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Black Manfrotto 496 ball head with quick-release plate, aluminium body, three control knobs

Manfrotto

Manfrotto 496 Center Ball Head with 200PL-PRO Plate MH496-BHUS

SKU CH-53SC-8PXT7

A lightweight aluminium ball head with independent pan, friction and lock controls, supplied with a dual-standard quick-release plate and rated for 12 kg payload

  • ColorBlack
  • TypeBall Head MH496-BH
  • Size/Dimensions5.3 in x 4.9 in x 3.6 in
  • Weight522 grams
  • Smooth ball action for precise framing
  • Independent panoramic knob for landscape shots
  • Adjustable friction balances camera weight up to 10 kg
  • 200PL-PRO plate fits RC2 and Arca-swiss standards
  • Lightweight aluminium body weighs 522 grams

Ball head for precise camera positioning

The Manfrotto 496 Center Ball Head is a lightweight aluminium support designed for photographers who need accurate framing control. It suits mirrorless systems with zoom lenses and medium-format DSLRs thanks to a 12 kg payload capacity. The 200PL-PRO quick release plate works with both RC2 and Arca-swiss standards. Independent controls handle sphere lock, friction and panoramic movement separately.

Smooth operation with independent friction control

Three separate knobs manage the main lock, ball tension and horizontal panning without interference. The friction knob balances equipment weight so the camera stays where it is positioned. Panoramic rotation moves freely for landscape sequences. All movement feels fluid through the aluminium body weighing 522 grams.

Holds up to 10 kg with RC2 and Arca-swiss

The head supports a maximum load of 10 kg while the plate accepts the two most common mounting standards. Dimensions are 5.3 in x 4.9 in x 3.6 in for tripod mounting clearance. Buyers needing higher capacity or a different plate standard should consider other models.

Highlights

  • Smooth ball action for precise framing
  • Independent panoramic knob for landscape shots
  • Adjustable friction balances camera weight up to 10 kg
  • 200PL-PRO plate fits RC2 and Arca-swiss standards
  • Lightweight aluminium body weighs 522 grams

Specifications

BrandManfrotto
ModelMH496-BHUS
Part NumberMH496-BHUS
ColorBlack
TypeBall Head MH496-BH
Size/Dimensions5.3 in x 4.9 in x 3.6 in
Weight522 grams

Questions about this item

How do I attach the 200PL-PRO plate to my camera and what step is often missed?

Screw the 200PL-PRO plate into the camera's tripod socket using the D-ring until it is tight; the step often missed is engaging the plate's safety pin so it cannot slide out of the RC2/Arca-swiss clamp accidentally.

What maintenance will the MH496-BHUS need over time?

Wipe the aluminium body and ball with a dry cloth after sandy or wet shoots; reapply a light lithium grease to the ball socket if movement stiffens, and check the three locking knobs for grit.

What is the first limit reached during a long panorama session with a heavy rig?

The independent friction control knob must be tuned to the 12 kg payload; if set too low the ball creeps under the 522 g head weight plus gear, ruining level panning before the panoramic lock is even tested.

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