Manfrotto 488RC2 Midi Ball Head with Rapid Connect 2 System (Quick Release)
The Manfrotto 488RC2 Midi Ball Head features a strong die-cast aluminum housing plus an exceptionally hard, tough, phenolic resin ball that moves smoothly into position.
The 488 features a double-groove for rapid side-to-side movement, and a separate fast-action ratchet lever for 360° pan and easy to grip locking knob for +90°-90° tilt movements. Suitable for Medium format cameras, or any 35mm or Digital SLR camera system.
All ball heads fit any Bogen/Manfrotto tripod, or any tripod with 3/8"-16 (Euro) thread.
Same as the 488 but equipped with a Rapid Connect 2 (quick release) system.
| Maximum Camera Supported | Medium format, 35mm or Digital SLR camera system |
| Load Capacity | 17.6 lb (8 kg) |
| Height | 4.25" (10.8 cm) |
| Quick Release | Yes |
| Spirit Level | No |
| Tension Control | No |
| Tripod Mount Thread Size | 3/8"-16 |
| Weight | 1.5 lb (670 g) |
REVIEW SNAPSHOT®
by PowerReviews(based on 106 reviews)
Ratings Distribution
97%
of respondents would recommend this to a friend.
Pros
- Improves tripod function (33)
- Stable (31)
- Fits well (29)
- Attaches firmly (28)
- Large range of motion (25)
Cons
- Heavy (8)
- Loose clamp (3)
Best Uses
- Stabilization (64)
- Long exposures (63)
- Photography (58)
- Portraits (51)
- Reducing noise (ISO reduction) (17)
- Reviewer Profile:
- Photo enthusiast (24), Enthusiast (23), Semi-pro photographer (23), Professional (4), Casual user (3)
Most Liked Positive Review
Good Ballhead; Beware of Grease
It's not an ArcaSwiss or anything exotic, but it's a great value. Solid build quality, and the ball doesn't move when it's being tightened. Probably the best you can get, without spending $100...Read complete review
It's not an ArcaSwiss or anything exotic, but it's a great value. Solid build quality, and the ball doesn't move when it's being tightened. Probably the best you can get, without spending $100 or $200 more. RC2 mount is great for DSLRs. I just mounted mine on a Manfrotto 680B monopod, and it's a great setup. (I also found out that the tripod legs from a Slik Mini-Pro will fit on the bottom section of the 680B monopod. Rotation is gone, and it gives me an extra stop or two.)
Watch out for the grease, though! I took an old camera strap and put it on this, so I could sling it over my shoulder. The screw that secures the ball came unscrewed about an inch, and there's a lot of grease on that thing, which got all over my shirt. I'm also lucky the screw didn't fall out altogether. So make sure you wipe off all the extra grease, put the knob in a place where it won't rub up against anything, or put the whole thing in a case.
Good ballhead, in spite of the grease.
VS
Most Liked Negative Review
Great ball but not perfect
I bought this ball head to match my 055X PROB tripod. Both the tripod and the ball head are high quality but the ball head has some weaknesses.
It is said t...Read complete review
I bought this ball head to match my 055X PROB tripod. Both the tripod and the ball head are high quality but the ball head has some weaknesses.
It is said that it can hold steady a camera with lens that is up to 11 lbs. My camera (Canon 5D Mark II) and my biggest lens (Canon 300mm f/4.0 IS USM telephoto), whith the hood not even fully extended, seems too heavy for the ball to settle in the position I want it to settle, although the total weight is less than half the stated limit... it is almost like shooting for target: you need to aim a bit higher than the target is and by the time the bullett hits, it will have fallen just enough. I find the same with the ball head. To aim at an object, I have to aim about a 1/4 to a 1/2 inch above the sweet spot of interest and by the time I let go of the camera, the ball head will have allowed the camera and lens to lower just enough to be on the right place... this is really not acceptable for the quality ball head this is supposed to be. I also find the screw fastener that is used to tighten the ballhead so the camera cannot move a bit too small and I beat my thumb bloody nearly every time after extended use...
I am not sure if there is a solution to these problems or if I am using the ball head wrong... but I ma certainly a bit disapointed about it.
REVIEWS
Reviewed by 106 customers
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Displaying reviews 1-20
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Pros
- Easily Adjusted
- Locks In Tight
- Smooth Movement
Cons
Best Uses
- Home
- Landscape/Scenery
- Outdoors
- Portraits
- Sports/Action
Comments about Manfrotto by Bogen Imaging 488RC2 Midi Ball Head with Rapid Connect:
I use this head for my D700 w/grip and a 70-200VR lens and it works great. This head handles a lot of weight and is very durable. I especially love the quick release. Perfect size for my tripod. Love it!
