There are plenty of good ball heads where you don't have to spend hundreds of dollars. I use one that's not a high dollar unit and it see's a insane amount of use. Nine hours a day for 30 days straight was the last big job that I used my 60 dollar ball head and it did everything I wanted. Sure a 200/300/400 dollar unit would be nice to have but then again I'd like to have a Ferrari sports car sitting in my driveway too. Who in their right mind can afford to spend every cent of their income on all the newest and the best photography gear. If everything else I needed in life was paid for then sure I'd be buying the best equipment but that's just not the situation for most of us . Here are a few less expensive ball heads that I've used plus I know others that have used them and they work great. Read the reviews from the other users and take what they say as a guide. Come on in the real world not everybody needs a 900 dollar Gitzo carbon fiber tripod and a Arca Swiss $300 plus ball head. In the real world its the photographer that matters the most and not about how much you spent on equipment.


Adorama Website: all within the 50 -70 dollar price range


Flashpoint F3 or F4 (HERE)


Vanguard SBH-100 (HERE)


Giottos Pro Ball Head with 621 Quick Release plate (HERE)


Smith Victor BH5 Metal Alloy Ball Head (HERE)