QS-51 vs QS-66 Quick Release Plates: Which Size Do You Need?
By Vanguard World UK | Published: 2026-11-05
Category: Vergleiche
Compare the QS-51 and QS-66 quick release plates by camera thread, video pin, and tripod compatibility to pick the right quick shoe for your setup.
Quick answer
Choose the QS-51 if you use a stills camera or spotting scope on a compatible Vanguard tripod or head. Choose the QS-66 if you shoot video and need the anti-slip video pin on a supported Vanguard video head or tripod.
The real difference is the video pin, not plate size
Both plates attach with a 1/4" camera screw, so the mounting thread is the same. The QS-66 adds an anti-slip video pin, which is the feature that matters when a camera is tilted or panned on a fluid head. If you only shoot stills, that pin is unnecessary and can get in the way of a flat camera base.
Compatibility lists decide the choice
The QS-51 lists specific Vanguard tripods and heads, and the QS-66 lists selected video models. These lists are not interchangeable: a plate that fits one head may not lock correctly on another. Check your tripod or head model against the supplied lists before ordering, and do not assume a plate fits just because both use a 1/4" screw.
Price and spare-plate strategy
The QS-51 is listed at USD 13.20 and the QS-66 at USD 14.80, both against a USD 20.00 comparison price. If you switch between a stills camera and a spotting scope on the same compatible tripod, a spare QS-51 keeps both ready. If you run a video rig, a spare QS-66 avoids re-leveling when you swap cameras.
Trade-offs to weigh before you buy
- QS-51: simpler, stills-focused: No video pin, so it suits flat-base cameras and spotting scopes on the listed tripods and heads. You gain a lower listed price but give up the anti-slip pin for video work.
- QS-66: video-ready, slightly more: The anti-slip video pin adds security on supported video heads, but it is only useful if your model appears on the QS-66 compatibility list. You pay a little more for that feature.
- Compatibility first, then price: Check your tripod or head model against the supplied lists before comparing prices. A plate that does not lock correctly is not a saving, regardless of cost. If your model appears on both lists, choose the QS-66 for video and the QS-51 for stills.
Product facts
- QS-51: Quick shoe with 1/4" camera screw for selected Vanguard tripods and heads, and can be used in place of the QS-52. It is the simpler stills-oriented option when your gear appears on its compatibility list.
QS-51 - QS-66: Quick shoe with 1/4" thread and an anti-slip video pin for selected Vanguard video models. The pin helps prevent twisting on video heads, but only if your head is on the supported list.
QS-66
Which plate fits your setup
Best for
- Stills photographers using a listed Vanguard tripod or head
- Spotting scope users who need a 1/4" screw quick shoe
Not for
- Video shooters who need an anti-slip pin on a supported video head
- Anyone whose tripod or head is not on the supplied compatibility list
