Hunting for the perfect tripod? Whether you’re an absolute beginner or a pro keeping an eye out for the next big gear shift, we’re sure something here will catch your eye. Read on for a comparison, then stop in at any Mike’s Camera or click the links below to upgrade.
(Click here to leap to the comparison chart.)
Oh yeah, and there are savings…
…but only through May 27th! Don’t delay! Save up to $50 on your tripod today!
The Chronicle: all the tripods you’ll need, in one
The most adaptable tripod… ever? Available in both aluminum and carbon fiber, the Chronicle can hold your phone, point-and-shoot, or monster-lensed ILC. It can also be set up as a standard tripod, monopod, tabletop tripod, ground-level tripod, or even as a handheld stabilizer grip. It’s more of a “tripod system” than a simple tripod, and it packs down into a compact, self-contained kit. The included ball-head features two U-notches for easier creativity, a quick conversion between camera plate and phone clamp, and a video-style handle for more control in adjustments.
The Epoch: classic style, effortless professionalism
Whether you’re shooting film or digital, landscapes or architecture, astro or macro, stability and aesthetics are critical. ProMaster’s latest retro-styled tripod was designed with history in mind, but incorporates the most modern innovations in steadiness. Offering an impressive range—from nearly flat on the ground to over all but the most towering head—and a reversible column with an ultra-precise four-way pan-tilt head, the Epoch is for image makers willing to slow down to capture the perfect image.
The Specialists: quick deployment, rock-solid performance
The Specialist series of tripods offers a smorgasbord of professional features: memory-lockable tension knob, arca-type release plate, PROlock leg locks (my personal favorite feature), rubber feet that can reveal spikes for rough terrain, and more. All tripods in the specialist line are available with either aluminum carbon fiber legs. Check out the chart at the end of the article for an in-depth spec comparison.
The XC-Ms: with you wherever you need
“XC-M” stands for “eXtreme Modular Compact.” This line emphasizes portability, offering low weight and incredible small folded lengths for ease of travel. All three models’ legs are removable and can be used as monopods as needed. The XC-M series is expandable—add all-terrain feet or a column tilt adapter to expand your capabilities.
Spec comparison chart
| MAX HEIGHT | MIN HEIGHT | FOLDED LENGTH | MAX LOAD | WEIGHT | |
| Chronicle | 59″ | 8.3″ | 22.9″ | 22 lbs | 4 lbs 11.7 oz 4 lbs 2.9 oz (CF) |
| Epoch | 76.8″ | 11″ | 30.3″ | 22 lbs | 5.3 lbs |
| SP425 | 68.8″ | 7″ | 23.3″ | 22 lbs | 4 lbs 9.8 oz 3 lbs 15 oz (CF) |
| SP528 | 80.6″ | 7.3″ | 23.8″ | 24 lbs 4 oz | 5 lbs 11.63 oz 4 lbs 14.6 oz (CF) |
| SP532 | 84.5″ | 7.3″ | 24.5″ | 26 lbs 8 oz | 6 lbs 8.6 oz 5 lbs 7.3 oz (CF) |
| XC-M 522 | 53.1″ | 12.5″ | 12.2″ | 11 lbs | 2 lbs 8.5 oz |
| XC-M 525 | 70.4″ | 15.1″ | 15″ | 17 lbs 10 oz | 3 lbs 4.9 oz 2 lbs 13.3 oz (CF) |
| XC-M 528 | 80″ | 16.7″ | 16.5″” | 20 lbs | 4 lbs 1.8 oz 3 lbs 7.3 oz (CF) |