Best Quick Release Tripod Heads of 2025

Alan Eaton Avatar
Alan Eaton
Last Updated: Jan 4, 2025

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Quick release tripod heads are a must-have accessory for any photographer or videographer looking to streamline their workflow. These heads allow for quick and easy mounting and dismounting of cameras or other equipment, saving valuable time and ensuring that shots are not missed. With a variety of models available, users can choose from options such as ball heads, pan-tilt heads, and gimbal heads to suit their specific shooting needs. Additionally, many quick release tripod heads feature adjustable tension and locking mechanisms to provide maximum stability and security for your equipment.

At a Glance: Our Top Picks

SIRUI GH30 Low Profile Tripod Head Cover #TOP 1
SIRUI GH30 Low Profile Tripod Head
ftb score rating icon 9.9
K&F Concept 28mm Metal Tripod Ball Head Cover #TOP 2
K&F Concept 28mm Metal Tripod Ball Head
ftb score rating icon 9.8
NEEWER GM101 Gimbal Tripod Head Cover #TOP 3
NEEWER GM101 Gimbal Tripod Head
ftb score rating icon 9.6

Top 10 Quick Release Tripod Heads

#TOP 1

SIRUI GH30 Low Profile Tripod Head

GH30
Black
SIRUI GH30 Low Profile Tripod Head Cover
SIRUI Quick Release System Low Profile Tripod Head, 360° Panoramic Metal Camera Ball Head Mount with 1/4" and 3/8" Threaded Hole for Monopod, DSLR, Phone, Max Load 22lbs/10kg, GH30

The SIRUI GH30 Tripod Head is designed for photographers seeking stability and convenience. Its low-profile design ensures a strong locking force, keeping your camera steady while you shoot. The one-click quick release system allows for effortless attachment and detachment of your camera, making transitions quick and easy. Constructed from durable aluminum alloy, it supports up to 22lbs, protecting your gear with rubber padding. Additionally, the 360° panoramic capability and multi-angle shooting options enable precise adjustments, perfect for capturing stunning panoramic images or switching between horizontal and vertical angles with ease.

What We Like
High stability and support
Quick release convenience
Durable aluminum construction
Versatile shooting angles

K&F Concept 28mm Metal Tripod Ball Head

KF31.023V3
Black, Orange
28mm Ball Head
K&F Concept 28mm Metal Tripod Ball Head Cover
K&F Concept Professional 28mm Metal Tripod Ball Head 360 Degree Rotating Panoramic with 1/4 inch Quick Release Plate Bubble Level for Tripod Monopod Slider Camera Camcorder up to 22 pounds

The K&F Concept Ball Head is a durable and tough metal tripod ball head that offers a range of convenient features. With its 360-degree panoramic base and two twist locks, you can easily set your camera at different angles for capturing the perfect shot. The 1/4 inch quick shoe plate is suitable for DSLR cameras and camcorders, while the 3/8 inch screw thread hole allows for easy connection to tripods, monopods, sliders, and other stands. Weighing just 0.57 pounds, this ball head is lightweight and easy to set up and take down. It also features a bubble level for precise leveling. With a maximum loading capacity of 22 pounds, this ball head can support a variety of camera equipment. Please note that the camera and tripod are not included with the K&F Concept Ball Head.

What We Like
Durable
360-degree panoramic base
Quick shoe plate for DSLR cameras

NEEWER GM101 Gimbal Tripod Head

10099646
Black
NEEWER GM101 Gimbal Tripod Head Cover
NEEWER Gimbal Tripod Head Professional Heavy Duty Aluminum Alloy with Arca Type Quick Release Plate, GM101 Supports Smoother 360 Degree Panoramic Shooting for DSLR Camera Up to 30lbs/13.6kg

The NEEWER GM101 Gimbal Tripod Head is a durable and stable option for professional DSLR cameras and telephoto lenses. Its bearing structure allows for smooth camera movement and accurate rotation, making it ideal for wildlife and sports photography. The swinging arm enables vertical and horizontal shooting, and the Arca type quick release plate is compatible with a variety of devices. The panning base has a lock knob and panoramic scales for precise 360° rotation.

