[2024] 5 Best Gimbals For Sony A7IV + NEW Releases!

Best Gimbal For Sony a7iv

If you're looking to improve your filming skills and capture high-quality footage, you may want to consider investing in a gimbal. Gimbals are handheld devices that provide stability and balance to your shots, resulting in smooth, sharp footage. The Sony Alpha 7 IV or III camera is an exceptional piece of equipment, but even with its advanced features, it can be difficult to achieve that perfect shot balance. That's where a gimbal comes in.

In my personal experience, gimbals have been the ultimate solution to shaky and jittery footage. They add a level of steadiness and balance to your shots, resulting in footage that is both professional-looking and visually pleasing. However, with so many gimbal options available in the market, it can be overwhelming to choose the right one. That's why I've personally tested and compiled a list of extraordinary gimbals with excellent features to take your filming skills to the next level.

On average, it doesn't take long to start seeing the benefits of using a gimbal. Once you've set it up and start shooting, you'll immediately notice the difference in the quality of your footage. So if you're looking to improve your filming skills and capture high-quality, stable footage, investing in a gimbal could be a game-changer for you.

Why Use A Gimbal? 

Having tried and tested multiple gimbals with the Sony Alpha 7 IV, I can confidently say that the right gimbal can elevate your footage from amateur to professional in a heartbeat.

Using a gimbal has completely transformed the way I shoot video. No more shaky handheld footage that makes you feel like you're on a rollercoaster ride. With the Sony A7IV and a gimbal, you can capture clean, smooth, and professional-looking footage that will look like it was shot by a cinema camera (almost). One of the main benefits of using a gimbal for the Sony A7IV camera is its ability to stabilize your shots. When you're shooting handheld footage, even the slightest movements can result in shaky and unstable footage. But with a gimbal, the device's three-axis stabilization system can smooth out all of those small movements and provide a stable and smooth shot. This is especially useful when shooting tracking shots or capturing footage while on the move.

Another benefit of using a gimbal with the Sony A7IV camera is its versatility. The gimbal can be used for a variety of shooting styles and situations, whether you're shooting a documentary, music video, or just capturing family moments. With a gimbal, you have the flexibility to capture smooth and stable footage in any situation.

The benefits of having stabilized footage and the versatility of the device make it an essential tool for any videographer. If you're looking to take your video production game to the next level, investing in a gimbal for your Sony A7IV camera is a must.

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A Guide to Choosing the Perfect Gimbal for Your Sony Alpha 7 IV

The Sony Alpha 7 IV is a remarkable tool, boasting a level of professionalism that requires equally impressive accessories to ensure peak performance. In line with this, a stabilizer or a gimbal becomes a crucial accessory to consider for superior shooting experience. One model that stands out is the enhanced DJI Ronin 3.

This gimbal, while maintaining similarities with its predecessor, introduces a host of advanced features that elevate both its performance and the quality of output. The reason I rank it among the best is due to its incredible blend of stability and convenience, among other factors.

But before we delve into the specifics of this extraordinary tool, let's outline the primary factors that you need to consider when purchasing a gimbal for the Sony Alpha 7 IV.

Payload Capacity

‍Your gimbal should comfortably support your Sony A7IV and any accessories you may use. The A7IV, while compact and lightweight, still needs adequate support. Gimbals like the DJI Ronin 3 make mounting a breeze with their quick-release plates ensuring safe gripping.

Stabilization Performance

‍Stability is key when shooting, and your gimbal needs to guarantee smooth, jitter-free footage. The enhanced DJI Ronin 3 provides this and much more, making it an excellent choice for both stills and video shooting.

Stay Charged

Longer battery life means extended shooting sessions without frequent recharging. Many gimbals even allow you to charge your camera or other devices through a USB port, a feature that could prove handy in the field.

Control Options

‍Easy-to-use, intuitive control options are a must for any gimbal. The enhanced DJI Ronin 3, for instance, offers a myriad of control settings that adapt to different shooting scenarios.

