Shaky or unstable videos can render perfectly good footage unprofessional and annoying to watch.
However, with a gimbal stabilizer, you can take your video shooting skills to the next level. These specialized devices are designed to eliminate unwanted camera movement that would otherwise cause shaky or blurry footage while giving you the independence to control and keep the camera leveled on all axes when recording your footage.
In this article, we will look at the ten best gimbal stabilizers for mirrorless cameras as well as some of the factors you’ll need to consider before buying one.
Top 10 Best Gimbal Stabilizers
1. DJI Ronin-M V3
If you looking to take “Hollywood like shots” then the DJI Ronin-M Gimbal Stabilizer V3 is the gimbal choice for you. Weighing just 2.5 kilos, this gimbal can support most cameras with a payload capacity of up to 3.6 kilos.
The DJI features an upgraded Auto-Tune Stability technology that allows you to automatically tune your camera with a simple tap of a button. As if that’s not enough, the gimbal is engineered with SmoothTrack technology that makes it possible even for the gimbal to translate your movement smoothly even when the camera angle is adjusted.
With the DJI Ronin, you can switch between modes without changing any settings or getting help from anyone. This ensures that you get an endless shooting experience.
When it comes to design and ergonomics, the DJI Ronin features a superbly designed frame made from magnesium. The magnesium mold makes it strong and easy to carry while shooting.
Furthermore, the gimbal’s brushless motors are designed with extreme precision and power to increase torque and reduce unwanted vibrations. Even further, the accuracy levels are increased on each axis using Digital Absolute Positioning Encoders giving you a larger control range of both tilt (105 degrees up, 165 degrees down) and roll (110 degrees) axes.
Remote control is also enhanced via Bluetooth. All you’ll have to do is download the DJI Assistant app from your iOS or Android and link it with your gimbal. Here you can customize, auto-tune, and monitor the status of your DJI Ronin-M. You can also download updates and latest firmware online.
2. FeiyuTech Feiyu AK2000
FeiyuTech Feiyu AK2000 gimbal is an all-encompassed tool for innovative filmmakers. This gimbal has a maximum payload of 2800 g and is compatible with various camera models such as the Canon 5D Mark series, Nikon D500 & D7500, and Sony Alpha 7 & Alpha 7R II.
Despite its low price tag, the FeiyuTech Feiyu AK2000 boasts all features that you would expect to get with a premium product. To begin with, the item is beautifully packaged and comes with solid all-metal components. Its handle is made with a carefully polished silicone embracing to give the user a comfortable grip.
Another appealing feature is the LCD touch screen that they call the “Spiritual window.” This touch panel is strategically located to allow easy adjustment of follow focus, zoom, white balance, automatic rotation, and other settings. Interestingly, you can also upgrade the firmware through the LCD touch screen.
The multi-functional hand wheel together with the high precision software algorithms allows easy operation and usage of the camera even in extreme conditions. Additionally, the 360-degree rotatable range gives you the opportunity to shoot breathtaking footages with enriched effects.
For complete user experience, users can use Wi-Fi to remotely connect compatible devices with the gimbal. In addition, users can also use Bluetooth to remotely connect to the gimbal via the Feiyu ON iOS and Android app and perform various actions.
3. EVO Rage Gen2
It’s hard to talk about gimbals without mentioning the EVO. The EVO Rage Gen 2 is a premium video stabilizer designed by EVO Gimbals for videographers. This gimbal features the world’s most innovative mirrorless camera stabilization technology. Like most premium gimbals in this list, the EVO Rage 2 supports most popular camera brands with a payload capacity of between 350 grams to 2500 grams such as the Canon 5D Mark (II, III, IV), 6D, 7D, 70D and 80D, Nikon D7100, D800E, and D750, Panasonic LX100, GH3, GH4, and GH5 and Sony A series, RX100 III, IV, and V.
However, unlike most gimbals, EVO Rage 2 uses three different power settings to accommodate different payloads. The different power settings are divided into light (350-1,000grams), medium (1,000-1,700 grams), and heavy payloads (1,700-2,500 grams). Users can also adjust these settings remotely using the Evo Remote APP on their smartphone or desktop EVO calibration software.
This gimbal employs CCI technology for Sony and Panasonic cameras. With this cutting-edge technology, you can adjust and control the camera operations such as camera shutter, video start, and zoom right from the handle.
The Evo Rage 2 uses proprietary stabilization algorithms to achieve superior stabilization and the quickest refresh rates (4 kHz) in the industry. This combination ensures that you achieve the smoothest shots at ultrafast speeds. You can choose various stabilization modes.
In addition, the built-in threaded handle allows you to mount the gimbal on any tripod and remotely control it from your smartphone’s app. The Rage offers a pan, roll, and tilt angle of 360 degrees while maintaining excellent stability.