Pros
- Compact
- Easily Adjusted
- Lightweight
- Locks In Tight
- Smooth Movement
Cons
Best Uses
- Landscape/Scenery
- Outdoors
- Portraits
- Travel
- Wildlife
Comments about Manfrotto by Bogen Imaging 488RC2 Midi Ball Head with Rapid Connect:
I bought this for three reasons. I wanted a Manfrotto ball head for my Manfrotto tripod;it came with a quick release;the price couldn't be beat and I couldn't be happier.
If your like me and don't need fancy...just dependable function and reasonable price...then here you go. It's lighter than my old 3D head, much more compact (for carrying)and appears quite rugged(already put it in the creek..twice). It handles both my 70-200 f2.8L and 100-400 lenses mounted on a 50d quite solidly, no creeping,etc. and well balanced.
I was initially a little concerned by the smallness of the quick release pad and the weight of my camera and lenses..shock and awe! It holds on like a pitbull and with the neat little locking pin it don't let go. If you have big lenses with collars get an extra QR plate for each and leave them mounted..makes life a little easier.
Allow a little break-in time for the ball and seat...it gets smoother as you use it.
Having confidence in the functionality of your equipment makes photography much more enjoyable. I no longer give my tripod setup a seconds thought of it not doing whatever I ask of it.
Pros
- Compact
- Easily Adjusted
- Locks In Tight
- Smooth Movement
Cons
Best Uses
- Landscape/Scenery
- Outdoors
- Wildlife
Comments about Manfrotto by Bogen Imaging 488RC2 Midi Ball Head with Rapid Connect:
Shooting macro, nature and landscapes I found that this head was built solid and the quick release plate is a time saver, It is easy to adjust with a very smooth action. Less bulky to pack and lighter than my pan & tilt head yet holds up to 17 lbs.. Attaches firmly, very stable, quality built and you can micro manage adjustments.
Pros
- Easily Adjusted
- Smooth Movement
Cons
- Heavy
Best Uses
- Home
- Landscape/Scenery
- Outdoors
- Portraits
Comments about Manfrotto by Bogen Imaging 488RC2 Midi Ball Head with Rapid Connect:
This is my first ball head, so it took a little adjusting to get used to it the first time I was out shooting. Once I did, though, I found it to be very stable and solid. It'll go into just about any angle I want pretty quickly.
I tried using the panning capability a couple of times and find that the degree plate moves around. I may just not have it tight enough on the tripod.
Pros
- Compact
- Easily Adjusted
- Good Footing
- Lightweight
- Locks In Tight
- Smooth Movement
Cons
Best Uses
- Home
- Landscape/Scenery
- Outdoors
- Portraits
- Sports/Action
- Travel
- Weddings/Events
- Wildlife
Comments about Manfrotto by Bogen Imaging 488RC2 Midi Ball Head with Rapid Connect:
Love this product, very stable holds without problem 50D with battery grip and 100-400mm Canon Lens.
Totally love it. great for traveling and for studio work!!!
Pros
- Easily Adjusted
- Locks In Tight
- Smooth Movement
Cons
- Heavy
Best Uses
- Home
- Landscape/Scenery
- Outdoors
- Portraits
- Travel
- Weddings/Events
- Wildlife
Comments about Manfrotto by Bogen Imaging 488RC2 Midi Ball Head with Rapid Connect:
Larger than expected though well built. No slippage with a Nikon d90 with battery grip and lens in any position. Camera easily attaches with a solid click with the quick release plate without having to tighten any knobs. Easy to adjust in any position.
Pros
- Compact
- Easily Adjusted
- Locks In Tight
- Smooth Movement
Cons
Best Uses
- Landscape/Scenery
- Sports/Action
- Wildlife
Comments about Manfrotto by Bogen Imaging 488RC2 Midi Ball Head with Rapid Connect:
I like this ball head. Easy to use.
Pros
- Easily Adjusted
- Locks In Tight
- Smooth Movement
Cons
Best Uses
- Landscape/Scenery
- Outdoors
- Portraits
Comments about Manfrotto by Bogen Imaging 488RC2 Midi Ball Head with Rapid Connect:
This ballhead is very sturdy and solidly build. It has typical Manfrotto quality and conctruction. It holds a SLR and heavy lens without the least movement. Also allows the camera to be oriented in any way without sag. 5 stars.
Pros
- Attaches Firmly
- Good Stability
Cons
Best Uses
- Long Exposures
- Photography
- Stabilization
Comments about Manfrotto by Bogen Imaging 488RC2 Midi Ball Head with Rapid Connect:
I bought this ballhead for use with the 055xprob manfrotto tripod and what A combo! If you are looking for A ballhead then this on will not dissapoint.
very rugged build and smooth and easy release.
Pros
- Attaches Firmly
- Good Stability
- Large Range of Motion
- Strong Clamp
- Superior Quality
- Superior Workmanship
Cons
Best Uses
- Long Exposures
- Photography
- Portraits
- Reducing Noise (ISO Reduction)
- Stabilization
Comments about Manfrotto by Bogen Imaging 488RC2 Midi Ball Head with Rapid Connect:
Excellent quality; stable; easy to use; adjusts quickly; versatile.
