The Professional's Source
866.276.1435 / 212.502.6357
Holiday Closing
We are not accepting orders at this time. Online ordering will resume Monday, May 28th at 9:45PM EDT. Our SuperStore and offices are currently closed and will reopen on Tuesday, May 29th at 9:00AM EDT.
We apologize for any inconvenience and appreciate your patronage.
Manfrotto 222 Joystick Head
- Price: $99.95
- GBP 63.81
-
Mail In Rebate
-$10.00
(see details)
offer ends JUN 30 '12 - Price after Rebate: $89.95
- Calculate Shipping
- In Stock
The Manfrotto 222 Joystick Head is fast to set up and an easy to use tripod head. The very act of taking your hand away from the grip locks the head into position, which eliminates the extra step of having to tighten a knob or lever before being ready to shoot. You have immediate access to half of a sphere in which to position your camera. The tension of the ball can be adjusted to accommodate the load weight.
It is not for continuous tracking of moving subjects, because you must always grip the lever to release the ball and thus your hand would tire after prolonged use. In the vertical mode of horizontal-format cameras, it is limited to only 5.5 pounds. But for 6X6cm format shooters or 35mm up to an 80-200mm f/2.8 lens, it exceeds all others in expedience. An ideal head for wedding or portrait photographers.
Replaces part number 3265.
- Fast, one-handed positioning
- Built-in bubble level
- Tension adjustment
- Secondary security lock
| Maximum Camera Supported | Medium size 35mm SLR |
| Load Capacity | 5.5 lbs (2.5kg) |
| Height | 8.3" (21.1cm) |
| Quick Release | Yes |
| Spirit Level | Yes |
| Tension Control | Yes |
| Tripod Mount Thread Size | 3/8" |
| Weight | 1.7 lb (0.77kg) |
REVIEW SNAPSHOT®
by PowerReviews(based on 90 reviews)
Ratings Distribution
98%
of respondents would recommend this to a friend.
Pros
- Stable (74)
- Large range of motion (72)
- Attaches firmly (65)
- Strong clamp (64)
- Improves tripod function (9)
Cons
- Heavy (16)
Best Uses
- Portraits (56)
- Landscape/scenery (46)
- Night shots (37)
- Wildlife (32)
- Sports/action (29)
- Reviewer Profile:
- Pro photographer (27), Photo enthusiast (25), Semi-pro photographer (20), Casual photographer (6), Enthusiast (4)
- Was this a gift?:
- No (47)
Most Liked Positive Review
Sturdy!
I got this as my photography head for my 055X Pro Tripod that I ordered with this head. Both connect securely to the other - one won't go anywhere without the other.
<...Read complete review
I got this as my photography head for my 055X Pro Tripod that I ordered with this head. Both connect securely to the other - one won't go anywhere without the other.
I had been wanting to get this head, well, probably ever since it was introduced many, many years ago, so when I finally got around to purchasing a new tripod, this is the head I went straight to getting.
I like the screw base plate for the camera, that is able to be done with one's hands alone... my previous, I had to have a coin or screwdriver to screw it into the bottom of the camera... so, I much prefer this method for quicker removal of the base plate when needed.
My camera (Nikon D700), attached to base plate, attached to the head, I feel very assured that it will not come off unless I take it off. Solid construction.
Movement is as easy as squeezing the trigger and positioning at any angle, degree that you would want and need, quickly and easily, And when you release the grip to have the head/camera stay in that position, you can bet that it does! I haven't a full mother of a telephoto lens for my camera to test it with on the head, I am sure it may have it's limit as to what it can securely hold and keep it's position, but it would be a good chunk of glass, with camera, with flash, with a battery pack attached, I bet before it would start to get iffy... but then again, maybe not, it really locks into place.
It will add a good half foot to a foot to the top of your tripod. Has it's own bubble level, which is a nice second indicator to the one that is also on my tripod itself, so even if the legs are off some, I can always know I am level with the head itself.
