Ideally, smartphone tripods should be just as portable and convenient to carry around as a mobile device. That’s exactly what the JOBY GripTight Micro Stand, our top pick, offers. This pocket-size device works as a tripod in vertical and horizontal modes and offers easy tilting movements. Even better, it folds completely flat and will fit into virtually any small pocket or compartment. We’ve tested and gathered a list of other smartphone tripods that offer the versatility and convenience you need for snapping selfies or scenic panoramic shots with your mobile device. Despite its small build, this JOBY tripod is solidly built with hardy TPE, ABS plastic, and stainless steel. The rubber feet provide stability and the hinging smartphone cradle offers simple security without pinching or slipping. Though this JOBY model doesn’t offer extended legs or 360-degree range, the ball head lends itself to easy tilting motions when your device is in place. If you’re in the market for a simple but multipurpose stand for your smartphone, this tiny device is up for the job. The tripod, itself, comes with sturdy rubber feet on each leg for a stay-put grip, and the ball head rotates 360 degrees and can be locked into place with a bit of effort to capture the perfect angle. The smartphone holder also offers a universal fit for most phones (up to 3.8 inches wide) and can be tilted 90 degrees for use in horizontal or portrait mode. Once you set your device up to the ideal angle and orientation, the Bluetooth remote with a wrist lanyard makes snapping selfies and videos a breeze. Bluetooth pairing is fast and simple and works with both iOS and Android devices, and you can expect an operating distance of up 30 feet with this handy remote. In a pinch, the legs can be brought together to serve as a selfie stick as well. While the FotoPro tripod looks and functions much like a mini version of a standard tripod, it weighs only 1.26 pounds. It also comes with a convenient carrying case and numerous accessories, including a universal smartphone mount, a Bluetooth remote for hands-free shooting, and a GoPro mount. In addition to a sturdy smartphone cradle, this model also comes with attachments for up to three additional accessories such as microphones or lights, with the help of a hot shoe, GoPro mount, and two GorillaPod arms. If you like to shoot on the go, gather the legs to use as a short selfie stick. You can also choose from vertical and portrait orientations, thanks to 90- to 180-degree tilting flexibility. This Jelly Grip tripod fits most smartphones up to 6 inches on the diagonal and 3.5-inches wide, though some users have expressed concern over the stability of the legs, which are quite short and don’t adjust. They can, however, fold down for easy storage and stowing, and the whole product is backed by a lifetime warranty. For a convenient tabletop smartphone tripod that you can quickly angle to any orientation, it’s hard to beat this compact and affordable option. The mount portion of this product features a grippy clamp design that should fit most smartphones, though some larger models and cases may not fit. It can also be used on its own as an independent stand to prop up your device. And if you’re interested in using other digital devices with a tripod, the Manfrotto PIXI has a universal screw head that is compatible with smaller cameras up to about 2.2 pounds. Assuming your phone fits like a glove, you’ll also enjoy 360-degree rotation from the mount and the convenience of a Bluetooth remote for snapping pictures from a distance. Though you’ll have to frequently charge the battery, the remote has its own storage slot on the selfie stick portion, so you won’t have to worry about misplacing it.
What to Look for in Smartphone Tripods
Size
Smartphone tripods range in height and overall size. While they tend to be smaller than camera tripods, some taller models come with adjustable legs or poles that extend for use in monopod or selfie mode. Smaller models that are simple stands can be the most versatile for straightforward use to support photo snapping or video chatting.
Compatibility
Most smartphone tripods offer a universal fit with most devices, and some specify suitability with cases. If your device is larger or smaller, make sure to confirm the manufacturer’s sizing criteria. And if you want to use a smartphone tripod exclusively with a case, make sure to factor that into your measurements.
Adjustability
Tilting ability and horizontal and vertical orientation are all standard on most smartphone tripods. If you’re looking for more control over capturing panoramic shots or the exact angle, consider models with rotating ball heads and 360-degree panning and tilting ability.
