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Best Gimbal for DSLR

Are you a filmmaker who is already pissed off as you’re not getting stabilized shots? Worry no more as gimbal stabilizer DSLR is here for you. A gimbal DSLR is equipment that can be linked to your DSLR or mirrorless cameras and get better shots. A shaky shot can affect the artistic point of view as well as the overall quality of the film.

In this guide, we have gathered and reviewed an array of the best gimbal stabilizers for DSLRs. The market is flooded with gimbals as well as other stabilizers that make it hard for you to find the best one. It can be stressful to go out and look for the ideal one. We made this buying guide to assist you, especially first time buyers, to find the best gimbal for DSLR , including the cheap product and the best overall DSLR available.

Best Gimbal for DSLR: 30 Second Summary

  • Best Overall: The best gimbal for DSLR in our list is the Zhiyun Crane V2. This is a high quality gimbal for DSLR that is equipped with a state of the features. It is lightweight, thus can be used with your one hand only without compromising the quality of the video. What is more, the battery last for almost 12 hours.

  • Best Budget Friendly: If you want high-quality gimbal for DSLR without breaking your wallet, we highly recommend the Roxant Pro Video Camera Stabilizer Limited Edition. This is available for a reasonable price but armed with the best features. It is compatible with almost all models and brands of DSLRs available and it is tough and sturdy as well.

Review of the Top 10 Best Gimbal for DSLR

If you’re looking for a lightweight stabilizer, there are many options on the market, but not all of them are of good quality. Some models may be too flimsy to keep up with high-end cameras; others might not be durable enough to handle rugged terrain.

There are many different types of gimbals, each has its own advantages and disadvantages. Some use motors to keep the camera steady, while others work using springs or gravity. The best type for you will depend on what kind of videography you plan on doing most often.The following list is our honest and unbiased review of our top 10 pick gimbal stabilizers for DSLR available .

1. Zhiyun Crane V2 Handheld Gimbal Stabilizer: Best DSLR Gimbal Overall

If you are looking for a high quality gimbal for your DSLR, Zhiyn Crane V2 Professional 3-Axis must be at the top of your list. Aside from compact, it is also lightweight that makes it ideal to use for recording video while you are walking or moving. This only weighs 2lbs and enables for tool-less alterations and attachment. The V2 handheld is surely the best and super lightweight gimbal.

One good reason why you must consider this gimbal stabilizer DSLR is its battery that lasts for twelve hours. As a result, you can shoot all through the day or as long as you want. The 3-axis and 360 degrees rotation allow for a constant rotary motion together with the pan axis as well as non-stop round rotation together with the tilt as well as roll axes.

This DSLR gimbal is integrated with Zhiyun Honeycomb Technique that brings together the effective motor control system and gimbal’s attitude. This enables the gimbal to recompense for instant actions, and it makes sure the utmost stability.

Other essential features are four-way steps less rotational joystick that makes it simpler for you to direct your DSLR and change between diverse operational modes. It is also integrated with ¼ “screw rib that is situated at the base or bottom. It will allow you to attach the gimbal with other tools like sliders, tripods, etc. It is also equipped with lens support and has a mobile app that is when installed, provides you the chance to control the unit using your smartphone.

Key Features

  • A small type of the original crane
  • Mobile app to control the unit through a smartphone
  • Big 4-way joystick
  • 12-hours battery life
  • Yaw Axis follow mode
  • Ideal for small mirrorless cameras

Pros:

  • Used via mobile phone
  • Long battery life
  • Easy to hold and use
  • Super lightweight and compact

Cons:

  • Can’t hold big cameras
  • Some features are well-matched only with cameras from Sony

2. Roxant Pro Video Camera Stabilizer Limited Edition: The Cheapest Gimbal DSLR

If you are looking for a high quality gimbal for DSLR but running out of budget, Roxant Pro Video camera is for you. This simple and easy to use stabilizer is ideal for newbie and casual photographer that want to stabilize their shots but don’t have enough money. This is super lightweight and well-matched to the popular brands of DSLR, such as Sony, Canon, GoPros, Nikon, and even smartphones.

