Adrian Dimakis
So, you got your crew ready, all tools in place for that video shoot and everything going as planned, only to realize later that the footage is a bit shaky and can’t be used. Don’t worry — it happens and usually very frustrating. So, what can you do? Is there a solution for this? The simple answer is YES!
The secret of recording better content that’s more stable is not just getting the right DSLR camera — you also need to invest in a quality DSLR camera gimbal stabilizer. This device is designed to keep your camera stable to prevent shaky footage.
We are here to remove the trouble of browsing through a dozen options out of your way. We have researched on your behalf, selecting some of the best DSLR camera gimbal stabilizers for your need so that you can become the pro you are in video shooting. Let us take you step by step for that right fit.
Top 10 DSLR Gimbal Stabilizers of 2019 Reviewed
1. Fantaseal 4-in-1 DSLR Mirrorless Action Camera + Camcorder + Smartphone Stabilizer
[wt_products id=”3689″ template=”5″]2. Zhiyun Crane Plus (Official) 3-Axis Handheld Gimbal Stabilizer for DSLR and Mirrorless Cameras
[wt_products id=”3690″ template=”5″]3. Zeadio Video Action Stabilizing Handheld Stabilizer
[wt_products id=”3691″ template=”5″]4. The Official Roxant Pro Video Camera Stabilizer
[wt_products id=”3692″ template=”5″]5. ULANZI U-Grip Pro Handheld Video Rig Steadicam
[wt_products id=”3693″ template=”5″]6. Hohem Water Splash Proof GoPro Gimbal Handheld Stabilizer
[wt_products id=”3695″ template=”5″]7. Feiyu G6 Plus 3-Axis Portable Handheld Gimbal Stabilizer
[wt_products id=”3696″ template=”5″]8. Zhiyun Crane V2 Handheld Gimbal Stabilizer
[wt_products id=”3697″ template=”5″]9. FLYCAM HD-3000 24”/60cm Micro Balancing Handheld Steadycam Stabilizer
[wt_products id=”3698″ template=”5″]10. Handheld DSLR Stabilizer, Sevenoak SK-W08 Video Mini Grip Gimbal
[wt_products id=”3699″ template=”5″]How to Choose The Best DSLR Gimbal Stabilizers- The Ultimate Buying Guide
Whether you prefer to call the gimbals, stabilizers or Steadicams, these devices are essential for all amateur and professional photographers or videographers. They are key to the production of high-quality videos that are devoid of blur or shake. But you cannot pick just any gimbal stabilizer and think it will provide the results you are looking for. You have to carefully study the features of a given stabilizer to know if it will work for you. The following are some of the things to consider before settling on a particular camera stabilizer.
Type
There are three main types of camera stabilizers, the handheld stabilizer, 3-axis gimbal, and vest stabilizer. Here is a detailed look at each of these types of camera stabilizers.
- Handheld Stabilizers: From its name, this is a stabilizer you use by holding in your hands. Unlike the other devices which rely on 3-axis gimbals or a vest, you simply mount the camera and take hold of the handle. It is usually more affordable and relies on the ability of the cameraman to hold it.
- 3-Axis Gimbals: If you are looking for a stabilizer that will make automatic adjustments on the basis of gravity to provide stable footage devoid of human error. The most common models using the 3-axis gimbal are powered by rechargeable batteries. Even though automatic, you need about 15 minutes to mount and balance the gimbal. With advanced technology, several manufacturers have released an auto-balance feature which removes the need for human involvement.
- Vest Stabilizers: Vest stabilizers are by their nature multi-faceted. They have weighted sleds, multi-axis gimbals, iso-elastic arms, springs, and vest attachments. These stabilizers are not for the amateurs but are suitable for high-end cinematography. They can support a wide range of cameras.
The Camera
Since you will be using the stabilizer with a camera, you cannot ignore this factor. After all, you need to ensure that the camera and stabilizer work in tandem with one another. There are some stabilizers which only work with the lighter cameras while others can carry the heavier ones. Others may support a wide array of camera brands and models.
Although the weight of the camera really matters, it is not always the most important factor. Some cameras have long lens thus ending up too bulky for use with any kind of stabilizer. Such a camera might require a totally different set-up. So, only buy a stabilizer that will work with your camera.
Available Accessories
If the stabilizer isn’t fully compatible with your current camera, it might be necessary to use accessories such as arm extensions. Others include spare batteries which enhance the experience you will have with your camera. If the requisite accessories are available, then go ahead and buy the stabilizer even if it does not fully match with your camera.
Things to Be Extra Careful About
Buy a gimbal is much more than just going to a shop and picking one. Here are some of the things you need to be extra careful about.
Weight
Stabilizers are meant to be carried from one shooting location to another. If you choose a heavy gimbal, just how are you going to carry it around once the camera is mounted? The good thing is that most of the camera stabilizers on the market are made to be light. However, there are others which weigh 10 pounds and may escalate to 14 pounds once the camera is mounted. Can you see my point? Buy something you can easily carry.
Balance
One thing you will keep reading about on your search for the perfect camera stabilizer is the balance. This is more important than considerations such as weight. Make sure you understand the extent to which it will balance your camera and the ease with which it will do it. the main reason to buy a balanced stabilizer is that it is easy to use, thus likely to serve you well.
Batteries
You are likely to come across some stabilizers which do not use batteries. However, a majority of the stabilizers require batteries to run the brushless motors. Some models use the standard rechargeable alkaline batteries while others have the modern lithium-ion batteries. It is not the type of battery that matters. The most important factor should be the ease of charging as well as battery life. For most of the models on the market, battery life does not go beyond 12 hours.
Versatility
The market is full of stabilizers designed for nothing but action cameras or smartphones. These aren’t that versatile. However, DSLR gimbals should, of necessity, have the ability to accommodate different cameras in terms of size and weight. They should also be able to work for people with different shooting styles. Mostly, the gimbal stabilizers are set-up in a lot of different ways to take care of the variety of shooting styles. If you do your shooting in varied situations, choose a highly versatile gimbal.
Software
We are already in the age of electronic gimbals and most of these rely on some form of software to operate. Some even have dedicated app downloadable for iOS and well as Android devices. They have either Bluetooth or WiFi connectivity which makes them easier to use. All one needs to do is control the functions of the camera from a mobile device. That’s why you should carefully consider the software before investing in a camera stabilizer.
Price
While it may sound obvious, price if perhaps the most important factor when it comes to buying a gimbal. The market has some cheap models as well as expensive ones. What I would advise you is to work within your budget. Determine how much money you are willing to spend and pick several models within that price range. Next, compare the devices in terms of the key features. If you find one that looks like the stabilizer you are looking for, buy it. Not only will you to get value in terms of the money spent but also the functionality.
Conclusion
For you to hold your camera stably at a given angle, you need a gimbal. You may want to choose any of the 10 models discussed above or to look elsewhere. If you choose the second option, then our detailed buying guide should be of help. Whatever the case, buy a camera stabilizer by all means. You will never go wrong with it.