Follow Modes and Tracking

‍Having a variety of follow modes, such as pan follow or tilt follow, allows your gimbal to capture smooth movements. An exceptional example is DJI Ronin 3's Active Track Pro feature, letting you monitor or track subjects directly on the gimbal OLED screen.

Build Quality and Durability

‍Your gimbal should be as tough as the conditions you'll be shooting in. Weather resistance, sturdy materials, and overall durability are factors you shouldn't compromise on.

Portability and Weight

‍For those always on the move, you'll need a gimbal that's lightweight and compact. Gimbals that offer foldable designs, like the DJI Ronin 3, are even more convenient for storage and travel.

Compatibility and Mounting

‍Ensure the gimbal is compatible with the Sony A7IV in terms of physical mounting and software integration. Extra features designed specifically for Sony cameras are a bonus.

Extra Features

Time-lapse functionality, remote control via a smartphone app, or accessory compatibility are all features that could enhance your shooting experience.

Price

The perfect gimbal should strike a balance between price and functionality, ensuring that your investment yields the best value.

To sum up, the DJI Ronin 3, with its unique features like LiDAR compatibility, which works seamlessly with the A7IV's phase and contrast detection, and ability to project 43200 focusing ranging points within a specific area, certainly qualifies as one of the best gimbals for the Sony Alpha 7 IV. However, the choice ultimately lies with you, the user, based on your specific needs and shooting style.

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Sony a7iv Gimbal Comparison

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DJI RS 3 - Voted Best By Current Users Of Sony a7iv

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I agree with the users! The DJI RS 3 unarguably has to be the best gimbal not only for the Sony a7iv, but pretty much any camera. Despite the hefty price tag, the DJI R 3 has plenty of benefits that come with it.

It's the perfect match for my Sony Alpha 7 IV, and the results speak for themselves. The latest updates have made it even more impressive, as it now feels lighter in my hand, even when paired with my camera.

But what really sets this gimbal apart is its versatility. Despite its compact size and light weight of 2.8 pounds, I can attach additional accessories weighing up to 6.6 pounds. It's like magic, and it's exactly what I need to take my photography and videography to the next level.

Features

• Maximum Payload: 4.5 kg
• Battery Life: Up to 12 hours
• Compatibility: Compatible with most cameras, including Sony, Canon, Nikon, and Panasonic.
• Advanced Stabilization: Comes with a 3-axis gimbal stabilization system that provides smooth, stable footage even when moving at high speeds.
• High Torque Motors: Equipped with powerful motors that can handle heavy cameras and lenses.
• Ergonomic Design: The handle is designed to be comfortable and ergonomic, allowing for extended use without fatigue.
• Quick Release System: The quick release plate makes it easy to mount and dismount your camera.
• Focus System: Comes with a built-in focus wheel that can control your camera's focus and zoom.
• Intelligent Features: Features like ActiveTrack and Force Mobile allow for hands-free operation and tracking of your subject.
• Lightweight and Portable: Weighing in at only 1.98 kg, it's easy to transport and use on location.

The DJI RS 3 sets itself apart from its competitors with its advanced stabilization system, powerful motors, and intelligent features. It can handle heavier cameras and lenses, making it a popular choice among professional filmmakers. The built-in focus wheel and quick release system make it easy to use and adapt to your filming needs. Not to mention, the ergonomic design allows for extended use without fatigue, making it a reliable choice for long shoots.

Compared to previous models, the DJI RS 3 has improved stabilization and motor capabilities, allowing for smoother footage even when moving at high speeds. The focus system and quick release plate have also been improved, making it easier to adapt to different filming situations. Overall, the DJI RS 3 is an excellent choice for professional filmmakers and videographers looking for a reliable and advanced gimbal stabilizer.

Having spent a significant amount of time with the DJI RS 3, it's clear why it's a favorite among professionals. The gimbal's auto lock axes feature ensures that once you've set your camera's position, it stays put, regardless of any external movements or jostles. This is particularly useful when setting up shots in challenging environments.

The third-Generation RS stabilization algorithm is another feature worth highlighting. Whether you're capturing fast-paced action or slow, cinematic pans, the gimbal adjusts in real-time to ensure every frame is as smooth as the last.

