Top Ball Heads of 2020
- Compatible with many quick-release plates
- 25-pound load capacity
- Quick-release lever
- Fits all standard tripods
- Universal knob clamp
- Integrated bubble level
- Panning knob
- Laser engraved degree markings
- Universal knob clamp
- Drop-in window
- Dedicated friction control
- Independent locking and panning knobs
- Large knob makes locking the ball and leveling super easy
- 90-degree tilt capabilities in all directions
- C60 knob clamp
- 66-pound payload
- 2 bubble levels
- Independent panning lock
- Integrated bubble level
- Vertical and radial axes
- Safety button to prevent quick-release plate from disengaging
- 3 bubble levels
- Q6 top lock quick-release system
- 90-105 degree portrait selector
- Separate panning lock
- Integrated bubble level
- 1.4-inch ball diameter
I've tested a ton of ball heads over the years. Some have been wholly unimpressive. Others have been just fine. But a few have been absolutely outstanding for a variety of reasons.
In this ball head buying guide, I present ten of the best ball heads money can buy.
The ball heads on this list have distinct benefits that make them among the top ball heads of 2020.
Acratech GP
The Acratech GP has been my primary ball head for over a decade. It's proven it's longevity with a rugged design that's tough enough to stand up to the rigors of daily use.
This thing is built like a tank, but doesn't behave like one. By that, I mean that even though it can withstand a bomb blast (figuratively speaking, of course!) it offers super fine and delicate control that gives you the smooth, precise adjustments you demand.
Back in the day when I used big, heavy gear like my Nikon D850, an L-bracket, and a 70-200mm lens, I marveled at the Acratech GP's ability to maintain its precise movements. Of course, now that I've got a much lighter kit in the Canon EOS R, the GP ball head is more than enough to handle the load.
I personally use the red version, which is one of 20 made by Acratech. It doesn't have any functions beyond the black one, but it sure does look cool!
Basic Specs:
Learn more about the Acratech GP ball head
Colorado Tripod Company Highline Mini
One of the ball heads that has surprised me the most in recent years in this little guy, the Colorado Tripod Company Highline Mini.
The funny thing is that this company has been sending me their ball heads to review, and when this one arrived, I didn't look at the details - I just started using it.
And after using it, I thought it would be something that retailed for $60-80 based on its build quality and features.
However, when I was on the phone with these guys to give them my feedback, the subject of price came up, and I was shocked to learn it's a $20 ball head.
Not only is this ball head incredibly affordable, but it's a perfect size that fits on top of my SwitchPod tripod. It's also super strong and does the job great with my Canon EOS M6 Mark II and my Canon EOS R.
Basic Specs:
Learn more about the Colorado Tripod Company Highline Mini ball head
Colorado Tripod Company Highline Medium Ball Head
Whereas the Highline Mini ball head described above is the ideal companion for running and gunning, I've found the Colorado Tripod Company Highline Medium ball head to be the perfect addition to my home studio.
I use this ball head with Colorado Tripod Company's lever clamp (which is compatible with L-brackets and Arca-compatible plates) when I'm doing overhead shots in my studio.
There is a distinct clicking noise that tells me that it's 100-percent locked in, that way I have peace of mind that my camera isn't going to come crashing down on my head as I record.
Like the Mini, this ball head also really impresses with its build quality and durability.
Basic Specs:
Learn more about the Colorado Tripod Company Highline Medium ball head
ProMediaGear Sputnik
I use ProMediaGear tripods as two of my main rigs, and they are hugely impressive.
Given their performance, I wanted to try ProMediaGear's Sputnik ball head, and it certainly hasn't disappointed...
When this first came to me to review, my first impression was "Wow...this is really different."
As you can see in the images above and below, it's design is different from the other ball heads on this list. It includes a huge knob on the side that makes it really easy to make fine adjustments.
It should jump out at you just how big this ball head is. This isn't something you'd throw in your backpack for a quick jaunt to the woods!
But, the engineering of this thing is off the charts. The incredibly smooth motion is a joy, and the durable construction is a bonus too.
Basic Specs:
Learn more about the ProMediaGear Sputnik ball head
VanGuard Alta BH-300
Vanguard is probably better known for their outstanding tripods, but the ALTA BH-300 ball head deserves some love as an excellent option for photographers of all kinds.
The aluminum alloy construction makes it strong and durable, yet lightweight and easy to pack for quick trips.
It has a large lever lock for ease of use as well as ergonomic friction control and precision locking to get the ball head in the perfect position for the shot.
With three independent knob adjustments, you get micro-level fine tuning as well.
Add in a universal Arca-type quick release system, a built-in safety pin, and quick adjustments 360-degrees around, and you have the makings of a top ball head option for 2020.
Basic Specs:
Learn more about the Vanguard ALTA BH-300 ball head
Sirui K-40X Ball Head
What I like about the SIRUI K-40x ball head is that it exists at the intersection of quality construction and good value.
There are plenty of ball heads that are less expensive, but this one does a great job of giving you high performance without a huge price tag.
It offers a 360-degree panoramic function for ease of use and an Arca-Swiss type mount.
You'll find that each knob on this ball head is extremely easy to use while offering extremely effective locking. Yet, there is a gradual release of pressure on the ball so making fine adjustments is easy without losing all the grip.
Basic Specs:
Learn more about the SIRUI K-40x
Manfrotto 057 Ball Head
Make no mistake - this is a huge ball head.
With a 65mm ball, this is one of the bigger ball heads on this list. It's also one of the heaviest.
However, for its size and bulk, it sure is a dream to use...
The action of the ball head is extremely smooth, and with lever-type locking knobs, you can much more easily tighten them.
This particular ball head has a top lock camera mounting plate. It offers Arca-Swiss compatibility while giving you a highly secure release method.
Though I no longer have my Nikon D850 and my Nikon 70-200mm lens, this is the ball head I'd likely use with that setup thanks to its robust construction.
Basic Specs:
Learn more about the Manfrotto 057 ball head
3 Legged Thing Eclipse AirHed 360 Ball Head
One of the top claims to fame for the 3 Legged Thing Eclipse Airhed 360 ball head is its impeccable build quality. This thing can go toe-to-toe with ball heads twice the price!
This ball head can handle over 88 pounds of gear, so if you have a lot of gear, this could be a great option for you.
But despite the huge payload capacity, it's a lightweight option thanks to its magnesium alloy construction.
There's an integrated 360-degree clamp that's detachable, so you can get nice and smooth panning even if you're on uneven terrain. This ball head is also Arca-Swiss compatible.
Basic Specs:
Learn more about the Three Legged Thing Airhed 360 ball head