What Tripod Accessories Do You Really Need?
By Vanguard World UK | Published: 2026-10-20
Category: Buying Guides
Not every tripod accessory is worth buying. We break down which ones genuinely help—like a support arm and cold shoe mount—and which you can skip.
Quick Answer
You really need only a few tripod accessories: a support arm for mounting accessories and a cold shoe mount for attaching small gear. Kits like the VEO CP-46 save money if you need multiple pieces.
Why a support arm earns its place
A tripod support arm turns a basic tripod into a flexible mounting platform. It lets you attach a monitor, flash, or smartphone holder to the tripod's canopy, so you don't need a separate stand for every accessory.
The VEO TSA S is a CNC-machined support arm with a 1/4" thread and a 3/8" adaptor for larger tripods. It grips securely via a removable plastic disc, so it works with both small and large tripod setups.
If you regularly use accessories alongside your camera, a support arm is more practical than balancing items on the ground or carrying extra clamps.
When a cold shoe mount is worth it
A cold shoe mount is a cheap, simple way to attach accessories with a 1/4" thread to your camera's hot shoe. It's ideal for mounting a microphone, LED light, or small monitor without adding bulk.
The VEO CSM slots into your camera's hot shoe and tightens with a lower disc. On the accessory side, you screw it into the base and tighten the disc for a firm grip.
If you never mount small accessories on your camera, you can skip this. But for vloggers or event shooters, it's a low-cost upgrade that makes your camera more versatile.
FAQ: Tripod Accessories You Actually Need
- What is the most useful tripod accessory?
- A tripod support arm is the most versatile because it lets you mount a range of accessories—like a monitor or smartphone holder—directly to your tripod. If you only buy one accessory, make it a support arm.
- When should I buy a tripod accessory kit instead of individual pieces?
- Buy a kit when you need multiple pieces together, such as a clamp, support arm, and smartphone holder. Kits like the VEO CP-46 offer a bundled price, often saving money compared to buying each item separately. Check if the kit includes exactly what you need—if you only need one piece, a kit may be unnecessary.
- Do I need a cold shoe mount?
- Only if you plan to attach small accessories with a 1/4" thread—like a microphone or LED light—to your camera's hot shoe. If you don't use such accessories, you can skip it. If you're unsure, start with a support arm and add a cold shoe mount later if needed.
Product Facts
- VEO CP-46 Tripod Accessories Kit - Medium: The VEO CP-46 Kit bundles the VEO CP-46 Clamp, the VEO TSA DLX M Tripod Support Arm, and the VEO SPH Smartphone Holder. Instead of buying each piece separately, you get a complete set for attaching cameras, smartphones, or accessories to objects up to 46mm wide—ideal for travel or on-location shoots.
VEO CP-46 Tripod Accessories Kit - Medium - VEO CSM Cold Shoe Mount: The VEO CSM is a simple cold shoe mount that lets you attach accessories with a 1/4" thread hole to your camera's flash gun mount. It's a low-cost way to add a microphone, light, or monitor to your camera without needing a separate mounting system.
VEO CSM Cold Shoe Mount - VEO TSA S Tripod Support Arm - Small: The VEO TSA S is a CNC-machined Tripod Support Arm with a 1/4" thread and a 3/8" adaptor for larger tripods. It gives you a secure mounting point on your tripod for accessories, so you can keep everything in one place while shooting.