I am really pleased with the head. I am having to get used to it... The reason why I gave it four stars, is really not a knock against the head itself, but just it in relation to some of my shooting. After a quarter century of having a tripod and head with separate tilt and pan controls, levers, and then going to this all in one ball head where it is all controlled with your gripping and changing it all in one fell move and swoop, I do sort of miss being able to adjust the X and Y axis separately without affecting the other.
For example, I mentioned the bubble level on the head, well I get it all nice and level, but if I grip and change position, I can't just pan left or right without also affecting the vertical plane... well, easily, like a simple pan and tilt head, where you lock in the tilt, and can pan level left or right... So, something that probably can be attained with much practice, but something to keep in mind and consider if maintaining level images is imperative to you and your shooting.
I had also planned on getting the 701HDV Pro Fluid Video Mini Head for my tripod for my video camera... may end up using it also with my Nikon too, and switching out heads for whatever the situation dictates.
I am pleased with the head and look to put some heavy use with it.
All the best to you and happy shooting!
JPH
VS
Most Liked Negative Review
Horrible design!
The plunger (the piece that contacts the lever and covers a spring to provide tension to the lever) is PLASTIC! It breaks and is impossible to replace! I've HAD IT with Bogen (now...Read complete review
The plunger (the piece that contacts the lever and covers a spring to provide tension to the lever) is PLASTIC! It breaks and is impossible to replace! I've HAD IT with Bogen (now Manfrotto) and their plastic parts! I take care of my equipment. The design and integrity of Bogen products can be faulty.
Reviewed by 90 customers
Sort by
Displaying reviews 1-20
Previous | Next »
Pros
- Attaches Firmly
- Good Stability
- Large Range of Motion
- Strong Clamp
Cons
- Heavy
Best Uses
- Home
- Landscape/Scenery
- Night Shots
- Portraits
- Sports/Action
- Travel
- Video
- Weddings/Events
- Wildlife
Comments about Manfrotto 222 Joystick Head:
Super easy to use
- Was this a gift?:
- Yes
Pros
- Attaches Firmly
- Good Stability
- Large Range of Motion
Cons
Best Uses
- Landscape/Scenery
- Portraits
- Sports/Action
Comments about Manfrotto 222 Joystick Head:
Using this joystick for macro fotography
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Manfrotto 222 Joystick Head:
The plunger (the piece that contacts the lever and covers a spring to provide tension to the lever) is PLASTIC! It breaks and is impossible to replace! I've HAD IT with Bogen (now Manfrotto) and their plastic parts! I take care of my equipment. The design and integrity of Bogen products can be faulty.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Attaches Firmly
- Good Stability
- Large Range of Motion
- Strong Clamp
Cons
Best Uses
- Night Shots
- Portraits
- Sports/Action
Comments about Manfrotto 222 Joystick Head:
I bought this joystick head for a wedding in a really dark church (candlelight ceremony). I ended up not using it because it was just too heavy and awkward on the monopod with my 2 camera setup. I think I might find a better personal use for this product when I only need one body.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Attaches Firmly
- Good Stability
- Large Range of Motion
Cons
- Heavy
Best Uses
- Landscape/Scenery
- Night Shots
- Portraits
- Sports/Action
- Travel
- Weddings/Events
- Wildlife
Comments about Manfrotto 222 Joystick Head:
I bought this based on the reccomendation from Sandy Puc. So far it's great. It was easy to set up and even easier to use! I love how the camera locks on but is quick to remove as well. Super sturdy!!!!
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Attaches Firmly
- Large Range of Motion
- Strong Clamp
Cons
Best Uses
- Home
- Landscape/Scenery
- Night Shots
- Portraits
Comments about Manfrotto 222 Joystick Head:
This is a very well designed and built tripod head.
I use it in combination with my 055XPROB Aluminum Tripod for portraits and landscapes.
I love the quickness of set up w.r.t. other ballhead.
