Manfrotto Compact Action Tripod

For sharper images when shooting macro, long exposures, night photography, and more, count on the Manfrotto Compact Action tripod. It can accommodate any DSLR, compact, bridge, or smartphone camera up to 3.3 pounds, and features an ergonomic joystick head with a scroll-wheel locking mechanism. The circular quick-release plate makes for easy attachment (simply close the lever above the joystick handle) and works with the regulating dial to enhance stability. Finally, the photo-movie selector gives you freedom in any environment, and you can switch between the two modes in a second flat.

The lightest tripod in Manfrotto’s lineup, the Compact Light offers a natural transition between a mini- and full-sized tripod—and at just 2 pounds, it’s designed to go wherever you do. This version has the same build quality and payload, with a shorter maximum extension (51.6 inches to the Action’s 61 inches) and a fixed quarter-inch quick-wheel attachment. A built-in ball head replaces the joystick, and uses a single adjustment knob to position the camera and lock all components in place.

If you own a compact device with the tripod thread in an off-center position, please be aware that there are some limitations to how close to the side of the camera the quarter-inch thread can be. The minimum distance of the quarter-inch thread from the lateral edge of your device must be 13 millimeters to guarantee top performance. If you own a Sony NEX-5R or NEX-5T, you know that these models have a very small surface area around the mounting thread. For this reason, Manfrotto includes a special adapter that will increase this surface area for a stronger grip and better stability.