The best value tripod heads for birding spotting scopes

Here we take a detailed look at the options for tripod heads for people who are on a budget. Fortunately, with a range of affordable tripod heads on the market, bird watchers can still expect to get smooth panning and tilting motion from their kit.

Let’s take a closer look at what is available at the entry level end of the tripod head market.

Quick comparison: best value tripod heads for birding spotting scopes

How we selected the top picks for the best value tripod head

Key features to look for in your tripod head are:

• a counterbalance system to hold the spotting scope in position even when steeply tilted
• precise control of the drag resistance to allow free movement when repositioning
• smooth movement when panning and tilting
• a consistently reliable locking system
• sturdy construction for extra stability
• attention to details, such as an integrated leveling system, an adjustable panning handle, durable dials and knobs

It is also worth considering the size and weight of any equipment you carry. Of the most value is a tripod head that detaches easily from the scope and, if necessary, from the tripod legs.

The weight is a delicate balance. While you want the tripod set-up to be heavy enough to provide sufficient stability, consider also the distance that you are likely to be carrying it. Or even if you’ll need to pack it for travel within a certain baggage weight allowance.

To get a detailed overview of the different types of tripod heads, we have an in-depth article discussing what to look for when choosing your tripod head:

How to choose a tripod head for a spotting scope

Is a cheap tripod head worth it?

While it would be unfair to compare the best value tripod heads out there to the very top range, it’s also important to make sure that despite their lower cost they are still doing an adequate job of achieving their purpose.

Cheaper kit can often be a compromise, perhaps due to its weight or rigidity, which gets passed on to the spotting scope viewer as a lack of stability and blurry images.

So the most important thing about finding the best value tripod head on a limited budget is that you are looking for something that offers enough of your priorities.

Affordable options still offer good value

On balance, these tripod heads seem to offer enough stability for use with a spotting scope. Their movements when panning and tilting are smooth enough.

Because they are cheaper, their weight and size tend towards the smaller end, so it’s personal preference whether this suits you. Of course, a lot of the satisfaction is in the combination with the right tripod legs as well.

One way of saving a bit of money on a tripod head without compromising on the features is to look for one without the quick release plate.

It would take extra time to screw on the spotting scope via the standard ¼ inch threaded connection. But if your budget is really tight then this might help.

Reviews: the best value tripod head for birding spotting scopes

Keeping in mind these key features to look out for in a great value tripod head, let’s look models that might be suitable for your requirements.

Best value tripod head for birding spotting scopes – overall winner

SmallRig Selection CH10 Fluid Pan Tilt Tripod Head 3259 Overview

For those who need a lightweight option, the SmallRig CH10 only weighs 13.3 ounces. Its compact dimensions and low poundage make it ideal for on-the-go birding.

The size seems to impact the counterbalance range on the tilt function. The small size of the plate allows a slightly limited positioning range.

This is something that could affect larger scopes, as they are heavier on the front end and may be less balanced.

360 degree panning range

Some of the weight is saved by having plastic controls rather than metal. This reduces the cost too.

The tilt and pan locks are located on the side of the tripod head. The tilt range goes from +90 degrees in a downward direction to -55 degrees backwards, while the pan operates across the whole 360 degree panorama.

A simple solution: small, light, functional

Unless your spotting scope is really large, this simple and functional tripod head should support your optics, despite its small size.

If you’re searching for a sound budget option, this should deliver a reliable enough performance to enable you to feel that you are receiving good value for your money.

Best value tripod head for birding spotting scopes – runner-up

Benro S2 Video Head Overview

This is the older version of Benro’s S series, which we have included because it’s still a great deal at a lower price point than the updated version, the S2PRO. If you’re willing to part with a bit more cash, then the S2PRO is a decent upgrade for not too much more.

Sticking with the cheaper first version, though, the S2 offers the 5.5 pound maximum load. By itself, the magnesium alloy S2 tripod head weighs just 12.8 pounds. That is marginally less than the SmallRig option we have also reviewed.

Safe and easy attachment features

There is a sliding quick release plate (plus separate safety lock) to help in balancing the spotting scope. The plate has a ¼ inch screw and a retractable pin to stop rotation.

