Best GoPro Monopods

GoPro monopods can take your GoPro videos to a new level by adding range and viewing angles to your footage. However, finding the best GoPro monopod is no easy task since hundreds of options exist.

Hi, my name is Larry, and I’m glad you found this guide! I’m a certified GoPro expert who’s been filming action content for almost a decade. Throughout these past 10 years, I’ve tested dozens of different GoPro monopods.

In today’s in-depth guide, I’ll share the top 4 best GoPro monopods based on length, weight, and build quality. I’ll also answer a few related questions and explain what qualities you should look for in your next GoPro monopod.

If you’re ready to enhance your GoPro videos, let’s jump right in!

Key Takeaways

• Weight and length are two of the most important factors when choosing the best GoPro monopod.
• GoPro monopods give videographers more stability without sacrificing mobility.
• Monopods are easier and quicker to deploy than tripods.
• The Manfrotto Compact Extreme is the best overall GoPro monopod based on build quality and affordability.
• The Altura Heavy Duty is the best option if you want a long GoPro monopod since it extends to 62 inches.

What Makes the Best GoPro Monopod

Before we dive into my list of the 4 best GoPro monopods, I want to discuss what qualities you should look for. This way, you can pick the best option for your specific recording preferences and needs. While length and weight are the most important criteria, you should also consider the build quality and waterproofing capabilities.

So, let’s take a closer look at each of the key factors to think about:

• Length: Length is the most critical factor to consider because you need a GoPro monopod that accommodates your recording preferences. Therefore, look for a GoPro monopod that extends to your preferred distance.
• Weight: The weight of your GoPro monopod determines how easy or difficult it is to carry around on all-day adventures. If you want a GoPro monopod for hiking or trekking, I recommend looking for a lightweight option since heavier ones can get uncomfortable to hold. 
• Build Quality: It’s also essential to find a GoPro monopod with excellent build quality so it can last several years without breaking or deteriorating. The material the monopod is made of will directly correlate to the durability. If you own a GoPro, you are likely to use it for some pretty extreme applications. The more sturdy the monopod, the more likely it is to hold up to the rigors of your action camera film shoots.
• Waterproofing: If you plan on taking your GoPro monopod underwater or into rainy conditions, you must find an option with excellent waterproofing capabilities. This prevents your monopod from rusting and decaying due to water damage. 

Top 4 Best GoPro Monopods

Now that you know everything there is to know about GoPro monopods, let’s hop into my list of the top 4 best GoPro monopods. These are the top GoPro monopods I’ve ever used after testing over 100 different options. So, you can have faith that any of the options I list below will upgrade your GoPro recording experience and video footage.

Here we go!

1. Manfrotto Compact Extreme 2-in-1 Monopod (Best Overall)

• Length: 14 to 52 inches
• Weight: 11.36 ounces

There is no more prominent name in the tripod/monopod space than Manfrotto. They are trusted by professional photographers and videographers across the world, and for good reason. This Manfrotto Compact Extreme 2-in-1 Monopod has the same amazing build quality as their bigger tripods and monopods but in a much smaller package. 

This monopod is made out of lightweight aluminum, giving it a solid feel while keeping it portable enough to throw in a bag and forget. It has multiple configurations where you can use it as a selfie stick, a pole, or a monopod. Furthermore, it features thoughtful build elements like a rounded handgrip and wrist strap to keep your camera safe. 

The Manfrotto Monopod also features a rubber foot for added grip and stability. In addition, the small aluminum ball head allows you to set any viewing angle you want, offering the best GoPro footage possible. In essence, this is one of the most premium and well-designed GoPro monopods available on the market today.

However, it’s important to note that this Monopod has a relatively higher price point than the other options. Nevertheless, the slightly higher price is warranted and worth the investment if you want a durable product with excellent features.

My Verdict: The Manfrotto Compact Extreme 2-in-1 is the best overall GoPro monopod because you can use it as a selfie stick or standard monopod camera extension pole. It’s also very lightweight, collapsible for easy transport, and exceptionally well built. 

2. Smatree Q3 Telescoping Monopod (Best Compact)

• Length: 11.8 to 36.6 inches
• Weight: 14.9 ounces

If you are looking for a small and compact monopod, the Smatree Q3 Telescoping Monopod is a great option. It can be compacted down into under one foot in length, making it a great choice for those who want to take it hiking. The max length is an underwhelming 36.6-inches, but the added portability from the smaller length is exceptionally lovely.

This monopod comes with an add-on that allows you to put a tripod base on it. These three small feet will give you extra stability for your shots and allow you to get the most smooth footage possible with a small monopod.

