UPDATED: JuLY 14, 2020 / ORIGINAL: August 22, 2016
Here’s a round-up of some on the best camera stabilizers for mirrorless cameras including Sony a7 Series fullframe mirrorless cameras.
ONE-HAND MOTORIZED GIMBAL STABILIZERS:
Zhiyun-Tech WEEBILL-S Handheld Gimbal Stabilizer
Zhiyun-Tech WEEBILL-S Handheld Gimbal Stabilizer comes with new motor units and an upgraded high-precision algorithm, with 300% improvement in motor torque and 50% increase in responsiveness. Camera and lens combinations such as Sony a7R IV + FE 24-70mm F2.8 GM can be perfectly balanced and stabilized on WEEBILL-S for smooth cinematic shots.
WEEBILL-S comes with multiple accessories, including an Arca Swiss/Manfrotto dual-layer quick release plate and a storage case. It also includes a removable mini tripod base that can be used as a stand or an extension handle. The mini tripod is also what completes the gimbal for underslung, low-mode operation. It attaches to the rear handle to function as an overhead handle.
Optional TransMount Image Transmission Module, is a compact device designed to neatly mount under the quick release plate of the WEEBILL-S and allow wireless streaming of up to 1080p30 resolution over distances up to 328′.
PRICE: $439
LOAD CAPACITY: Not Listed
WEIGHT: 2.04 lb / 0.926 kg
AVAILABLE FROM: B&H Photo | Amazon
THE SKINNY: The gimbal of choice by vloggers Jason Vong and Vivienne Lee offers impressive load capacity and light weight for a good price.
DJI Ronin-S Motorized Gimbal Stabilizer
DJI Ronin-S Motorized Gimbal Stabilizer is more than just a miniaturized version of the larger Ronin gimbal stabilizers; it represents a scalable ecosystem for integrating DSLR and mirrorless cameras into professional-grade workflows. The single-handed form factor of the Ronin-S lends itself to lighter camera payloads, up to eight pounds. Don’t let its size fool you; the Ronin-S has a lot going on under the hood. Separate modules are available for the handle and accessory docks, allowing you to customize the gimbal based on how you wish to operate it. While using the conventional battery grip, the Ronin-S will last up to 12 hours on a single charge.
PRICE: $749
LOAD CAPACITY: 7.94 lb
WEIGHT: 4.1 lb / 1.86 kg
AVAILABLE FROM: B&H Photo | Amazon
THE SKINNY: Designed by Ronin-S specifically for mirrorless cameras. While not the lightest or cheapest on the list, it features DJI quality & reliability…
Feiyu AK4500 3-Axis Handheld Gimbal Stabilizer
Feiyu AK4500 3-Axis Handheld Gimbal Stabilizer supports up to 10 lb payloads and designed with an angled motor arm so there’s nothing blocking your camera screen, it provides 360° pan, 230° tilt, and 360° roll motion. This gimbal features a multifunction handwheel on the side and a touchscreen LCD smart panel integrated into the handle. The handwheel allows you to control the movement of the camera in select operational modes, including pan and tilt modes, and also allows you digitally control focus and zoom with compatible cameras. Additionally, the handwheel provides external follow focus control if you add an optional, dedicated follow focus motor.
PRICE: $550
LOAD CAPACITY: 10.14 lb / 4.6 kg
WEIGHT: 3.64 lb / 1656 g (without Battery)
AVAILABLE FROM: B&H Photo | Amazon
THE SKINNY: Ten pound load capacity is ideal for balanced shooting with large or heavy lenses.
ikan EC1 Beholder 3-Axis Handheld Gimbal Stabilizer
ikan EC1 Beholder 3-Axis Handheld Gimbal Stabilizer is a 3-axis handheld gimbal stabilizer for DSLR and mirrorless cameras weighing between 2 and 4.5 lb. The EC1 offers unlimited 360° rotation along the yaw, pitch, and roll axes, and features an advanced 32-bit controller and 12-bit encoder system. The gimbal employs an adaptive PID algorithm to deliver stable rotation. EC1 offers three follow modes plus an auto-inversion mode that allows for upside down operation.