What We Like
Durable and stable aluminum alloy build
Smooth camera movement with bearing structure
360° panning base with lock knob and panoramic scales

SmallRig Selection Tripod Fluid Head -3259

3259-SS
Black
SmallRig Selection Tripod Fluid Head -3259 Cover
SmallRig Tripod Fluid Head Pan Tilt Head with Quick Release Plate for Arca Swiss for Compact Video Cameras and DSLR Cameras -3259B

The SmallRig Selection Tripod Fluid Head is a compact and portable tripod head with fixed damping for smooth operation. It features pan and tilt adjustment with a handle that can tilt +90°/-55° and swivel 360° for multi-angle shooting. Compatible with SLRs, mirrorless cameras, pocket cinema cameras, etc., it has a safety payload of 3 kg and is fully compatible with most tripods and monopods. The fluid head also comes with a quick release plate for Arca-Swiss, allowing for quick switching between handheld and tripod. There is also an accessible Allen wrench for removing the handle.

What We Like
Compact and portable
Pan and tilt adjustment for multi-angle shooting
Wide compatibility with various cameras and tripods

SmallRig Mini Ball Head

BUT2665-AU
Ball Head BUT2665
BUT2665
SmallRig Mini Ball Head Cover
SmallRig Mini Ball Head, Tripod Head Camera 360° Panoramic with 1/4" Screw 3/8" Thread Mount and Quick Release Plate Metal Ball Joint for Monopod, DSLR, Phone, Gopro, Max Load 4.4lbs/2kg - BUT2665

SmallRig Ball Head is a versatile tripod head that offers universal compatibility with most DSLR cameras, camcorders, tripods, sliders, and monopods. It features a 360° swivel tripod head, allowing for panoramic shooting and multi-angle adjustment. With a precision panning base, this ball head is ideal for multi-shot panoramic photography. Made of aluminum alloy, it is strong and durable, with a maximum load capacity of 4.4lbs/2kg. The low-profile design of the ball head ensures high stability, and the rubber-padded mount protects your camera from scratches. The SmallRig Ball Head is a reliable accessory that enhances your photography experience.

What We Like
Universal Compatibility
360° Swivel
Precision Panning Base

NEEWER Video Tripod Fluid Head with Quick Release Plate Compatible with Manfrotto, Telescopic Handle & Panorama Scaled Base (⌀55mm), Max Load 13.2lb/6kg, Heavy Duty for DSLR Video Cameras, GM001

GM001
Black
NEEWER Video Tripod Fluid Head with Quick Release Plate Compatible with Manfrotto, Telescopic Handle & Panorama Scaled Base (⌀55mm), Max Load 13.2lb/6kg, Heavy Duty for DSLR Video Cameras, GM001 Cover
NEEWER Video Tripod Fluid Head with Quick Release Plate, Telescopic Handle & Panorama Scaled Base (⌀55mm), Max Load 13.2lb/6kg, Heavy Duty for DSLR Video Cameras, GM001

The NEEWER Fluid Head Tripod is a lightweight and sturdy tripod head made of aluminum alloy suitable for outdoor use. With a maximum load capacity of 13.2lbs/6 kg, it can withstand heavy camcorders and video DSLR cameras, making it a great choice for photographers and videographers. This tripod head features a smooth panoramic movement with a 360° scale marking, allowing you to take spectacular panoramic images with fluidity and precision. The convenient quick release system enables quick camera mounting and is compatible with Manfrotto 501PL/504PL plates. Additionally, the tripod head comes with easy and safe angle adjustment, allowing you to capture the scenery at any angle. The universal mounting threads are available for a variety of cameras and telescopes, making it a versatile and convenient accessory for photographers and videographers.