One thing the S2 is missing that might be important depending on what you want to attach is the Arca Swiss compatible plates. The slide-in plate on offer here is similar to the ones on lightweight Manfrotto heads. If you’d like the option to connect to an Arca Swiss plate, you’ll need Benro’s S2P version.

There’s an integrated bubble level at the base of the head to check the horizontal alignment.

Pan and tilt range of motion

Panning will take your view around the whole 360 degree, while the vertical tilt goes from +85° to -85°. This is a pretty good range of motion especially for birders who might be tracking overhead flight.

There is fluid drag control to assist with smoothness. But the drag is fixed for both the pan and the tilt, so you can’t adjust it to your own preference.

There are independent locks for the pan (at the base) and tilt (in the middle) so you can lock off one axis and move along the other axis only.

The single panning handle attaches on the right side of the tripod head only, with the majority of the rest of the controls on the left side.

The handle can be removable or attached to be pointed at a variety of angles. It’s advisable to take care when changing this as the handle itself feels rather flimsy and could do with more stiffness.

Lacking a counterbalance

As always, bear in mind the maximum load weight is best taken only very roughly as a guide.

With this S2, which doesn’t have a counterbalance, you can err on the side of putting a much lighter load on there. This will reduce any potential pressure from heavier scopes.

The S2 offers a sound performance at this price point – a bit more than the SmallRig but still very affordable for what it offers. However, if you are able to stretch a bit further, the S2PRO is a worthwhile investment for the newer and improved model. Check out the details here >>>

Best value tripod head for birding spotting scopes – for heavier scopes

Innorel F60 fluid pan tripod head Overview

This fluid head does a decent job of providing a sound base for images through a spotting scope, with generally smooth tilting and panning.

The maximum weight it can hold is listed at 22 pounds. Top performance is probably achieved well below this weight, though that is not a major problem for most spotting scopes.

The head is cast out of aluminum and weighs 1.9 pounds.

Quick release plate is universal

There’s a universal quick release plate. It is simple to use and compatible with other Manfrotto type plates, and a wrench tool included to help fit it. It slides so that you can balance the optics appropriately.

The locking button is metal, which is a small but reassuring detail as even some of the leading brands leave this part as plastic.

Though there can be the occasional stickiness, Innorel’s fluid head pans pretty smoothly once it gets going. Its range is across 360 degrees horizontally, as well as 90 degrees downwards and around 50 degrees upwards in the vertical axis.

The locks hold firmly on both orientations.

Panning handle fits either side

It’s good to have a two-section handle that will fit onto either of the rosettes located on both the left and right sides. This handle is not the toughest piece of equipment, but it can be lengthened from 10.6 inches to 16 inches. There is an integrated bubble level.

It’s not a professional level head, but then it doesn’t pretend to be. Innorel is a relatively young company, but what this head offers is a reasonable build that balances optics sufficiently well to offer birders a satisfying experience using it in combination with their spotting scope.

The robustness and functionality of the F60 tripod head is better than you might expect for this price.

Finding a good value tripod head for birding spotting scopes: next steps

So, what is the best value tripod head for you? It really depends on your needs and budget. All of these affordable tripod heads offer a variety of features and are versatile enough in size and weight to be used with a wide range of tripod legs.

If, however, you are keen to find a very lightweight tripod head, this article might be of interest >> Best lightweight compact tripod heads

It’s important to select the right tripod head for your needs in order to get the most out of your optical equipment. By understanding the different types of tripod heads available and what each is best suited for, you can be confident in making the best purchase for your bird watching adventures.

If you are looking for something more specialized or feel that it might be worth raising your budget, there are plenty of other great options to consider. No matter what you decide, make sure to read reviews and understand how the tripod head works before making your purchase.

Be sure to check out our other articles on tripod heads for use with spotting scopes to learn more about choosing the right gear for you >>> The best tripod heads for birding spotting scopes

Some birders prefer to buy an all-in-one tripod kit, rather than looking for tripod legs and heads separately. If this sounds like an option for you, you might like to check out these complete tripods: What are the best tripod kits for birding?