Manfrotto 500X Fluid Head

• Built-in portrait axis control adds versatility for vertical video content recording
• Smooth pan and tilt motion fro video thanks to a smooth fluid drag system
• Compact and portable with a weight of just 1.22kg, which is ideal for location shooting
• Counterbalance system helps stabilise mirrorless rigs up to around 2.4kg
• Xchange flat base enables quick swaps between different supports within Manfrotto’s ecosystem

Manfrotto 500X Fluid Head Summary

The Manfrotto 500X Fluid Head is a next-generation , which is perfect for solo content creators who shoot with a mirrorless camera system. The head supports payloads of up to 5kg weight and features a new 60mm flat base Xchange system, which is developed by  to provide quick swapping between different setups. Its lightweight and stable design is ideal for hybrid video and stills workflows, with smooth fluid movement across both pan and tilt axes.

The 500X fluid video head also features a unique portrait-to-landscape tilt function, which enables users to reorient their camera for vertical video without switching plates or mounts. An adjustable sliding plate ensures proper balance, and the counterbalance system is optimised for camera payloads of around 2.4kg, providing stable support for most mirrorless cameras and accessories.

From solo content creators to professional filmmakers, the 500X offers useful improvements over previous Manfrotto tripod heads, and is a versatile option when used on its own, or paired with the newly developed  and  for a complete hybrid kit.

Manfrotto 500X Fluid Head Key Features

• Fluid drag system on pan and tilt axes for smooth operation
• 5kg payload with counterbalance optimised for 2.4kg at 55mm C.O.G
• Flat base with 60mm Xchange system for rapid head swaps
• Portrait-to-landscape tilt rotation with sliding plate
• Compatible with 501PL quick release plate
• Pan and tilt brakes for secure locking
• Anti-rotation pin compatibility
• Weight 1.22kg

Manfrotto 500X Fluid Head in More Detail

Precision Fluid Movement

The 500X head offers fluid drag on both pan and tilt axes, delivering steady, controlled movement that is suitable for cinematic filming. The drag level is fixed, in order to provide consistent resistance when tracking subjects or adjusting framing.

Portrait and Landscape Support

A patent-pending portrait axis allows camera orientation to be rotated from landscape to portrait without any need to remount the setup. This is increasingly useful for content created for vertical social platforms, allowing vertical video with re-framing.

Counterbalance System

A 0-2.4kg counterbalance system helps keep rigs stable during tilt, especially those with a centre of gravity around 55mm. This makes the 500X particularly well-suited to mirrorless setups with cages, monitors, or external mics.

Xchange Flat Base

An integrated 60mm base with Xchange technology allows the head to be quickly removed or swapped between compatible systems without any tools. This saves time when switching between tripods, sliders and other supports.

Quick Release and Rugged Build

The 501PL sliding plate allows for forward/backward adjustment to adjust balance. A side lock top attachment and both pan and tilt brakes ensure reliable support. The head weighs around 1.22kg and includes a 3/8” threaded base for broad compatibility.

What’s in the box

• Manfrotto 500X Fluid Head

Manfrotto 500X Fluid Head Specifications