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Manfrotto 405 Pro Digital Geared Head (Quick Release) - Supports 16.5 lbs (7.5kg)
Designed especially for 35mm and medium format camera shooters who need both speed & precision, the Manfrotto 405 is a great three-way head with bubble levels easily seen in two axes no matter the orientation of the camera. Meaty rubberised knobs can either completely disengage the gear mechanism for a quick rough estimate of position or offer the finest exacting placement for even a macro shot. Cranks allow 360 degrees pans and +90 to -30 degrees of frontal or lateral tilt.
| Maximum Camera Supported | All medium format systems |
| Load Capacity | 16.5 lb (7.5 kg) |
| Height | 6.3" (16.0 cm) |
| Quick Release | Yes |
| Spirit Level | Yes |
| Tension Control | No |
| Tripod Mount Thread Size | 3/8"-16 |
| Weight | 5.3 lb (2.4 kg) |
REVIEW SNAPSHOT®
by PowerReviews(based on 33 reviews)
Ratings Distribution
93%
of respondents would recommend this to a friend.
Pros
- Stable (21)
- Attaches firmly (16)
- Large range of motion (16)
- Strong clamp (16)
- Improves tripod function (4)
Cons
- Heavy (11)
Best Uses
- Landscape/scenery (13)
- Portraits (12)
- Stabilization (12)
- Long exposures (10)
- Photography (9)
- Reviewer Profile:
- Photo enthusiast (11), Pro photographer (7), Semi-pro photographer (5), Enthusiast (3)
- Was this a gift?:
- No (16)
Most Liked Positive Review
Great for heavy cameras/lenses
This is a fantastic camera head. I've owned one for 3 years and use it with a large MF film camera (Fuji GX-680III) with heavy glass. If it can handle that, it...Read complete review
This is a fantastic camera head. I've owned one for 3 years and use it with a large MF film camera (Fuji GX-680III) with heavy glass. If it can handle that, it can handle anything in the 35mm/telephoto range. All actions are smooth and easy to access. The large knobs are rubberized and easy to grip. The knobs each have an outer collar that serves as the axis "quick release" for gross adjustment, and an inner knob for fine adjustment. I've never had a problem with drift or uncontrolled camera movement with this head. With heavy cameras, it's important to always have 100% positive control. This head provides that. Even when using the "release" collars, control is instantly restored as these collars are spring loaded and return to a locked position when your hand is removed.
It is important, however, to keep the load somewhat balanced. If you change the lens, for example, you may need to change the camera/lens mount point to reestablish a reasonable balance. Gross imbalance makes the movements a little less smooth than desired. A balanced load not only keeps the gear movements smooth, it also reduces vibration and protects your equipment from tip-over accidents!
VS
Most Liked Negative Review
a great disapointment
Got a new head, shot some architecture for a client, found out later, watching the photos on my imac, that they are out of level. Went back to the local distributor to check...Read complete review
Got a new head, shot some architecture for a client, found out later, watching the photos on my imac, that they are out of level. Went back to the local distributor to check the problem. The head technician brought 3 more new heads out of the box, all of them suffered from the same problem. they loose level while panning...
I was promised by Manfrotto Italy that my problem will be solved. Had to re-shoot the house, never heard from Manfrotto...
I'll never by Manfrotto again.
