus, it has all the features you need from a monopod, without it being overloaded with things that could easily break. For example, it’s got an ergonomic foam hand grip and wrist strap, but it doesn’t have a complicated base. Instead, it’s just got an interchangeable foot that can either be rubber or spike depending on the type of ground. What it lacks in features, it makes up for in quality. It’s made from strong aluminum and every separate part feels like it’s really going to last. Love this product? Check out our review of the best travel cameras for our top picks. 

Key Features:

Extends to 59”

Reversible 1/4″-20 & 3/8″-16 screw on the mounting plate

Twist-locking mechanism

Interchangeable feet (rubber or spiked)

Ergonomic foam hand grip

Wrist strap

Specification:
  • BrandManfrotto
  • ModelMMELEA5RD
  • Weight1.1 pounds
Pros

Great for traveling.

Simple and easy-to-use.

Well-made.

Cons

Doesn’t extend enough for tall people. 

BUY ON AMAZON

9
K&F Concept Lightweight Monopod MP2624

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The K&F Concept Lightweight Monopod is the second cheapest monopod on this list, and we’ve selected it as our Best Value product. It’s also the lightest monopod we’ve selected. Like the last monopod, it’s a great option for traveling. If you’re a YouTuber that makes travel videos, this could be a great addition to your tool kit. It’s not as good quality as the Manfrotto, but it’s about half the price.

The weight is definitely one of the main attractions of this monopod. It’s only 0.77lbs and folds down to 21.26-inches. Plus, it can hold cameras up to 6.6lbs. It’s also got a lot of the features that the more expensive products have. For example, it comes with a rubber foot and a metal spike, the handle is made from non-slip foam, and the mounting thread is universal. Of course, this isn’t the best quality monopod around, but for the price, it’s worth a try. Be sure to combine this with a cool GoPro alternative from our list. 

Key Features:

Extends to 67”

Universal mounting thread

Interchangeable feet (rubber or spiked)

Ergonomic foam hand grip

Wrist strap

Specification:
  • BrandK&F Concept
  • ModelKF09.011
  • Weight12.3 ounces
Pros

Great for traveling.

Simple and easy-to-use.

Very affordable.

Cons

Mounting thread is cheaply made.

BUY ON AMAZON

10
Manfrotto Xpro Aluminum Video Monopod

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The Manfrotto Xpro Aluminium Video Monopod is by far the best monopod on this list. It’s designed with professional photographers and videographers in mind, which is why everything on it is such high-quality. With an impressive working height of 79.9 inches, it’s also the tallest monopod and should be tall enough even for the biggest photographers out there. It has a Fluidtech base that provides perfectly smooth movement in all directions, which makes just as good as a tripod for getting long panning shots. Plus, the 3-feet base system can actually take the weight of your camera, so you can leave it to stand on its own.

Another feature we really like is the Easy Link 3/8 inch connector, which allows you to add an external monitor. This gives serious videographers a better view of the shot they’re getting. It’s by no means the most portable or cheapest monopod around, but if you’re looking for quality, this is the monopod for you.

Key Features:

Extends to 79.9”

FLUIDTECH BASE

3-feet base system

Easy Link 3/8-inch connector

Quick power lock

Ergonomic foam hand grip

Wrist strap

Specification:
  • BrandManfrotto
  • ModelMVMXPRO500US
  • Weight4.63 pounds
Pros

Amazing quality.

FLUIDTECH base provides smooth panning.

Easy to use.

Cons

We can’t find any.

BUY ON AMAZON

Monopod Buying Guide & FAQ

How We Chose Our Selection Of Monopods

Brand – We checked out some of the best brands in photography to create this list of monopods. While we know that the brand isn’t everything, it gives us a good place to start looking. Then we look at the quality and features of each product to make sure it’s up to scratch.

Reviews – We read hundreds of customer reviews when we’re creating our buying guides. We can look at the product features, pictures, and even test each product, but there’s nothing like finding out what hundreds of other photographers thought after they purchased it. We also check out other expert reviews to see what professional photographers think about the products.

Price – Everyone has a different budget. That’s why we include a range of different priced items to make sure there’s a monopod for everyone on this list. Check out our Best Value and Premium Products for the cheapest and most expensive monopods.

camera monopod

Features To Look For In Monopods

Height – The height of the monopod is important for two reasons. Firstly, it needs to be tall enough so you can rest it on the ground when you’re standing up at full height. Otherwise, you would have to rest the monopod on a raised surface. And secondly, the taller the monopod, the higher you can lift it above your head. This is great for taking photos when you’re in a crowd and when you’re trying to shoot something you can’t reach normally.

Grip – The grip is what your hands hold on to. Most monopods grips are made from foam and are designed to remain grippy even when your hands are sweaty. This is really important because you might have hundreds or thousands of dollars’ worth of camera attached to the end, and you don’t want to drop it!

Lock – The locking system on your monopod is what keeps it in place when you adjust the height. If it didn’t have this, it would come crashing back down after you’ve extended it. If you really want your camera to be safe, you should look for a high-quality locking system.

Mount – The mount is where you attach the camera to the monopod. The mount on your monopod obviously needs to match the thread on the bottom of your camera. Check out the ‘Key Features’ on each product to find out the mount size.

Feet – You don’t strictly need feet on a monopod, but they do sometimes come in useful. If you need to leave your camera freestanding and the monopod doesn’t have too much weight on top, having feet can turn it into a mini tripod.

a photographer using a monopod

How To Use A Monopod

Attach Your Camera – First, you need to attach your camera to the monopod using the mount. Make sure it’s securely fastened before you let go of it.

Find The Right Position – Then, extend the monopod to the right length and find the perfect position for the shot. This might be on the ground, against your stomach, or above your head.

Find The Right Angle – When you’ve found the perfect position, you can angle the camera to get the shot. Some monopods have a ball joint on top, which makes this part easier.

Take The Shot – Now you’re ready to take the shot. If you’ve lifted the monopod above your head, you’ll need to set the camera to take the shot automatically.

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