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Best Camera Stabilizer

Best Camera Stabilizer

Filmmaking may be a word that brings to mind images of Steven Spielberg sitting behind a camera or Judy Garland wearing a pair of ruby slippers. But did you know that you can also make your own films and videos from the comfort of your home?

These days, everyone is a filmmaker, with the advent of smartphones and platforms such as YouTube, making it easier to produce and share work with the wider world. 

However, this does not mean that producing content does not come with its setbacks, as you will probably find yourself greatly limited by budget constraints and lack of equipment.

But if you want your work to stand out in an overcrowded industry, then you have to make sure that your videos look good. Otherwise, you could risk being overlooked due to your content’s amateurish and unattractive quality. 

Something that is easier said than done, especially when you consider just how much your camera shakes when you use it. So how can you ensure that your camera is stable and secure when creating your videos?

Well, the most effective way is to invest in a camera stabilizer, which is a piece of equipment often used by professionals to keep the camera steady and stationary. 

Of course, there are hundreds of camera stabilizers currently available for online purchase, which can make limiting down your choices a slow and painful process.

That is why we have compiled a selection of the best camera stabilizers currently available on the market. We have also put together an informative buyer’s guide, to provide you with everything you need to know about these amazing products.

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Best Camera Stabilizer – Comparison Table

Best Camera Stabilizer – Reviews

Our Pick
DJI Ronin-SC Pro Combo - Camera Stabilizer 3-Axis Gimbal Handheld for Mirrorless Cameras up to 4.4 lbs / 2kg Payload for Sony Panasonic Lumix Nikon Canon with Focus Wheel, Black
Our rating:

For the first entry on our list, we have chosen the DJI Ronin SC Pro Combo, a premium product that is ideal for independent filmmakers and aspiring vloggers alike.

Sporting a manufactured magnesium frame, this camera stabilizer is one of the most durable products on the market and features a surprisingly lightweight and compact design, with the stabilizer weighing around 0.9 pounds. 

Capable of supporting a camera weighing up to 4 pounds, the camera stabilizer also comes with 11 hours of battery life and can be operated via the DJI Ronin app, which is only compatible with devices such as iPhones and Androids.

Beyond this, the stabilizer also comes with a variety of different modes, which you can easily activate through the push of a button. 

Overall, we would highly recommend this particular stabilizer to any upcoming vlogger, as the portable and tech-savvy design ensures clear and stable shots with every use.

The product is also easy to operate and carry, which makes it perfect for travel vlogs and videos with a lot of movement or stunts.

Pros
  • Versatile Product: The DJI Ronin SC Pro Combo is a versatile product that is compatible with most smartphones and professional cameras. – Compared to many with similar specifications, this is great value for money
  • Durable Design: The camera stabilizer has been made using manufactured magnesium, giving it a durable and sturdy quality. 
  • Light & Compact: The DJI Ronin SC Pro Combo is light and compact, with the stabilizer only weighing 0.9 pounds, making it perfect for vlogging on the move. 
  • Different Modes: The camera stabilizer comes complete with a variety of modes that can be easily operated through the push of a button.
Cons
  •  Inconsistent Hardware: Unfortunately, some operation modes can only be accessed once they have been switched on via the DJI Ronin app.

FLYCAM HD-3000 Handheld Stabilizer for DSLR Video Cameras. Quick Micro Balancing, Telescopic Centre Post w 3-axis Gimbal Handle. Free Table Clamp & Quick Release Plate. (FLCM-HD-3-QT)
Our rating:

For the second entry on our list, we have chosen the Flycam HD-3000 camera stabilizer, which is another high-quality stabilizer that can be used to create a range of online vlogs and short films.

Sporting cutting-edge technology, this premium product features a three-axis plate, which can be used to adjust the tilt and pan of the shot without ever having to touch the camera. 

Like most camera stabilizers, the Flycam HD-3000 is strictly mechanical in its design, which means the axis plate can only be operated via the cushioned handle grip attached to the centre of the product.

Beyond this, the stabilizer also features large counterweights at the bottom, which can be used to easily adjust the vertical balance of the structure, helping it to accommodate a range of camera sizes. 

However, this does not mean that the stabilizer is entirely compatible with all cameras, as its overall design makes it more suitable for standard industry cameras than smaller compact models.

The final product has also been made using high-quality aluminium, which makes it heavy and more accessible for prolonged filming sessions.