Other features include a premium CNC aluminum construction to safeguard from corrosion and impact and a USB cable for charging and firmware update.
4. Zhiyun Weebill Lab 3
The Zhiyun Weebill Lab 3 is a premium camera stabilizer that will undoubtedly give you a great first impression. Specially designed for mirrorless cameras, the Weebmill Lab 3 boasts a versatile and ergonomic design that revolutionizes its entire look.
The Weebill comes with a compact structure and a Crafted Latch Design that makes it easy to carry and balance. Surprisingly, the Weebill offers unmatched compatibility with most mirrorless cameras with payloads of up to 3 kilos such as the Sony (A7S, AN3, A7R3 A6300, A6500) and Panasonic (GH5, GH5s) while delivering superb stabilization and picture quality.
Via a Wi-Fi connection, you can transmit the video footage from the gimbal to your smartphone in real-time. Additionally, the Motion Sensor Control feature coupled with the ViaTouch Control System allows you to remotely monitor and control gimbal movements as well as your camera settings in real-time from your smartphone.
What’s more, the gimbal comes with numerous switch mode buttons that include the full follow mode button, pan follow mode button, vortex mode button, POV mode button, and the PhoneGo mode button. The PhoneGo mode empowers the gimbal to its maximum follow speed enabling you to capture perfect shots within seconds. These modes enable the Weebill to offer a 360 degrees pan, tilt, and roll rotation.
For quick set-up and transition between filming equipments, the gimbal also comes with a double quick release plate that perfectly fits well with the Manfrotto and Arca-Swiss plates. For elevated user experience, Zhiyun offers firmware updates for compatible cameras.
5. Zhiyun Crane V2
The Zhiyun Crane V2 is among one of the most popular gimbals designed primarily for DSLR and mirrorless cameras. Like most Zhiyun models, the CraneV2 is compatible with most if not all mirrorless cameras available in the market with a payload that does not exceed 1800 grams such as the Canon M series, Nikon J series, Sony A series and the Panasonic Lumix and GH series.
Made from premium grade aluminum alloy, the total weight excluding that of the batteries is only 950g. Its body is elegantly and ergonomically designed to offer unparalleled stability that mimics that of a crane machine.
Another amazing feature is the instant camera control that employs Bluetooth connection to remotely switch camera modes and attitude through a mobile application or specialized palm-size remote control.
The Crane V2 also adopts the advanced slip-ring technology that allows the user to take 360 degrees panoramic shots along the three axes.
For high precision and faster mounting, the gimbal is fitted with brushless motors designed to eliminate any unwanted movements and a “60 seconds balance adjustment” that allows you to instantly mount your camera using a thumbscrew and get ready for shooting.
Other noticeable features include lens support for long lenses and a 26500 lithium-ion battery that offers a runtime of 12-18 hours.
6. Zhiyun Crane 3 LAB
The Zhiyun Crane 3 LAB Gimbal is without a doubt an eye catcher. Unlike previous Zhiyun models, this new flagship model boasts a myriad of fascinating features. To begin with, this stabilizer is engineered to support most best-selling DSLR and mirrorless cameras with a maximum payload of 4.5 kilos such as Canon, Panasonic GH series, Sony A series, and Nikon D850 & Z6.
Another intriguing feature with the Crane 3 Lab is its versatile structure and ergonomics that make it smoother to shoot footage in an underslung position. These two features also make it easy to handle, fold, and store. Additionally, the gimbal is made using premium grade aluminum alloy making it less cumbersome to carry around.
The synchronous zoom & focus control, touch control, and the integrated wireless FHD image transmission sets it apart from the rest. What’s more, the Crane 3 Lab incorporates an all-encompassing and improved LED control panel that allows easy control of the camera and menu access.
The Crane 3 Lab also adds a crafted latch design that enables the user to lock it into place. The aviation-grade motors used within the gimbal enhance a 100 percent increase in motor torque and a 50 percent noise reduction
The ViaTouch control system allows you to remotely control the gimbal from your iOS or Android smartphone. You can also connect to a Wi-Fi connection to update your gimbals firmware.
7. MOZA AirCross 2
The MOZA AirCross 2 gimbal stabilizer is a compact and super-lightweight stabilization device for mirrorless cameras with a maximum payload of up to 1.8 kilos. The Moza AirCross can be used with practically any mirrorless camera and lens combos available in the market. Popular compatible brands include Sony A series, Panasonic GH and G series, Canon 60D, Nikon 1-V3, and Fujifilm X-T series.
One of the most incredible features of the MozaAircross is the motion mimicking technology that enables the gimbal to adjust accordingly with the motion of the videographer. The Moza smartphone app allows you to remotely control the gimbal and input your own custom settings.
