Best Gimbal for Sony A7III review

Best Gimbal for Sony A7III review

There are a bunch of accessories available for your Sony camera, and in this article, we’ll be choosing the best Gimbal for Sony A7III cameras. Transforming the natural to reel, the camera makes up a big part of our lives.

Have you ever wondered how that filmmaker used to make stable shoots while moving around in a circle? The answer is here.

In a hurry? Here’s our best tip:

Get the ZhiYun Crane 2S. It’s surely not the most affordable gimbal, mas it is the best all-rounder.

It supports a large range of capture modes, and comes with a lot of accessories, and the best is that it is powerful in features but gentle in size offering a maximized payload and minimized weight.

In today’s article, we are touching on one of these tech bounties for you. For all videographers and camera enthusiasts, we are introducing you to the gimbal stabilizer. An extra videography gadget that allows you to make seamless and stable video shoots.

It is time to say goodbye to old-school steadicam systems. With the market flooded with countless items, we shall review many trusted gimbal products for Sony A7III. So, without further ado, let’s dive right into it.

Table of Contents

  1. Best Gimbal for Sony A7III review
    1. DJI Ronin S Camera Stabilizer
    2. Zhiyun Weebill S Compact
    3. ZhiYun Crane 2S
    4. ZhiYun WeeBill S
    5. DJI RS 2 Combo
    6. ZhiYun WeeBill LAB
    7. Zhiyun Crane 2
  2. Gimbal Buyers Guide: what to look for
    1. Payload
    2. Battery life
    3. Weight and size
    4. Setup
    5. Weather-resistance
    6. Handle
  3. Frequently Asked Questions
    1. What is a Gimbal?
    2. How does a Gimbal work? 
    3. What are the essential features of a Gimbal device?
    4. How does a Gimbal help me?
    5. How do I choose the best-suited Gimbal for my camera?
  4. Wrap up

Best Gimbal for Sony A7III review

Those who are reading this article will be pretty much familiar with the Sony A7 mirrorless camera series.

While each Sony A7 model is one of its kind, Sony A7III has become the most famous. With resolution, speed, and many more features, it certainly is a reliable choice for photographers and videographers.

We are reviewing seven gimbal products for your Sony A7 III. We shall be reviewing each with its key features, pros, and cons so you may decide which fits best to your camera and requirements.

In the table below you’ll find different branding and specifications. If you want to know the price of the product, just click on the images and find them on Amazon:

Product NamePayload capacityBattery life

DJI Ronin S Camera Stabilizer

8 lbs (3.6 Kg)12h

ZhiYun Weebill S Compact

N/A14h

ZhiYun Crane 2S

N/A12h

ZhiYUn Weebill S

6,6 lbs (3 kg)14h

DJI RS 2 combo

10 lbs (4,5 kg)14h

ZhiYun Weebill Lab

6,6 lbs (3 kg)10h

ZhiYun Crane 2

N/A18h

Note: All gimbals feature 3-Axis (Tilt, Roll, Pan) and all are compatible with DSLR and Mirrorless cameras.

DJI Ronin S Camera Stabilizer

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Key features

  • 3-Axis DSLR gimbal device
  • Compact size ideal for outdoor and travel purposes
  • Supports a payload of 8lbs/3.6 kg while providing a seamless and stable shot
  • Provides battery life of 12 hours and charging time of 2.5 hours

The first mention in our list is the DJI Ronin-S. The model is a mini version of its parent Ronin stabilizer. It is designed specifically for mirrorless cameras and is compatible with a wide range of brands.

The distinctive feature of this DJI Gimbal stabilizer is the active track 3.0, enabling the camera to follow your moving subject efficiently and capture stable footage.

In terms of price, features, and specs, DJI Ronin-S is the most popular and commonly used gimbal stabilizer for Sony A7 Series. However, owing to its diverse compatibility, it is a worthy choice for other mirrorless cameras also.

Pros:

  • Offers a wide range of shooting features, including Panorama, Time-lapse, Motion lapse, Track
  • It comes with a smartphone app but only supported by iOS 9 or Android 5 plus compatible devices
  • Compatible with Sony lens, Nikon, Canon, Fujifilm, Panasonic, Lumix, Black
  • Separate modules for handle and accessory docks to easily maneuver the gimbal
  • Features ViaTouch 2.0: Provides connection through Bluetooth 5.0 and USB-C;45 mph high speed

Cons:

  • A little challenging to set up the device
  • Disruptions experienced by users in the footage while covering running shots owing to its lightweight

Zhiyun Weebill S Compact

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Key features

  • 3-Axis gimbal device
  • Compact size ideal for outdoor and travel purposes
  • Provides a seamless and stable shot
  • Provides battery life of 14 hours and charging time of 2.5 hours (2 removable batteries)

Zhiyun is a trusted name for handheld gimbal stabilizers. However, the Weebill S Compact is one of the latest manufactured designs and supersedes its predecessors in many ways.

According to its parent brand, the primary design consideration for this model is to capture moving objects and long shots seamlessly.

If you are looking for a device with not only stable shots but a long-lasting battery, then this stabilizer is the one for you. Not only this, you get a range of capture modes to optimize your camera device and coverage.

