Manfrotto 468MGRC0 Hydrostatic Ballhead with RC0 Quick Release
The Manfrotto 468MGRC0 Magnesium Hydrostatic Ballhead with Rapid Connect 0 System (RC0 Quick Release) is designed to meet the demands of professional photographers who require a light weight head but at the same time want to support heavy camera loads up to 35 lb.
The 468MG series uses a hydraulic system to lock the ball mechanism in place. Using hydraulics instead of a mechanical system produces a super-tight lock from a minimal turn of the locking knob, without sacrificing the smoothness of the ball's movement when unblocked. To keep weight low, the head is made of magnesium; and to provide smooth movements the 1.5" (approx.) aluminum ball is Teflon coated. The oversized ball locking knob allows for easy control even when using gloves.
This head further offers a range of handy features: independent pan and tilt locks with a 360° pan movement; +90/-90° tilt movement; a graduated engraved panoramic base; and a calibrated adjustable friction control on the main knob.
The 468MGRC0 version uses the RC0 Hexagonal Quick Release Plate system for fast, secure locking and flexible positioning even with heavy loads.
- Magnesium cast head, with 1.5" (approx.) aluminum ball, Teflon coated
- Independent pan lock, with calibrated 360° panning bed
- Oversized ball locking knob
| Maximum Camera Supported | Large format |
| Load Capacity | 35.3 lb (16 kg) |
| Height | 5.3" (13.5 cm) |
| Quick Release | Yes |
| Spirit Level | Yes (horizontal & vertical) |
| Tension Control | Yes |
| Tripod Mount Thread Size | 3/8"-16 |
| Weight | 1.9 lb (860 g) |
REVIEW SNAPSHOT®
by PowerReviews(based on 16 reviews)
Ratings Distribution
93%
of respondents would recommend this to a friend.
Pros
- Attaches firmly (13)
- Large range of motion (13)
- Stable (11)
- Strong clamp (9)
Cons
- Heavy (6)
Best Uses
- Portraits (6)
- Long exposures (5)
- Landscape/scenery (4)
- Stabilization (4)
- Night shots (3)
- Reviewer Profile:
- Photo enthusiast (4), Professional (3), Pro photographer (3), Semi-pro photographer (3)
- Was this a gift?:
- No (4)
Most Liked Positive Review
Extremely well built and tough
I purchased this head for two reasons. One, I wanted to easily change from landscape to portrait orientation and this head does that very well. Second, I wanted a head that would be ...Read complete review
I purchased this head for two reasons. One, I wanted to easily change from landscape to portrait orientation and this head does that very well. Second, I wanted a head that would be able to support the gear I intended to use with it, namely the Canon 1Ds MK III and an array of lenses, some of which are very heavy.
This head replaces the joystick type head that although works very well too, it just does not have the necessary strength to support my gear as required.
I highly recommend this head for those who want fast orientation changes and need the additional strength this head supplies to support today's heavy professional gear.
VS
Most Liked Negative Review
Good, but not perfect
I really wanted to love this head, but I can only say that I like it.
Things I love:
* The level bubbles (horizontal & vertical orientations) - very ...Read complete review
I really wanted to love this head, but I can only say that I like it.
Things I love:
* The level bubbles (horizontal & vertical orientations) - very useful for panning
* Quick release - works will
* 360 degree panning
* Pan lock
* Intuitive controls
Things I like:
* The octagonal mounting plate (though at 2 7/16" across it is BIG)
* The hydrostatic control
Things I'm disappointed about:
* The fact that there is just a bit of drift after tightening it down, especially with a long focal length lens (the extra weight of the lens combined with the higher magnification combine to frustrate careful image composition)
Based on the last point I'm sad to say that I'm looking to replace this head with something else - likely an Arca-Swiss Z1...
REVIEWS
Reviewed by 16 customers
Sort by
Displaying reviews 1-16
Pros
- Attaches Firmly
- Good Stability
- Large Range of Motion
Cons
- None
Best Uses
- Landscape/Scenery
- Night Shots
- Travel
- Wildlife
Comments about Manfrotto 468MGRC0 Hydrostatic Ballhead with RC0 Quick Release:
I bought this head because I've been a long time user of the RC0 Quick Release system, and didn't want to have cobble together my own RC0 release and ball head combo. Glad I went with this product -- besides the benefits of the RC0 Quick Release, the hydrostatic control is fabulous. I use it primarily with long glass -- 400 & 600mm lenses. The hydrostatic control allows me to set the tension perfectly so the camera/lens combo is easy to move, but will just sit there when I let go of it. And yet, it's still easy to clamp it down tight if I need to. I really appreciate the swivel lock, too. Easy to use, locks tight.