The gimbal employs DeepRed technology to save up to six camera profiles and efficiently compute perfect parameters for the camera set up. In addition to this, the gimbal has the capability to eliminate any unwanted oscillations and vibrations.
The Moza also comes with a unique quick release system that fits perfectly well with both the Manfrotto 501PL and the Arca Swiss plates.
The gimbal also offers a roll and yaw axis of 360 degrees and a tilt axis of -175 degree to +135 degrees which give you the opportunity to effortlessly take professionally looking footage. Other noticeable features include the premium aluminum alloy construction resistant from impact and corrosion and a USB cable for updating the firmware on the gimbal.
8. Feiyu MG V2
Specially designed for mirrorless cameras, the Feiyu MG V2 gimbal brings in all aspects needed by a professional videographer. This relatively affordable gimbal is easy to set up and supports various mirrorless cameras such as the Sony A7, A7R, A7S, and Panasonic GH4 and GH3.
The Feiyu MG V2 gimbal feels light and is constructed using solid aluminum and weighs approximately 0.9 kilos and has a payload capacity of 1.5 kilos. The handle is covered with rubber for a comfortable grip and firm grip.
The gimbal includes an inbuilt joystick for enhanced manual controls. Additional settings can be managed remotely on your smartphone through an Android app.
To enhance creative shooting, the gimbal features a slip ring design fitted with three brushless motors that can rotate up to an angle of 360 degrees on all the three axes.
You can also do firmware updates, however, the updates only work on Windows PC and not on Mac OSX. Other features include dual handgrip that allows you to effortlessly switch from a single-hand-hold to two-hand-hold and an advanced electric control module.
9. Pilotfly H2
The Pilotfly H2 is the ultimate gimbal of choice for Vloggers. This gimbal offers excellent video stabilization thanks to the powerful brushless motors, 32-bit AlexMos board, triple-MCU technology, and 2 integrated IMU sensors.
This compact gimbal features an intuitive and easy-to-use 4-way joystick and three integrated 1/4-inch screw holes that allow you to effortlessly mount the accessories.
Unlike the previous Pilotfly H1 model, the H2 model comes with a detachable two hands handle. The CNC aluminum alloy used in its construction makes this gimbal very light (1 kilo) hence easy to carry.
Like most handheld gimbals, the H2 gimbal is compatible with most mirrorless cameras with a maximum payload of up to 2.2 kilos such as the Sony A7sII and Sony a6300.
To ensure that you get professional looking footage the Pilofly H2 offers 360 degrees axis rotation without obstructing the cables of your camera display.
Pilotfly H2 also comes with an integrated Bluetooth module for remote control via an Android app. In addition, you can always upgrade the gimbal’s firmware to keep it up-to-date.
10. Roxant Pro ROX-1C
The Roxant Pro gimbal is probably the most popular and budget-friendly gimbal. This gimbal gives you the freedom to control every motion of the camera with your hands while eliminating every shake and vibration.
The Roxant Pro also features a unique superior design that allows you to mount it on a tripod to achieve the best possible shot. The handle also comes with a no-slip-grip to enhance maximum stability and eliminate swings. Its reduced weight (1kg) also makes it light to carry around.
This video stabilizer also offers unsurpassed compatibility and is ideal for point-and-shoot cameras, smartphones, GoPros, DSLRs, and any other cameras with a payload capacity not exceeding 1 kilo.
The Roxant Pro is also ideal for indie filmmakers. With this gimbal, you can navigate through crowds, run, skate, or move upstairs, or do anything that will cause the camera to shake and achieve maximum stabilization and clarity.
Buying Guide
Factors to Consider Before Choosing a Camera Stabilizer
Before you invest your money in any of the above gimbals, here are some factors you’ll need to consider.
Compatibility
Some gimbals can only hold specific camera models with certain payload capacity. Therefore, it’s vital to select a gimbal that offers high compatibility.
Adjustability
A great gimbal should be able to offer excellent height adjustment and a 360-degree rotation.
Balance
This refers to the ability to control and adjust the camera when shooting your footage. Therefore, when shopping for a stabilizer, consider how efficiently the gimbal is at maintaining balance and stability.
Versatility
Consider a stabilizer that will work perfectly even under extreme working conditions. Also, the ability to switch from single to double grip should be an important consideration.
Durability
Gimbals made from aluminum are considered sturdy and corrosion resistant. Other materials such as magnesium can also offer excellent durability.
Remote control
We live in a digital age where almost everything can be remotely controlled. You do not want to keep adjusting the settings at your gimbals interface. What you need is a gimbal that you can remotely control from your smartphone.
Wrapping up
We both know that gimbals are an essential addition if you want to take those perfect shots that you’ve been wishing for. However, not all gimbals can offer you the satisfaction that you would expect. For this reason, we have compiled the above top rated gimbals to simplify your search for a perfect gimbal stabilizer.