Camera accessory designed to deliver smooth, precise pan and tilt control for compact camera setups. Reliable locking and clear angle markings make panoramic stitching and repeatable framing easier. Is the SMALLRIG Mini Ball Head the compact solution worth adding to a kit?
⚡ At a Glance
- • Stability: Low-profile ball head design increases locking force and stability while side-mounted knob lowers the centre of gravity
- • Best for: Photographers and videographers who need compact, repeatable panoramic and multi-angle shots
- • Not ideal for: Users who mount very heavy professional cinema rigs exceeding 2 kg
Compact aluminium construction supports a maximum load of 2 kg. Precision panning base with laser-engraved 5° marks aids controlled panoramic shooting.
Precise panoramic framing – thanks to precision panning base
Base is laser-engraved in 5° increments from 0° to 330°, allowing consistent incremental panning. Full 360° rotation combines with graduated markings for accurate multi-shot panoramas.
Repeatable panning reduces time spent aligning frames for stitching. Ideal for landscape panoramas and time-lapse sequences that require exact overlap.
Versatile angle control – with wide tilt and swivel ranges
Front tilt operates from -90° to +45° and lateral tilt from -50° to +50°, while a 360° swivel enables horizontal and vertical shooting. Multiple axis movement supports varied camera orientations.
Quickly switch between landscape and portrait compositions without rebalancing equipment. Helpful for on-the-go shooters who change framing frequently.
Compact strength – thanks to aluminium alloy construction
Aluminium alloy body provides durable structure while keeping weight low, rated to support a maximum load of 2 kg. Rubber-padded mount protects camera bases from scratches.
Lightweight build means easy to carry in a camera bag while still handling mirrorless cameras and smaller DSLRs. Rubber padding reduces risk of cosmetic damage during mounting.
✨ The 4 Key Reasons for SMALLRIG Mini Ball Head
- Arca-type quick release plate - Compatible with many tripod heads for fast mounting and removal
- Laser-engraved panning scale - Enables consistent 5° incremental panning for stitched panoramas
- Wide tilt and swivel range - Allows portrait and extreme-angle shots without rig readjustment
- Side-mounted locking knob - Lowers centre of gravity for improved hold and steadier locks
📋 Technical Details at a Glance
- Category: Camera accessory, Ball head
- Model: BUT2665
- Mount Threads: 1/4" screw for QR plate, 3/8" bottom thread, includes 1/4" to 3/8" adapter
- Arca-Type Plate: Arca-type quick release plate with 1/4" QR plate screw
- Max Load: 2 kg (4.4 lbs)
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is the head compatible with Arca‑Swiss style plates?
A: Yes, the ball head includes an Arca-type quick release plate and a 1/4" QR plate screw that supports Arca-style systems.
Q: How much weight can the head safely support?
A: Maximum load capacity is 2 kg, suitable for most mirrorless cameras and smaller DSLRs with lightweight lenses.
Q: Can the head be used for panoramic photography?
A: Yes, a 360° swivel and a laser-engraved panning base marked in 5° increments support precise multi-shot panoramic capture.
🏆 Our Verdict
The SMALLRIG Mini Ball Head suits photographers and videographers needing compact, repeatable pan and tilt control. Precision panning marks, a wide tilt range, and a low-profile aluminium build make it a practical choice for landscape, travel, and studio use. Compact durability and versatile compatibility deliver long-term value for users who frequently shoot panoramas and multi-angle compositions.