For aspiring vloggers or indie filmmaker, you will find the Roxant Pro Video easy to use. Worry no more about fussy advanced features, which make it hard to set up as well as balance. This gimbal is ready to go upon unboxing.

Apart from being cheap, this gimbal for DSLR is also portable and small. You can utilize it to record videos on stable conditions then pack easily in your bag for easy portability.

This is made of high-quality materials, so you assured of its durability and toughness. You can use it for many years. The company provides amazing product support as well as a lifetime support plan so you can get email assistance regardless of how long you bought the unit.

State of the art Roxant Pro Video Camera is one of the most excellent and best budget gimbal for DSLR today. It provides versatility; it is easy to use and very durable.

Key Features

  • One of the cheapest gimbal for DSLR available without compromising the quality
  • Compact and lightweight
  • Well-matched with various brands of DSLR cameras, smartphones and GoPros
  • Easy to install and can be used right out of the box

Pros:

  • Reasonable
  • Easy to use and setup
  • Portable and light
  • Tough and durable

Cons:

  • Not ideal for DSLRs weighing more than 2.1 pounds

3. DJI Ronin-M 3-Axis Handheld Gimbal Stabilizer: Ideal for Aspiring Amateurs and Expert Filmmakers

DJI is considered one of the best names in the world of gimbal for DSLR. The Ronin-M 3-Axis is ideal for seasoned filmmakers that required a three-axis gimbal stabilizer for a heavier and bigger camera. It is well-suited to almost every camera, both heavyweight and lightweight.

This gimbal comes with a balancing feature that is extremely responsive. The improved auto-tune stability tool stabilized the images without the support of any extra tools. Also, it comes equipped with removable top handlebars which are entwined easily, thus making it simple for the filmmaker to shoot pictures or record video in different situations. This is also easy to pack and unpack.

The frame is durable as it is made of magnesium, while the battery lasts for six hours. This is user-friendly and works regardless of condition or situation. It is regarded as the toughest gimbal for DSLR in this list.

This gimbal made hard and almost impossible shorts easier due to its 3-operational modes such as upright, underslung as well as a briefcase that makes it possible for taking photos and videos in all types of settings. It comes with a universal mount, which makes it attuned with virtually all the cranes, rigs, tripods, monopods, and many others.

Key Features

  • 3-operational modes
  • Software for mobile and windows
  • Universal mount so you can attach it to crane, tripod, monopod etc
  • Silent mode allows you to reduce the sound of the motor in a narrow location

Pros:

  • Program for smartphone
  • It has universal mount
  • Easy to use
  • Tough and battery life last for six hours

Cons:

  • Even if it is equipped with silent feature, still produces a sound in close-up

4. Tilta Gravity G2X Handheld Gimbal Stabilizer: Super Lightweight Gimbal

Tilta Gravity G2X is considered one of the best gimbals for DSLR. Utilizing the same knowledge as the Tilta GX, it assists in stabilizing the movements of the camera. But, it is portable, smaller as well as easy to carry. This gimbal can carry cameras weighing 8 pounds that makes it the best gimbal for mirrorless, smartphones, DSLR, and GoPros.

If you are a professional video maker with a low budget, then ensure to invest in this unit. It is armed with state of the art feature like the auto-calibration function that enables you to adjust the settings by the needs of the camera. This feature is easy to use, hold power three times in a row, and that’s it. Start to see the magic.

  Best Gimbal for GoPro

It also comes with an app for iOS that assists in the tuning of the motor. The app also plays a role in updating the firmware of this unit. The integrated battery lasts for 10 hours, that makes it ideal for each videographer as well as for all kinds of the shoot.

