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Designed to meet the needs of modern content creators, the Manfrotto 500X Fluid Head bridges the gap between stills and video technology to create an all-in-one solution for both photography and filmmaking.
Designed to meet the needs of modern content creators, the Manfrotto 500X Fluid Head bridges the gap between stills and video technology to create an all-in-one solution for both photography and filmmaking.
Quick Switching Between Landscape & Portrait
The 500X's highlight feature is the ability to quickly change from landscape to portrait orientation without having to remove your camera. This is ideal for creators who often need to capture different formats for their project and social media posts. It will support many common hybrid camera rigs weighing up to 11 lb.
Smooth Movements
Featuring a Fluid Drag System (FDS) for both pan and tilt movements will help guarantee smooth, professional-looking video. There is also a built-in Counterbalance System that will help provide more control over your camera system.
XCHANGE System
As for mounting, the 500X is optimized for speedy changes—making it a breeze to swap out your tripod head for a slider or other support system. This is thanks to the XCHANGE mount system that offers a secure quick release mechanism for the head. The 500X will also work on any tripod legs that support its 60mm flat base with a 3/8"16 thread.
Additionally, the 500X has some basic conveniences, such as a standard 501PL-compatible quick release system for your camera and a built-in bubble level to ensure straight horizons.
UPC: 719821499695
Manfrotto 500XAH Specs
Key Specs
Camera Mounting
1/4"-20 & 3/8"-16 Screws (Quick Release Plate)
Head Type
Fluid Head
Drag Control
Yes
Load Capacity
11 lb / 5 kg
Weight
2.69 lb / 1.22 kg
Head
Camera Mounting
1/4"-20 & 3/8"-16 Screws (Quick Release Plate)
Head Type
Fluid Head
Base Mount
Flat Base with 3/8"-16 Female
Counter Balance
No
Pan & Tilt
Drag Control
Yes
Independent Pan Lock
Yes
Independent Tilt Lock
Yes
Vertical Tilt
90°
Lateral Tilt
0° to +90°
General
Load Capacity
11 lb / 5 kg
Bubble Level
Yes
Weight
2.69 lb / 1.22 kg
Packaging Info
Package Weight
3.65 lb
Box Dimensions (LxWxH)
14.2 x 6.2 x 5.1"
Manfrotto 500XAH Reviews
Great, but not perfect
By Marc
Rated 4 out of 5
Date: 2026-01-26
I have had two other Manfrotto fluid heads. This one is very nice, but the vertical control tends to be choppier than I am used to. I am constantly playing with the control to get it to move smoothly and stay in place. It just might be a matter of practice. Also, the vertical control knob is not as well designed, ergonomically. It's harder to grab, especially when wearing gloves.
See any errors on this page?
does vertical position have ability to lock into ...
does vertical position have ability to lock into place at any degree? or is it pre-determined 90° or nothing so to speak?
Asked by: RYAN
The Manfrotto 500X Fluid Head (B&H# MAMVH500XAH) features the ability to lock the quick release clamp either in the typical horizontal position or at a 90 degree angle, also sometimes called portrait or vertical orientation. It is not possible to lock the clamp into a position of, say, a 20-degree roll.
Answered by: Yoni S
Date published: 2025-12-28
Is it Arca Swiss compatible?
Is it Arca Swiss compatible?
Asked by: David E
The Manfrotto 500X Fluid Head is not ARCA-Swiss compatible. The 500X head works with Manfrotto's (B&H # MA501PL) plate. You could add the SmallRig adapter below to make the head ARCA-Swiss compatible:
SmallRig Arca-Swiss/Manfrotto-Type Mounting Plate Set
BH #SM4234
Or
Kondor Blue Arca-Swiss Camera Plate Set (This model would attach to the 501PL tripod camera screw)
BH #KOBARCARECBK
Answered by: Chris H
Date published: 2026-05-04
Will this head work with an existing Manfrotto mon
Will this head work with an existing Manfrotto monopod? Is there an adapter I need in addition?
Asked by: Wendi
Yes, the Manfrotto 500X Fluid Head can attach to any system that has a 3/8"-16 male.
Answered by: Jonathan S
Date published: 2026-03-08
Can I use this head with Nikon 180-600 mm or ...
Can I use this head with Nikon 180-600 mm or 800mm 6.3 PF lens ?
Asked by: Junaed
The load capacity of the Manfrotto 500X Fluid Head is 11 lbs and would support your camera with 600 mm or 800 mm lenses.
Answered by: Chris H
Date published: 2025-10-27
Base Diameter & Height?
Base Diameter & Height?
Asked by: Loi
The Manfrotto 500X Fluid Head has a base diameter of 60mm and a working height of 11.8 cm / 4.64 in.
Answered by: John W
Date published: 2025-06-11
Will this mount on a Gitzo G-1127 tripod without ...
Will this mount on a Gitzo G-1127 tripod without an adapter? Thanks! And thanks for your work!
Asked by: Richard
Yes, the Manfrotto 500X Fluid Head will mount to the Gitzo G-1127 tripod without additional adapters.
Answered by: Jonathan S
Date published: 2026-02-09
Does it have independent adjusters for pan and til
Does it have independent adjusters for pan and tilt resistance?
Asked by: James
No, there are no adjusters for pan and tilt on the Manfrotto 500X Fluid Head.