REVIEWS
Reviewed by 33 customers
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Displaying reviews 1-20
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Pros
- Attaches Firmly
- Good Stability
- Large Range of Motion
- Strong Clamp
Cons
- Heavy
Best Uses
- Landscape/Scenery
- Night Shots
- Portraits
Comments about Manfrotto 405 Pro Digital Geared Head (Quick Release) - Supports 16.5 lbs (7.5kg):
I use this head for macros and for extreme telephotos (1000mm). It's both fast and precise; a great combination. The quick release is stable, but it's large and proprietary. This will be the third quick release system for my cameras: wish there was some standardization.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Good Stability
- Heavy
- Large Range of Motion
Cons
Best Uses
- Landscape/Scenery
- Wildlife
Comments about Manfrotto 405 Pro Digital Geared Head (Quick Release) - Supports 16.5 lbs (7.5kg):
Precise control. Solid build head, makes leveling real easy.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Attaches Firmly
- Good Stability
- Large Range of Motion
- Strong Clamp
Cons
Best Uses
- Home
- Landscape/Scenery
- Portraits
- Video
- Weddings/Events
- Wildlife
Comments about Manfrotto 405 Pro Digital Geared Head (Quick Release) - Supports 16.5 lbs (7.5kg):
I have a friend who introduced me the 400 Model. Although I decided on this one I was very impressed with the robust design and the large beefy knobs. The large quick release plate is a must. I wish some video heads made it as easy to attach and detach your equipment.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Attaches Firmly
- Good Stability
Cons
Best Uses
- Architecture
- Interiors
- Landscape/Scenery
Comments about Manfrotto 405 Pro Digital Geared Head (Quick Release) - Supports 16.5 lbs (7.5kg):
Precise control in all axis, solid build head, makes leveling real easy. Great for product, interior and architectural shots.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Attaches Firmly
- Easy to adjust
- Good Stability
- Large Range of Motion
- Strong Clamp
Cons
- Heavy
Best Uses
- Landscape/Scenery
- Portraits
- Travel
Comments about Manfrotto 405 Pro Digital Geared Head (Quick Release) - Supports 16.5 lbs (7.5kg):
I have a heavy medium format camera and lens. I've tried other heads, including other Manfrotto heads, and this beats them all going away. it locks down tight and makes the initial camera set-up secure and easy. The fine tuning aspect of the head is worth every penny. All controls are easy to use and intuitive. My camera sits on it rock solid with no movement. It is, without question, the best head I have used for this camera and I am gratified that my seemingly endless search for a good head is over.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Attaches Firmly
- Good Stability
- Large Range of Motion
- Strong Clamp
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Manfrotto 405 Pro Digital Geared Head (Quick Release) - Supports 16.5 lbs (7.5kg):
Love this geared head. I am a real estate photographer and this piece has been a huge benefit to my business. So simple to use and so accurate. No goofy handles to try and squeeze into position. I can shoot at any angle with this thing. Absolutely love it!
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Attaches Firmly
- Good Stability
- Large Range of Motion
- Solid build
- Strong Clamp
Cons
- Heavy
- Large
Best Uses
- Architecture
- Landscape/Scenery
- Macro
- Studio
Comments about Manfrotto 405 Pro Digital Geared Head (Quick Release) - Supports 16.5 lbs (7.5kg):
I bought this to replace an aging Manfrotto 410 geared head that started to have some play in the gears. I wasn't sure if this was going to be to big...while it is big and heavy, I am completely happy that I bought it. It is solid and the gearing is very smooth. I was also looking at the Arca Swiss cube, but could not justify the price. I use it with a medium format digital camera, architectural digital view camera and Canons.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Attaches Firmly
- Good Stability
- Large Range of Motion
- Strong Clamp
Cons
- Heavy
Best Uses
- Home
- Landscape/Scenery
- Night Shots
- Portraits
- Wildlife
Comments about Manfrotto 405 Pro Digital Geared Head (Quick Release) - Supports 16.5 lbs (7.5kg):
I use it for outdoor wildlife shooting with a 500mm telephoto lense. I also use it indoor for certain low light shots and also for portraits.
Switching from horisontal to vertical positioning is as quick as a twist of the knob.
Great Product
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
Cons
- Unstable
Best Uses
Comments about Manfrotto 405 Pro Digital Geared Head (Quick Release) - Supports 16.5 lbs (7.5kg):
Got a new head, shot some architecture for a client, found out later, watching the photos on my imac, that they are out of level. Went back to the local distributor to check the problem. The head technician brought 3 more new heads out of the box, all of them suffered from the same problem. they loose level while panning...
I was promised by Manfrotto Italy that my problem will be solved. Had to re-shoot the house, never heard from Manfrotto...
Great disappointment, both from the product and the company.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
Cons
- Unstable
Best Uses
Comments about Manfrotto 405 Pro Digital Geared Head (Quick Release) - Supports 16.5 lbs (7.5kg):
Got a new head, shot some architecture for a client, found out later, watching the photos on my imac, that they are out of level. Went back to the local distributor to check the problem. The head technician brought 3 more new heads out of the box, all of them suffered from the same problem. they loose level while panning...