You can also do zooming without any readjustment of the device setup. There is not anything that you cannot do with this robust gadget.

Pros:

  • Compatible with Sony, Nikon, Canon, Panasonic
  • It comes with a smartphone app
  • Features a variety of shooting modes: PhoneGo Mode, Following Mode, Pan Following Mode, Locking Mode, POV mode, and Vortex Mode
  • Features ViaTouch2.0: A much higher response speed leading to a faster adjustment of stabilizer speed, camera aperture, ISO, and other parameters
  • Other features include Image Transmission Module, Dual focus control system, OLED display
  • Two in one quick-release system

Cons:

  • Image transmission accessories are not included in the device kit and need to be bought separately

ZhiYun Crane 2S

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Key features

  • 3-Axis gimbal device
  • Provides 12 hours of battery life and 2.5 hours of charging time (3 removable batteries)
  • It’s able to handle maximum payloads
  • Features ViaTouch 2.0: Provides connection through Bluetooth 5.0 and USB-C

Known for its power and performance, Zhiyun Crane 2S belongs to the crane family of ZhiYun gimbal stabilizers. The crane series is famous for its advanced design. The model is advanced in terms of higher motor capacity and control algorithms.

Zhiyun crane 2S is a device that is powerful in features but gentle in size. If you wish for a camera gimbal with maximized payload and minimized weight, Crane 2S is your go-to choice.

Pros:

  • Features a bigger 0.96” OLED view screen
  • Compatible with Sony, Nikon, Canon, Panasonic, LUMIX
  • Supports a range of capture modes: Pan Following, Locking, Following, Full-Range POV, Vortex, Go mode
  • Comes with an accessories kit including Trans Mount image transmission system, quick setup kits, monopod, servo zoom/focus motors

Cons:

  • None to state

ZhiYun WeeBill S

Click the image to check current price on Amazon!

Key features

  • 3-Axis gimbal device
  • Supports a payload of 6.6 lbs./3 kgs while providing a seamless and stable shot
  • Compatible with Sony, Canon, Panasonic, Nikon, FujiFilm, Olympus
  • Provides battery life of 14 hours and charging time of 2.5 hours (2 removable batteries)

Small size & immense power, ZhiYun weebill S has a lot to offer. Small size accounts for size as compact as A4 paper. Bigger power capacity accounts for high-precision software algorithms and effective motors.

If you are a frequent traveler, then Zhiyun Weebill S is your next essential itinerary item. Compact design, light in weight, and easy setup make this gimbal a must-have for travel photographers and outdoor videographers. It is a powerpack with excellent portability and performance.

Pros:

  • Features OLED view screen
  • Provides 3-Axis lock and quick release system
  • Features shooting modes including Full range POV, Vortex, PhoneGo, PF, L
  • Advanced features can be accessed via handle grip

Cons:

  • Image transmission accessories are not included in the device kit and need to be bought separately

DJI RS 2 Combo

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Key features: 

  • 3-Axis gimbal device
  • Supports a payload of up to 10 lbs. while providing a seamless and stable shot
  • Compatible with Sony, Canon, Panasonic, Nikon, FujiFilm
  • Provides battery life of 14 hours and charging time of 2 hours

This DJI product comes with the tagline “shoot more, pack less”. Intelligent control systems and foldable design make this gimbal stabilizer stand tall among its competitors.

The active track feature reinforces the camera’s ability to shoot moving subjects. RS 2 combo is also easier to set up and balance than its Ronin S counterpart.

Combining portability, power, and performance, DJI RS 2 is an outstanding choice. This handheld Gimbal stabilizer is said to be offering the maximum payload capacity among all the available designs. The foldable body design makes it ideal for not only outdoor activities but low-to-ground shoots as well.

Pros:

  • Full-color LCD screen
  • Titan stabilization algorithm capturing much smoother and seamless footage
  • Offers a wide range of shooting features, including time tunnel, Time-lapse, force mobile, Panorama Track
  • Sleeker design

Cons:

  • Batteries are irreplaceable
  • Not suitable for long-term one-handed use

ZhiYun WeeBill LAB

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Key features: 

  • 3-Axis gimbal device
  • Supports a payload of up to 6.6 lbs. while providing a seamless and stable shot
  • Offers battery life of 10 hours and charging time of 2.5 hours

The following product on our list is the ZhiYun weebill lab. This is the latest version in the weebill series, and the design is a lot lighter, smaller, advanced, and user-friendly.

The lab version includes a double quick release plate, motion sensor control, and a crafted latch design.

WeeBill lab is undoubtedly one of the finest gimbal products. What makes it different and unique is its user control interface. If you are an entry-level videographer or beginner stabilizer user, we recommend you kickstart your experience with this product.

Pros:

  • It offers a wide range of capturing features, including Time-lapse, long exposure, Panorama, Track lapse, POV mode, PhoneGo mode
  • Features via touch control system and wireless image transmission

Cons:

  • A little low battery life
  • Most accessories are not included in the standard package and need to be purchased separately

Zhiyun Crane 2

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Key features: 

  • 3-Axis gimbal device
  • Compatible with Sony, Nikon, Canon, Panasonic
  • Provides battery life of 18 hours

The last item in our gimbal armor is the ZhiYun crane 2. The distinctive feature of this model is the “follow focus”.