If there was anything I'd like to see changed, it's the length of the stem between the ball and RC0 Quick Release. Could probably stand to be a little bit shorter. Otherwise, it's a great head.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Attaches Firmly
- Good for lefty
- Good Stability
- Large Range of Motion
- Strong Clamp
Cons
- Complicated Controls
Best Uses
- Wildlife
Comments about Manfrotto 468MGRC0 Hydrostatic Ballhead with RC0 Quick Release:
I have used other ball heads and found out there are 2 things that others were not able to solve. First, the manfrotto heads have the 'U' on 2 sides of the head, this is quite useful should you happen to be left-handed because it will allow you to do what is most likely more natural in terms of the controls overall being on the left. The second issue is often the wrong knob (the one holding the camera on the quick release) was being unscrewed instead of the one for the ballhead. With the unique style of quick release, this is never an issue with this ball head. Please note, once you get the hang of the quick release mechanism, it is no longer "difficult" to do. Very happy with my purchase.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Attaches Firmly
- Good Stability
- Large Range of Motion
Cons
Best Uses
- Landscape/Scenery
- Night Shots
- Portraits
- Sports/Action
Comments about Manfrotto 468MGRC0 Hydrostatic Ballhead with RC0 Quick Release:
Well built. Love the two levels. The hex quick release is very secure. No drifting even with heavy equipment. I've used it with a 4x5 view camera with ease. I use it with the Manfrotto 055MF3 MagFiber sticks, and I am very happy with this combo.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Attaches Firmly
- Good Stability
- Large Range of Motion
- Strong Clamp
Cons
Best Uses
- Landscape/Scenery
- Portraits
Comments about Manfrotto 468MGRC0 Hydrostatic Ballhead with RC0 Quick Release:
I use this ballhead with my Nikon D300, shooting antiques. This is my second one that I have owned and I love the versatile movements of the head and the fact that I can put it in any position and be assured that it will stay in place. It is very stable and easy to use.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Attaches Firmly
- Large Range of Motion
Cons
- Weak Clamp
Best Uses
- HDR Photography
- Landscape/Scenery
- Night Shots
Comments about Manfrotto 468MGRC0 Hydrostatic Ballhead with RC0 Quick Release:
Heavy duty well built, like the Hex quick release as opposed the rectangular design. Bubble levels for both horizontal and vertical shooting are very useful. Controls are easy to use. I agree with previous reviews that complain of a slight drift after tightening. Makes tight framing a little difficult with longer lenses. I would rate at five stars if not for this problem.
Pros
- Attaches Firmly
- Large Range of Motion
Cons
- Heavy
- Weak Clamp
Best Uses
- Home
- Portraits
- Sports/Action
- Weddings/Events
Comments about Manfrotto 468MGRC0 Hydrostatic Ballhead with RC0 Quick Release:
I really wanted to love this head, but I can only say that I like it.
Things I love:
* The level bubbles (horizontal & vertical orientations) - very useful for panning
* Quick release - works will
* 360 degree panning
* Pan lock
* Intuitive controls
Things I like:
* The octagonal mounting plate (though at 2 7/16" across it is BIG)
* The hydrostatic control
Things I'm disappointed about:
* The fact that there is just a bit of drift after tightening it down, especially with a long focal length lens (the extra weight of the lens combined with the higher magnification combine to frustrate careful image composition)
Based on the last point I'm sad to say that I'm looking to replace this head with something else - likely an Arca-Swiss Z1...
Pros
- Easily Adjusted
- Good Footing
- Locks In Tight
- Smooth Movement
Cons
- Heavy
Best Uses
Comments about Manfrotto 468MGRC0 Hydrostatic Ballhead with RC0 Quick Release:
I use this product with 055 carbon legs, it adds quite a weight but well worth it
Pros
- Easily Adjusted
- Locks In Tight
Cons
- Rough Movement
Best Uses
- Outdoors
- Sports
- Travel
Comments about Manfrotto 468MGRC0 Hydrostatic Ballhead with RC0 Quick Release:
It's a Manfrotto, it's superb. Having said that, coming from having always used fluid heads, going to a ball head is a big jump, and does have a noticeable disadvanage that I was not expecting. The movement is rough, and not at all smooth. To have the pretension tight enough the moment you let g it doesn't fall, you have it so tight, if you haven't weighted the tripod, you can't move it.
Used with a 3.6kg telephoto setup.
Pros
- Attaches Firmly
- Good Stability
- Large Range of Motion
- Strong Clamp
Cons
- Heavy
Best Uses
- Long Exposures
- Stabilization
Comments about Manfrotto 468MGRC0 Hydrostatic Ballhead with RC0 Quick Release:
I previously owned a MX-1000 aluminum combo tripod and head. The product was very light weight and portable but lacked the muscle power to steadily hold my heavy equipment: a Bigma and Nikon D300. I therefore was looking for a replacement outfit with a priority on stability.