This gimbal has 4-operation modes such as tilt lock mode, pan and tilt follow, fully stabilized, and roll lock mode. It also equipped with a fast release finger grip that holds the battery, and it also reduced the dimension of the unit. It is made of stainless steel and aluminum, so you are assured of durability. The handle is made of Brazilian rosewood that makes it look chic and fashionable. The case is water resistant, so you can store it with ease or take it with you when it is raining.

Key Features

  • This gimbal rotates at 360 degrees on pan and tilt axes
  • Lock mode
  • Built in joystick
  • 10-hour battery timing
  • Auto-Calibrate Function

Pros:

  • Super lightweight
  • Long battery life
  • iOS app that controls the unit

Cons:

  • Expensive
  • No mount to attach accessories

5. Letus Helix Jr. Gimbal Stabilizer: Best For Fimlmmakers

Letus Helix Jr. is one of the best stabilizers available for filmmakers. It is compact and very lightweight. Weighing only 12 pounds, the Letus Helix Jr. is ideal to use when shooting a wedding or if you are carrying out documentary cinematography.

This gimbal has an eye-level setup that allows you to create videos throughout the day without hurting your back. Its compatibility and lightweight features make it easy for you to take it anywhere you go. The integrated narrow rigs enable you to get the cam close to your body so you can get videos or pictures from different angles. Also, the small platforms is an additional advantage as it helps you in getting less jarring videos.

It has a battery that lasts for four hours. What is more, the reason why a lot of filmmakers favors it is that it is portable and compact and there is no need of assembling it first before using.

Key Feature

  • Lightweight that makes is easy for you to take anywhere you want to go
  • Optically centered features allows you obtain best stabilized shots
  • Reduce image sensor movement
  • Easy to setup
  • Super easy balancing
  • Fast conversion feature provides facility to convert the unit from handheld to aerial mode as fast as possible.

Pros:

  • Convert from handheld to aerial fast
  • Easy to carry
  • Narrow rig so you can make videos fast

Cons:

  • Can’t fit large DSLRs
  • The caveats don’t permit the user to open and tilt the screen

6. Moza Lite 2 Gimbal Stabilizer: Compact Gimbal

If you are searching for a gimbal stabilizer that is intended for utmost precision, look no further then Moza Lite 2 premium gimbal stabilizer. It is regarded as one of the most excellent DSLR gimbals as it is equipped with state of the art FOC Algorithm that assures smooth as well as very precise camera actions/movements.

Even if it is compact and just weighs 5lbs, it has the capability to accommodate cameras weighing 11pounds. This gimbal can be utilized with mirrorless cameras, DSLRs as well as other compact cameras.

It comes with 3- distinct operating modes that allow you to utilize the unit in cases that suit the most. It comes handlebars that are easy to detach, thus gives you the chance to attach it to different platforms like rigs, cranes, tripods, and many others.

You can install this gimbal in just a few minutes, with the advance calibration as well as tuning performed through setting up the app on your iOS and Android devices. Use the integrated thumb controller to access full control while using the unit. This feature has an OLED menu display for integrated configuration. This will allow you to control the friction of the gimbal. Also, it can start as well as top video recording together with adjusting the focus of the lenses and cameras.

This unit also integrated with a smart 2800mAh battery that works up to four to eight hours, and it comes with charger as well. What is more, the tuning stand is included for balancing and setting up.

Key Feature

  • 3 kinds of operating modes: underslung, upright and briefcase that makes it easy for your to record videos regardless of the situation.
  • It is super lightweight that make it easy for you to carry the unit anywhere you go
  • Battery works from four to six hours
  • Joystick to control the gimbal using your thumb

Pros:

  • Light body thus carries it easily anywhere you go
  • 3-kinds of operating modes
  • Works via app

Cons:

  • May be hard with regards to balancing
  • May get hard while making use of the joystick due to the wider rig

7. PilotFly H2 Gimbal Stabilizer : Easy to Carry Gimbal

If you are searching for a DSLR gimbal that can use with one hand only, look no further than PilotFly H2 gimbal stabilizer. One of the best gimbal for DSLR due to its state of the art features. It is easy to carry which makes it ideal for video bloggers who usually work alone.

