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Manfrotto 055 Magnesium Ball Head with RC4 Quick Release

  • Price: $249.99
  • Mail In Rebate -$45.00 (see details)
    offer ends JUN 15 '13
  • Price after Rebate: $204.99
  • B&H # MAMH055M0RC4
  • Mfr# MH055M0-RC4

Product Highlights

  • Separate Tilt, Pan & Friction Controls
  • Lightweight Magnesium Construction
  • 90-100° Portrait Angle
  • Large-Area Quick-Release System
  • Includes 410PL Plate
  • Sturdy & Precise with Smooth Movements
  • Weighs 2.3 lb
  • Supports Loads Up to 26.5 lb

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The Manfrotto 055 Magnesium Ball Head with RC4 Quick Release is a sturdy, professional ball head with separate controls for tilt, pan, and friction that enable precise positioning. With a 26.5 lb load capacity and a large-area camera plate with 3/8"-16 & 1/4"-20 screws, the durable head is suitable for just about any camera.

The 055 head's lateral tilt ranges from -100° to +40°, and pan is a full 360°. With the head's independent pan lock, its state-of-the-art materials & technology that enable smooth movements, plus the degree markers around the base, the 055 is well-suited for precise panoramic photography.

The head's quick-release mechanism is the redesigned RC4 system, which offers a large contact area for attaching cameras with long lenses and other heavy equipment.

Perfect companion for Manfrotto 055 carbon-fiber tripods
Redesigned RC4 quick-release system is ideal for heavy equipment and cameras with long lenses
Portrait angle selector (90-100°) for finer control over positioning
Dual spirit levels for both portrait & landscape orientations
Constructed of lightweight magnesium (weighs 2.3 lb)
Patent-pending design
Load Capacity 26.5 lb (12 kg)
Ball Sphere Diameter Not specified by manufacturer
Quick Release Yes, RC4 system
Camera Mount Plate 410PL quick-release plate with 1/4"-20 & 3/8"-16 screws
Spirit Level Yes, 2
Tension Control Yes
Separate Panning Lock Yes
Tripod Mount Thread Size 3/8"-16
Tilt Range -100° to +40° lateral tilt
Pan Range 360°
Material Magnesium
Color Smoke
Height 5.24" (13.3 cm)
Maximum Diameter Not specified by manufacturer
Weight 2.3 lb (1.05 kg)
Manfrotto 055 Magnesium Ball Head with RC4 Quick Release
  • 410PL Quick Release Plate - for RC4 Quick Release System
  • 2 Year Limited Warranty + 8 Year Extension upon Online Registration
  • REVIEW SNAPSHOT®

    by PowerReviews
    Manfrotto055 Magnesium Ball Head with RC4 Quick Release
     
    4.8

    (based on 18 reviews)

    Ratings Distribution

    • 5 Stars

       

      (14)

    • 4 Stars

       

      (4)

    • 3 Stars

       

      (0)

    • 2 Stars

       

      (0)

    • 1 Stars

       

      (0)

    100%

    of respondents would recommend this to a friend.

    Pros

    • Large range of motion (17)
    • Stable (17)
    • Strong clamp (17)
    • Attaches firmly (16)

    Cons

      Best Uses

      • Landscape/scenery (14)
      • Night shots (12)
      • Portraits (9)
      • Wildlife (9)
      • Travel (8)
        • Reviewer Profile:
        • Semi-pro photographer (8), Photo enthusiast (4)
        • Was this a gift?:
        • No (16)

      Reviewed by 18 customers

      Sort by

      Displaying reviews 1-18

      Back to top

       
      4.0

      Great Head, So So Quick Release Plate

      By MPPNO

      from New Orleans, LA

      About Me Pro Photographer

      Verified Buyer

      Pros

      • Good Stability
      • Large Range of Motion
      • Strong Clamp

      Cons

      • Quick-release Plate

      Best Uses

      • Portraits
      • Travel

      Comments about Manfrotto 055 Magnesium Ball Head with RC4 Quick Release:

      It is well made and perhaps more than needed for a DSLR. It is extremely well finished and locks tightly. I did not give it 5 stars because the rubber padding on the quick-release plate buckles up when I tighten down on long lens collars. It holds long lenses better than my old pentagonal plates, but will still move with a little pressure. It requires a tool (or coin) to attach, but needs a screwdriver to tighten enough to prevent slipping.