PRICE: $500
LOAD CAPACITY: 2 to 4.5 lb / 0.9 to 2 kg
WEIGHT: 2.6 lb / 1.2 kg
AVAILABLE FROM: Amazon | B&H Photo
THE SKINNY: With a 2 to 4.5 lb load capacity, EC1 offers medium load capacity for mirrorless cameras with a moderate weight lens.
Moza AirCross 2 Gimbal Professional Kit with Moza Slypod
Moza AirCross 2 Gimbal Professional Kit with Moza Slypod allows you to achieve many different combinations of motorized movements with up to 7 lb loads, which is the payload of the AirCross 2 gimbal. The Moza Slypod is a 2-in-1 motorized slider and monopod that can be set up on a tripod to perform straight, inclined, and various other motorized movements. The travel routes are assignable via a companion app and can be set to different speeds. Attach the gimbal to the end and you add all the motorized movements of the gimbal to the mix, such as motorized panning motion. The Slypod can also be set up in vertical mode on a mini tripod or other support to provide vertical motorized movement. The gimbal can be attached in this mode as well. Other than all this, the two items can be used separately to great effect.
PRICE: $966.95
LOAD CAPACITY: 0.66 to 7.05 lb / 0.3 to 3.2 kg
WEIGHT: Gimbal: 2.09 lb / 950 g Slypod: 1.65 lb / 750 g
AVAILABLE FROM: B&H Photo
THE SKINNY: This bundle offer the advantages of pairing a gimbal a slider in one easy-to-use package.
TWO-HAND MOTORIZED GIMBAL STABILIZERS:
Moza Lite 2 3-Axis Motorized Gimbal Stabilizer
Moza Lite 2 3-Axis Motorized Gimbal Stabilizer makes it easy to capture smooth, stabilized handheld footage. Featuring a magnesium alloy frame, the motorized 3-axis gimbal weighs in at 4.8 lb and supports loads up to 8.8 lb, making it suitable for a wide range of mirrorless, DLSR, and compact cinema cameras. Three distinct operating modes lets users choose the mode the best suits the situation, with each mode offering follow and locked gibmal stabilization options. Adding to the stabilizer’s versatility is a detachable handlebar that functions as a quick release system for easy assembly and disassembly, while facilitating attachment to a variety of platforms, such as tripods, cranes, rigs, and drones.
PRICE: $1,599 (Professional) | $1,299 (Premium) | $1,099 (Basic)
LOAD CAPACITY: 8.8 pounds
AVAILABLE FROM: B&H Photo | Amazon
THE SKINNY: With an impressive 8.8 pound capacity this 2-hand gimbal is available with three pricepoints depending of the level of features you need.
Feiyu MG 3-Axis Handheld Gimbal for Mirrorless
Feiyu MG 3-Axis Handheld Gimbal for Mirrorless Cameras is a handheld 3-axis motorized gimbal stabilizer designed to support loads between 0.77 to 2.36 lb, making it an ideal choice for mirrorless cameras such as the Sony a7 Series cameras. It features precision brushless motors that stabilize the camera along the pan, tilt, and roll axes to provide smooth footage free the typical jitters and shake of handheld shooting. Each axis can rotate a full 360° for unrestricted movement and angle adjustment. For added versatility, the MG includes two cross bar sections, two handgrips, and a handle that can be attached in several different ways, letting you switch between one-handed or two-handed configurations. It is operated using a single on/off and mode-select button, with a 4-direction joystick providing pan and tilt adjustments and control. You can also use the included wireless remote to control the gimbal from distances up to 49′ away.
PRICE: $659
LOAD CAPACITY: 2.36 pounds
AVAILABLE FROM: B&H Photo | Amazon
THE SKINNY: Looking for a budget two-hand stabilizer? Look no further.
DJI Ronin-MX 3-Axis Gimbal Stabilizer
DJI Ronin-MX 3-Axis Gimbal Stabilizer is a dual-use gimbal suitable both for mounting on the Matrice 600 aerial platform as well as deployment closer to the ground. Improving over the Ronin-M, it features magnesium construction to yield high rigidity while keeping the weight down. The gimbal is suitable for cinema cameras, mirrorless cameras, and DSLRs weighing up to 10 pounds. Out of the box it supports two-operator operation, and includes a radio controller (transmitter) for the camera operator. There is also an optional Thumb Controller (available separately) for solo operation. When installed on the Matrice 600 aircraft, the gimbal can be controlled via the DJI GO app. An included universal mounting adapter allows it to be adapted for use with jibs, car mounts, and various other types of camera support equipment. There is also a handlebar for handheld use.
