Like many photographers and videographers, I often found myself needing a stable platform for my camera in tight spaces or at low angles, but without the bulk of a full-sized tripod. This problem became particularly frustrating when trying to get creative shots on tabletops, rocky terrain, or even just ensuring a steady video call setup. Without a dedicated solution, I was stuck balancing my gear precariously or missing out on certain perspectives altogether. This inability to reliably place my camera where I needed it was a constant hurdle, limiting creative possibilities and adding unnecessary stress to shoots.
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- 【High Stability】: Made of aluminum alloy, The legs support up to 44 lbs and the ball head bears up to 4.4 lbs while weighing only 0.89 lbs. The rubber tripod feet prevent the mini tripod from...
What to Look For in a Mini Tripod
A mini tripod is an essential piece of gear for anyone who needs portability and stability for smaller cameras, smartphones, or accessories like lights and microphones. They are perfect for desktop use, low-angle shots, travel, vlogging, and macro photography. The ideal customer is someone who values compactness and convenience but refuses to compromise on build quality and stability. However, if you primarily shoot with extremely heavy telephoto lenses or require significant height adjustment, a mini tripod isn’t likely your main solution; you’d need a full-sized tripod system. Before purchasing, consider factors like maximum load capacity, build material, ball head flexibility (pan and tilt range), compatibility with existing quick release plates (like Arca-Swiss), leg stability (rubber feet vs. spikes), and overall size and weight.
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Introducing the SMALLRIG Mini Tripod BUT2664
The SMALLRIG Mini Tripod for Camera – BUT2664 is designed as a robust, portable desktop and tabletop tripod solution. It promises high stability and flexibility for various shooting scenarios involving compact cameras, DSLRs, phones, and GoPros. When you purchase it, you receive the tripod itself, featuring a built-in ball head and an Arca-Swiss compatible quick release plate. Compared to cheaper, plastic alternatives on the market, the BUT2664 boasts an all-metal construction. SmallRig is known for its camera cages and accessories, and this tripod integrates well into their ecosystem. While I haven’t used previous versions, this is described as an ‘Updated’ design. This product is ideal for content creators, photographers, and videographers who need a reliable, sturdy, and compact support system for medium-weight setups. It might be overkill or larger than needed for just a very lightweight phone, and, as mentioned, not suitable for very heavy professional cinema camera setups.
Here’s a quick look at its pros and cons:
Pros:
* Excellent build quality and solid metal construction.
* Impressive load capacity for its size (up to 44 lbs on legs, 4.4 lbs on head).
* Smooth and flexible 360° ball head with tilt.
* Convenient Arca-Swiss compatible quick release plate.
* Stable rubber feet grip surfaces well.
* Compact and portable design.
Cons:
* Leg angle adjustment relies solely on friction, with no distinct click-in notches at multiple angles like some other models.
* Can be bulkier than expected for *some* users looking for the absolute smallest option.
* Potential minor compatibility issues with *some* specific SmallRig L-brackets (based on user feedback).
Detailed Look: Capabilities and Advantages
The SMALLRIG Mini Tripod BUT2664 is more than just a simple stand; its design incorporates several key features that make it a reliable tool in my kit. Having used it extensively, I can attest to how these features translate into real-world benefits.
Robust Aluminum Alloy Construction
One of the first things you notice about the BUT2664 is its solid feel. Made from aluminum alloy, this isn’t a flimsy plastic toy. This robust construction is crucial because it directly contributes to the tripod’s stability and durability. When you’re mounting expensive camera gear, you want complete confidence that your support won’t flex, wobble, or break. The aluminum build provides that assurance. It feels premium in the hand and has withstood being tossed into camera bags and used in various environments without showing signs of wear or damage. This durability means it’s a long-term investment rather than something you’ll need to replace anytime soon.
Exceptional Load Capacity
For such a compact tripod, the stated load capacities are quite remarkable. The legs are rated to support up to 44 lbs, which is far more than you’d ever put on a tripod this size. This excessive capacity for the legs ensures they will *never* be the weak point. More importantly, the ball head is rated for up to 4.4 lbs. While this might seem modest compared to the legs, it’s ample for most mirrorless cameras, smaller DSLRs, compact video cameras, and certainly phones with adapters. I’ve comfortably mounted my full-frame mirrorless camera with a standard zoom lens on it, which is close to that 4.4 lbs limit, and the head holds firm. This high capacity means you don’t have to worry about your camera slowly drooping or the head slipping once locked down, which is a common failure point in less well-made tabletop tripods.
Integrated Ball Head with 360° Swivel and Tilt
The integrated ball head is a standout feature. It offers a full 360-degree horizontal rotation, which is perfect for panoramic shots or simply re-framing without moving the tripod legs. The head also allows for tilt adjustments from -90 to +45 degrees. This tilt range is sufficient for most standard shots and even allows for some downward angles (though not straight down if the camera body hits the legs). The ball head movement is smooth, and the locking knob tightens down securely. What’s particularly useful are the fine laser-engraved marks around the base in 5° increments from 0°-330°. While I don’t do precise multi-shot panoramas often, these marks are invaluable for any shot where you need repeatable panning, such as video sequences or even just aligning subsequent shots. The spring-loaded nature of the locking wings is a small but appreciated detail, allowing you to reposition them if they interfere with camera placement.
