The Manfrotto MH494 is a compact aluminum ball head designed for precise photographic framing, with a safe load capacity of 9 kg, a separate panoramic lock, and integrated friction control based on the weight of the setup. The universal 55 mm diameter circular plate attaches the camera directly via a 1/4″ screw, so this version does not use a quick-release plate. The head weighs only 310 g, measures 10 cm, and offers a tilt range of −90° to +40° as well as 360° panning.
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Precise composition without unnecessary weight
The MH494 offers three clearly separated control functions in an aluminum body weighing 310 g: main ball lock, friction adjustment based on the technique used, and a separate panoramic lock. This allows you to quickly balance the camera, fine-tune the shot, and maintain a compact setup.
Three controls, one smooth motion
Ball Lock
The large main control releases or firmly locks the ball mechanism for quick changes in camera orientation.
Friction control
The integrated friction control adjusts the ball’s resistance based on the weight of the camera gear, ensuring controlled movement and more precise composition adjustments.
Independent Panorama
A dedicated panoramic lock allows for 360° horizontal rotation without having to release the ball’s lock again.
Direct Mounting on the Circular Plate
The top plate, with a diameter of 55 mm, secures the camera directly with a 1/4″ screw. The rubberized contact surface improves grip, and the side cutout allows you to switch from horizontal to vertical orientation.
This MH494 model does not feature a quick-release system. If you need to frequently remove the camera, the MH494-BH with the 200PL-PRO plate is the ideal option from the same product family.
Lightweight head for photography and precise alignment
The safe load capacity of 9 kg, in accordance with UNI/PdR 105:2021, accommodates mirrorless cameras with zoom lenses as well as medium-sized DSLRs. The tilt range of −90° to +40° supports portrait, sports, landscape, and studio photography.
Technical Specifications
| Model | MH494 |
|---|---|
| Type | ball head |
| Material | aluminum |
| Safe load capacity | 9 kg according to UNI/PdR 105:2021 |
| Weight | 0.31 kg |
| Working height | 10 cm |
| Base diameter | 40 mm |
| Top disc | 55 mm, 1/4″ screw |
| Forward and Side Tilt | −90° to +40° |
| Panoramic rotation | 360° |
| Separate panoramic lock | Yes |
| Separate tilt lock | Yes |
| Friction control | Yes |
| Quick-release | No |
| Easy Link | No |
| Operating temperature | −30 to +70 °C |
Package Contents
- 1× Manfrotto MH494 ball head with universal circular plate