      • Was this a gift?:
      • No

      Share this review

       
      4.0

      Quality product

      By Glenn

      from Washington D.C. area

      About Me Semi-pro Photographer

      Verified Buyer

      Pros

      • Attaches Firmly
      • Good Stability
      • Large Range of Motion
      • Strong Clamp

      Cons

      • Heavy

      Best Uses

      • Landscape/Scenery
      • Night Shots
      • Portraits
      • Video

      Comments about Manfrotto 055 Magnesium Ball Head with RC4 Quick Release:

      I use this head with a heavy rig, Sony A850/vert. grip with a 70-400 lens and it seems to handle it fine. The locks are sturdy and I have not experianced any slipage. Haven't had it long enough to offer any in depth openions yet but I do like it so far. (2 weeks of ownership). Plate release is just a bit clunky, mostly my not being used to it yet.

      • Was this a gift?:
      • No

      Share this review

      (1 of 1 customers found this review helpful)

       
      5.0

      Awesome Ball Head

      By Kushal

      from Anchorage, Alaska

      About Me Photo Enthusiast

      Verified Buyer

      Pros

      • Attaches Firmly
      • Good Stability
      • Large Range of Motion
      • Strong Clamp

      Cons

        Best Uses

        • Home
        • Landscape/Scenery
        • Night Shots
        • Portraits
        • Sports/Action
        • Video
        • Weddings/Events
        • Wildlife

        Comments about Manfrotto 055 Magnesium Ball Head with RC4 Quick Release:

        I love this head. So easy to use and stable. I use a 1DX with a 70-200 MM 2.8 without any issues.

        • Was this a gift?:
        • No

        Share this review

         
        4.0

        Great action

        By THOP

        from Augusta, Maine

        About Me Semi-pro Photographer

        Verified Buyer

        Pros

        • Attaches Firmly
        • Good Stability
        • Large Range of Motion
        • Strong Clamp

        Cons

        • Lever Jams Up

        Best Uses

        • When You Don't Want Shake

        Comments about Manfrotto 055 Magnesium Ball Head with RC4 Quick Release:

        I bought this ball head to attach to an older aluminum manfroote tripod. Apparently it was designed with medium format cameras in mind, however I am shooting with a d7000. The action of the ballhead itself is great, especially because you can adjust the tension when using longer glass.
        The quick release plate comes on and off with your thumb and finger pushing in a button and pulling the lever out. Sometimes the lever gets jammed against this release button when it is opened too far. I feel it is something I am willing to cope with. Most importantly, it holds my 70-300 no problem in the portrait position at any angle (as long as you tighten the screw on the bottom of the camera very tight). Overall, I'm using it and happy.

        • Was this a gift?:
        • No

        Share this review

        (1 of 1 customers found this review helpful)

         
        5.0

        Stellar Ball Head

        By Jason

        from Oxbow, Saskatchewan

        About Me Semi-pro Photographer

        Verified Buyer

        Pros

        • Attaches Firmly
        • Good Stability
        • Large Range of Motion
        • Strong Clamp

        Cons

        • None

        Best Uses

          Comments about Manfrotto 055 Magnesium Ball Head with RC4 Quick Release:

          Just got this and it's great. Works slick. Lots of control with it and the ball holds tight.

          • Was this a gift?:
          • No

          Share this review

          (1 of 1 customers found this review helpful)

           
          5.0

          Great Ball Head

          By AndyGot

          from Hudson, FL

          About Me Casual Photographer

          Verified Buyer

          Pros

          • Attaches Firmly
          • Good Stability
          • Large Range of Motion
          • Strong Clamp

          Cons

          • None

          Best Uses

          • Home
          • Landscape/Scenery
          • Night Shots
          • Portraits
          • Sports/Action
          • Travel
          • Video
          • Wildlife

          Comments about Manfrotto 055 Magnesium Ball Head with RC4 Quick Release:

          Used for viedo and still shoots. Very easy to use and moves very smooth in all direction. The RC4 quick release is prefect for my use.

          • Was this a gift?:
          • No

          Share this review

           
          5.0

          Sturdy Ball Head

          By Cash

          from austin, tx

          About Me Pro Photographer

          See all my reviews

          Verified Buyer

          Pros

          • Attaches Firmly
          • Good Stability
          • Large Range of Motion
          • Strong Clamp

          Cons

            Best Uses

            • Landscape/Scenery
            • Night Shots
            • Travel
            • Wildlife

            Comments about Manfrotto 055 Magnesium Ball Head with RC4 Quick Release:

            This ball head is a beast. The plate locks in nicely, the pivot is smooth and offers excellent control. I am using with my D600 and Manfrotto 055XPROB legs and I'm very happy with results. I feel like it could hold way more than 26.5 lbs but that's what it's officially rated at.

