DJI just announced the release of its Ronin 4D 8K. This powerhouse camera boasts class-leading 8K at 60fps, masterful low-light performance, and built-in ND filters, transcending its 6K predecessor. Read on for a comprehensive deep dive into this feature-rich camera that is sure to unlock a new era of cinematic potential.
Key Features of the DJI Ronin 4D
- 8K video up to 60fps, 4K at 120fps
- Full-frame 29MP camera with dual native 800/4000 ISO
- 14.7 stops of dynamic range
- Built-in 9 stop physical ND filters
- Interchangeable lens mount works with DL, E, L, PL and M lenses
- Cutting-edge autofocus and automated manual focus modes
- Powerful CineCore image processor
- DJI’s customized D-Gamut color space
- Ergonomic handgrip design optimized for handheld operation
- Edit-friendly formats including ProRes and other codecs
- Supports ACES color management workflow
- Rugged magnesium alloy housing
- Intuitive touch screen interface and physical controls
What’s New About the DJI Ronin 4D 8K?
The DJI Ronin 4D 8K clearly aims to push the boundaries in filmmaking. It has a variety of trailblazing features consolidated into a single cinema camera solution. These five capabilities in particular make this DJI’s most powerful and flexible imaging tool yet for today’s filmmakers:
Unrivaled 8K Image Quality
The DJI Ronin 4D can capture 8K footage at a blistering 60fps. It provides filmmakers with the resolution they need for cutting-edge projects today and future-proof delivery formats. Its breathtaking 8K visuals will reveal finer details that allow more freedom when cropping frames in post. Its smooth 8K slow motion sequences elevate pivotal moments. Even 4K footage shines at a max of 120fps for stunning high frame rate shots. This level of performance empowers filmmakers to create the next generation of movie magic.
Breakthrough Low Light Sensitivity
The Ronin 4D camera introduces DJI’s Dual Native ISO technology, shifting between 800 and 4,000 ISO to optimize dynamic range and noise performance. As a result, the camera adapts to handle anything from sunny exteriors to dim restaurant scenes. DJI’s re-engineered image processing cuts noise while preserving detail so filmmakers can tackle the full spectrum of lighting scenarios with confidence.
Extensive 14.7 Stops of Dynamic Range
Spanning nearly 15 stops, the Ronin 4D’s incredible dynamic range handles challenging high contrast scenes with finesse. Bright highlights and dark shadows are no match for the camera’s ability to retain nuanced details in the brightest and darkest areas simultaneously. Wowed by a sunset? The Ronin 4D’s advanced sensor captures all the glory.
Built-in ND Filters
No more fumbling with external ND filters. The Ronin 4D integrates up to nine stops of ND directly, letting shooters adapt to lighting conditions in seconds. Dial in the perfect ND filter density electronically while the lenses stay securely mounted. This cuts down on wasted shots due to improper camera settings and delivers greater creative control when shooting in ambient light.
Interchangeable Lens Flexibility
The Ronin 4D works seamlessly with a variety of lens formats including DL, E, L, PL and M mounts. Filmmakers can utilize their existing stable of lenses while also adding specialty optics moving forward. Autofocus and automated manual focus functionalities reduce the need for camera assistants and focus pullers, empowering solo shooters to execute complex, multi-angle shoots that previously required an entire crew.
By condensing so many sought-after tools into one rig, the Ronin 4D 8K stands poised to become an essential part of any serious filmmaker’s setup.
DJI DL 75mm F1.8 Lens for the Zenmuse X9-8K Gimbal Camera
This full-frame medium telephoto lens intentionally designed for the DJI DL mount, knows how to put your subject in the spotlight. You’ll give them a cinematic glow that’s both crisp and dramatic, and who doesn’t want that? Its 75mm focal length doesn’t just capture — it enhances. Basically, it compresses space to create a sense of depth and intimacy that just pull viewers in.
The F1.8 constant aperture is gonna soak up every available ray of light — giving vivid, detailed imagery even when it’s getting dark. With sharpness that cuts through the haze and almost no chromatic aberration, this lens delivers crisp pixels and lifelike colors that make every frame a true chef’s kiss.
How to use the DL 75mm F1.8 lens: Mount the tilt-axis counterweight and yaw-axis counterweight (found in the package) onto the gimbal. If a situation arises where you have to switch lenses of different focal lengths, remove both counterweights accordingly.
Who Should Try the Ronin 4D 8K?
Offering unmatched versatility, the Ronin 4D 8K will captivate solo filmmakers and full production crews alike. As an integrated camera and gimbal solution, solo shooters can capture cinema-quality footage without an entourage of assistants. Precise autofocus and focus assistance helps monitor the shot right on the camera’s display while the ergonomic handgrip enables comfortable handheld operation move after move.
It also introduces welcome flexibility for multi-cam productions. Synchronized time code locks down footage from varying angles for streamlined post-production while custom LUT support standardizes looks across A and B-cams. Extraordinary resolution and frame rates unlock creative and coordinated shots. And the rugged magnesium alloy housing cab withstand the rigors of large shoots.
From run-and-gun documentarians to Hollywood heavy hitters, the Ronin 4D’s stacked capabilities empower all types of filmmakers. Indie creators can perfect their craft before investing in a crew while the Ronin 4D also works as a B-cam that won’t compromise primary footage. And for those pushing cinema-quality productions to the next level, the Ronin 4D confidently leads the pack.
With exceptional resolution, frame rates and versatile auto-focus modes, the Ronin 4D 8K is a creative ally for solo shooters and production teams alike. Beyond production use-cases, it assists documentarians in capturing life’s stories in vivid detail and helps them fully express their unique creative vision.
Comparable Cameras
While the Ronin 4D 6K offers impressive 6K resolution paired with a stabilized full-frame camera and long-range control features, the new Ronin 4D 8K takes image quality up a notch. The upgraded 8K sensor captures even finer details, allowing greater flexibility in editing and cropping shots in post-production.
Low light performance sees a boost as well thanks to the enhanced dual native 800-4,000 ISO range that adapts to dim lighting scenarios. The ability to shoot 8K at 60fps or stunning 4K at 120fps gives filmmakers more options to shoot slow motion too.
| Specs | DJI Ronin 4D 8K | DJI Ronin 4D 6K |
| Video Resolution | 8K up to 60fps, 4K up to 120fps | 6K up to 60fps, 4K up to 120fps |
| Sensor Resolution | 29MP | 24.1MP |
| ISO Range | Dual Native 800-4,000 ISO | 200-12,800 ISO |
| Dynamic Range | 14.7 stops | 14+ stops |
| Built-in ND Filters | 9 stops | 9 stops |
| Interchangeable Lens Mount | Yes | Yes, DJI DL Mount |
| Codecs | ProRes RAW, ProRes 422 HQ/4444 XQ | ProRes 422 HQ/422 LT, H264 |
Final Thoughts
DJI takes its industry-leading imaging technology to new heights with the feature-packed Ronin 4D 8K Combo Kit. This versatile all-in-one cinema camera solution empowers solo creators and full crews to capture future-proof 8K footage or stunning 4K slow motion, thanks to best-in-class resolution, frame rates, dynamic range, and sensitivity.
From run-and-gun shoots to full productions, the Ronin 4D’s stacked capabilities make it an essential creative tool for modern filmmakers. Couple that with the vast accessories ecosystem and you’ll have the ultimate cinema camera that can handle any production you throw at it.
