The Best Video Fluid Heads (2021)

Last updated May 17, 2021

This is a list of the best fluid heads I recommend and use for video production.

But first, here are a few tips for getting the right fluid head...

Before purchasing, be sure to calculate your camera setup's TOTAL weight
- Add up the weights of everything that will be sitting on top of the fluid head including camera, batteries, monitors, cables, accessories, etc.
Find a fluid head that has a maximum payload capacity around 30%-50% greater than your total camera setup
- Your camera setup should fall within 50%-75% of the fluid head's maximum payload capacity for best results
- Fluid heads like weight - the lower center of gravity adds resistance that is necessary to achieve smooth pans and tilts
Look for all metal construction, or as much metal as possible
- Plastic is weak and will break over time
Bowl mounts are your friend
- Bowl mounts allow you to easily and quickly level the fluid head
- A level fluid head ensures the horizon stays in the same position during pans
Be sure to match the fluid head's base mount to the mount on your tripod or stand
- If your fluid head has a flat base mount and your tripod has a bowl mount, or vice versa, you can often find adapters
Sliding camera plates are crucial to balancing larger/heavier/longer camera setups
Counterbalance is often misunderstood, so understand how it works:
- A proper counterbalance setup will keep a camera frozen in place when it is tilted up or down
- If a camera wants to bounce back to level after being tilted up/down, the counterbalance is set incorrectly

Now, on to the list...

Manfrotto Nitrotech 608

Top Pick For 2021! Get Latest Price on Amazon

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

For Heavier Setups Get Latest Price on Amazon

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

Budget-Friendly Pick For DSLRs And Mirrorless Get Latest Price on Amazon

I probably use this head more than any other for ENG, field, and studio shooting. 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

Budget-Friendly Pick For Camcorders Get Latest Price on Amazon

A well built option for camcorders and live production at 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 aktiv Series

Excellent Range Of Options Get Latest Price on Amazon (aktiv6) Get Latest Price on Amazon (aktiv8) Get Latest Price on Amazon (aktiv10)

An excellent new fluid head design from a household name in camera support.

The series includes 3 levels of heads with a total of 4 options, all ranging in capabilities and features:

aktiv6
- Great for small to medium sized camcorders and cinema setups, and smaller ENG/studio setups
- Payload: 0 - 17.6 lbs
- 75mm Bowl Mount
aktiv8
- Great for most standard cinema and ENG/studio setups
- Payload: 0 - 26.5 lbs
- 75mm Bowl Mount
- Also available in T version with Touch & Go plate mechanism
aktiv10
- Great for most larger cinema and ENG/studio setups
- Payload: 0 - 26.5 lbs
- 100mm Bowl Mount

My Favorite Feature: New SpeedLevel design makes leveling, attaching, and releasing the head so much easier and quicker

Sachtler DV 12 SB

For Heavier/Larger Payloads Get Latest Price on Amazon

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

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