Best Tripod Ball Head: Zomei Z699C

Zomei are a Chinese manufacturer of camera equipment, with the Z699C being a relatively inexpensive option for photographers looking for a carbon fiber tripod.

It’s marketed as a travel tripod, with collapsible legs to facilitate carrying, although at 1.63 kg it’s not the lightest carbon fiber tripod out there.

For the price, however, it’s versatile: it’s got a ball head for 360-degree flexibility, and each leg is individually adjustable with five separate sections which can be extended or retracted as necessary.

It’s even got dampeners in the legs themselves to help the tripod automatically adjust to the weight of your camera, and the longest leg can be unscrewed to serve as a more mobile monopod.

The Z699C is a sound choice as an entry-level carbon fiber tripod, and comes complete with an integrated spirit level and a carry case.