Arca-Swiss Compatible Quick Release Plate
The inclusion of an Arca-Swiss compatible clamp and quick release plate is a huge convenience. Arca-Swiss is a widely adopted standard, meaning you can likely use the included plate with other tripods or heads you own, or use your camera’s existing L-bracket or plate if it’s Arca-Swiss compatible. The plate itself is rubber-padded, which helps protect your camera body from scratches when mounting it. The quick release mechanism is secure and easy to use – simply slide the plate in and tighten the screw knob. This saves significant time compared to screwing the camera directly onto the tripod’s 1/4″ screw every time you want to mount or unmount it. It integrates seamlessly into my workflow, as many of my other supports also use the Arca-Swiss system.
Three-Position Leg Angle Adjustment System
The leg design features a three-position leg angle adjustment system. This means the legs can be set at different spread angles, although the product description notes a specific “stand in place” angle (130°). This allows you to adjust the tripod’s height and footprint based on your needs and the stability required. A wider spread lowers the tripod and increases stability, while a narrower spread raises it slightly (though still very low overall) and takes up less space. This adaptability is key for a desktop tripod, letting you use it on various surfaces and at different heights relative to your subject. However, one slight drawback here, as noted in user reviews and the product description itself, is that while there are ‘positions’, the leg angle adjustment relies primarily on friction rather than distinct click-in notches like some higher-end or alternative SmallRig models (like the BUT2666). While the friction is generally strong enough to hold angles, it lacks the positive locking feel of a notched system, and adjusting the leg screw tension isn’t recommended by the manufacturer. For me, this hasn’t been a major issue as I tend to use it mostly fully spread or at the recommended standing angle, but users expecting multiple *positively locked* angle options might find this limiting.
Solid Base Support with Rubber Feet
The feet of the SMALLRIG Mini Tripod BUT2664 are made of rubber. These aren’t just plastic caps; they are substantial rubber pads that provide excellent grip on smooth or delicate surfaces like tables, desks, and polished floors. They prevent the tripod from sliding, even when adjusting the camera or the surface isn’t perfectly level. This grip is crucial for maintaining stability, especially with heavier cameras mounted. Unlike tripods with spikes, which are designed for soft ground, the rubber feet make this portable tripod ideal for indoor or urban shooting environments where most surfaces are hard.
Portable and Compact Design
Weighing in at only 0.89 lbs (around 410g) and having a compact folded size, this mini tripod is incredibly easy to carry around. It fits easily into a camera bag side pocket, a backpack, or even a larger jacket pocket. This portability means you’re more likely to have it with you when you need it, enabling spontaneous shots or setups that would be impossible with a larger tripod. While one user found it slightly bigger than anticipated, its dimensions are still quite small considering its build quality and load capacity. It strikes a good balance between being small enough to travel with and substantial enough to provide real stability.
Compatibility
The BUT2664 features a standard 1/4″-20 screw mount on its quick release plate, making it compatible with almost any camera, phone mount, or accessory that has a standard tripod thread. This universal compatibility is a major plus, allowing you to use it with a wide range of gear beyond just cameras. As mentioned, while the Arca-Swiss plate fits most standard Arca-Swiss clamps, one user did report their specific SmallRig L-bracket didn’t fit *perfectly* tight compared to the included plate. This suggests that while generally compatible, there might be slight variations even within the same brand’s accessory lineup. However, for standard camera bodies using the included plate or standard Arca-Swiss plates, compatibility is excellent.
Hearing From Users: Community Impressions
Looking at feedback from other users who have bought and used this SMALLRIG tripod, the general consensus aligns with my own positive experience. Many are impressed by its exceptional stability and solid metal construction, noting that it feels much more premium than expected for a product of its size and price point. Users report successfully mounting relatively heavy setups, including full-frame cameras with lenses, without any sagging or instability, highlighting the strength of both the legs and the ball head. The compact size and ease of use are frequently praised, making it a go-to option for travel and desktop applications. While some users, like myself, noted the friction-based leg adjustment system lacks the positive feel of locking notches found on other tripods, this doesn’t seem to detract significantly from its perceived quality and performance for most. The Arca-Swiss plate is also appreciated for its convenience and broad compatibility. Overall, user reviews consistently emphasize the quality, stability, and value this mini tripod provides.
Wrapping Up: Is This the Right Choice for You?
The perennial challenge of needing a stable base for your camera without lugging around heavy gear is effectively solved by a good mini tripod. Without one, you risk blurry shots, awkward setups, and missed creative opportunities, especially when shooting low to the ground or on surfaces like desks. The SMALLRIG Mini Tripod for Camera BUT2664 stands out as an excellent solution for several reasons: its robust metal build ensures durability and unwavering stability, its high load capacity confidently supports a wide range of cameras and accessories, and its versatile ball head and Arca-Swiss quick release system offer the flexibility and convenience serious creators need. If you’re in the market for a reliable, high-quality, and portable support for your camera gear, this desktop tripod is certainly worth considering. To learn more or make a purchase, Click here.
Last update on 2025-07-07 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API