What We Like
Lightweight
Smooth Panoramic Movement
Convenient Quick Release System
#TOP 7

NEEWER Tripod Ball Head

78088671
Black
8 x 6 x 3.9 inches
NEEWER Tripod Ball Head Cover
NEEWER 36MM Tripod Ball Head 360° Panoramic Metal with Arca Type Quick Release Plate, 1/4" Screw 3/8" Thread Mount, Max Load 17.6lb/8kg, Tripod Head for Monopod, Slider, DSLR Camera, Camcorder (Red)

The NEEWER Tripod Ball Head is a versatile accessory for your camera gear. With 360-degree swivel and 3 knobs for adjustment, you can easily set up your camera at different angles. This tripod head comes with a 1/4" Arca Type QR Plate and horizontal/vertical bubble level, making it easy to set up in seconds. It also features fine tuning damping to protect your device from sudden movements and a base with index marking for precise control. Plus, it can be attached to your tripod, monopod, or camera slider for added flexibility.

What We Like
Versatile accessory for camera gear
360-degree swivel with 3 knobs for easy adjustment
1/4" Arca Type QR Plate and horizontal/vertical bubble level for easy setup
Fine tuning damping to protect device from sudden movements
Base with index marking for precise control

ULANZI U-80L Camera Ball Head

U-80L
Black
U-80L
ULANZI U-80L Camera Ball Head Cover
Tripod Ball Head ULANZI U-80L Camera Quick Release Metal Ball Head Camera Mount Arca Swiss 360° Rotating with Quick Release Plate & Cold Shoe, 22lbs/10kg Load for 1/4" Tripod,Monopod,DSLR,Camera

The ULANZI U-80L Camera Ball Head is an all-metal CNC machined ball head that provides a 10kg/22lbs loading capacity. It features 360-degree swivel with 2 U-shaped slots for horizontal, vertical, and side adjustment, allowing you to set your camera at any angle. The patented design of the ball head includes a 360° rotatable cold shoe to adjust your best angle for your microphone or light. Additionally, it is compatible with most tripods with a 1/4" interface on the market. This ball head is equipped with anti-skid silicone to protect your device from plunging, and it has a 360° adjustable bottom and adjustable twist handle, providing you with more stability.

What We Like
Provides a 10kg/22lbs loading capacity
Patented design allows for 360° rotatable cold shoe for microphone or light
All-metal CNC machined ball head compatible with most tripods with a 1/4" interface on the market
Equipped with anti-skid silicone to protect your device from plunging
360° adjustable bottom and adjustable twist handle for added stability

NEEWER Tripod Fluid Head Pan Tilt Head with Quick Release Plate and Handle, Metal Camera Tripod Head Compatible with Arca Swiss for Compact Video Cameras DSLR Cameras, Load up to 6.6lb/3kg, GM24

GM24
NEEWER Tripod Fluid Head Pan Tilt Head with Quick Release Plate and Handle, Metal Camera Tripod Head Compatible with Arca Swiss for Compact Video Cameras DSLR Cameras, Load up to 6.6lb/3kg, GM24 Cover
NEEWER Tripod Fluid Head Pan Tilt Head with Quick Release Plate and Handle, Metal Camera Tripod Head Compatible with Arca Swiss for Compact Video Cameras DSLR Cameras, Load up to 6.6lb/3kg, GM24

The NEEWER Tripod Fluid Head Pan Tilt Head is a compact and portable option for your photography needs. Measuring only 2.91"/74mm in height, this fluid head is lightweight and durable with its all-metal design. It offers 360° panoramic rotation and -55° to 90° tilting, perfect for multiple angles photography. The quick release plate is compatible with Arca Swiss and has a non-slip rubber pad for secure mounting. The detachable handle can be installed for left or right-hand operation, and the fluid head is compatible with a range of devices with a maximum load capacity of 6.6lb/3kg.

