Originally posted by brightseal Under $100 if there is such a thing.
What about a monopod $40 or less?
An under $100 tripod or a $500 tripod is useless if it isn't designed for what you're using it with and for. Stores like BHphotovideo carry over 650 different tripods and 130 of those model sare under $100.
What type of head best suits your needs? What is the max or min height wanted? For example, I wanted a lateral center column arm to extend over a table and there is only one model under $100 that offers that.
Is stability more important or light weight and compact for easy travel?
Unless you want to waste your money on upgrading over the years from mediocrity to finally a keeper, consider a tripod as a lifetime investment. I like sites like BHphotovideo where you can filter your options to narrow the choices. But then, of course, nothing beats a brick and mortar to actually get your hands on different tripods to see the quality, features, and size.
When it comes to monopods, beware the load capacity. Many photographers sort of use their monopods for more support than just their cameras (aka walking stick) and a cheap monopod will slip or collapse. For $40 I would consider the Manfrotto Element Aluminum Monopod with a 33 lbs. load capacity.
Manfrotto Element Aluminum Monopod (Red) MMELEA5RD B&H Photo
But aluminum can bend, so if you can increase your budget, I'd go with a lighter but stronger carbon fiber model like the Leofoto MP-284C Carbon Fiber Monopod with 110 lbs. load capacity.
Leofoto MP-284C Carbon Fiber Monopod MP-284 B&H Photo Video