PRICE:$1,599
LOAD CAPACITY: 10 pounds
AVAILABLE FROM: B&H Photo | Amazon
THE SKINNY: The mid-size rig DJI mirrorless users have been asking for is finally available.
STABILIZER RIGS:
If motorized gimbals aren’t your thing and you prefer to roll old-skool with a stabilizer that relies on counter-balance rather than motors, here are the rigs for you!
Axler Robin Pro 40 Stabilizer L
Axler Robin Pro 40 Stabilizer L helps you capture smooth, free-floating handheld shots with camcorders and camera rigs weighing up to 15 pounds. The system employs a height-adjustable gimbal and two-stage center column that adjusts from 25.5″ to 45″ for balancing heavier loads without increasing the weight of the stabilizer, letting you shoot for longer periods of time with less arm fatigue. Four segmented counterweights are included, which screw into sockets at the bottom of the stabilizer, providing weight compensation along two axes. Each counterweight consists of four separate pieces that screw into each other, letting you to add or remove weight along two axes as needed. This makes it easy to balance your camera rig even when the weight is unevenly distributed.
The camera platform features a quick-release plate with fine-tuning adjustment knobs to help achieve optimal balance. Once balanced, the stabilizer isolates the camera from your body movements, letting you walk or even climb stairs, all while capturing smooth, elegant-looking footage. A durable nylon carry case is included for easy storage and transport of the stabilizer and counterweights.
The stabilizer makes it easy to balance your camcorder or camera rig, even if the weight is unevenly distributed. Four segmented counterweights are included, which screw into sockets at the bottom of the center column and offer weight compensation along two axes. Each counterweight consists of four individual pieces that screw into each other, letting you add or remove pieces one at a time to adjust and fine-tune the system’s center of gravity.
PRICE: $400
LOAD CAPACITY: 15 pounds
AVAILABLE FROM: B&H Photo | Amazon
THE SKINNY: If you’re looking for an old-school non-motorized stabilizer – this rig from Axler is hard to beat for it’s high degree of balanceability. The counterweights can even serve as a monopod base when you don’t need to “fly”.
Steadicam Merlin 2 Camera Stabilizing System
Steadicam Merlin 2 Camera Stabilizing System lets you go where the scene takes you–up or down steps, indoors and out, through crowds–almost without limitation. The Merlin 2 weighs just 1.4 lb and can handle cameras up to 5 lb in weight. It gives you precise, elegant control for dramatic, professional you-are-there footage. The quick-release mount lets you instantly switch between your stabilizer and any tripod. This system utilizes a metal gimbal for smooth camera movement.
PRICE: $270
LOAD CAPACITY: 5 pounds
AVAILABLE FROM: B&H Photo | Amazon
THE SKINNY: Designed for mirrorless cameras by the Mack Daddy of camera stabilizers.
Pulitzer Prize-winning photographer Brian Smith photographs portraits of Hollywood A-List and Fortune's 500 for magazines, corporations and advertising. He's a Sony Artisan of Imagery, Profoto Legend of Light, Adobe Influencer and X-Rite Master Coloratti.
Comments
Thanks for this good article ! What will be your choice for a videographer mainly working in extreme sports (skiing, biking, motocross) for an a7s ii as I’m running behind my subjects, or sometimes on a quad following MXer on the track, and during winter skiing behind my clients ?
I’d definitely recommend one of the motorized gimbals from the first or second group for that. One-hand or two-hand is kind of personal preference. Two-hand gimbals allow you to distribute the weight and balance better – but one handers are more maneuverable. I’d recommend the higher load capacity options if you’re pushing them to the limit.
Brian — thanks for all your great info. I am going to photograph Manhattan by helicopter. Probably at night. Will be using the Sony A7RII and Nikon D750. This is still picture photography. Do you think of these gimbals will be of use? Also, any thoughts about the choice of lenses?
