The sturdy Manfrotto 394 Low Profile Quick Release Adapter is an RC4 type quick release assembly system that comes with 1/4-20" and 3/8"-16 capacity, both on the camera and tripod ends, and comes supplied with the 410PL (RC4) quick release plate. The RC4 quick release base also includes a horizontal and vertical bubble level.
REVIEW SNAPSHOT®
by PowerReviewsPros
Cons
Best Uses
Most Liked Positive Review
Great Quick Release Bracket
I have quick release brackets on all my cameras and tripods. I can just move a camera from one tripod to my handheld flash bracket and back to another tripod with ease. I use ...Read complete review
I have quick release brackets on all my cameras and tripods. I can just move a camera from one tripod to my handheld flash bracket and back to another tripod with ease. I use a Canon 5D Mk II for stills on a tripod and for video on a Cinevate slider and a video tripod. The quick release bracket allows me to easily move from one tripod to another, even a shoulder bracket.The 394 QR adapter has a bubble level and both a 3/8" and 1/4" screw included which is great. On one of my brackets the pad comes up on the edges with a lens mount that is smaller than the plate and is also hard to release, but all of the rest are fairly easy to detach and the pads are fine. The plate snaps on easily and attaches very tight. The brackets are very well made and the price is good. [...]
VS
Most Liked Negative Review
OK for the price
I bought this based on the low profile design to use atop a 4-way macro focusing rail. It is low profile as described, but its design is off a little in my estimation....Read complete review
I bought this based on the low profile design to use atop a 4-way macro focusing rail. It is low profile as described, but its design is off a little in my estimation. If the camera is mounted as per the instructions with the horizontal spirit level towards the rear of the camera and the QR lever to the left, the plate only supports 1 inch of the camera body to the right side of the center of the 1/4"-20 mount screw. To the other side of the mount screw is 2 1/4" of plate support.....huh? Am I missing something? I don't think it would be too much to ask to extend the right side of the plate another 1/4" at least to be in line with most manufacturers standard size QR plates which are 2 1/2" plates to fit 2 1/2" clamps. I doubt a camera would come lose, but the stability would be enhanced by this ever so slight modification and it just makes me wonder. BTW - I switched to another model of QR clamp/plate for this application.
REVIEWS
Reviewed by 88 customers
Sort by
Displaying reviews 1-20
Previous | Next »
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Manfrotto 394 Low Profile Quick Release Adapter with 410PL Plate:
I bought a number of these recently from B&H. So far, I am extremely pleased.
It takes just seconds for me to take my jib off my tripod, and replace it with a slider. Or remove my 60D from the end of the jib, and place it on my stabilizer. The QR plates lock in solid and once you get used to how to place them on properly you will be on your way. What a timesaver! Don't hesitate ... get yourself a few of these. They are well built and a good bargain!
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Manfrotto 394 Low Profile Quick Release Adapter with 410PL Plate:
I have purchased many of these over the years, for all my gear. All my cameras, pods and lenses etc. are set up with this system and therefore I have eliminated the need for any adapters or needing to change out any of my gear in the field or in the studio, big time saver and less to carry. They are very well built and supports the heaviest of my camera and lens combos.
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Manfrotto 394 Low Profile Quick Release Adapter with 410PL Plate:
The Quick Release Adapter and Plate makes set up a breeze. It allows you to mount your camera onto a tripod in a SNAP. It's efortless. Don't miss the great shot because you're fumbling with a tiny set screw and a small hole!
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Manfrotto 394 Low Profile Quick Release Adapter with 410PL Plate:
I replaced all my 357 plates with these. Easier to access to quick release and because the QR operates horizontally it doesnt interfere with any of your gear. It also seems to lock down solid and have a fail safe system built in. There is not way your gear is going to come adrift from this plate. I imagine it will require some working in to get the QR to become a little easier to release. It's pretty stiff! I also notice that one needs to place the camera in the just right way for the mechanism to be activated - this has required a bit of practice.