Pros
  • Three-Axis Plate: The Flycam HD-3000 camera stabilizer comes with an innovative three-axis plate, which can be used to adjust the tilt and pan of the camera without having to touch it.
  • Mechanical Design: The camera stabilizer is completely mechanical in its design, which means all adjustments must be executed using the cushioned grips and levers. provided.
  • Counterweights: The Flycam HD-3000 camera stabilizer features counterweights that can be used to easily adjust the vertical balance of the stabilizer, allowing it to support various camera sizes.
Cons
  • Heavy Design: Because the Flycam HD-3000 has been made using aluminium, the overall stabilizer weighs around 8 pounds, which means it may not be suitable for short filming sessions.
  • Camera Size: Unfortunately, the stabilizer is also not capable of supporting very large cameras.

Zhiyun Crane 3S 3-Axis Handheld Gimbal Stabilizer for DSLR Cameras and Camcorder, 6.5kg Payload, Extendable Roll Axis, 12 Hours or Longer Continuous Uptime, DC-in, TransMount SmartSling Handle
Our rating:

If you are an independent filmmaker looking to shoot your first short feature, then this Zhiyun Crane 3S handheld stabilizer is the product you need for the job.

Featuring a PowerPlus battery unit, this stabilizer is capable of running for up to 18 hours and comes with a range of incredible features that can be easily operated via the Zhiyun app. 

Capable of supporting over 14 pounds of weight, this product is arguably one of the strongest stabilizers currently available on the market and is suitable for a range of camera sizes and shapes.

Beyond this, the stabilizer is also easy to operate, as the structure comes complete with an ergonomic handle, which can be used to hold the stabilizer during long filming sessions. 

Although the final product may look daunting with its various switches and buttons, the overall design ensures that these features are accessible during filming, making them easy to reach and operate.

Thanks to its unique design and numerous elements, the Zhiyun Crane 3S handheld stabilizer is perfect for professionals and amateurs alike and can be used to deliver artistic and cinematic shots.

Pros
  • Durable Structure: The Zhiyun Crane 3S handheld stabilizer is known for its ability to support over 14 pounds of weight, which means it is suitable for a wide range of camera sizes.
  • PowerPlus Battery Unit: The camera stabilizer comes complete with a PowerPlus battery unit, which is capable of lasting between 12-18 hours when fully charged.
  • Ergonomic Back Handle: The Zhiyun Crane 3S handheld stabilizer can be easily operated via the ergonomic back handle, which is comfortable to hold and suitable for long filming sessions.
  • Accessible Features: The camera stabilizer can be operated via the Zhiyun app and comes with a variety of buttons and switches that have been specifically designed to be accessible and easy to reach.
Cons
  • Awkward Design: Unfortunately, the overall design of the stabilizer can make it awkward to pick up during filming. 

Roxant Pro Video Camera Stabilizer with Phone Clamp - Cameras up to 2.1lbs - Compatible with GoPro, Canon, Nikon & Smart Phones (Red)
Our rating:

If you are an aspiring vlogger or just enjoy making videos as a hobby, then you will want something light and portable to get the work done.

If this is the case, then the Roxant Pro video camera stabilizer is the product that you need.

Weighing around 2 pounds, this mechanical stabilizer is simple to operate and is compatible with a range of devices, such as smartphones, GoPros, DSLR and video cameras. 

Because of its lightweight design, the Roxant Pro is incredibly easy to hold and even features a foam handle for extra grip and comfort.

Beyond this, the stabilizer also comes complete with counterweights of graduate sizes, which provide more balance and flexibility to the overall structure.

When using this stabilizer, you are guaranteed to shoot smooth and artistic shots, while also being able to reach tight spaces and difficult areas. 

Although this stabilizer is distinguished by its dynamic nature and vibrant color, it does come with the side effect of being unable to support larger cameras.

This is why we would recommend this stabilizer to vloggers or amateurs who use smartphones and action cameras to create their work.

Pros
  • Lightweight Structure: The Roxant Pro video camera stabilizer features a lightweight design, which makes it easier to carry, with the overall product weighing just under 2 pounds.
  • Foam Handle: The camera stabilizer comes complete with a foam handle for extra grip and comfort, which will make the filming process easier and less strenuous on the body.
  • Graduate Counterweights: The Roxant Pro video camera stabilizer sports a series of graduate counterweights, which helps to improve the structure’s balance and overall flexibility. 
  • Dynamic Usage: The camera stabilizer is extremely dynamic in its design, with the camera being capable of reaching tight spaces and difficult areas.
Cons
  • Weak Support: Unfortunately, this particular stabilizer is incapable of supporting large cameras, which means it is best suited for smartphones and smaller camera models.

MOZA AirCross 2 Gimbal,3-Axis Professional Stabilizer for DSLR Camera Mirrorless Camera with Larger Lens,Easy Setup Intelligent Mimic Motion-Control,Max Payload 7.05Lb 12H Running Time
Our rating:

Now we come to the final entry on our list, the MOZA ACGN01 Aircross 2 3-Axis stabilizer is one of the more expensive models on our list, but we believe its price is justified by the product’s portable design and various special features.