Pros
- Attaches Firmly
- Good Stability
- Large Range of Motion
- Strong Clamp
Cons
Best Uses
- Long Exposures
- Photography
Comments about Manfrotto by Bogen Imaging 488RC2 Midi Ball Head with Rapid Connect:
I was looking for a ball that give fast movement, but get steady when need it.
Pros
- Attaches Firmly
- Good Stability
Cons
Best Uses
- Long Exposures
- Photography
- Portraits
- Stabilization
Comments about Manfrotto by Bogen Imaging 488RC2 Midi Ball Head with Rapid Connect:
Great ball head for the price, it holds my 70-200mm lens with no problems, but I would not use it with anything heavier.
Pros
- Attaches Firmly
- Good Stability
- Large Range of Motion
- Strong Clamp
Cons
Best Uses
- Long Exposures
- Photography
- Portraits
- Stabilization
Comments about Manfrotto by Bogen Imaging 488RC2 Midi Ball Head with Rapid Connect:
I use this product with my d200
well made,quick release is great, friction knob adjustment great,you don't need much to keep the ball head from moving.
Pros
- Attaches Firmly
- Good Stability
- Large Range of Motion
Cons
Best Uses
- Long Exposures
- Stabilization
Comments about Manfrotto by Bogen Imaging 488RC2 Midi Ball Head with Rapid Connect:
The rapid connect ball head is easy to use.
It has worked well and is versitle for those hard to set up shots with a large range of motion.
Pros
- Attaches Firmly
- Good Stability
- Large Range of Motion
- Strong Clamp
Cons
Best Uses
- Long Exposures
- Photography
- Stabilization
Comments about Manfrotto by Bogen Imaging 488RC2 Midi Ball Head with Rapid Connect:
I use the 488RC2 with my 055XPROB for landscapes and HDR. This head seems to be very solid and locks down VERY tight. Simple to use, one hand on the camera and one on the locking knob.
Panoramas are a breeze with the separate panning lock and even a degree scale so you know how far you've moved the head.
Pros
- Attaches Firmly
- Good Stability
- Large Range of Motion
Cons
Best Uses
- Photography
- Stabilization
Comments about Manfrotto by Bogen Imaging 488RC2 Midi Ball Head with Rapid Connect:
Product operates as advertised. Be careful if you have a long lens.....I wasn't prepared for the immediate release.
Pros
- Attaches Firmly
- Good Stability
- Strong Clamp
Cons
Best Uses
- Long Exposures
- Photography
- Portraits
- Stabilization
Comments about Manfrotto by Bogen Imaging 488RC2 Midi Ball Head with Rapid Connect:
Just bought the 055CX3 tripod, this head, and a Manfrotto 488 ball camera leveller. All three items work great together. Have taken some perfect panorama shots
Pros
- Attaches Firmly
- Good Stability
- Large Range of Motion
- Strong Clamp
Cons
Best Uses
- Long Exposures
- Photography
- Portraits
- Reducing Noise (ISO Reduction)
- Stabilization
Comments about Manfrotto by Bogen Imaging 488RC2 Midi Ball Head with Rapid Connect:
very reliable and durable
Pros
- Attaches Firmly
- Good Stability
- Large Range of Motion
- Strong Clamp
Cons
Best Uses
- Long Exposures
- Photography
- Portraits
- Stabilization
Comments about Manfrotto by Bogen Imaging 488RC2 Midi Ball Head with Rapid Connect:
I did not find any negative. Ball is very good for SLR cameras with mid-long focal length lenses (F2.8) and zooms (F2.8).
Pros
- Attaches Firmly
- Good Stability
- Large Range of Motion
- Strong Clamp
Cons
Best Uses
- Long Exposures
- Photography
- Portraits
- Stabilization
Comments about Manfrotto by Bogen Imaging 488RC2 Midi Ball Head with Rapid Connect:
I BOUGHT THE INDURO C213 SO I WANTED A QUALITY MOUNT AND B & H CAME THRU WITH THIS ONE. EASY TO USE. QUALITY BUILT . IF YOU NEED A BALL HEAD MOUNT THIS IS A PERFECT CHOICE. NO CONS HERE AT ALL
Displaying reviews 1-20
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Reducing/Enlarging Bushings
- Price: $8.95
Universal Camera Plates
- Price: $13.95
Custom Body Plates
- Price: $24.90
Vertical "L" Brackets
- Price: $64.95
Universal Lens Plates
- Price: $49.95
Levelling Bases
- Price: $92.96
Base Plates
- Price: $119.95
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.
Miscellaneous
- Price: $34.95
What's in the Box
- 3157N Quick Release Plate
- 2-Year Warranty + Additional 3-Years after Registering Online or by Mail
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