Manfrotto MH494 – 494 Ball Head with Universal Round Disc

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.

494 Ball Head with Hard Drive

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.

9 kg payload310 g10 cm high360° panorama

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