If you’ve been thinking about leveling up your videography skills but you’re not sure how, it’s time to experiment with gimbals and stabilizers. These handy gadgets give you smooth-moving, cinematic footage that looks impressively professional, and often without the typically cumbersome new-gear costs.
Gimbals and stabilizers are available for everything from mirrorless cameras and DSLRs to action cameras and smartphones, which is why they’re one of our favorite stabilization tricks for budding or low-budget videographers. Whether you’ve been considering a gimbal or are just learning about stabilizers today, here are some of the most popular and budget-friendly options to consider.
Best Gimbals and Stabilizers for Filmmakers:
- Zhiyun CRANE-M3 S 3-Axis Handheld Gimbal Stabilizer
- Zhiyun CRANE 4 3-Axis Handheld Gimbal Stabilizer
- DJI RS 4 Pro Combo Gimbal Stabilizer
- Easyrig MiniMax Camera Support System
- Steadicam AERO Sled with 7″ Monitor
Here, we’ll break down each of these powerful pieces of gear:
Zhiyun CRANE-M3 S 3-Axis Handheld Gimbal Stabilizer
The Zhiyun CRANE-M3 S weighs just 705 grams (that’s lighter than your average coffee maker!). It comes with impressive load-bearing skills, making it perfect for any camera and lens combo. With this handheld gimbal stabilizer, you gain the stability of a pro while being light enough to dance around your set easily. Now that’s a smooth operator!
With its two-in-one quick release system, you can swap batteries without even touching your camera. Plus, its wireless Bluetooth shutter control means you can record without tripping over cables.
Key specifications:
- New Bluetooth shutter control
- Powerful 7.5 hours of battery life
- Tiny yet powerful built-in fill light
- 1.22″ Touchscreen offers easy adjustment of functions
- Upgraded two in one quick-release system
Zhiyun CRANE 4 3-Axis Handheld Gimbal Stabilizer
Picture this: a gimbal that’s so intuitive, it practically reads your mind. That’s the Zhiyun CRANE 4, with its smart balance indicators. Being one of the best gimbals in the market right now, it can switch between horizontal and vertical modes within the blink of an eye! Shoot those dynamic scenes with absolute ease, knowing your gimbal is gonna match your pace.
But that’s not all — the CRANE 4’s extendable sling grip and comfy wrist rest make it easy to switch between shooting modes. And for filmmakers who are shooting action, this feature keeps your hands from feeling like they’ve run a marathon.
This gimbal also has a built-in 10W fill light. That means you’ve got pro-level lighting without the extra baggage! And with a battery that lasts as long as your longest shoot day, you can keep creating without the constant charge-and-go shuffle.
Key specifications:
- New intelligent balance indicator lights
- Horizontal and vertical lock structure
- Flexible wrist rest & Extendable sling grip
- Bluetooth shutter control
- Built-in magnetic tightening wrench & protective cover
DJI RS 4 Pro Combo Gimbal Stabilizer
The DJI RS 4 Pro Combo Gimbal Stabilizer is a wonder that can support up to 4.5 kg of camera gear. It’ll be one of the best gimbals for filming steady shots, being able to support so much weight.
Let’s talk control. The RS 4 Pro has a joystick that lets you switch between gimbal control and zooming with a flick of your thumb. Plus, the 1.8-inch OLED touchscreen and intuitive buttons mean you can make adjustments quick. And with a battery that lasts up to 13 hours (or a whopping 29 with an extra grip), you’ll have plenty of juice to capture every creative moment. For those times when you want to get fancy, the Ronin app adds cool features like Panorama and Timelapse. Use each feature to your advantage!
Key specifications:
- 2nd-gen native vertical shooting
- 4.5kg (10lbs) payload capacity with a 20% increase in motor torque
- Supports dual focus & zoom motors with remote control
- LiDAR Focusing with 76,800 ranging points within 20 m
- Approx. 2.4x battery runtime, all-scenario solutions
Easyrig MiniMax Camera Support System
Next up, we have the MiniMax Camera Support System, a powerhouse of a gimbal that gives you smooth shots without being pulled down by the weight. It’s light enough to carry around all day, yet tough enough to handle any camera like a pro. With its adjustable weight range, it’s like having a custom fit for your gear. With this gimbal, your shots will look steady and professional every time.
The MiniMax shines with its quick-release camera hook, making it incredibly easy to switch cameras or adjust setups. It’s perfect for filming those spontaneous moments when you need to adapt to different shooting conditions. And because it’s handcrafted in Sweden with top-notch materials, you’re getting durability that can keep up with your creative vision. Plus, it’s super easy to set up — just a minute of your time and you’re good! With its comfy vest and handy transport bag that doubles as a backpack, you’ll be ready to take your filming everywhere.
Key specifications:
- Adjustable weight range
- Universal quick release camera hook for DSLRs, mirrorless, and more
- Quick and easy setup in under a minute
- Adjustable camera support system for 2-7 kg (4.4-15.4 lbs) equipment
- Easyrig quick release camera hook pre-installed
Steadicam AERO Sled with 7″ Monitor
The AERO 15 System might be your new best friend for filming straight-out-of-a-movie-screen moments. This is a Steadicam system that’s lightweight, easy to transport, and ready to handle your camera setups. The AERO Sled comes with a bright 7” HD monitor that helps you see every detail.
The A-15 Arm and feather-light vest offer top-notch stability. The arm’s flexibility and the vest’s comfort mean you can shoot from sunrise to sunset without breaking a sweat — or your back. Yup! Plus, its compact design means you can pack it up and hit the road with no hassle.
Key specifications:
- Versatile Steadicam system for light to medium weight camera setups
- Features lightweight A-15 Arm & Vest
- Equipped with tool-free sled
- Quick-release camera plate locking system
- Telescoping, 2-section, high modulus carbon fiber post
Get Ready to Capture Your Next Masterpiece
The best gimbals today share similar features as the ones we’ve listed above. The sleek stability of the Zhiyun CRANE-M3 S, the versatile functionality of the DJI RS 4 Pro, or the lightweight flexibility of the MiniMax Camera Support System. All these features are top of the line right now, so all of you have to do now is choose the one that matches your style the most.
Choose the one that will help you film your next masterpiece. Make sure it meets and exceeds your expectations, helping you shoot with ease and confidence!