Weighing 1.9 pounds, this stabilizer is incredibly lightweight and is capable of supporting up to 7 pounds of weight.

Like most modern stabilizers, the product also comes with built-in Bluetooth technology, which means it can be easily connected and operated via your smartphone. 

Sporting 12 hours of battery life, this camera stabilizer also comes complete with a tripod base for hands-free operation and a control panel featuring a smart wheel, screen display and smart trigger.

Beyond this, the final product also comes with the ability to mimic the movement of your smartphone or camera, resulting in clean and professional shots that are completely free from error or interference. 

So if you are a filmmaker who is keen to shoot live sporting events or choreographed action sequences, then this camera’s speed adjustment and automatic rotation make it the perfect tool for the job.

Overall, we would highly recommend this stabilizer to any independent filmmaker, as its various features can be used to create cinematic effects, akin to anything seen in a Hollywood movie.

Pros
  • Portable Design: The MOZA ACGN01 camera stabilizer weighs only 1.9 pounds, making it portable and easy to carry during long filming sessions.  
  • Bluetooth Technology: The camera stabilizer comes complete with built-in Bluetooth technology, which means it can be connected to and operated by your smartphone.
  • Tripod Base: The MOZA ACGN01 camera stabilizer also features a tripod base, which can be used for hands-free operation, resulting in clean and professional shots.
  • Mimics Movement: The camera stabilizer comes with the uncanny ability to mimic the movement of your smartphone or camera, ensuring that your shots are free from error or interference.
Cons
  • Low-Quality Materials: Unfortunately, it seems the stabilizer has been made using low-quality materials, with the overall structure having a flimsy quality that could make it prone to damage.

Best Camera Stabilizer – Buyers Guide

The notion of buying a camera stabilizer may seem like a simple task, after all, every stabilizer has been designed for the same purpose.

However, there are some certain elements that should be taken into consideration before you purchase your new stabilizer. Elements that help to ensure that the stabilizer meets your needs and provides you with the experience you’ve been looking for. 

Down below, we have outlined some key points that should be kept in mind when it comes to purchasing your stabilizer. By consulting these points, we hope you will be able to select a stabilizer that is perfect for you, saving you both time and money. 

Weight

When using a camera stabilizer, you will often need to carry the stabilizer during filming, which can be difficult when the product you are using weighs over 14 pounds.

Although most stabilizers are lightweight in their design, some can be very heavy, especially when partnered with a large or professional camera during filming.

So if you want to ensure your filming process is smooth and uncomplicated, then we recommend investing in a light stabilizer that can be easily carried and handled. 

Balance

Beyond weight, another important factor to consider is the balance of the stabilizer you are interested in purchasing. This is measured by how well the product balances your camera during filming and how easy it is to balance the camera once it has been attached to the stabilizer.

A properly balanced stabilizer will be less clumsy to use, which can make your job a lot easier in the long run. So always make sure that you are considering the stabilizer’s balance before you complete your transaction. 

Versatility 

This particular component comes down to your preferences and the type of camera you use to record your content. These days, most stabilizers are designed to be compatible with a variety of electronic devices, however, some can support more weight and models than others.

So when it comes to choosing your new stabilizer, you have to consider what type of camera you will be using and if your chosen product will be capable of supporting it for long periods. 

Batteries

While some cheaper stabilizers don’t use batteries, most modern models require batteries to power their motors and features. While some stabilizers use standard alkaline batteries, most models these days will require lithium batteries instead.

Batteries and battery life is another important factor that should always be considered, as a stabilizer with a short battery life will not be suitable for long filming sessions. While stabilizers with a long battery life will be less suited for short videos and vlogs. 

Price

In terms of price, camera stabilizers can vary dramatically depending on the brand and special features that come with the model. These days, most stabilizers you will encounter will cost a few hundred dollars to buy.

However, it is also not uncommon to find camera stabilizers that cost close to 500 dollars or more.

Usually, more expensive models will come with unique features and accessories, which make them more suitable for a professional crew or filmmaker.

But if you want a stabilizer to record vlogs or short videos, then we recommend investing in a smaller and compact model that will get the job done. 

Frequently Asked Questions

Who Invented Camera Stabilizers?

The history of camera stabilization began during the 1970s when Garrett Brown first invented the Steadicam, a revolutionary piece of equipment designed to reduce the shaky effect of handheld footage.

Since then, the Steadicam has become a staple on many film sets and is considered one of the most influential creations in the cinematic world.

Over time, the Steadicam has changed very little, but smaller contraptions known as stabilizers or gimbals have been created to make the stabilization process simpler and more affordable. Some certain elements should

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