Amazon Basics 50-inch Tripod Review: Worth Buying?
Starting with a surprising pattern from user reports, the Amazon Basics 50-inch Portable Tripod Stand, Champagne scores a conditional 7.8/10. While marketed as a lightweight, travel-friendly solution for casual photographers, it has earned praise for portability and affordability but revealed recurring issues with stability and durability—especially for heavier gear. Multiple Reddit and Amazon buyers describe it as “super versatile and easy to carry,” yet caution that “it’s not sturdy for DSLRs” and can tip over in windy or crowded environments.
Quick Verdict: Conditional buy — ideal for lightweight cameras and mobile photography, but unsuitable for heavy DSLRs or pro video work.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Extremely lightweight and portable | Flimsy for heavier cameras |
| Affordable price point | Plastic parts prone to breaking |
| Smooth tilt and swivel for casual use | No phone mount included |
| Quick-release plate for fast transitions | Stability drops at full height |
| Built-in bubble level aids alignment | Panning can be creaky |
| Comes with zippered carrying bag | Clips/locks may loosen over time |
Claims vs Reality
One of Amazon’s key marketing claims is that the tripod’s “lightweight aluminum design” offers “reliable stability” for a wide range of cameras. In reality, while many users agree it’s stable for point-and-shoots or smartphones, heavier setups quickly push its limits. A verified buyer on Amazon noted: “It’s not sturdy for DSLRs… even the autofocus motor movement was enough to shift the lens angle.”
The product page also emphasizes “ultimate versatility” via its 3-way head and 360-degree swivel. Users confirm it works well for basic tilt and pan, but smoothness is inconsistent. Fakespot’s adjusted analysis highlighted: “It doesn’t run on ball bearings and is super creaky… smooth movement is not an option.” This impacts videographers who require fluid panning.
Finally, Amazon states it’s “not recommended for heavy, high-end DSLR cameras,” with a weight limit of 4.4 lbs. While this is clear in fine print, Reddit threads show confusion—several buyers attempted to mount DSLRs and reported instability or tipping. One Reddit user remarked: “If you’re shooting with a $5k camera, you can probably afford the real thing… this works fine for sub-$1k gear.”
Cross-Platform Consensus
Universally Praised
Across Reddit, Amazon, and Trustpilot, portability emerges as the standout feature. The tripod collapses to 16.5 inches and weighs just over 1 lb, making it easy to tuck into a backpack. A Trustpilot reviewer shared: “My iPad mini fits great… the lever allows me to face it down and check the view.” Travel photographers and casual vloggers appreciate the zippered bag for protection and convenience. On Twitter, one user summed it up: “Super lightweight and folds up nicely… perfect as a beginner tripod.”
Affordability is another major plus. With prices often under $20, it’s accessible for hobbyists. Reddit user feedback includes: “$16.99 isn’t bad for these… works great, inexpensive.” Many treat it as a “trial” tripod to learn what features they need before investing in higher-end gear.
Common Complaints
Durability concerns dominate negative feedback. Plastic latches and tightening screws can feel fragile, with several reports of clips snapping within months. A Twitter user warned: “One of the clips randomly snapped off… not a huge deal but definitely annoying.” Stability issues arise at full extension, especially on uneven ground or with heavier cameras. As one Reddit user put it: “It’s very light… might not be as stable on less even surfaces or in the wind.”
Smoothness of motion is another weak point. Fakespot analysis noted “super creaky” rotation, causing stuttered pans. Videographers using it for sports or performance capture often mention the lack of a panning crank, making video shooting “a bit unsteady.”
Divisive Features
The quick-release plate gets mixed reviews. Some love the speed of swapping cameras, while others struggle with fit for larger devices. On Trustpilot, a buyer praised the “removable mounting screw” but wished for “a bit more sturdy feeling at max height.” The built-in bubble level is appreciated for alignment, yet several users note it only measures left-right leveling, not front-back.
Trust & Reliability
Trustpilot and Reddit long-term reports indicate that while the tripod can last a year or more with gentle use, frequent outdoor or heavy-duty application shortens its lifespan. One Twitter reviewer said: “Lasted me a year… then pieces started to break.” Another Redditor repurposed theirs into a DIY stabilizer after wear made it unreliable for camera work.
Fakespot’s analysis found “minimal deception” in reviews, with over 80% high quality, but highlighted recurring patterns: instability with heavier gear, fragility in crowded environments, and screws that “don’t feel like they will last for too long.” This aligns with Reddit anecdotes of keeping it as a backup after upgrading.
Alternatives
Within the same budget range, Reddit discussions mention Albott 70” and Zomei Q111 tripods as sturdier options for DSLRs. However, these are heavier and less compact. For smartphone-focused creators, inexpensive phone mounts paired with this Amazon Basics tripod can be a better value. One Reddit user advised: “You really don’t need to invest more than $30… this would do,” linking the Amazon Basics model.
Price & Value
Current market listings show new units around $13–$16, with used ones on eBay for under $20. Some auctions have sold for as little as $0.25, indicating low resale value. Community tips suggest waiting for sales—Black Friday and Cyber Monday often drop prices further. Given its low cost, buyers generally treat it as a disposable learning tool rather than a long-term investment.
FAQ
Q: Is this tripod suitable for DSLR cameras?
A: Only for very light DSLR setups under 4.4 lbs. Multiple users report instability with heavier lenses, especially at full height.
Q: Does it come with a phone holder?
A: No, the tripod does not include a phone mount. You’ll need to purchase one separately.
Q: How stable is it outdoors?
A: Stability is adequate on flat surfaces but drops significantly in wind or uneven terrain. Rubber feet help, but weight hooks or additional support are recommended.
Q: Can it pan smoothly for video?
A: Panning is possible but often creaky and stuttered. It’s fine for casual clips but not ideal for professional video work.
Q: How portable is it?
A: Extremely portable—collapses to 16.5 inches and weighs around 1.2 lbs, making it ideal for travel.
Final Verdict: Buy if you’re a beginner photographer, casual vlogger, or traveler using lightweight gear. Avoid if you need smooth pans for video or plan to mount heavy DSLRs. Pro tip from the community: Pair it with a cheap phone mount and keep a backup tripod for more demanding shoots.