What We Like
Compact and lightweight design
360° panoramic rotation and -55° to 90° tilting for multiple angles photography
Quick release plate with non-slip rubber pad for secure mounting
Detachable handle for left or right-hand operation
Compatible with a range of devices with a maximum load capacity of 6.6lb/3kg
#TOP 10

ULANZI Ball Head with Claw Super Quick Release Design

2305-US9
Claw QR Ballhead
ULANZI Ball Head with Claw Super Quick Release Design Cover
ULANZI Ball Head with Claw Super Quick Release Design, Professional Metal 360° Rotating Panoramic Ball Head with Cold Shoe, Up 44.1lbs Load, for Tripod,Monopod,Slider,DSLR Camera (U-100)

The ULANZI Ball Head with Claw Super Quick Release Design is a professional metal 360° rotating panoramic ball head that is perfect for enhancing your photography experience. Its patented CLAW quick release design and creative cold shoe design offer a Super Quick Release Mount and vlog microphone mount solution respectively. The slide lock ensures your camera is safe and secure, and the quick release top cap mount can be easily connected to the CLAW series products. The ball head supports up to 20KG weights and the 1/4 to 3/8 Screw Adapter and a 3/8" bottom screw thread lets you attach it to your tripod, monopod, or camera slider for adding more flexibility in angle changing.

What We Like
Quick and easy camera release and microphone mount solution
Slide lock ensures your camera is safe and secure
Supports up to 20KG weights
Buying Guide Image

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What is the easiest tripod head?

The ball head is considered the easiest tripod head to use. It quickly locks the camera into position and offers options like lightweight magnesium, hydrostatic, and built-in grip types.

2. What is the advantage of having a quick release plate on a tripod?

A quick release plate on a tripod offers a time-saving advantage. It is equipped with a locking mechanism, like a lever or a screw, that securely holds the camera in place once attached to the tripod.

3. Are all tripod quick release plates the same?

Not all tripod quick release plates are the same. Cheaper tripods may have their own unique plate designs. However, most tripods have interchangeable heads, allowing you to mix and match tripod and head brands according to your preference.

4. What is the most versatile tripod head?

The ball head is considered the most versatile type of tripod head. It is suitable for various purposes and provides stability and fast, accurate rotation of the camera. Unless you have specific needs, such as balancing a large telephoto lens or doing precision architectural work, a ball head is likely the type of head you want.

5. Why do you need a ball head on a tripod?

A ball head is essential for a tripod as it increases stability and allows for faster and more accurate rotation of the camera. It provides photographers with better control and flexibility in capturing their shots.

6. What is the disadvantage of a tripod stand?

One disadvantage of a tripod stand is that cheaply manufactured ones may wobble, compromising stability. It is recommended to invest in a good quality tripod to avoid such issues. Additionally, using a tripod can slow down the process of setting up and adjusting the camera.

7. What is the difference between bolt-on and quick release?

Bolt-on skewers and quick release skewers serve the same purpose of tightening the axle of a tripod. However, bolt-on skewers use a bolt to secure the axle, while quick release skewers use a cam lever. Bolt-on skewers allow for a tighter axle tightening compared to using just your hand.

Editor's Notes

During our quick release tripod head research, we found 16 quick release tripod head products and shortlisted 10 quality products. We collected and analyzed 29,351 customer reviews through our big data system to write the quick release tripod heads list. We found that most customers choose quick release tripod heads with an average price of $37.62.

The quick release tripod heads are available for purchase. We have researched hundreds of brands and picked the top brands of quick release tripod heads, including Sirui, K&F Concept, Neewer, SmallRig Selection, SMALLRIG. The seller of top 1 product has received honest feedback from 202 consumers with an average rating of 4.9.

Written by
Alan Eaton Avatar

Alan Eaton is a seasoned writer whose expertise is in anything related to electronics, such as headphones, monitoring equipment, computer, and so on, built over a 15-year career in the technology industry. Working in the trade during his youth, he accumulated a great deal of knowledge about machinery.