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Manfrotto 394 Low Profile Quick Release Adapter with 410PL Plate:
works great right out of the box. The plate that attaches to my 5d isnt bulky at all and doesn't interfere with the battery access. I plan on just leaving it on all the time. The two levels are a nice addition as well since my tripod doesn't have any. My only gripe is that the release is a little bit stubborn at times. Other than that its a welcome addition to the outfit.
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Manfrotto 394 Low Profile Quick Release Adapter with 410PL Plate:
I find that this release plate has saved me countless times while in the middle of a shoot and having to switch the equipment over. All of our team use it and being able to pull a lever to get your camera off, and then simply placing your camera over the plate to connect it again makes our job that much better.
Occasionally the lever gets a little stuck, but a quick jiggle and it's free again!
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Manfrotto 394 Low Profile Quick Release Adapter with 410PL Plate:
Effectively I find that this particular plate is the quickest and easiest to use in its class. When I'm filming a wedding I don't have time to fiddle around with these things, so when it's a flick of a lever to pop my camera off a tripod and onto a Glidecam, I find that this plate has saved me valuable time!Occasionally the lever will catch but a quick jiggle and it's free again.
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Manfrotto 394 Low Profile Quick Release Adapter with 410PL Plate:
I purchased four of these to use with our three cameras across two tripods, a monopod and a stabilizer. Attaching the mounting plates to those devices and the quick release plates to the cameras meant we didn't have to worry about which camera had which adapter on it.
But each of our tripods, the stabilizer and the monopod all have the standard tripod screw, which I believe is the 1/4" screw, plus the little one that isn't a screw, but sits in front of it to keep the video camera pointed straight.
The mounting plate (what I'm calling the bottom component of this device) needs to screw onto those other devices in order to be the new connection between support and camera. So the primary screw fits just fine into the main hole of the mounting plate, and the mounting plate has an additional hole for that little extra guiding knob in front of it... but it's totally in the wrong spot. I had to drill out the hole significantly in order to use these devices, even on tripods made by Manfrotto! This was the case with all four of the 394s that I purchased.
So ultimately, now that I've modified them, they all work, so I can recommend them. But the fact that they didn't fit and required significant customization in order to function as they ought to keeps me from writing anything more positive in this review.
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Manfrotto 394 Low Profile Quick Release Adapter with 410PL Plate:
I normally use the product with a Stroboframe T-bracket to quickly install and remove my D700 from the bracket. It works so well, that I got my friend one for his D3/D4 combo, and so far, no complaints!I love it because it makes it so much faster to dismount the camera from the bracket and allows me to just mount the camera into the tripod. Uses the 410PL system plates, so it works great with my geared head system.I do wish there were more mounting holes on the base, but I'm not picky...I can just drill a few in place. :) Worth the $$$!
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Manfrotto 394 Low Profile Quick Release Adapter with 410PL Plate:
I use this for my Canon 60D to switch from tripod to steady cam. If I had a slider or mini jib I'd put the same quick releases on them as well.
Pros:
- great construction, solid
- love the dual bubble levels
- low profile plate makes it not bulky
Cons:
- the plate could be smoother to get in and out of the quick release but when it's in there you know it's not going anywhere.
I would definitely buy this quick release plate again. In fact as soon as I get another device to mount it to I probably will.
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Manfrotto 394 Low Profile Quick Release Adapter with 410PL Plate:
I have used these for years on all of my cameras, camcorders, and stabilization devices. Every camea can instantly be changed to another my Steadi Cam, mono pods, and tri pods. They work well, except for two problems: the quick release can be hard to engage. My wife sometimes does not have the strength to press the release button to make the things work. Also, it is tricky to see how to seat the camera in the quick release shoe. Since I have so many of them, I will be ordering more, but if I had to do it over again, I would try to find something that is easier to use.
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Manfrotto 394 Low Profile Quick Release Adapter with 410PL Plate:
I wanted a different quick release system for my video DSLR gear. Had been using the 501 system - but found it a bit too bulky for my needs. I especially like how low profile these are. Very sturdy and has a nice click into place.
