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Manfrotto 496 Center Ball Head with 200PL-PRO Quick Release Plate

BH #MAMH496BHUS • MFR #MH496-BHUS
 43 reviews
Manfrotto 496 Center Ball Head with 200PL-PRO Quick Release Plate
Key Features
  • Load Capacity: 26.5 lb
  • Height: 4.5"
  • Weight: 14.1 oz
  • Up to 90° Portrait Angle Tilt
This 496 Center Ball Head with 200PL-PRO Quick Release Plate from Manfrotto features an integrated RC2 quick release cam lock and a 200PL-PRO quick release plate. It features a load capacity of 26.5 lb and can be attached to tripods or other support systems that feature a 3/8"-16 mount. By loosening the head's primary locking knob, the ball-and-socket joint can be quickly swiveled, angled, fully tilted, or returned to its upright position. A recessed dial set within that locking knob can be rotated to apply tension control to the ball-and-socket joint's movements. Along the opposite side of the ball head, a secondary locking knob controls the ability to rotate the head 360°.
In Stock
$124.88
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Load Capacity
19.8 lb
26.5 lb
Quick Release System
200PL-PRO
Q6 Arca Swiss
Universal Round Disc
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Manfrotto 496 Ball Head with 200PL-PRO Plate Overview

This 496 Center Ball Head with 200PL-PRO Quick Release Plate from Manfrotto features an integrated RC2 quick release cam lock and a 200PL-PRO quick release plate. It features a load capacity of 26.5 lb and can be attached to tripods or other support systems that feature a 3/8"-16 mount. By loosening the head's primary locking knob, the ball-and-socket joint can be quickly swiveled, angled, fully tilted, or returned to its upright position. A recessed dial set within that locking knob can be rotated to apply tension control to the ball-and-socket joint's movements. Along the opposite side of the ball head, a secondary locking knob controls the ability to rotate the head 360°.

496 Center Ball Head
  • 26.5 lb load capacity
  • Compatible with tripods or support systems that feature a 3/8"-16 mount
  • Uses ball-and-socket joint to help maximize pan-and-tilt flexibility
  • Ball-and-socket joint provides 360° of swivel control, is tiltable down to a 90° angle, and can be locked into place
  • Integrated RC2 quick release cam lock and a 200PL-PRO quick release plate
  • Primary locking knob allows ball-and-socket joint to be quickly swiveled, angled, fully tilted, or returned to its upright position
  • Secondary locking knob allows head to rotate 360°
  • Dedicated tension control dial for the ball-and-socket joint's movements
  • Durable, aluminum-alloy construction
200PL-PRO Quick Release Plate
Compatible with Manfrotto RC2 quick release cam lock and select Arca-type quick release clamps
UPC: 719821423911

Manfrotto 496 Ball Head with 200PL-PRO Plate Specs

Key Specs
Head Type
Ball Head
Base Mount
3/8"-16 Female
Camera Mounting Screw
1/4"-20 Male & 3/8"-16 with Bushing
Quick Release Plate Type
Arca-Type, RC2
Friction Control
Yes
Load Capacity
26.5 lb / 12 kg
Weight
14.11 oz / 400 g
Head
Head Type
Ball Head
Base Mount
3/8"-16 Female
Camera Mounting Screw
1/4"-20 Male & 3/8"-16 with Bushing
Quick Release Plate Type
Arca-Type, RC2
Number of Bubble Levels
None
Friction Control
Yes
Independent Pan Lock
Yes
Pan & Tilt Range
Lateral Tilt
-90° to +40°
Vertical Tilt
+90° to 0°
Panning Range
360°
General
Load Capacity
26.5 lb / 12 kg
Weight
14.11 oz / 400 g
Packaging Info
Package Weight
1.2 lb
Box Dimensions (LxWxH)
6 x 6 x 4"

Manfrotto 496 Ball Head with 200PL-PRO Plate Reviews

Ball Tensioner

By Shawn
Rated 4 out of 5
Date: 2023-09-18

I bought the ball head to mount on a monopod to give the stand tilt capability, and it succeeds in that light. However, I was not prepared for the ball knob to be sort of a tensioner. Without a confirmed locked-down feel, I am given to wonder whether the ball is fixed, or if the attached camera might still slew around. At the same time, I don't want to over-tighten. I want to feel secure in knowing where the divide lives. But that's on me. The brand new ball head works flawlessly. Ask me again in a year or two. To first attach the ball head, one tightens the (smaller) swivel screw and threads the ball head on to the monopod or tripod's vertical attachment screw. When securely attached, just loosen the swivel screw when panning is called for. I made a quiver that worked great when carrying the monopod on my motorcycle, but that was before adding the pan head. Extra length and mass turned the monopod from stable in the quiver to top-heavy, where it now wants to tip itself out and fall to the ground. Be aware of this change in physical characteristics. Recommended.

Ball Head Review

By Daniel
Rated 5 out of 5
Date: 2022-12-14

Upgraded to a taller Manfrotto tripod and purchased this head as well. I've used it three times with my Nikon D850 and it works great. All adjustments were secure, easy to adjust and reliable. I've had excellent experiences with my older Manfrotto tripod and head, and this head seems just as solid.

Basic but gets the job done

By Holly
Rated 5 out of 5
Date: 2022-06-18

This is my second Manfrotto ball head, and in all honesty, my first model (468MG) is better (has more range). But it cost twice as much in unadjusted 2011 dollars, so I would expect that. The important thing is that this head perfectly meets my needs, which are simple: This is part of a fixed overhead photography rig in my studio, one in which I will need only minor plane adjustments in daily use. A head that cost twice as much would've been a waste of money. Probably my only complaint is that the locking tab is plastic; metal would make me feel more secure. We shall see how that holds up. Also, I appreciated the extra quick release plate that came with it - you can never have too many spares.

Used on a Monopod

By Terry
Rated 5 out of 5
Date: 2022-06-13

This is replacing a smaller older Manfrotto ballhead on a monopod. Heavier and sturdier. Very pleased with it

Works Very Well

By John
Rated 5 out of 5
Date: 2022-05-17

Used this with my new Manfrotto 290 monopod. First time with a ball head and I found it easy to use.

I didn't know I needed it until I tried it

By Will
Rated 5 out of 5
Date: 2022-01-10

I have been using the ball head that came with my 1st tripod and knew it wasn't great but thought it was fine. I recently got to handle a Manfrotto tripod with this ball head and I was sold. This is on a completely different level of equipment. Well built, smooth, and professional looking; I will be using Manfrotto going forward.

Nice Features

By Don
Rated 4 out of 5
Date: 2023-06-01

I like its functionality. I will give it five stars if it holds up

Seems Well Built

By Don
Rated 4 out of 5
Date: 2023-02-28

I have not tried it in the field as yet. At home it seems to be well built and holds my camera with its standard 24-205mm steady. The safety lock is not as convenient as previous models, but that is not a deal breaker. If it hold up and works with my long lens, then it will get 5 stars.

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