I ended up with this ballhead and Bogen's 055CXPRO4 legs. Goodbye camera shake! I now have a very stable platform. However, if you're on a long hike with this head, better have a bag or strap. It's HEAVY! However, it will take a lot of weight without blinking an eye.
Pros
- Attaches Firmly
- Good Stability
- Large Range of Motion
- Strong Clamp
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Manfrotto 468MGRC0 Hydrostatic Ballhead with RC0 Quick Release:
Very Impressive ballhead. I use it on a SLIK tripod and I love the combination. You must pay more upfront for Bohiergen/Manfrotto products but I have not yet been disappointed with any of their gear that I own.
Pros
- Attaches Firmly
- Good Stability
- Large Range of Motion
- Strong Clamp
Cons
Best Uses
- Long Exposures
Comments about Manfrotto 468MGRC0 Hydrostatic Ballhead with RC0 Quick Release:
Use with carbon fiber while hiking. Simple, easy to use controls. Locks in tight with all of my equipment.
Pros
- Attaches Firmly
- Good Stability
- Large Range of Motion
- Strong Clamp
Cons
- Heavy
Best Uses
- Long Exposures
- Stabilization
Comments about Manfrotto 468MGRC0 Hydrostatic Ballhead with RC0 Quick Release:
I use this product for landscape and travel photography. It's extremely durable!
Pros
- Attaches Firmly
- Good Stability
- Large Range of Motion
- Strong Clamp
Cons
- Heavy
Best Uses
- Long Exposures
- Photography
- Portraits
Comments about Manfrotto 468MGRC0 Hydrostatic Ballhead with RC0 Quick Release:
I bought this head unit to use with the Slik Pro 815 CF-II Carbon fibre tripod. This ball head is very easy to use, has more then enough strength to hold my DSLR and i feel confident with it holding my Sinar 4x5 view camera also. The tension control is easy to adjust allowing a good range of movement. The dual spirit levels are also very welcome. A great ball head. The only con is the weight, the head weighs about as much as the tripod itself, but worth it for the stability.
Pros
- Attaches Firmly
- Good Stability
- Large Range of Motion
- Strong Clamp
Cons
Best Uses
- Portraits
- Stabilization
Comments about Manfrotto 468MGRC0 Hydrostatic Ballhead with RC0 Quick Release:
I use this product in my studio for shooting portraits and I LOVE IT! I used to have these antiquated rotator brackets that were difficult to turn. The new ballhead is smooth as silk and very easy to use.
No complaints!
Pros
- Attaches Firmly
- Good Stability
- Large Range of Motion
- Strong Clamp
Cons
- Cost
- Heavy
Best Uses
- Long Exposures
- Portraits
- Quick orientaion changes
- Stabilization
Comments about Manfrotto 468MGRC0 Hydrostatic Ballhead with RC0 Quick Release:
I purchased this head for two reasons. One, I wanted to easily change from landscape to portrait orientation and this head does that very well. Second, I wanted a head that would be able to support the gear I intended to use with it, namely the Canon 1Ds MK III and an array of lenses, some of which are very heavy.
This head replaces the joystick type head that although works very well too, it just does not have the necessary strength to support my gear as required.
I highly recommend this head for those who want fast orientation changes and need the additional strength this head supplies to support today's heavy professional gear.
Comments about Manfrotto 468MGRC0 Hydrostatic Ballhead with RC0 Quick Release:
This is a wonderful head. The hexagonal plate is very wellmade, and the bolt assembly to connect to the lens foot orcamera is very study. What's more, the bolt assembly ismade in such a manner that it allows the user to get thebolt nice and tight on the lens foot. The safety latch andthe release mechanism are all top notch. I was pleasantlysurprised when I found out it allows for 360 panning (Iguess I should have read the specs). The friction controlis easy to use, and works very well -- even with my200-500mm lens. The pan lock and the friction control knobsare both quite large, and easy to use. I am 6'0, so theextra height of this head on my 055XPROB tripod makes theperfect height without the center column extended. All inall this is a wonderful product, and I'm very pleased with it.Cons:The only thing I can thing to complain about would be theweight. This is not a small tripod head, it is quite largeand heavy duty. If you are counting ounces in your hikingbackpack, you might look for a lighter version.
Expertise: Spirited amateur
Previous Equivalent Item Owned: Velbon CX-640
Items I Recommend: Manfrotto 055XPROB tripod legs
Displaying reviews 1-16
Reducing/Enlarging Bushings
- Price: $8.95
Quick Release Adapters
- Price: $78.95
Universal Camera Plates
- Price: $18.25
Custom Body Plates
- Price: $19.95
Vertical "L" Brackets
- Price: $68.90
Macro Focusing Rails
- Price: $78.66
What's in the Box
- RC0 Quick Release Plate with 1/4"-20 Screw
- 2-Year Warranty + Additional 3-Years after Registering Online or by Mail
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