Manfrotto X-Pro Rótula MHXPRO-BHQ6

I had wanted the flexibility of a ball head for my Manfrotto tripod, and after much research settled on this terrific unit. It's been nothing but stellar in performance and the bonus of lighter weight in comparison to the original 1980s head really makes it a no-brainer. I would happily buy again.

Strong enough and fast release with L bracket. Easy to carry in my pelican 1610 beside my cameras.

Solid 4 stars but doesnt border 5. Its a little jerky and not smooth. It takes some getting used to but out of the box, its disappointing. However, once you spend some time with it, its solid, little to no slippage, and its built to last. I paid extra for the quick release plate which I wouldnt do again. That little red release button is cheap, sometimes stubborn, and I dont expect it to last long. I wouldnt but this head again or recommend it at the current price.

My travel tripod has a smaller ball head which barely holds my DSLR with a telephoto lens steady. This XPRO ball head is rock steady. The Arca-Swiss plate is very convenient to use.

This product works exactly as advertised, it releases quickly. Unfortunately, I did not want it to do so. The screw lock mechanism failed allowing the plate, together with my 5D Mark IV and 70-200mm lens, to go crashing to the balcony floor. Luckily, they did not go over the edge or Id be filing an insurance claim instead of a request for repair! Originally, I ordered the quick release plate with the lever but found it to be quite unstable so I returned it and replaced it with this model. I just dropped an order for a RRS BH-55 with the lever-release panning clamp and an L-Plate. This is probably what I should have gone with to begin with. Lesson learned . . . .