DJI RS 3 Mini Gimbal: An Overview

DJI is kicking off 2023 with a bang with the release of the DJI RS 3 Mini Gimbal. While the DJI RS 3 and RS 3 Pro were released in June 2022, this small successor is a professional level, single-handed 3-axis gimbal, specifically designed for mirrorless cameras. It’s compatible with most mainstream cameras and has a tested payload of 4.4 lbs., making it perfect for fast-paced cinematography. Altough it is significantly smaller than the RS3, it certainly doesn’t lack in technology. 

Key Features of the DJI RS 3 Mini Gimbal

• Payload of 4.4 lbs. 
• Weighs 850 grams 
• 2450 mAh battery 
• Vertical Orientation
• Supports A7 + 24-70mm F2.8 GM
• 3rd-Gen RS Stabilization Algorithm
• Native Vertical Shooting
• 1.4" Full-Color Touchscreen

What’s New About this Product? 

Payload and Packability 

DJI wanted to provide a smaller option without sacrificing functionality. The RS 3 Mini weighs only 850 g. but can still maintain a 4.4 lb.-payload. Overall, the design is very similar to its larger predecessors. The goal here was to give users a more compact option that wouldn’t sacrifice technology. The RS 3 Mini will be the smallest camera gimbal that DJI has released. Expect it to be extremely packable, making it easy to bring on longer hikes or in your carry-on luggage. 

3rd-Gen RS Stabilization Algorithm 

This technology was brought over from the other RS 3 models, allowing for 20% more stability. Users can manage low-angle shots and switch between high and low positions with ease. SuperSmooth mode will deliver even more stable footage in faster-paced scenarios.  

Native Vertical Shooting 

The user will be able to detach the horizontal arm and place the lower quick release plate onto the vertical arm. By simply placing the camera back onto the mountain plate, you can shoot vertically in a matter of seconds. This is a massive update, especially for those who shoot social content such as TikToks and Instagram Reels. 

AutoTune 

The AutoTune feature came along with the original RS 3 and is being carried over to the Mini. In older models, tuning the gimbal was a task of manually adjusting the gimbal and then using a phone app to tune it. Now, as long as you balance the arms, you can calibrate the gimbal with the press of a button, saving you time and making it easier to use the gimbal while on the go. Having the automatic axis lock design allows the user to launch the device with the tap of a button for significant boost in productivity. 

Mobile Control 

Creators can virtually control the gimbal using the DJI Ronin app, or have a second creator take control. After enabling the app, the gimbal movement can be controlled by tilting or rotating your phone. You can also determine the speed, smoothness, and recording options via the app as well. 

Who Should Buy This Product? 

The RS 3 Mini could be a great fit for many creators, but this gimbal was specifically designed for the fast-paced videographer and content creator. Having a gimbal this small that can still carry most mirrorless cameras would be perfect for those who often shoot videos for social media channels like Tiktok and Instagram. Its packability is what makes it so unique. If you are an avid hiker — or are looking for a gimbal that can fit in your carry-on — this is the most packable gimbal on the market with this kind of technology. 

Though it isn’t weatherproof, this gimbal is small enough to be used for more extreme activities like skiing and snowboarding. Being able to hold it with one hand makes it extremely versatile and I’m anxious to see how creators put it to use. Since this gimbal is designed to be controlled with one hand, vloggers will also find it useful as a stabilized selfie-stick. 

This gimbal is especially tempting for those with an earlier Ronin model who are looking for an upgrade in tech and size. It’s built for digital and social creators who want smooth, high-quality footage for their online content. If you already own the RS3 or RS3 Pro, this is a solid option if you’re looking for something smaller and easier to pack. Making that change from the RS3 to the Mini certainly is understandable due its extreme packability. 

Comparable Products 

The RS 3 Mini is the newest addition to the RS 3 and RS 3 Pro lineup. It is simply a compact version of the RS 3 and comes with many of the tech and features like AutoTune, Follow Mode, and automatic axis lock. It will have a smaller payload of 4.4 lbs. as opposed to the 6.6 lbs. that the RS3 can hold. The 4.4 lb.-payload is exceptional, considering the gimbal only weighs 850 grams. 

The overall design and setup is very similar to the RS 3. The joystick, power button, and screen are all in the same places and function the same way. The gimbal also features the NATO port, so accessories such as the DJI RS Briefcase Handle can be used on the Mini. The built-in battery grip will have a maximum runtime of ten hours. This is just two hours short of the RS 3, which is pretty incredible for its size. 

While the RS 3 and RS 3 Pro are designed to be controlled with two hands, the Mini is compact and lightweight enough to be controlled with one hand alone. 

Conclusion

The RS 3 Mini is a lightweight and compact powerhouse that has a great payload for its size and doesn’t lack in technology. Social content creators who are looking to step up their video content will get the most out of the RS 3 Mini. Tiktok and Instagram Reels currently rule the social media world, which means shooting vertical video is essential. The RS3 Mini makes it easy to accomplish that, at a higher level of quality, for a great price point. 

Tyler Glass

Tyler is a photographer and writer, born and raised in Louisville, Kentucky. His ultimate goal in being a creative is to inspire others through his images, and to care more for the beautiful planet that we inhabit. The more people we convince to care for our world, the more likely we are to save it. Follow him on Instagram (@tylerwayneglass), Facebook (@tylerwayneglass), and Youtube.