What To Know
- Two of the leading brands in the gimbal market are DJI and Zhiyun, and their latest offerings, the DJI Ronin RS 3 and the Zhiyun Crane 3 Lab, are among the most advanced and versatile gimbals available.
- The DJI Ronin RS 3 has a battery life of up to 12 hours, while the Zhiyun Crane 3 Lab has a battery life of up to 18 hours.
- If you’re looking for a gimbal with a longer battery life, a built-in focus follow wheel, and a built-in microphone, the Zhiyun Crane 3 Lab is a great choice.
In the world of filmmaking, stability is paramount. Gimbals have become indispensable tools for achieving smooth, professional-looking footage, whether you’re a seasoned videographer or just starting out. Two of the leading brands in the gimbal market are DJI and Zhiyun, and their latest offerings, the DJI Ronin RS 3 and the Zhiyun Crane 3 Lab, are among the most advanced and versatile gimbals available. But which one is right for you? In this comprehensive comparison, we’ll delve into the key features, strengths, and weaknesses of both gimbals to help you make an informed decision.
Build Quality and Design
Both the DJI Ronin RS 3 and the Zhiyun Crane 3 Lab are constructed from lightweight, durable materials such as aluminum and carbon fiber. The RS 3 weighs in at 2.8 pounds, while the Crane 3 Lab is slightly heavier at 3.2 pounds. Both gimbals feature a modular design, allowing you to easily swap out components such as the camera mount and handles.
In terms of design, the RS 3 has a more compact and streamlined appearance, while the Crane 3 Lab has a slightly bulkier build. The RS 3’s handle is also more ergonomic, providing a comfortable grip during extended use.
Stabilization Performance
The most important aspect of any gimbal is its stabilization performance. The DJI Ronin RS 3 and the Zhiyun Crane 3 Lab both utilize advanced stabilization algorithms and powerful motors to deliver incredibly smooth footage.
The RS 3 features DJI‘s third-generation stabilization system, which offers improved stability over its predecessor. It also has a larger payload capacity, allowing it to handle heavier camera setups.
The Crane 3 Lab, on the other hand, utilizes Zhiyun‘s latest stabilization technology, which includes a new motor algorithm and a redesigned gimbal arm. It also has a built-in focus follow system, which allows you to control the focus of your camera directly from the gimbal.
In practice, both the RS 3 and the Crane 3 Lab provide excellent stabilization performance. They can effectively eliminate camera shake and vibrations, even when shooting in challenging conditions.
Features and Functionality
Both the DJI Ronin RS 3 and the Zhiyun Crane 3 Lab come with a wide range of features and functionality to enhance your filmmaking experience.
The RS 3 features a built-in touchscreen display, which allows you to easily adjust settings and monitor the status of the gimbal. It also has a dedicated Bluetooth module, which allows you to connect to the gimbal remotely via a smartphone or tablet.
The Crane 3 Lab, on the other hand, has a built-in focus follow wheel, which allows you to control the focus of your camera with precision. It also has a built-in microphone, which allows you to record audio directly from the gimbal.
Battery Life
Battery life is an important consideration when choosing a gimbal. The DJI Ronin RS 3 has a battery life of up to 12 hours, while the Zhiyun Crane 3 Lab has a battery life of up to 18 hours.
Price
The DJI Ronin RS 3 is priced at $549, while the Zhiyun Crane 3 Lab is priced at $499.
Key Points: The Verdict
Both the DJI Ronin RS 3 and the Zhiyun Crane 3 Lab are excellent gimbals that offer a wide range of features and functionality. The RS 3 has a more compact design, a more ergonomic handle, and a built-in touchscreen display. The Crane 3 Lab has a longer battery life, a built-in focus follow wheel, and a built-in microphone.
Ultimately, the best gimbal for you will depend on your specific needs and preferences. If you’re looking for a compact and lightweight gimbal with a built-in touchscreen display, the DJI Ronin RS 3 is a great choice. If you’re looking for a gimbal with a longer battery life, a built-in focus follow wheel, and a built-in microphone, the Zhiyun Crane 3 Lab is a great choice.
Basics You Wanted To Know
Q: Which gimbal has a better payload capacity?
A: The DJI Ronin RS 3 has a larger payload capacity of 6.6 pounds, while the Zhiyun Crane 3 Lab has a payload capacity of 5.5 pounds.
Q: Which gimbal has a longer battery life?
A: The Zhiyun Crane 3 Lab has a longer battery life of up to 18 hours, while the DJI Ronin RS 3 has a battery life of up to 12 hours.
Q: Which gimbal is more compact and lightweight?
A: The DJI Ronin RS 3 is more compact and lightweight, weighing in at 2.8 pounds, while the Zhiyun Crane 3 Lab weighs in at 3.2 pounds.