This feature enables your camera to follow your subject and achieve dolly zoom efficiently.

The affordable price and essential features make Crane 2 a perfect stabilizer for beginner videographers. The lightweight and compact design are handy for travel and outdoor photographers as well.

Pros:

  • Features gimbal modes: 360 degrees POV (Point of View) Mode
  • Vortex Mode
  • Provides both digital and mechanical follow focus
  • Intuitive OLED Display & Innovative Quick Control Dial Design

Cons:

  • The smartphone app is unintuitive
  • Low payload capacity
  • Batteries are irreplaceable

Gimbal Buyers Guide: what to look for

Payload

Payload refers to the weight endurance capacity. Make sure that the payload of your gimbal stabilizer matches your set of cameras and accessories.

Battery life

Due consideration for any electronic gadget is the battery life. Make sure to check the built-in battery capacity of any gimbal device.

Today, many Gimbals support replaceable batteries. so, do not forget to count for this feature too.

Weight and size

Mounting the camera and its accessories on another device and then carrying all this sounds tiring? A suitable stabilizer design to have a minimum weight and size.

Before making a choice, do check its weight and size by carrying it for some time. Otherwise, what is the point of a gimbal if your hand is shaking due to its weight?

Setup

A good gimbal is to have an easy setup. Today, what qualifies to be an intelligent gadget is being a handy device, quickly set up and used.

Similarly, what qualifies to be a smart stabilizer or gimbal is to be quick in assembling and dissembling.

Weather-resistance

A gimbal is exposed both outdoors and indoors. Therefore, it is a good idea to invest in a stabilizer that is weather resistant. There are many products available in the market that provide weather and water resilience.

Handle

There are two types of gimbal handles, single-handled and double-handled. While both are equally good, a double-handled stabilizer is better for long shoots. In some situations, a single handle proves to be more beneficial. The preference is subjective to your usage.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a Gimbal?

A Gimbal or a stabilizer is a camera-holding device, just like a selfie stand. The purpose is to hold and keep your camera stagnant while you are moving. It is made up of rings that rotate one way and keep your camera in a stable position.

The notion behind a gimbal stabilizer device is to keep your camera stable and shoot handheld.

Let’s suppose you are covering a wedding event and shooting a video. Now, it is evident and essential that you will move around and shoot to get maximum footage. This is where a stabilizer comes in handy. A camera enclosed in a gimbal will give you a video without any hint of your movement.

How does a Gimbal work?

So, how does this marvelous minion work? A gimbal device mainly consists of 3 brushless motors. The inertial measurement unit coordinates with all three motors individually and keeps the camera in a stable position.

Gimbal is divided into two types depending on the number of axes:

  • 2-axis gimbal
  • 3-axis gimbal

It depends upon your scope of usage and which kind of gimbal is suitable for you. A 2-axis provides extensive control over yaw movements and pitch.

On the other hand, a 3-Axis provides yaw adjustments and pitch functions, and a bonus extended control to roll movements. Most products are 3-axis stabilizers.

2-Axis gimbal gives you pretty much essential functions, i.e., stable, consistent, and still video coverage. However, 3-axis, as the name suggests, is ideal for scope demanding 3d coverage, i.e., aerial shots and drone applications.

They provide extensive control over your camera and extended smooth footage range. This leads to a consistent and stabilized videography experience.

What are the essential features of a Gimbal device?

The essential features of a gimbal device include payload, balance, and weight. Besides these, there are a lot of features that Gimbals have at their disposal. However, as far as essentials are considered, you must always look for these three and check if they match your camera device and usage.

How does a Gimbal help me?

A gimbal device is a stabilizer to smoothen your camera footage. If your subject or device is moving, a gimbal device enables you to capture shots without any hint of movement. It even facilitates your device to rotate around an axis and take stable footage.

How do I choose the best-suited Gimbal for my camera?

There are several checks you need to do before making a final verdict. First, check the compatibility. Make sure that the gimbal you intend to buy is compatible with your camera model.

Second, mount your camera and all accessories like a lens or any other to the gimbal and ensure the payload capacity. Third, check the balancing of your camera. If all these three go well, carry the mounted gimbal for some time to check weight.

Wrap up

Cameras are present in almost every device we own today, from smartphones to tablets, or laptops.

This shows the importance of this little minion in our tech-driven lives. As in today’s world, pictures are the language we speak.

With all this evolution and incorporation, the camera itself has been modernized in an unprecedented manner. The camera and video technology that we used to see on big screens are no more a dream.

Thanks to technology and its endless endeavors, everything is accessible to everyone. With the correct gadgets and a skillset at your disposal, you can be a Picasso of the digital world.

We hope that by now, you are well equipped with all the knowledge on how to choose the best gimbal for your Sony A7 Series cameras or any other Sony mirrorless camera.

While it is imperative to look for specific features, your budget and your scope of usage must also be considered in making an intelligent motorized gimbal choice.

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