Manfrotto MH057A5 Magnesium Ball Head with 501PL Quick Release Plate

The Manfrotto MH057A5 is a professional ball head engineered for photographers and videographers who demand rock-solid stability and fluid control. Its magnesium construction keeps weight low while supporting up to 15 kg, making it ideal for heavy telephoto lenses and medium format cameras. The integrated quick release system with the 501PL plate ensures fast, secure camera mounting.

Advantages

Precision-machined magnesium body offers an exceptional strength-to-weight ratio. Independent pan and tilt locks allow separate control over panoramic rotation and lateral/front tilt, while friction control fine-tunes movement resistance. Two bubble levels aid in precise leveling, and the 360° panoramic rotation with indexed scale enables repeatable pans.

Suitable for

• Professional photography with heavy telephoto lenses
• Videography requiring smooth pan and tilt movements
• Studio work where precise framing is critical
• Outdoor shooting in temperatures from -30°C to 60°C

Key specifications

• Head type: Ball head
• Material: Magnesium
• Maximum payload: 15 kg
• Quick release: Yes, with 501PL plate
• Panoramic rotation: 360°
• Lateral tilt: -90° to +30°
• Front tilt: -90° to +30°
• Base attachment: 3/8" female thread
• Top attachment: 1/4" and 3/8" screws
• Height: 13.5 cm
• Base diameter: 60 mm
• Weight: 0.7 kg
• Color: Black

Recommendations

Pair the MH057A5 with a sturdy Manfrotto tripod for maximum stability. Its independent locks and friction control make it a versatile choice for both stills and video, while the quick release plate speeds up camera changes. A reliable workhorse for demanding professionals.