I have noticed a bit of shake when used with my 70-300mm lens, but it is dumped rapidly. Anyway, I use the MC-DC2 Remote Release Cord to prevent the onset of other possible vibrations and so far so good.
I haven't use the combination tripod + Joystick head is slightly windy situations, so I cannot tell how it is going to perform (I expect there could be some shaking at some point, but I do not imagine myself taking picture in strong winds anyway).
On my monopod, I have the 234RC Swivel/Tilt Head, which has the same QR plate of this 222 Joystick Head. This is a nice commonality to have.
All in all, a must have for those who hate the hassle of the traditional ballheads.
Pros
- Attaches Firmly
- Good Stability
- Large Range of Motion
- Strong Clamp
Cons
Best Uses
- Home
- Landscape/Scenery
- Night Shots
- Portraits
- Weddings/Events
- Wildlife
Comments about Manfrotto 222 Joystick Head:
I bought this joystick head to replace my SLIK AF2100 grip head. I love the functionality and the quick release. The only thing this can't do compared with my old head is panning shots. Of the two heads I prefer this one.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Good Stability
- Large Range of Motion
Cons
Best Uses
- Portraits
Comments about Manfrotto 222 Joystick Head:
Moves around very easily and locks well into place when lever is released.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Attaches Firmly
- Good Stability
- Large Range of Motion
- Strong Clamp
Cons
Best Uses
- Landscape/Scenery
- Portraits
- Weddings/Events
- Wildlife
Comments about Manfrotto 222 Joystick Head:
I love love love this product! It is soooo easy to move quickly and has an awesome range of motion! You can adjust the tension on the ball which is awesome and the trigger isn't hard to squeeze! I am so happy that I got this! For [$] it is sooo worth the buy!
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Attaches Firmly
- Good Stability
- Large Range of Motion
- Strong Clamp
Cons
Best Uses
- Home
- Landscape/Scenery
- Night Shots
- Portraits
- Sports/Action
- Travel
Comments about Manfrotto 222 Joystick Head:
This joystick head is really easy to use even for a girl, you don't have to be super strong to press the handle, it moves smoothly and to any direction. Really good product. I would recommend to buy extra plate in case you use one plate on camera and other on a big lens.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Attaches Firmly
- Good Stability
- Large Range of Motion
- Strong Clamp
Cons
Best Uses
- Home
- Landscape/Scenery
- Night Shots
- Portraits
- Sports/Action
- Wildlife
Comments about Manfrotto 222 Joystick Head:
I have used this product on all of my tripod shots. Convenient to move and handle. Can direct the camera in every and all directions. No fuss no miss. Love it!!
Pros
- Attaches Firmly
- Good Stability
- Large Range of Motion
- Strong Clamp
Cons
- Heavy
Best Uses
- Everything
Comments about Manfrotto 222 Joystick Head:
As far as ball heads go this one is pretty awesome and not too expensive either. I used it on my friends tripod and had to get my own. It makes rotating your camera at any angle way easy. Love it.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Attaches Firmly
- Good Stability
- Large Range of Motion
- Strong Clamp
Cons
Best Uses
- Home
- Video
Comments about Manfrotto 222 Joystick Head:
This item is perfect for my need to maneuver my spotting scope quickly. No bulky adjustment devices. Very solid. Lots of cool design features, like a level bubble, squeeze adjustment, quick release platform, even a notch to allow the spotting scope to drop to a 90 degree position.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Attaches Firmly
- Good Stability
- Large Range of Motion
- Strong Clamp
Cons
Best Uses
- Home
- Landscape/Scenery
- Night Shots
- Portraits
- Sports/Action
- Video
- Wildlife
Comments about Manfrotto 222 Joystick Head:
easy to use, and very good quality
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Attaches Firmly
- Good Stability
- Large Range of Motion
- Strong Clamp
Cons
Best Uses
- Landscape/Scenery
- Night Shots
- Portraits
- Wildlife
Comments about Manfrotto 222 Joystick Head:
As a new photographer I found the Manfrotto 222 Joystick to be very easy to use. I can't even imagine using my tripod without it being attached now.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Attaches Firmly
- Good Stability
- Large Range of Motion
- Strong Clamp
Cons
- Heavy
Best Uses
- Landscape/Scenery
- Night Shots
- Wildlife
Comments about Manfrotto 222 Joystick Head:
This is a great head without drift when used with my Nikon D300 with 70-300 mm lens. I only give 4 instead of 5 because of the weight and added height to my tripod. Overall I am pleased.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Attaches Firmly
- Good Stability
- Large Range of Motion
- Strong Clamp
Cons
Best Uses
- Landscape/Scenery
- Night Shots
- Portraits
- Weddings/Events
Comments about Manfrotto 222 Joystick Head:
It is better than322RC2 Ball Head that I have.It has large range of motion than 322RC2.Great product from Manfrotto as usual
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Attaches Firmly
- Good Stability
- Large Range of Motion
- Strong Clamp
Cons
Best Uses
- Home
- Landscape/Scenery
- Night Shots
- Portraits
- Sports/Action
- Travel
- Video
- Weddings/Events
- Wildlife
Comments about Manfrotto 222 Joystick Head:
I started using this grip at my job several years ago and have never looked back. It's so easy to use.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Attaches Firmly
- Good Stability
- Large Range of Motion
- Strong Clamp
Cons
Best Uses
- Home
- Landscape/Scenery
- Sports/Action
- Travel
- Wildlife
Comments about Manfrotto 222 Joystick Head:
I tried using a pistol grip (joystick) on a friend's tripod before I bought it and was sold. These grips making photography so much easier. I no longer get jabbed by the control handle of my old tripod. The extra safety locking mechanism makes me feel secure that the camera never falls off (as it did with my old tripod). The camera can be quickly and easily released from the tripod also. Extremely happy with this product.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Good Stability
Cons
Best Uses
- Portraits
- Weddings/Events
Comments about Manfrotto 222 Joystick Head:
IT's just what I need to give me that stability I need to get those shots.
Displaying reviews 1-20
Previous | Next »
Reducing/Enlarging Bushings
-
- Original: $8.95
- Save: $2.27
- Price: $6.68
- GBP 4.26
Custom Body Plates
-
- Original: $24.90
- Save: $2.01
- Price: $22.89
- GBP 14.61
Vertical "L" Brackets
- Price: $63.95
- GBP 40.83
Levelling Bases
- Price: $149.95
- GBP 95.74
Base Plates
-
- Original: $119.95
- Save: $19.15
- Price: $100.80
- GBP 64.36
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
- RC2 Quick Release Plate with 1/4"-20 Screw
- 2-Year Warranty + Additional 3-Years after Registering Online or by Mail
Why Shop at B&H
Make your online shopping trip personal with our online Live Chat representatives. You can easily reach an in-house expert while browsing our site for your shopping needs. We have the most highly-trained staff in the industry who are pros in their fields, and their professional expertise will help you get the most from your purchase.
Place your domestic order with us for shipment via any UPS, FedEx Economy, or FedEx Priority shipping methods by 4 PM ET Monday through Thursday or 11 AM ET Friday and your order will be shipped that day. Visit our Shipping Delivery Times page for further details. Delivery times are subject to payment verification.
We appreciate your purchase from us, and we understand that sometimes the products you buy don’t turn out to be the right choice for you. We guarantee your peace of mind with our 30-day return policy. With no standard restocking fee and few restrictions, you’ll enjoy a return process as easy as shopping with us. Please visit our Return Policy page for further details.
We’ve made iPhone and Android mobile apps available for your service and shopping convenience. Use filtered search to find and purchase almost any item we sell and ship worldwide. Download product manuals and guides for many popular items. See high-resolution product images in close-up detail. Manage wishlists and view order history. Visit our Mobile Apps page to download.
See sample Newsletter
Help
Company Information
B&H Resources
