Tabletop tripod for D90

I currently have an el cheapo inexpensive tripod that I bought for a P&S. I need it badly when I do need it, but I don't need it very often, and I don't want to risk my D90 on it.

For my D90, I expect that I'll need a tabletop tripod, or maybe a clamp-type thingie, much more often than I'd have use for a full-height tripod, and while I don't want to spend too much money, I don't want to buy a worthless piece of junk, either. So I'm asking the combined wisdom of this forum for advice & suggestions.

In particular: Am I doomed to spend Serious Money for a tabletop tripod, the way I would be for a full-height one? Or are there halfway decent alternatives that cost less?