Manfrotto
Manfrotto 055 Series Photo/Video Head w/ Q5 Quick Release
Best professional-grade hybrid head for budget-conscious content creators.
This versatile head offers robust support and quick setup changes for both photo and video applications. Designed for professionals, it ensures reliable performance and adaptable functionality. This specific unit is a DEMO model, providing an excellent opportunity to acquire professional-grade equipment at a reduced price. It's ready to enhance your creative workflow with its dependable support and efficient operation.
$436.68
Owner Satisfaction
4.5
/ 5
Category Rank
86
/ 207
#86 in Tripod & Monopod Heads
Price vs Category Average
+19%
Above average
Head Type
Fluid Head
/ Fluid Head
Who it's for
- Professional photographers using heavy telephoto lenses or cinema rigs
- Videographers needing smooth, cinematic pans and tilts
- Run-and-gun shooters requiring fast, secure camera swaps
Who should skip it
- Backpackers and hikers prioritizing lightweight gear
- Budget-conscious hobbyists seeking entry-level equipment
- Travelers with limited luggage space or compact bags
Performance breakdown
Fluid movement
Delivers smooth, consistent pans and tilts essential for professional video work.
Build durability
Rugged aluminum construction withstands the rigors of daily location shooting.
Quick release efficiency
The Q5 system makes swapping camera bodies fast and secure.
Hybrid versatility
Seamlessly bridges the gap between still photography and cinematic video needs.
Mounting stability
Provides a rock-solid foundation for heavy camera and lens combinations.
Ergonomic control
Intuitive locking knobs allow for precise adjustments without taking eyes off.
Key Specs
Head Type
Fluid Head
Material
Aluminum
Quick Release Plate Type
Proprietary
Base Mount Thread Size
3/8 inch-16
Camera Mount Thread Size
1/4 inch-20
Know before you buy
A demo unit was previously used for display or demonstration purposes in a retail or showroom environment. While it may show minor cosmetic signs of handling, it has been inspected to ensure it functions perfectly and meets all performance standards.
It is a hybrid design. Because it features a fluid mechanism, it provides the smooth panning and tilting necessary for video, while the robust build and quick-release system offer the stability and speed required for still photography.
This head uses a standard 3/8-inch-16 threaded mount, which is the industry standard for almost all professional tripods. As long as your tripod legs have this mounting screw, it will attach securely.
The Q5 system is designed for speed and security, allowing you to snap your camera into place quickly without fumbling with screw-in mounts. It is a proprietary Manfrotto system, so you will need to use the specific Q5-compatible plates provided with this head.
The 055 series is built from durable aluminum and designed to support significant weight, making it suitable for most professional DSLR or mirrorless setups with telephoto lenses. However, always check your specific camera and lens combination against the head's maximum payload capacity to ensure optimal balance.
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Ready to buy?
$437