Building on the success of its traditional ball head range, the new Manfrotto ball head family provides a variety of solutions for different needs so they are the perfect choice for improving your photographic passion. 

With a payload range that goes from 2kg to 8kg, The Manfrotto 492, 494, 496 and 498 all feature a simple plate and the Manfrotto 494 RC2, 496 RC2, 498 RC2 and 498 RC4 all feature a quick release plate.

The new aluminium family of ball heads from Manfrotto incorporate a new innovative design with elliptic holes for reducing weight.

In addition to the existing series, the new ball head family (except the small 492 head) features a completely new friction control which allows a safer and precise movement of the camera without totally releasing the camera.

Each of the new heads include a smart repositionable locking lever that can be placed in the most convenient position for the photographer to handle. This smart feature makes it easier and quicker for the photographer to use the head.

The ratchet handle also allows the user to position the lever at any angle. The locking lever securely locks the head both in the +90° -90° ball positioning and in the 360° pan movements.

The professional heads of the family which include the Manfrotto 498, Manfrotto 498RC2 and Manfrotto 498RC4 have a panoramic independent movement with reference ring.

Manfrotto 492
The most compact of the range; it features the simple plate and is designed for compact and small digital cameras. Max load 2kg.

Manfrotto 494 – 494RC2
Available in two different models, one featuring a simple plate and one featuring the quick release plate. These are designed to use with compact, 35mm and small digital cameras. Max load 4kg.

Manfrotto 496 - 496RC2
This compact ball head is strong enough to load a 35mm SLR camera with medium-weight lenses or light medium format cameras. Max load: 6kg.

Manfrotto 498, 498RC2, 498RC4
With a solid aluminium construction, this head is the ideal support for all traditional or digital small DSLR cameras or medium format cameras. Max load: 8kg

The new extensive Manfrotto ball head family is available from the below dates at the following RRPs:

Manfrotto 492 £32.95 inc VAT/ September
Manfrotto 494 £39.95 inc VAT/ September
Manfrotto 494RC2 £49.95 inc VAT/ September
Manfrotto 496 £49.95 inc VAT/ September
Manfrotto 496RC2 £59.95 inc VAT/ September

Manfrotto 498 Pricing TBC/ October 2009
Manfrotto 498RC2 Pricing TBC/ October 2009
Manfrotto 498RC4 Pricing TBC/ October 2009