State of the art PilotFly H2 3-axis gimbal stabilizer is integrated with amazing features such as 32-bit technology, three power motor units that have 2 IMU sensors. This can give a more powerful as well as efficient video shooting/recording experience.

This is lightweight yet extremely easy to use a gimbal. It is integrated with a four-way joystick with mode buttons, and an LED that shows how much power the battery has. These essential features make this gimbal for DSLR the best choice for vbloggers.

Aside from its ¼ inch screw hole that is situated on both sides of the unit, this also comes with an external display or a mic. What makes this gimbal for DSLR apart from the rest is its battery life that can last for almost 26 hours of using in just one charge. This is one of the important reasons why this gimbal is very popular amongst vbloggers.

Key Features

  • It comes with 4-way joystick
  • Captures stable and smooth shots with DSLRs and cameras up to 4.9 pounds.
  • It comes with removable handle
  • Battery life lasts for 26 hours

Pros:

  • LED display that shows the power of the battery
  • 26 hours battery life
  • Tough and durable
  • Bluetooth module which allows working the gimbal with smartphone

Cons:

  • Serious vibration experienced by some users
  • Expensive

8. Glide Gear GNS 100 Genanos: The Best 3-Axis Gimbal Stabilizer

Are you in the market for a gimbal for DSLR that offers exceptional stable shots? If so, look no further than GNS 100 3-Axis gimbal stabilizer from Glider Gear. It is considered one of the best gimbals for your mirrorless camera and smartphone, as well. It is integrated with state of the art features such as floating-point and servo control algorithms. These features help vbloggers to create videos with precision; it doesn’t matter if you are standing still or moving.

The 2 IMU motors and 3 32 bit microcontrollers that control the stabilizing motors of the gimbal with state of the art automotive encoders provide a consistent calibration retention. With this gimbal, you can easily direct your camera in a direction you want. It has five-way analog joysticks that manage other functions. One amazing perk of this gimbal is its tool-less adjustment feature that enables you to customize the unit without too much effort.

With regards to longer shots, the Glide Gear GNS 100 Genanos is the best as it comes with horn grip. This feature gives the user an ergonomic way of handling the device. Also, it comes with mounting points to attach the accessory. It comes with two batteries. You can use one battery while charging the other one. It is also easy to balance. All you need to do is to put it on a tripod, and that’s it.

State of the art Glide Gera GNS 100 Geranos gimbal for DSLR is also integrated with a case, so it means if you are done using it, you can easily store it in a hardshell case and then leave. The hardshell case will keep the gimbal safe and sound while you are traveling.

Key Features

  • Two IMU sensors
  • State of the art floating point algorithm
  • Five way analog joystick control
  • Tool less adjustments
  • Wireless control via mobile app

Pros:

  • Lightweight and compact design
  • Six hours battery life
  • 2 batteries are included
  • Motors with automotive encoders

Cons:

  • Cannot balance if accessories are attached
  • A bit issue with the balance
  • Very expensive

9. Feiyu MG V2 Handheld Gimbal Stabilizer: Super Lightweight Gimbal

Are you looking for a lightweight gimbal for DSLR so you can take it anywhere you want to go? Look no further than Feiyu MG V2 Handheld Gimbal Stabilizer. This is super lightweight, sleek, and most of very reasonable. This is the new choice for video bloggers and filmmakers or those who are looking for a light setup for the utmost flexibility.

This is integrated with 36—degree limitless mirrors as well as slide arms that provide the user with an instant capability to change from one method to another way of operation. It has modes of operation that include dual handed, one-handed, as well as reverse holding that provides you the capability to take videos from all types of angles.