Similar to the Manfrotto Monopod, the Smatree also comes with a flexible wall head that offers 360-degree rotation angles for your GoPro. This way, you can easily find the best shooting position, no matter what situation you’re in. 

Best of all, this monopod features solid construction and easy-to-use extension legs and locking mechanisms. You can also mount your phone onto this monopod with the included spring-loaded phone holder.

Although this monopod comes with a removable tripod base, it’s not the best option if you want a dedicated GoPro tripod. Since the tripod legs are so short, you can only place it on extremely level surfaces like sidewalks and pavement. If you place the tripod legs on rugged forest or mounting grounds, it might tip over. 

My Verdict: The Smatree Q3 Telescoping is the best compact GoPro monopod since it contracts to 11.8 inches. Therefore, you can comfortably place it into your travel backpack or duffel bag. 

3. TELESIN Monopod (Best Waterproof)

• Length: 8 to 35.5 inches
• Weight: 8.1 ounces

The TELESIN Monopod can be collapsed down to the smallest size on this list. At a very easily managed 8-inches, you are essentially getting a GoPro grip that can be extended into a function monopod. Much like the Smatree monopod above, you get a removable tripod stand with your monopod for a bit of added stability when you want to shoot hands-free content.

Furthermore, the cool addition to this monopod is the inclusion of a cell phone mount on the handle. This allows you to monitor your GoPro video even when the selfie stick is extended to its full length and you are holding it in a precarious position. This will allow you to get the best, most cinematic shots from your GoPro.

This is one of the best overall GoPro monopods since it’s lightweight, compact, durable, affordable, and waterproof. If you take this monopod diving, I recommend cleaning the pole with fresh water afterward to prevent rust. 

Compared to other GoPro monopods, which feel like they are made of plastic, the TELESIN’s metal construction feels much better and more sturdy in your hands. This monopod also extends further than the GoPro 3-Way and other official GoPro mounts. 

Similar to the Smatree Q3 Monopod, the tripod legs are short. Therefore, finding stable ground to use the tripod feature can be difficult and frustrating. If you want a GoPro tripod, I recommend searching for a dedicated tripod instead of a GoPro monopod with dual features.

My Verdict: The TELESIN is the best waterproof GoPro monopod since it’s made with aluminum alloy in CNC treatment. This combines toughness and strength while making the monopod waterproof and rustproof. You can easily use it in the ocean, rain, or snow. 

4. Altura Heavy Duty Monopod (Best Budget)

• Length: 16.75 to 62 inches
• Weight: 9.44 ounces

The Altura Heavy Duty Monopod features a lightweight aluminum design that collapses down to 16.75 inches and extends to 62 inches. Since it only weighs 9.44 ounces, you can fit it neatly into a carry-on or tote bag. You can also comfortably place it into your hiking backpack without it weighing you down.

This monopod features a comfortable grip made with a soft foam material. Furthermore, it includes a safety wrist strap to protect your camera when recording high-intensity GoPro videos. The Altura Monopod also has a built-in non-skid rubber foot with a retractable leg spike. Therefore, you can use this monopod as a walking stick too.

Backed by a 90-day satisfaction guarantee, you have nothing to lose by testing out this monopod. Moreover, since it’s the most budget-friendly option on today’s list, it won’t cut a hole into your wallet either way. 

Overall, this monopod is lightweight, compact, and beautifully constructed. With its low price point, it’s the best value you can get for your dollars if you need a reliable GoPro monopod. 

However, if you need an incredibly durable monopod for professional GoPro shoots, I recommend looking at a different option. Since this monopod is so inexpensive, its build quality is less resistant to natural wear and tear. The Manfrotto Monopod is a better choice in this situation. 

My Verdict: The Altura Heavy Duty is the best budget GoPro monopod since it’s affordable, versatile, and lightweight. Since it extends out to 62 inches, it offers incredibly immersive recording possibilities to enhance your GoPro footage. 

Final Thoughts

I know how difficult it is to find the best GoPro monopod for your specific filming preferences. Since there are hundreds of options on the market, testing each one is nearly impossible. Some are incredibly cheap and poorly made, but the marketing and look can get you to press buy. 

Luckily, the four we have listed above are all extremely durable, well-made, and ready to take on your next adventure. So I’ve done all the groundwork for you and compiled a list of the best 4 GoPro monopods. 

Hopefully, by now, you’ve narrowed in on which GoPro monopod you want. While the Manfrotto Compact Extreme Monopod is the best overall option, the Altura Heavy Duty Monopod is a great choice if you want a budget-friendly GoPro monopod. 

So, which GoPro monopod are you going to go for? Do you have any other questions about GoPro monopods you’d like me to answer? Either way, let me know by dropping a quick reply down below!