Manfrotto 502X Fluid Head

Manfrotto 502X Fluid Head

The Manfrotto 502X Fluid Video Head is the next generation of Manfrotto's hugely popular 502 series, redesigned for professional videographers working with modern mirrorless cameras and compact camcorders. Combining an 8kg safety payload, switchable 4.4kg counterbalance system and continuously variable fluid drag, the 502X provides smooth, controlled movement with considerably greater flexibility across different camera configurations.

Part of Manfrotto's Bridging Technology range, the 502X is particularly well suited to videographers regularly moving between different camera rigs and support systems. A new 75mm flat base combines a standard 3/8" attachment with Manfrotto XCHANGE compatibility, allowing the head to integrate into a wide range of professional support configurations and providing a faster way to move between compatible supports.

Smooth, precise movement

At the heart of the 502X is Manfrotto's Variable Continuous Fluid Drag System (FDS) on both pan and tilt.

Rather than restricting the operator to predetermined drag settings, resistance can be continuously adjusted to suit the camera setup, subject and style of movement. This provides precise control for everything from slow, deliberate camera moves through to faster pans and tilts, helping create consistently smooth, cinematic movement.

Switchable 4.4kg counterbalance

One of the most significant improvements over the previous 502 is the new ON/OFF Counterbalance System (CBS).

The original 502 used a fixed 4kg counterbalance, which could be less suitable when working with lightweight mirrorless camera configurations. On the 502X, the 4.4kg counterbalance can be switched on or off, giving the operator greater control over how the head behaves with different camera setups.

This makes the 502X particularly useful for operators moving between a relatively lightweight mirrorless camera and a more substantial rig incorporating cages, monitors, microphones, batteries or other accessories.

75mm flat base with XCHANGE compatibility

The 75mm flat base provides considerably more mounting flexibility.

Alongside its conventional 3/8" attachment, the 502X is XCHANGE-ready, allowing the head to form part of Manfrotto's quick-change support ecosystem. This is particularly useful for productions where a camera/head combination needs to move rapidly between different supports without repeatedly dismantling the rig.

When the standalone 502X head is purchased, Manfrotto also includes the MAONEQR-ADPFB60 adapter. This enables anti-rotation when the head is attached to suitable supports equipped with grub screws. 

Key Features

• Professional fluid video head for mirrorless cameras and compact camcorders
• 8kg safety payload
• 4.4kg switchable ON/OFF counterbalance system
• Counterbalance specified at 55mm centre of gravity
• Variable Continuous Fluid Drag System on both pan and tilt
• 75mm flat base
• Standard 3/8" mounting
• Manfrotto XCHANGE-ready
• Quick top-load sliding camera plate
• Uses a 504PLONG-type sliding plate
• Repositioned controls for easier operation
• 3/8" Easy Link with anti-rotation
• Suitable for studio and location production
• Head weight: 1.72kg

Technical Specifications - Manfrotto 502X

• Product Code: MVH502XAH
• Safety Payload: 8kg / 17.6lb
• Counterbalance: OFF / ON – 4.4kg
• Counterbalance: C.O.G. 55mm
• Base: 75mm flat base
• Mounting: 3/8"
• XCHANGE: XCHANGE-ready
• Sliding Plate: 504PLONG type
• Head Weight: 1.72kg / 3.8lb
• EAN: 8024221758337

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