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State of the art Feiyu MG V2 gimbal for DSLR has a better mounting plate, which makes it ideal for mirrorless cameras. Also, it comes with a built-in joystick, which can be utilized for manual angle modification as well as a function key to turn on or off the unit. This makes it easy for you to switch between different modes.

This can accommodate cameras weight 4.4 pounds, but bigger cameras such as Canon 5D Mark III can only be utilized with a small lens; Mirrorless cameras can be utilized with bigger lenses through engaging the fixing screw of the lens.

It comes with 3-modes of operation such as panning mode, tilting, and panning as well as lock mode. The panning mode enables the camera to move any direction and at the same time, avoids the rolls and vertical tilts. The panning and tilting mode enables the DSLR to pan from any direction, to tilt upward and downward, as well as avoid the rolls. While the lock mode keeps the DSLR stable and avoids tilting, rolling, and panning while you are taking video, even if it has a super lightweight body, the battery could last up to 6 hours in a single charge. So, you have more time recording videos until the next charge.

Key Features

  • 3 ways of operation
  • 39- degree limitless motor
  • Super lightweight body

Pros:

  • Compact
  • Built joystick
  • Easy to get all kinds of angles

Cons:

  • Can’t accommodate heavy DSLRs
  • Motors begin to generate sound when used with heavy cameras

10. Glidecam XR-PRO Handheld Gimbal Stabilizer; Bets Gimbal for Videographers

If you are looking for a high-quality gimbal for DSLR but running out of budget, then GlideCam XR-PRO is the best option. This can be your new buddy when doing video blogging. It is considered the cheapest gimbal on the market at this point in time.

With regards to application, this gimbal is super lightweight; however, it can handle cameras weighing up to 10lbs. This is perfect gimbal stabilizer which can assist you in getting a high quality and professional looking video footage and photos.

Made specifically for DSLRs as well as medium sizes cameras, the GlideCam XR is a 3-axis handheld cam stabilizer which almost makes your DSLR float as well as perfectly balanced. It provides you a perfectly stable footage even if you are moving on a rock road or you’re climbing on a hill or stairs.

It has dynamic balance platform that helps in achieving the utmost balance for your camera. The tool less telescoping center post features, helps you gets better video and photo. The easy to adjust intertial control base platform that has counterweight disc helps a lot in balancing the whole gimbal.

State of the art Gimbalcam XR-PRO comes with 1.4 inch-20 thread that helps in connecting additional accessories like monitors, microphones and many others. It is also integrated with grip that is cushioned that allows for a comfort when using.

Key Features

  • Super lightweight
  • Is able to accommodate cameras weighing 10lbs
  • Thread for attaching extra accessories
  • Counterweight disc helps in acquiring more stabilized videos

Pros:

  • Able to take smooth and steady photos
  • Accommodate heavy cameras
  • Cushioned grip or handle

Cons:

  • There is no different operation mode
  • No joystick for easy using
Best Gimbal for DSLR

Buying Guide for the Best Gimbal for DSLR

There are lots of gimbals for DSLR available, which makes it challenging and daunting to select the best one. Below are the factors you must look for when buying a gimbal . You need to be smart when choosing a gimbal which fulfills your needs of videomaking.

Type of Gimbal

One factor to consider is the kind of gimbal you need. There are many kinds of gimbals available; each has different specifications like weight, axis and many others. Therefore, you must bear in mind that the one you want to purchase meet your needs,

Build Quality

When buying a gimbal, you must focus on build quality. Less costly units are made of substandard material and will not last long. So, purchase gimbal made of aluminum materials,

Weight

This amongst the things you must consider when looking for a gimbal. You must know where the gimbal you are planning to purchase is lightweight so you can carry it with your one hand. It is vital to buy gimbal that is lightweight so you can shoot videos using your one hand only.