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Manfrotto 394 Low Profile Quick Release Adapter with 410PL Plate:
Very solid.
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Manfrotto 394 Low Profile Quick Release Adapter with 410PL Plate:
Really easy to remove but when it's locked your camera isn't going anywhere!
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Manfrotto 394 Low Profile Quick Release Adapter with 410PL Plate:
I only give this 4 stars because my plate seems to be very tight. It's almost impossible to get the plate off without pulling on the lever with excessive force. With some wd40 it started working better. It's great for glide cams and steadicams because it's completely flat.
It's actually a lot bigger than I thought it would be. About the size of your palm. It's very solid and I know it will last me a very longntime.
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Manfrotto 394 Low Profile Quick Release Adapter with 410PL Plate:
I keep te quick release adapter on my tripod head as a permanent fixture. I usually leave the plate on my Nikon D300. WhenI use the Nikkor 300mm f4 lens, I shift the plate from the camera to the lens. I plan to buy two more plates as I add a Nikkon D800.
The unit is very sturdy and works well. The two levels are what I needed and drove the choice of the low profile adapter. Once I realized how the unit worked, it is easy to use, convenient and quick. However, the instructions were of little help in the leaning process. As a result,I would buy it again but would be careful about selecting to whom I would recommend it.
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Manfrotto 394 Low Profile Quick Release Adapter with 410PL Plate:
very easy to install and very strong hold. My entire setup is with this quick release
Comments about Manfrotto 394 Low Profile Quick Release Adapter with 410PL Plate:
Excellent product!
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Manfrotto 394 Low Profile Quick Release Adapter with 410PL Plate:
I use Low Profile Quick Release plates on all my cameras and tripods so i can quickly jump back and forth from still to video.
A BAKERS DOSAN IF YOU PLEASE.
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Manfrotto 394 Low Profile Quick Release Adapter with 410PL Plate:
the perfect thing to have if your moving cameras from tripod to tripod or need to move quickly. I use it to connect a video slider to two tripods and on the camera to not have to take the time to screw in a base plate every time I use a tripod. just attach it and leave it on.
REVIEW SNAPSHOT®
by PowerReviewsPros
Cons
Best Uses
Most Liked Positive Review
Great Quick Release Bracket
I have quick release brackets on all my cameras and tripods. I can just move a camera from one tripod to my handheld flash bracket and back to another tripod with ease. I use ...Read complete review
I have quick release brackets on all my cameras and tripods. I can just move a camera from one tripod to my handheld flash bracket and back to another tripod with ease. I use a Canon 5D Mk II for stills on a tripod and for video on a Cinevate slider and a video tripod. The quick release bracket allows me to easily move from one tripod to another, even a shoulder bracket.The 394 QR adapter has a bubble level and both a 3/8" and 1/4" screw included which is great. On one of my brackets the pad comes up on the edges with a lens mount that is smaller than the plate and is also hard to release, but all of the rest are fairly easy to detach and the pads are fine. The plate snaps on easily and attaches very tight. The brackets are very well made and the price is good. [...]
VS
Most Liked Negative Review
OK for the price
I bought this based on the low profile design to use atop a 4-way macro focusing rail. It is low profile as described, but its design is off a little in my estimation....Read complete review
I bought this based on the low profile design to use atop a 4-way macro focusing rail. It is low profile as described, but its design is off a little in my estimation. If the camera is mounted as per the instructions with the horizontal spirit level towards the rear of the camera and the QR lever to the left, the plate only supports 1 inch of the camera body to the right side of the center of the 1/4"-20 mount screw. To the other side of the mount screw is 2 1/4" of plate support.....huh? Am I missing something? I don't think it would be too much to ask to extend the right side of the plate another 1/4" at least to be in line with most manufacturers standard size QR plates which are 2 1/2" plates to fit 2 1/2" clamps. I doubt a camera would come lose, but the stability would be enhanced by this ever so slight modification and it just makes me wonder. BTW - I switched to another model of QR clamp/plate for this application.
