The 7 Best Gimbals for DSLR in 2024

Capturing cinematic shots is no easy fete and for long-time amateur filmmakers struggled to get it right. Gimbals are essentially a tripod but with the difference being that gimbals are handheld as opposed to being placed on the ground like you would a tripod. Gimbals give you the much needs stabilization for your footage without limiting your ability to move when taking your shots.

There are many different types of gimbals in the market to help you achieve those beautiful shots for your project. Our list however only includes the gimbals that will work best with your DSLR camera.

1. Zhiyun Crane V2

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Intro:

With four different controls, i.e., pan, following, selfie, and lock, the Zhiyun Crane V2 is one of the most adaptable gimbals available in the market and a personal favorite. With this gimbal, it is possible to achieve any shooting angle as it can achieve 360-degree rotation. The footage captured is also smooth since the gimbal comes with anti-shaking technology. With about 8-10 hours of battery time, you can accomplish quite a lot in that period without worrying about recharging the lithium-ion batteries.

Pros:

It can be used and controlled wirelessly by syncing it to your smartphone
This gimbal has a very robust frame thanks to the aluminum alloy frame. The aluminum alloy frame is a plus because while it gives the gimbal a strong build, it also ensures that the crane V2 is light enough to be easily managed.
It has a camera control interface meaning you can control the focus and shutter of your camera using buttons on the gimbal’s handle.

Cons:

You do not have a live view of the footage you are shooting with some cameras
It starts to feel relatively heavy after a short while

2. DJI Ronin M 3 Axis Gimbal Stabilizer

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Intro:

A well-known gimbal in the videography and filmmaking field, the DJI Ronin M3 is one of the best DSLR gimbals on the market, and it is quite popular with most camera users. This could be because not only is it durable, but it is also well stabilized which in turn makes the panning and tilting easy when you tilt your camera horizontally. The frame of the Ronin M3 is built from magnesium, thus making it easily portable and very lightweight.

The stability of this gimbal is because it has three axes that function alongside brushless motors to ensure stability with one axis providing horizontal stability and the other two managing the tilt and pan.

Pros:

You can remotely control it via Bluetooth as it has software for both Windows and IOS.
It allows for an additional operator while you shoot. Thanks to the receiver and transmitter systems, you can have your friend tilting it in a different direction independent of how you are operating it, and the gimbal will still function.

Cons:

Offers you a shorter shooting time of about 6 hours which is quite little when compared to other gimbals which give you almost double the shoot time.

3. Ikan MS1 Beholder Gimbal

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Intro:

Compact, lightweight and long-lasting are the three words that best describe this all aluminum gimbal. The Ikan MS1 Beholder is an extremely versatile gimbal because not only does it work with literally all DSLR cameras, it has a bottom thread mount which allows for you to attach the gimbals to a monopod, slider or tripod. With brushless motors to stabilize the axes, the Ikan MS1 Beholder will give you beautiful soundless footage that most filmmakers can appreciate.

Pros:

Works with almost all DSLR cameras and even a go pro camera.
This gimbal has been optimized for portability as its design portability fits the palm of your hand. You can take it literally anywhere.

Cons:

Some users have complained of the gimbal’s inability to balance cameras as advertised and that they have experienced trembling that resulted in blurred shots.
This gimbal is not ideal for heavier cameras.

4. Accsoon A1-S 3-Axis Handheld Multifunctional DSLR Gimbal Stabilizer

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Intro:

The Accsoon A1 Pro is a 3-axis multipurpose gimbal for both mirrorless and DSLR cameras. The gimbal weighs a mere 1.4 Kg and can manage a total load weight of 3.6 Kgs. This gimbal comes with a ton of features & the fact that its compatible with many cameras plus phones makes it a must-have.

Pros:

When compared to its competitors this stabilizer relatively weighs less.
Compatible with most cameras of different weight classes
Comes with a high-precision follow focus system that ensures smooth and precise focus can be achieved.
Aside from the usual follow, pan and lock modes, you would typically find on most gimbals; the Accsoon A1 is one of the few gimbals in the market that comes with an upside-down mode and flashlight modes

Cons

Initial setup of the gimbal requires updating of its firmware through an app; this may not be as obvious to the average user when initially setting it up.