Batteries

One essential factor is the batter and how long it lasts. There are cheap and inexpensive gimbals for DSLR available on the market that don’t need batteries to work, some of the well-working gimbals require batteries to run the brushless motors. Some unit makes use of the standard alkaline batteries while new models need lithium-ion batteries. You must ensure whether the battery is heat resistant or not.

You also need to know how long the battery lasts. The best batteries last for 6 to 8 hours of using. However, there is also a unit the last for almost 26 hours of using in one charge only. If you want to use it for a long period in time, go for the gimbal that gives longer battery life.

Setup

Setup also plays a vital role in choosing the gimbal you want. Make sure before purchasing a gimbal, you should look into its setup procedure. You need to know how it will appear after setting up and how long it takes to assemble. Of course, you don’t want to spend a lot of time setting up the gimbal. So, buy a gimbal that can be used right out of the box.

Balance

Ensure to look into the balance of the unit you are planning to purchase. Talking about balance, check how the gimbal balances your DSLR. A well-balanced gimbal is less clumsy to utilize, and it will be stress-free for you to handle, thus make the job of recording videos more comfortable for you.

Versatility

Not like a gimbal, which is just intended for mobile phones or action cameras, gimbals for DSLR need to be versatile to accommodate your mirrorless camera. Ensure to check whether or not the unit supports the size of your camera. You also need to check if the gimbal supports diverse kinds of shooting modes. Verify if the unit has diverse styles of setup so that it supports the DSLR and the shooting crew while recording a video.

Other Essential Features to Consider

It will not take most of your time to look into some minor things that can be a big issue in the long run. Small things meaning you must know if the unit is not heavy; it supports the DSLR as well as supports the shooting needs and situations. You also need to know if the gimbal is easy to handle and carry. These are small factors that can be a big issue when taken for granted. So, always keep this thing in mind if you are in the market for the best gimbal.

Camera Compatibility

Some gimbals don’t support all the DSLRs. So, make sure to check if the gimbal you are planning to purchase supports the camera or not. This is vital because the camera will instantly tilt a bit once the gimbal isn’t supporting the DSLR because it doesn’t work, and thus, it is just a waste of money and time.

Mounts

As stated above, some gimbals available are integrated with mounts that you can attach accessories like tripods, microphones, lights, and many others. If you love recording videos, then for sure, you have lots of accessories in you. So, you must ensure that the mounts support the accessories in your bag. This will enable you to utilize them while taking or recording videos as well as get the best possible results. Ensure the mounts are integrated with powerful and durable grips so you can hold the accessories very well.

Price

Price is also a factor that you need to consider when buying a gimbal for DSLR. Gimbals are expensive. However, they provide many benefits. This accessory offers cinematic stability.

What is more, there are cheap gimbals available out there. So, ensure to read this guide to find out one that will suit your needs and of course, your budget. As far as quality concern, price shouldn’t be the only factor when buying a gimbal. There are cheap gimbals available but don’t equip with state of the art features. When you purchase high-end gimbals, rest easy that you are acquiring the best one that offers the best result.

Frequently Asked Questions

Want to know more about the gimbal stabilizer? This frequently asked question section can help. So, keep on reading.

Final Thoughts

Gimbal stabilizers are very vital equipment that must be included in your bag most especially is you love and enjoy recording high-quality videos or photos. It provides the smoothest and steadiest shot that leads to cinematic and more professional shots. Gimbal also helps a lot in recording videos that don’t have distortions and shakes. Therefore, it is a highly suggested to keep in mind these factors if you are in the market for the gimbal.

We advise you to be aware as well as extra diligent of some small factors when purchasing a gimbal; this is because this equipment is considered a long term and expensive investment. Please check this guide for more information. With this guide, you can now record and shoot high quality videos, thus make your content look professional.

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Jason Baxter

Jason is a professional photographer based in Stillwater, Oklahoma. Loyd has been doing photography for over 14 years and specializes in fine art landscape photography. Loyd's work has appeared on book covers, CD covers, television, internet galleries, and on the walls of private residences.