I was promised by Manfrotto Italy that my problem will be solved. Had to re-shoot the house, never heard from Manfrotto...
I'll never by Manfrotto again.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Attaches Firmly
- Easy fine adjustment
- Good Stability
- Large Range of Motion
- Rock-solid platform
- Strong Clamp
Cons
Best Uses
- Landscape/Scenery
- Macro Photography
- Night Shots
- Wildlife
Comments about Manfrotto 405 Pro Digital Geared Head (Quick Release) - Supports 16.5 lbs (7.5kg):
I received my Manfrotto 405 Pro head from B&H on 23 August, 2010 and have used it extensively since with camera/lens loads up to about 4 kg.
It is built like a tank and I think it will see me through to the end of my photographic days! It has perforemd flawlessly and I am absolutely satisfied with it. I have never owned/used a better head.
I have used it for anything from Macro, via landscape to wildlife photography.
Fine-tuning the level is very easy and absolutely positive. I have not noticed any shift in one axis, while I tune the other, unless the tripod hasn't been leveled properly! This is hardly a fault of the head, though.
Fine-tuning the lens adjustment (direction and angle) is equally easy and positive.
I use this head on my Manfrotto 458B Neo Tec tripod and while the combined weight of 10.6 lbs (4,8 kg) sans camera and lens doesn't lend itself to carrying it about much, it is a very solid platform for my expensive photogear!
I highly recommend this tripod for work with heavy camera/lens combinations.
While I am not a pro-photographer, I have worked with SLRs and tripods since 1964.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Attaches Firmly
- Good Stability
- Large Range of Motion
- Strong Clamp
Cons
Best Uses
- Landscape/Scenery
- Travel
Comments about Manfrotto 405 Pro Digital Geared Head (Quick Release) - Supports 16.5 lbs (7.5kg):
used for landscape photography and panoramas
easy to use; intuitive; excellent construction
own Manfrotto tripods, monopods, and other heads -- a brand I trust
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Attaches Firmly
- Good Stability
- Large Range of Motion
- Solid build
- Strong Clamp
Cons
- Axis can shift
- Heavy
Best Uses
- Architecture interior
- Landscape/Scenery
- Night Shots
Comments about Manfrotto 405 Pro Digital Geared Head (Quick Release) - Supports 16.5 lbs (7.5kg):
Mainly I rely on this head for its fine tuning ability in architectural photography. No ball head (nothing) can touch it or the 410.
I bought the 405 as an upgrade from the 410 Junior for one reason only. Because the mounting plate was center over tripod center. Something the 410 Junior didnt have due to having on offset mounting plate. (note to manufacturer: what is the logic for the 410s offset design?).
Aside from the sheer bulk of the 405, the only fault I found was that when I fine tuned one axis knob, there would be slight shift in another axis (similar to when you lock a ball head). Making me question whether or not each axis was not "truly" isolated. We are talking about 1mm here, but it was detectable. And at times very frustrating to have to tweak one axis every time I touched the other.
The 410 Junior does NOT have this problem. Perhaps my 405 is just weird...
Anyhow, 700$ later my conclusion is that if you must center your head you have no choice but the 405, if not the 410 is THE choice in a lot of ways (lighter, cheaper, and no axis shift) -its just off tripod center.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Attaches Firmly
- Good Stability
- Large Range of Motion
- Strong Clamp
Cons
- Heavy
Best Uses
- Landscape/Scenery
- Macro
- Night Shots
- Wildlife
Comments about Manfrotto 405 Pro Digital Geared Head (Quick Release) - Supports 16.5 lbs (7.5kg):
Nice feel and control although a bit heavy and bulky for carrying around for any period of time or packing for airline travel.