5. Letus Helix Jr. Aluminium 3-Axis Gimbal Stabilizer

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Intro:

The Letus Helix Jr. is extremely popular with documentary filmmakers and videographers tasked with capturing events. This is probably because it does not weigh a ton, has a flat bottom build that you can place it on the ground, and it is also quite portable.

Pros:

You do not have to disassemble it to transport it.
It has remote control capabilities and also comes with encoded motors that make its functionality exceptional

Cons:

With only four hours of battery life, it can be quite inconveniencing especially if you shoot for extended periods since you will be forced to recharge it regularly. However, if this is something that does not bother you then, by all means, do make the purchase
Retailing for about $1400 the Letus Helix Jr. gimbal costs a pretty penny

6. Glidecam iGlide II Handheld Video camera Stabilizer

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Intro:

If you are on a budget, this compact 3-pound gimbal is something you should consider. The GlideCam iGlide is excellent as it can handle camera weight of up to 1.3kgs. Thanks to the three axes there is smooth movement and great precision on your footage. You’re also able to capture and isolate your motions thanks to the gimbals 360-degree pan angles capability. The best part of this gimbal is the expandable and contractable dynamic base platform which is an innovative feature for gimbals.

Pros:

The Glidecam iGlide II has huge plates for placing your camera, and you, therefore, do not have to worry about your DSLR not being able to fit.
The aluminum build of the gimbal makes it quite sturdy and extremely durable.

Cons:

It can be a little complicated to use and requires lots of learning. Particularly, if you are an amateur, I would not recommend this gimbal. You should choose to start with something a little simpler.

7. Moza Lite 2 Premium Handheld Gimbal

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Intro:

Utilizing advanced field-oriented control, to achieve flawless image capture, and comprehend camera movements, the Moza Lite 2 premium has been designed to offer you value for your money with regard to its functionality and durability. This Camera can last you for a good number of years, and because of its construction, i.e., the magnesium alloy frame, it is great for filming in the fields.

Pros:

The gimbal can be operated wirelessly from the dedicated app that is available on both iOS and Android devices.
Weighing at 2.2 kgs the gimbal can handle cameras with double its weight
The video transmitter is an excellent addition to this gimbal, and since it improves the usability of the Moza Lite Premium, it is a much welcome addition
The design of the Moza Lite’s battery is intelligent such that is protects the battery from being overly depleted and overcharged

Cons:

In comparison to other gimbals, the 4-6-hour battery life is unsatisfactory.
The more extensive rig makes using the gimbal a little bit difficult especially if you choose to use the joystick.
Lastly, it is not that easy to balance and requires a bit of practice to get used to it.

Conclusion:

While a gimbal will help you unlock new levels of your videography, knowing how to operate the gimbal matters a lot and is what sets you apart. It helps if you have an idea of what you want to achieve cinematically. Plan ahead of time to know the sequence of your shots and ensure that you balance your gimbal and take it on a spin to learn how to achieve the most out of it.

When deciding on which gimbal to choose, some of the things that you should consider are; the number of axes on the gimbal, you can opt for either the two-axis gimbals or a three-axis gimbal depending on the needs of your project. Secondly the price of the gimbal you are choosing and whether it delivers value for your needs. Lastly, the compatibility of your DSLR with the selected gimbal. We would hate for you to buy a gimbal only for you to find that it does not work with your DSLR camera.

We do hope our best gimbal for DSLR list has shed some light on what is available in the market and will help you when making your next purchase.

The 7 Best Gimbals for DSLR in 2024

1. Zhiyun Crane V2

Intro:

Pros:

Cons:

2. DJI Ronin M 3 Axis Gimbal Stabilizer

Intro:

Pros:

Cons:

3. Ikan MS1 Beholder Gimbal

Intro:

Pros:

Cons:

4. Accsoon A1-S 3-Axis Handheld Multifunctional DSLR Gimbal Stabilizer

Intro:

Pros:

Cons

5. Letus Helix Jr. Aluminium 3-Axis Gimbal Stabilizer

Intro:

Pros:

Cons:

6. Glidecam iGlide II Handheld Video camera Stabilizer

Intro:

Pros:

Cons:

7. Moza Lite 2 Premium Handheld Gimbal

Intro:

Pros:

Cons:

Conclusion:

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