            • Was this a gift?:
            • No

            Share this review

             
            5.0

            Quality and Craftsmanship

            By Old Pete

            from Cadiz, KY

            About Me Photo Enthusiast

            Verified Buyer

            Pros

            • Attaches Firmly
            • Good Stability
            • Large Range of Motion
            • Strong Clamp

            Cons

              Best Uses

              • Landscape/Scenery
              • Night Shots
              • Portraits
              • Travel

              Comments about Manfrotto 055 Magnesium Ball Head with RC4 Quick Release:

              This ball head is extremely versitle and well designed. So far I have not found any cons.

              • Was this a gift?:
              • Yes

              Share this review

              (0 of 1 customers found this review helpful)

               
              4.0

              Versatile tripod head

              By robd1

              from Perth, Western Australia

              About Me Photo Enthusiast

              Verified Buyer

              Pros

              • Attaches Firmly
              • Good Stability
              • Large Range of Motion
              • Strong Clamp

              Cons

              • Friction Not Precise

              Best Uses

              • Home
              • Landscape/Scenery
              • Night Shots
              • Portraits
              • Sports/Action
              • Travel
              • Video
              • Weddings/Events
              • Wildlife

              Comments about Manfrotto 055 Magnesium Ball Head with RC4 Quick Release:

              A simple operating head which is smooth and ideal for stationary or mobile subjects. Can set the amount of friction as the situation demands and can be locked easily with one control in any position. My options were the Cullman equivalent which may be as good if not better in that the locking mechanism seems to be less of a turn and the friction control more precise. It is also very smooth. The Cullman controls are a knob type with the friction control a smaller knob in the centre which is convenient compared to double lever types for the Manfrotto and a separate friction control

              • Was this a gift?:
              • No

              Share this review

               
              5.0

              Excellent engineering

              By Johny boy

              from Saba Caribbean

              About Me Semi-pro Photographer

              Verified Buyer

              Pros

              • Attaches Firmly
              • Good Stability
              • Large Range of Motion
              • Strong Clamp

              Cons

                Best Uses

                • Landscape/Scenery
                • Night Shots
                • Wildlife

                Comments about Manfrotto 055 Magnesium Ball Head with RC4 Quick Release:

                I wanted a ball head that was precise and very well made for my panoramas, i got it . I would absolutely recommend this.

                • Was this a gift?:
                • No

                Share this review

                 
                5.0

                Smooth

                By RL

                from Washington, DC

                About Me Semi-pro Photographer

                Verified Buyer

                Pros

                • Attaches Firmly
                • Good Stability
                • Large Range of Motion
                • Strong Clamp

                Cons

                  Best Uses

                  • Landscape/Scenery
                  • Portraits

                  Comments about Manfrotto 055 Magnesium Ball Head with RC4 Quick Release:

                  Solid construction with smooth ball rotation. I love the 90 degree slide adjustment. This is my first head purchase and so far it's awesome.

                  • Was this a gift?:
                  • No

                  Share this review

                   
                  5.0

                  A Rock

                  By vmantaxi

                  from Richmond, VA

                  About Me Semi-pro Photographer

                  Verified Buyer

                  Pros

                  • Attaches Firmly
                  • Good Stability
                  • Large Range of Motion
                  • Strong Clamp

                  Cons

                  • Heavy

                  Best Uses

                  • Landscape/Scenery
                  • Night Shots

                  Comments about Manfrotto 055 Magnesium Ball Head with RC4 Quick Release:

                  I mainly bought this for time-lapse work. This thing is rock solid. The knobs do not take too much pressure to secure it's position. Im currently mounting a Merlin Telescopic Head along with my 5D Mark II with no problems. Holding it in your hand, it feels like a grenade. If you are looking for a rock solid support system with superior build quality.. then click buy now.

                  • Was this a gift?:
                  • No

                  Share this review

                   
                  5.0

                  good product

                  By JLDIJDYI

                  from san diego ca

                  Verified Buyer

                  Comments about Manfrotto 055 Magnesium Ball Head with RC4 Quick Release:

                  good product

                  Share this review

                   
                  5.0

                  Great Head!

