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Manfrotto 496RC2 Compact Ball Head with 200PL-14 Quick Release Plate

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Manfrotto 496RC2 Compact Ball Head with 200PL-14 Quick Release Plate - Main image
$22.02 $34.95 In stock

Category: Tripods & Support

Manfrotto 496RC2 Compact Ball Head with 200PL-14 Quick Release Plate
The Manfrotto 496RC2 Compact Ball Head is a durable, high-performance camera support solution engineered from robust aluminum alloy. Designed for enthusiast and professional photographers alike, this compact ball head delivers exceptional smoothness, precise control, and high load stability. Featuring an integrated RC2 quick-release system and dedicated friction control, it provides a seamless way to orient your camera quickly and securely across a full 360-degree range of motion.

Dual-Knob Precision & High Load Capacity
13.2 lb Payload Support: Capable of securely supporting up to 13.2 pounds of camera gear, making it an excellent match for mid-sized DSLRs, mirrorless systems, and telephoto lens setups.

Independent Tension Control: In addition to the primary locking knob, a dedicated friction-control knob sits on the opposite side of the head. This allows you to fine-tune the ball-and-socket resistance to match the exact weight of your camera rig, preventing the camera from flopping forward unexpectedly when unlocked.

360° Swivel & Dual 90° Notches: The smooth ball-and-socket joint offers full 360° panning rotation and a generous tilt range. Dual lateral drop-notches enable a stable 90-degree tilt on two sides for rapid orientation shifts between landscape and vertical portrait framing.

Integrated RC2 Quick-Release System
Rapid Cam Lock Action: Features Manfrotto’s iconic RC2 quick-release cam lock mechanism. Pulling the spring-loaded lever releases the plate instantly, while pressing the plate downward into the receiver automatically snaps it back into a locked position.

Secondary Safety Catch: Built with an integrated manual safety pin next to the primary lever. This secondary catch prevents the cam lock from opening accidentally, safeguarding your camera setup from unexpected drops during transit or adjustments.

Universal Support Mounting: Outfitted with a standard 3/8″-16 female thread at the base, ensuring native, plug-and-play compatibility with a massive ecosystem of professional tripods, monopods, sliders, and studio stands.

Premium 200PL-14 Quick Release Plate
Nonslip Rubberized Matrix: The included 200PL-14 plate features a high-traction, textured rubber surface that prevents the camera body from twisting or slipping out of alignment when shooting vertically.

Universal 1/4″-20 Connection: Equipped with a standard 1/4″-20 camera screw, allowing for easy, tool-free attachment to nearly any standard mirrorless camera, DSLR, or accessory mount.

Compact Footprint: Measuring a sleek 1.7 x 2.1 x 0.4 inches, the low-profile plate is designed to stay attached to the bottom of your camera body without blocking battery doors or adding unnecessary bulk.

Technical Specifications
Head Type: Ball Head

Maximum Load Capacity: 13.2 lbs (6.0 kg)

Base Mount Interface: 3/8″-16 Female Thread

Camera Plate Type: RC2 Quick Release (200PL-14 Included)

Camera Mount Thread: 1/4″-20 Male Screw

Lateral Tilt Freedom: -90° / +90° (Dual Notches)

Panoramic Rotation: 360 Degrees

Material Composition: High-Strength Aluminum Alloy Shell

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Standard Shipping: Handling (business days) 0–1; Transit (business days) 7–15.

Express Shipping: Handling (business days) 0–1; Transit (business days) 7–15.

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Standard Shipping · United States: $0.00

Express Shipping · United States: $3.99

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United States · Return window (days after delivery): 30. Return method: By mail. Return postage: Seller pays.

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Customer Reviews (5.0 / 5 · 5 reviews)

Nicholas ★★★★★

This ball head locks down tight with zero drift, even with my telephoto lens attached. The knurled knob gives me perfect grip even in cold weather.

Ryan C. ★★★★★

The quick-release plate snaps in with a satisfying click and the tension knob is just stiff enough to hold my camera steady without fighting me. I’ve used it on a few hikes and the alloy body hasn’t picked up a scratch yet, which says a lot for how often I bang it around.

John ★★★★★

The aluminum alloy body feels rock-solid in hand, and the 200PL-14 plate locks in with a reassuring click every time I swap lenses. The ball tension knob is buttery smooth, so I can frame a vertical shot without the head sagging a millimeter.