3 way or Ball

[Deleted member 27472]

Can you explain the differences between a 3 way and a ball head. The ball head to me would be less reliable, but with more available angles to move.
I currently have a Silk 500DX with a 2 way and want to be able to pan & tilt in portrait and landscape.
Items to shoot will be product in light tent and landscapes.

 

[Woodsy]

Personally, balls heads are far far better than 3way heads. Far more versatile and as long as you don't get a tiny little one, will be easily strong enough and reliable enough. I've had my Manfrotto 488RC2 for 4 years now at least, and will hold my gripped D700 and 70-200 no problem. I suggest trying some and seeing what you prefer.

 

[CReid]

For me ballhead > 3 way for the following reasons:

Infinitly adjustable
Smoother / more fluid in use
Compact - no handles to snag stuff / get in the way

A decent ballhead will come with adjustable friction which means you can fine tune how much play there is when the ballhead is unlocked so your camera / lens won't suddenly slip and you can vary the friction according to the weight of your rig as well.

 

[Rob.Richards]

Hmm, I Use a 3 way, been quite happy with it. Helpful when panning and wanting precise adjustment! Your items you wish to shoot are quite specific and not needing speed etc.

I use the manfrotto 804RC2...

 

[Deleted member 27472]

I know the product shots are pretty static, and I did favour the 3 way, but looking into it, a ball may have an edge on landscape.
Still looking for insight.

 

[Deleted member 27472]

Another question, are quick release plates the same for different makes?
Mine is Silk.