Best gimbal for camera

The best gimbal for camera setups under about 1.5 kg, body and lens together, is the DJI RS 4 Mini. Buy the RS 4 if you run a heavier zoom or a cage. Choose the RS 5 only if you want its newer tracking module, and the RS 4 Pro for 4.5 kg setups.

A gimbal is a weight decision first. Add up everything that goes on it, then leave room for the small parts you always forget.

What each one carries

DJI publishes a tested payload for each model.

DJI tests the RS 4 Pro at 4.5 kg, for much heavier cinema setups.

Real combinations

These use the maker weights in our catalogue.

A cage, monitor, mic, filter and heavier batteries all add up quickly, so keep a few hundred grams in reserve. A lens that gets longer as it zooms also changes the balance, and you may have to rebalance between focal lengths.

Why not buy the bigger one anyway

Weight in your hands is the cost. The RS 4 Mini is about 890g, against about 1066g for the RS 4 before its grip. Over a long Indian wedding where you hold it for hours, that gap matters more than spare capacity you never use. DJI's small gimbal also has a battery rated up to 13 hours when stationary, and DJI says that drops in motion.

Which camera connection

The RS 4 Mini has a camera control port, so you can trigger recording from the gimbal if your camera is supported. Check your camera on DJI's list before you pay, because control features vary between bodies.

What to avoid

Do not buy an older gimbal just to save a little if you are not sure of app support for your camera. Avoid running a heavy zoom right up to the tested payload, where the motors have no margin in wind. Do not buy a phone gimbal for a camera at all.

Before you buy

Take your camera, lens and any cage to the shop, and try balancing it on the gimbal there if the shop allows it. Ask for a GST invoice and ask who handles repairs in India.