One more thing. There is also the Kenyon Gyro collection. Any thoughts?
thanks and best regards
David DeRosa
The 5-axis IS on a7RII will do an extremely good job at stabilizing image shake from a helicopter. Gimbals are great for video but you’d be better off with a Kenyon Gyro if you need to shoot at extremely slow shutter speeds. I’m highly recommend the Sony FE 70-200mm f/2.8 GM OSS lens.
thank you very much!
Appreciate the article! I’m currently using a Sony A7rII with a 24-70 GM 2.8 lens. It’s a rather heavy set up and was wondering what your opinion would be for the best gimbal beyond something like the ronin. The Pilotfly seems to be able to handle the weight load, but could use some advice since there isn’t that much proper info about cameras of that sizing out there. I was also looking at the Crane, but it apparently only goes up to 1.2 kg and my lens/camera combo is at 1.5 and I don’t want to stress the motors. Any suggestions?
A number of my fellow Sony Artisans swear by the PilotFly listed here. The one absolute rule is to stick to gimbals that exceed your payload. If it’s close – go up to the next size.
Have a Sony A6000 and am filming very high action scenes from a follow behind. Am thinking of selling camera so I can use the money for a DJI Osmo X3. Would rather just get a cheap hand held Gimbal but really have no idea what is good quality and what isn’t. Do some of these small hand held motorized gimbals live up to there name? Any help would be much appreciated.
The DJI Odom X3 is on par with high end phone or point-n-shoot video quality. Not on par with a6000.
Does anyone have a recommendation on which one will be best for weddings? We don’t want something BIG in size since we like to be somewhat discrete
My fellow Sony Artisan Matt Buckman is a wedding shooter who swears by CAME-TV CAME-Single 3-Axis Handheld Camera Gimbal. It’s a single-handed stabilizer that supports loads up to 2.6 pounds – but as I caution in the post, the camera + lens shouldn’t exceed 75% of the max load. If it does, you’re better off going to the next size up.
Hello im a videographer, i shoot music video’s.
When is the best choice, I got a Sony A7Sii
Depend what lens and accessories you’re using. Add up all the combined weight (don’t forget filters and matte boxes if you use them) make sure you don’t exceed 70-75% of the max payload. If you’re over that – go for a bigger gimbal.
Cool. Total the weight. I’m not going to do the math for you…
Oke thank you!
Im using 50mm lens,and i dont have Any other accessoires on the cam.
Hey, which one gimbal is best for lumix g7? Now i use kit lens and canon 50mm. 1,4 oldscool lens. I am looking for gimbal about 300-600 euros. Also need information about quality. thanks
I don’t think you’ll find the quality you want in the low end of that range, however at the top end up, check out the CAME-TV CAME-Single 3-Axis Handheld Camera Gimbal
Do you recommend any of these for self video vlogging?
You’d want one of the one-handers…
Thanks for the write-up! I found this most helpful when doing my research. The Pilotfly H2 is calling my name…
Hi Brian, I’ve got the chance to shoot on a C300MKII and would like to shoot some short sloMo handheld footage. What would you recommend?
The biggest stabilizer on the list. C300 weighs a lot more than mirrorless
Hi a Brian, first of all thanks from Australia, absolute legend & good review! Am planing on purchasing a A7SII. Want a nice portable setup to use on the road for documentmety style filming, but also want to use for a fixed setup in a studio occasionally (with green screen etc). So:
1. What lense/s would you recommend from the Sony range (could be 2 lenses if needed or 1 all rounder)?
2. If Gymbal required, what would you recommend? Note – Portability for ease of use & transport, yet smooth shots also important (find it hard to picture myself running through the jungles of Bolivia with a Ronin lol)
The best overall lens for video would be the Sony FE 28-135mm F/4 G PZ OSS. But for run-n-gun, I’d recommend something smaller like either the Sony FE 16-35mm f/4 ZA OSS or if you prefer a small faster prime, Sony FE 28 F2.0
As for which gimball, that depends if you prefer to go one- or two-handed and how big your payload is. As I mention in the pst it’s better to stay at 70% or less than the max payload otherwise it’s hard to balance once you start maxing it out…
Brian, great article! I just got a Sony a7ii with a 55mm prime lens. For some video shooting for travel, what single hand held gimbal would you reccomend
The first two stabilizers on this list are a great choice for that combination.