REVIEWS
Reviewed by 88 customers
Sort by
Displaying reviews 1-20
Previous | Next »
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Manfrotto 394 Low Profile Quick Release Adapter with 410PL Plate:
I bought a number of these recently from B&H. So far, I am extremely pleased.
It takes just seconds for me to take my jib off my tripod, and replace it with a slider. Or remove my 60D from the end of the jib, and place it on my stabilizer. The QR plates lock in solid and once you get used to how to place them on properly you will be on your way. What a timesaver! Don't hesitate ... get yourself a few of these. They are well built and a good bargain!
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Manfrotto 394 Low Profile Quick Release Adapter with 410PL Plate:
I have purchased many of these over the years, for all my gear. All my cameras, pods and lenses etc. are set up with this system and therefore I have eliminated the need for any adapters or needing to change out any of my gear in the field or in the studio, big time saver and less to carry. They are very well built and supports the heaviest of my camera and lens combos.
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Manfrotto 394 Low Profile Quick Release Adapter with 410PL Plate:
The Quick Release Adapter and Plate makes set up a breeze. It allows you to mount your camera onto a tripod in a SNAP. It's efortless. Don't miss the great shot because you're fumbling with a tiny set screw and a small hole!
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Manfrotto 394 Low Profile Quick Release Adapter with 410PL Plate:
I replaced all my 357 plates with these. Easier to access to quick release and because the QR operates horizontally it doesnt interfere with any of your gear. It also seems to lock down solid and have a fail safe system built in. There is not way your gear is going to come adrift from this plate. I imagine it will require some working in to get the QR to become a little easier to release. It's pretty stiff! I also notice that one needs to place the camera in the just right way for the mechanism to be activated - this has required a bit of practice.
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Manfrotto 394 Low Profile Quick Release Adapter with 410PL Plate:
works great right out of the box. The plate that attaches to my 5d isnt bulky at all and doesn't interfere with the battery access. I plan on just leaving it on all the time. The two levels are a nice addition as well since my tripod doesn't have any. My only gripe is that the release is a little bit stubborn at times. Other than that its a welcome addition to the outfit.
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Manfrotto 394 Low Profile Quick Release Adapter with 410PL Plate:
I find that this release plate has saved me countless times while in the middle of a shoot and having to switch the equipment over. All of our team use it and being able to pull a lever to get your camera off, and then simply placing your camera over the plate to connect it again makes our job that much better.
Occasionally the lever gets a little stuck, but a quick jiggle and it's free again!
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Manfrotto 394 Low Profile Quick Release Adapter with 410PL Plate:
Effectively I find that this particular plate is the quickest and easiest to use in its class. When I'm filming a wedding I don't have time to fiddle around with these things, so when it's a flick of a lever to pop my camera off a tripod and onto a Glidecam, I find that this plate has saved me valuable time!Occasionally the lever will catch but a quick jiggle and it's free again.
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Manfrotto 394 Low Profile Quick Release Adapter with 410PL Plate:
I purchased four of these to use with our three cameras across two tripods, a monopod and a stabilizer. Attaching the mounting plates to those devices and the quick release plates to the cameras meant we didn't have to worry about which camera had which adapter on it.
But each of our tripods, the stabilizer and the monopod all have the standard tripod screw, which I believe is the 1/4" screw, plus the little one that isn't a screw, but sits in front of it to keep the video camera pointed straight.
The mounting plate (what I'm calling the bottom component of this device) needs to screw onto those other devices in order to be the new connection between support and camera. So the primary screw fits just fine into the main hole of the mounting plate, and the mounting plate has an additional hole for that little extra guiding knob in front of it... but it's totally in the wrong spot. I had to drill out the hole significantly in order to use these devices, even on tripods made by Manfrotto! This was the case with all four of the 394s that I purchased.
So ultimately, now that I've modified them, they all work, so I can recommend them. But the fact that they didn't fit and required significant customization in order to function as they ought to keeps me from writing anything more positive in this review.