                  By SD-Landscape

                  from San Diego, CA

                  About Me Casual Photographer

                  Verified Buyer

                  Pros

                  • Attaches Firmly
                  • Good Stability
                  • Large Range of Motion
                  • Strong Clamp

                  Cons

                    Best Uses

                    • Home
                    • Landscape/Scenery
                    • Night Shots
                    • Portraits
                    • Sports/Action
                    • Travel
                    • Weddings/Events
                    • Wildlife

                    Comments about Manfrotto 055 Magnesium Ball Head with RC4 Quick Release:

                    This ball head offers great functionality with a buttery smooth operation. The RC4 is rugged tuff and is a pleasure to work with. You'll be amazed by the top notch construction of this magnificent product.

                    • Was this a gift?:
                    • No

                    Share this review

                    (1 of 1 customers found this review helpful)

                     
                    5.0

                    Super Ball Head

                    By Backpacker

                    from Toronto, Canada

                    About Me Semi-pro Photographer

                    Verified Buyer

                    Pros

                    • Attaches Firmly
                    • Good Stability
                    • Large Range of Motion
                    • Strong Clamp

                    Cons

                      Best Uses

                      • Landscape/Scenery
                      • Sports/Action
                      • Travel
                      • Wildlife

                      Comments about Manfrotto 055 Magnesium Ball Head with RC4 Quick Release:

                      I've been a Manfrotto user for many years, so when I needed a ball head for a Monopod I chose this one, after reviewing the rest of the market. I already own a 808RC4 three way head. The ball head is great for mobile use instead of a fixed location; the three adjusting knobs are different sizes and shapes so you don't have to take your eye off the viewfinder when adjusting them, this is a huge plus. the RC4 QR is great for it's large mounting surface which registers well on the camera base or Long Lens mount. I'm very happy with my choice.

                      • Was this a gift?:
                      • No

                      Share this review

                      (1 of 1 customers found this review helpful)

                       
                      5.0

                      Great with 055CXPRO3

                      By Robert

                      from Santa Monica

                      About Me Photography Student

                      Verified Buyer

                      Pros

                      • Attaches Firmly
                      • Good Stability
                      • Large Range of Motion
                      • Strong Clamp

                      Cons

                        Best Uses

                        • Landscape/Scenery
                        • Night Shots
                        • Portraits
                        • Travel

                        Comments about Manfrotto 055 Magnesium Ball Head with RC4 Quick Release:

                        I'm 6'4" and this head with the 055CXPRO3 3-Section Carbon Fiber Tripod extends taller than my eye level. Very sturdy. I have a gripped Nikon D7000 and often use a 70-300 lens. No slip at all and strudy.

                        • Was this a gift?:
                        • No

                        Share this review

                         
                        5.0

                        very solid and quality is very good

                        By zur

                        from rishon lezion israel

                        About Me Photo Enthusiast

                        Verified Buyer

                        Pros

                        • Attaches Firmly
                        • Good Stability
                        • Large Range of Motion
                        • Strong Clamp

                        Cons

                          Best Uses

                          • Landscape/Scenery
                          • Night Shots
                          • Wildlife

                          Comments about Manfrotto 055 Magnesium Ball Head with RC4 Quick Release:

                          i use it only for 3 weeks but untill now it look very good and stability are great for the size of the ball head.
                          i use it for medium format photography.

                          • Was this a gift?:
                          • No

                          Share this review

                          (3 of 3 customers found this review helpful)

                           
                          5.0

                          Great Head for Medium Format

                          By Carl the Conehead

                          from Los Alamos, NM

                          About Me Semi-pro Photographer

                          Verified Buyer

                          Pros

                          • Attaches Firmly
                          • Easy to operate
                          • Good Stability
                          • Large Range of Motion
                          • Strong Clamp

                          Cons

                          • Pricey but worth it

                          Best Uses

                          • Closeups wildflowers
                          • Landscape/Scenery
                          • Night Shots
                          • Wildlife

                          Comments about Manfrotto 055 Magnesium Ball Head with RC4 Quick Release:

                          Heck-for-stout head for a Mamiya RB67 even with 360 tele lens. Will hold even when pointing down at a 45 degree angle, let alone at 90 degrees. Smooth operation and really holds! Not to heavy and makes a sweet combo with a carbon fiber tripod - I use a Giottos MT 8170 carbon fiber tripod. The combo weighs 8.2 pounds and easily handles my 4x5 and medium format rigs. The RC4 quick release is easy to operate, quick to mount and also is heck-for-stout. I couldn't ask for a better tripod rig at any price! Great value and really does the job!

                          • Was this a gift?:
                          • No

                          Share this review

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                          Quick Release Plates

                          Manfrotto -  410PL Quick Release Plate - for RC4 Quick Release System
                          • Price: $14.61
                           
                           
                           
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