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Hey Brian, wow loaded with great info! What would you recommend for a wedding videographer? I operate a canon eos m3 I have two standard tripods but want someone that will allow me to get smooth movement shots (without the shaky steps included) I have 2 standard tripods already and have seen a lot of monopod be used but not 100% sold on that being the right choice?
Appreciate your help!
As long as you’re not using heavy lenses on it M3 is fairly light so any of these should work fine. Take a look at the first two.
Thanks for the review. What do you think about the EVO Rage-S 3 axis gimbal? If found them here https://www.evogimbals.com/products/evo-rage-3-axis-gimbal-for-mirrorless-cameras. Let me know your thoughts because it’s much cheaper than the ones on your list.
EVO Gimbals Rage 3-Axis Motorized Gimbal Stabilizer is comparable to other gimbals in it’s price range listed in this post. The more expensive gimbals on the list support heavier camera/lens combinations.
If their were any improvements on a gimbals camera stabilizers, what innovations would you like to see?
Hello Fellows! Would you recommend these for climbing, or mountareeing?
Sure, though I’d stick to the one-hand versions when climbing 😉
I have a sony A6300 and a SmallHD focus 5-inch on camera monitor. I’m looking for a gimbal for filmmaking to help get smoother footage. What do you recommend?
Whenever using an external monitor, balance is as much of an issue as weight, so you might be best off with one of the two-handle gimbals.
Very well put together article.
I have the Sony A9 and was looking for a gimbal to improve my video work. I travel over Africa for work so something compact is quite important. What would you advise and how much better performance do you get from a 2 handle over a one handle?
Thanks
Two-handle are more stable. One-handle are more maneuverable.
Hi. Great reviews, article and advice. My son has just started filmmaking with one short film in the can, and believes the new Sony A7iii is the camera to get. I’ve never spoiled him and college was not his route. I wish he’d go to Fullsail, but that’s another thread together, so buying this camera for him would e the ultimate sign that I believe in his craft. I need to know the full package; A7iii with what lenss a decent stabilizer, etc and what else. I’d like to keep it at a few thousand. Thanks for let me ramble!
Sony a7 III + FE 28 F2.0 would be a great choice when using a gimbal since that lens doesn’t change length the way many zooms do which throws off the balance of the gimbal.
It’s also good to start with a prime to see all you can get from a fixed focal length before jumping to all the options of a zoom.
At least that’s what I would do…
Thanks Brian for the prompt response. Which of these most economical gimbals would you recommend?
Hi Brian, thanks for the article, I wanto to use my Canon Powershot to record vertical/portrait video with a gimbal, do you know if there something in the market I can buy? Thanks!
Vertical is a bit tricky. I’d suggest getting a L-Bracket for your Powershot to make vertical mounting easier.
Have you had any experience with the Evo Rage Gen 2 Gimbal for the Sony A7Sii?
Evo Rage Gen 2 Gimbal has a 5.5 lb payload which should be quite ample for a7S II. Just bear in mind that it’s better to stay under 2/3 max payload in order to achieve balance but that is still quite in range.
Hey Brian,
I’m getting a good deal on a a7iii and zhiyun crane 2, with the handles. I need to shoot my first music video, wanted to get the 28 to 75 f 2.8, but i can’t spend that much. I’m confused between- sigma 35mm f1.4, 16mm f1.4, sony 18-105 f 4,(Not sure if it will balance) sony 50 mm f 1.8. Also i was planning on getting a sigma mc-11, for a 150-600 i’m getting, i was wondering if the sigma 17-50
f 2.8/17-70 f 2.6-4 canon mount would serve as a good adapted lens, but i’m not sure how good the video af would be. I know i’m pretty confused. What would you suggest i do?
Thank you.
Whoa, whoa, whoa, Nick. That’s a lot of lenses. The first thing you need to do a reseach the difference between Fullframe and APS-C lenses. The Sony E PZ 18-105mm F4 G OSS and 16mm f/1.4 DC DN Contemporary Lens for Sony E are both APS-C lenses which rather a waste of your fullframe sensor.
If you are watching your budget, it makes sense to start out with a good lightweight budget-priced FULLFRAME prime like the Sony FE 28mm F2