Pros
- Attaches Firmly
- Good Stability
- Large Range of Motion
- Smooth Adjustments
- Strong Clamp
Cons
Best Uses
- Landscape/Scenery
- Macro
- Night Shots
- Portraits
- Travel
Comments about Manfrotto 405 Pro Digital Geared Head (Quick Release) - Supports 16.5 lbs (7.5kg):
I bought this geared tripod head from BH years ago. I have used a few ballheads through the years, these included the Cullmann 40200 and the Manfrotto 229 Super Pro Head.
After just about two years of normal usage, the Cullman started to give a little under about 4 pounds or heavier of camera and lens combination and the Manfrotto 229 broke by the neck!! Luckily,none of my photo gears were damaged from them.
Now, the 405 Pro Digital Geared Head is a different story. It holds up well under heavy gears through the years. Regardless, if it is a small 4x5 or heavy lens like the Sigma 50mm-500mm, this head does it all. It offers rigidity and helps you to get a sharper image as compared to the ballheads. It is not a tripod head to take fast action pictures. If you are into macro and landscapes, you can do very well with this tripod head.
The gears are smooth and easy to adjust with the fine adjustments or with the big knobs to do faster coarse adjustments. No one tripod head will do everything for you but for what I do with it, it serves me well and it is a joy to use.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Attaches Firmly
- Good Stability
- Large Range of Motion
- Strong Clamp
Cons
- Heavy
Best Uses
- Home
- Night Shots
- Portraits
Comments about Manfrotto 405 Pro Digital Geared Head (Quick Release) - Supports 16.5 lbs (7.5kg):
good to have when you shoot in studios and steel life.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Attaches Firmly
- Good Stability
- Large Range of Motion
- Strong Clamp
Cons
Best Uses
- Landscape/Scenery
- Portraits
- Still life
- Studio work
Comments about Manfrotto 405 Pro Digital Geared Head (Quick Release) - Supports 16.5 lbs (7.5kg):
I am a commercial photographer who uses this gear head all the time in the studio and on location. I love it's precision. One quick set on each axis with the "course" control rings, and then the most critical fine control over final camera positioning with the fine tune control knobs. I do a lot of still life and close up product work and have never used a better gear head. It may not be the fastest head, but I have yet to find a head with greater precision control.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
Cons
- Heavy
Best Uses
Comments about Manfrotto 405 Pro Digital Geared Head (Quick Release) - Supports 16.5 lbs (7.5kg):
The precision adjustment capability is perfect for architectural photography, both exterior and interior. It's better to take a perfectly aligned shot than to fix it in Photoshop.
The only caveats are:
1. It's very heavy. If your tripod isn't on a level surface, you may have to anchor it securely.
2. The quick release clamp is not the Arca-Swiss type. (Fortunately, it's larger.) If you want to use an L-plate that requires an Arca-Swiss clamp, it's possible to mount one on either the included camera plate or on the clamp itself.
Pros
- Good Stability
- Strong Clamp
Cons
Best Uses
- Long Exposures
- Stabilization
Comments about Manfrotto 405 Pro Digital Geared Head (Quick Release) - Supports 16.5 lbs (7.5kg):
Durability and precision by Manfrotto.
Pros
- Attaches Firmly
- Good Stability
- Large Range of Motion
- Strong Clamp
Cons
- Complicated Controls
Best Uses
- Long Exposures
- Reducing Noise (ISO Reduction)
- Stabilization
Comments about Manfrotto 405 Pro Digital Geared Head (Quick Release) - Supports 16.5 lbs (7.5kg):
Mainly do landscape & wildlife photography. Absolutely love the accuracy of this head makes getting the perfect compostion easy and find myself cropping way less than ever before.
Take a little to get used to it but it adjuats dead on even with my Sigma 150-500 lense.
Displaying reviews 1-20
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Quick Release Plates
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- Original: $15.90
- Save: $3.27
- Price: $12.63
General Tripod Accessories
-
- Original: $119.95
- Save: $19.15
- Price: $100.80
This is a special order item. Est. arrival at B&H is 7-14 days (subject to availability). Your order will be charged at the time of shipment.
What's in the Box
- 3271 (RC4) Quick Release Plate
- 1/4"-20 & 3/8"-16 Camera Screws
- 2-Year Warranty + Additional 3-Years after Registering Online or by Mail
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