The Best Video Fluid Heads (2020)

Manfrotto Nitrotech 608

I'll admit, the first generation of Nitrotech fluid heads felt lackluster to me.

But Manfrotto listened to customers, made some revisions for the 608 and 612, and really knocked it out.

The load capacity and build quality for the price is incredible.

If you need a great all-around performer on a mid-range budget - look no further.

Base Mount: Flat Base with 3/8"-16 Mounting Hole

Camera Plate: Sliding (504PLONGR)

Load Capacity: 17.6 lbs

My Favorite Feature: Variable counterbalance works great for all kinds of cameras and setups ranging from 0-17.6 lbs

Manfrotto Nitrotech 612

Same great features as the top pick above, with more capability for larger and heavier camera payloads.

Base Mount: Flat Base with 3/8"-16 Mounting Hole

Camera Plate: Sliding (504PLONGRL)

Load Capacity: 26.4 lbs

My Favorite Feature: More payload capacity without adding more bulk and only an additional 2 ounces of weight.

Manfrotto MHXPRO

I probably use this head more than any other. It just works.

I love the quick release plate and overall consistency this head provides.

Base Mount: Flat Base with 3/8"-16 Mounting Hole

Camera Plate: RC2 Quick Release

Load Capacity: 8.8 lbs

My Favorite Feature: Standard RC2 quick release plates are super fast

Ikan E-Image GH03F

A well built option for a crazy low price.

The sliding easy lock plate makes it a great option for quickly attaching and balancing camcorders.

Base Mount: Flat Base with 3/8"-16 Mounting Hole

Camera Plate: Sliding Easy Lock

Load Capacity: 11 lbs

My Favorite Feature: Price

Sachtler FSB Series

Sachtler has been a long-time industry favorite for mid to high range fluid heads, and the FSB series provides great performance for the price.

The series includes 4 levels of heads with a total of 7 options, all ranging in capabilities and features:

• FSB 4
  • Great for camcorders, small cinema setups, and mirrorless or DSLR setups
  • Payload: 0 - 8.8 lbs
  • 75mm Bowl Mount
• FSB 6
  • Great for larger camcorders, mid-size cinema setups, and smaller ENG/studio setups
  • Payload: 3.3 - 17.6 lbs
  • 75mm Bowl Mount
  • Also available in T version with Touch & Go plate mechanism
• FSB 8
  • Great for most standard cinema and ENG/studio setups
  • Payload: 2.2 - 22 lbs
  • 75mm Bowl Mount
  • Also available in T version with Touch & Go plate mechanism
• FSB 10
  • Great for most larger cinema and ENG/studio setups
  • Payload: 8.8 - 26.4 lbs
  • 100mm Bowl Mount
  • Also available in T version with Touch & Go plate mechanism

My Favorite Feature: Build quality and consistency

Sachtler DV 12 SB

When you need to support larger setups with heavier payloads, especially for longer zoom ranges, this is an excellent option.

This will pair well with most large ENG/studio configurations (without box lenses).

Base Mount: 100mm Bowl

Camera Plate: Touch & Go plate 16

Load Capacity: 2.2 - 33 lbs

My Favorite Feature: Reliability and durability