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Manfrotto 394 Low Profile Quick Release Adapter with 410PL Plate:
I normally use the product with a Stroboframe T-bracket to quickly install and remove my D700 from the bracket. It works so well, that I got my friend one for his D3/D4 combo, and so far, no complaints!I love it because it makes it so much faster to dismount the camera from the bracket and allows me to just mount the camera into the tripod. Uses the 410PL system plates, so it works great with my geared head system.I do wish there were more mounting holes on the base, but I'm not picky...I can just drill a few in place. :) Worth the $$$!
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Manfrotto 394 Low Profile Quick Release Adapter with 410PL Plate:
I use this for my Canon 60D to switch from tripod to steady cam. If I had a slider or mini jib I'd put the same quick releases on them as well.
Pros:
- great construction, solid
- love the dual bubble levels
- low profile plate makes it not bulky
Cons:
- the plate could be smoother to get in and out of the quick release but when it's in there you know it's not going anywhere.
I would definitely buy this quick release plate again. In fact as soon as I get another device to mount it to I probably will.
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Manfrotto 394 Low Profile Quick Release Adapter with 410PL Plate:
I have used these for years on all of my cameras, camcorders, and stabilization devices. Every camea can instantly be changed to another my Steadi Cam, mono pods, and tri pods. They work well, except for two problems: the quick release can be hard to engage. My wife sometimes does not have the strength to press the release button to make the things work. Also, it is tricky to see how to seat the camera in the quick release shoe. Since I have so many of them, I will be ordering more, but if I had to do it over again, I would try to find something that is easier to use.
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Manfrotto 394 Low Profile Quick Release Adapter with 410PL Plate:
I wanted a different quick release system for my video DSLR gear. Had been using the 501 system - but found it a bit too bulky for my needs. I especially like how low profile these are. Very sturdy and has a nice click into place.
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Manfrotto 394 Low Profile Quick Release Adapter with 410PL Plate:
Very solid.
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Manfrotto 394 Low Profile Quick Release Adapter with 410PL Plate:
Really easy to remove but when it's locked your camera isn't going anywhere!
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Manfrotto 394 Low Profile Quick Release Adapter with 410PL Plate:
I only give this 4 stars because my plate seems to be very tight. It's almost impossible to get the plate off without pulling on the lever with excessive force. With some wd40 it started working better. It's great for glide cams and steadicams because it's completely flat.
It's actually a lot bigger than I thought it would be. About the size of your palm. It's very solid and I know it will last me a very longntime.
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Manfrotto 394 Low Profile Quick Release Adapter with 410PL Plate:
I keep te quick release adapter on my tripod head as a permanent fixture. I usually leave the plate on my Nikon D300. WhenI use the Nikkor 300mm f4 lens, I shift the plate from the camera to the lens. I plan to buy two more plates as I add a Nikkon D800.
The unit is very sturdy and works well. The two levels are what I needed and drove the choice of the low profile adapter. Once I realized how the unit worked, it is easy to use, convenient and quick. However, the instructions were of little help in the leaning process. As a result,I would buy it again but would be careful about selecting to whom I would recommend it.
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Manfrotto 394 Low Profile Quick Release Adapter with 410PL Plate:
very easy to install and very strong hold. My entire setup is with this quick release
Comments about Manfrotto 394 Low Profile Quick Release Adapter with 410PL Plate:
Excellent product!
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Manfrotto 394 Low Profile Quick Release Adapter with 410PL Plate:
I use Low Profile Quick Release plates on all my cameras and tripods so i can quickly jump back and forth from still to video.
A BAKERS DOSAN IF YOU PLEASE.
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Manfrotto 394 Low Profile Quick Release Adapter with 410PL Plate:
the perfect thing to have if your moving cameras from tripod to tripod or need to move quickly. I use it to connect a video slider to two tripods and on the camera to not have to take the time to screw in a base plate every time I use a tripod. just attach it and leave it on.