For those who often find themselves shooting in low-light conditions, the DJI RS 3's LiDAR compatibility is a game-changer. Working seamlessly with the Sony Alpha 7 IV's phase and contrast detection, it projects focusing ranging points within a specific area, ensuring your subject remains sharp even in challenging lighting.

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FeiyuTech SCORP-C

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• Benefit: This gimbal is perfect for filmmakers and photographers who want to capture smooth, stable shots without sacrificing mobility. The AK2000C allows you to achieve professional-quality footage and photos in a compact and lightweight package.
• Battery Life: The gimbal has a battery life of up to 7 hours, which is more than enough for a full day of shooting. The battery is also replaceable, so you can swap out the dead battery for a fully charged one and keep shooting.
• Payload: The AK2000C can carry a maximum payload of 2.2kg (4.8lbs), making it suitable for most mirrorless cameras and DSLRs.
• Charging Time: The gimbal can be fully charged in just 1.5 hours, which is impressive considering the long battery life.
• Connections: The gimbal has a USB-C port for charging and firmware updates, as well as a 1/4-inch screw hole and a cold shoe mount for attaching accessories.
• Display: The AK2000C has a 1.4-inch OLED touchscreen display that allows you to easily control the gimbal and adjust settings.
• Weight: The gimbal weighs just 1.2kg (2.6lbs), making it one of the lightest stabilizers in its class.
• Warranty: FeiyuTech offers a one-year warranty on the AK2000C, so you can rest assured that you're covered in case of any defects or issues.
• Other Features: The AK2000C features a new generation motor with higher torque and faster response time, which allows for more stable and smoother movements. It also has a quick release plate for easy camera mounting and a joystick for precise control.

Why I recommend it

As a professional photographer, I have used several gimbals, but the AK2000C stands out for its excellent build quality, intuitive controls, and impressive performance. The long battery life and fast charging time are also big pluses for me, as I often need to shoot for extended periods.

What sets it apart from its competitors

The AK2000C is one of the most affordable gimbals on the market that can support a payload of up to 2.2kg. It also has a replaceable battery, which is a feature that many other gimbals in this price range lack.

Comparable things to consider

If you're looking for a gimbal that can support heavier cameras or lenses, you may need to consider a more expensive model. If you're primarily shooting with a smartphone or compact camera, a smaller and lighter gimbal may be a better choice.

Evolution from previous models

The AK2000C is an updated version of the popular AK2000 gimbal, with several improvements and upgrades. The new motor has a higher torque and faster response time, and the joystick and controls have been redesigned for better ergonomics and ease of use.

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DJI RS 3 Pro - Honestly Better Than The Regular Version

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• Payload: The DJI RS 3 Pro can support a payload of up to 10 pounds (4.5 kg), making it compatible with a wide range of cameras and accessories.
• Battery Life: The RS 3 Pro has a battery life of up to 12 hours, allowing for extended shooting sessions.
• Charging Time: The battery can be fully charged in approximately 1.5 hours.
• Connections: The RS 3 Pro includes a variety of connections, including USB, CAN, and PowerTap, for connecting to external devices.
• Display: The stabilizer features an intuitive 1.4-inch color touchscreen display that provides quick access to settings and camera controls.
• Weight: The RS 3 Pro weighs in at just 2.7 pounds (1.2 kg), making it lightweight and easy to maneuver.
• Warranty: DJI offers a one-year limited warranty on the RS 3 Pro.
• Product Features: The RS 3 Pro includes a range of features designed to help users capture smooth, stable footage, including ActiveTrack, Force Mobile, and the ability to switch between portrait and landscape modes.
• Improvements from Previous Models: The RS 3 Pro is the latest in DJI's line of camera stabilizers, and it offers several improvements over previous models. These include a stronger motor, improved battery life, and more advanced control features.

I"d suggest you get the DJI RS 3 Pro if you're a professional photographers and videographer who requires a high level of precision and stability in their camera work. Its high payload capacity and long battery life make it suitable for a wide range of cameras and shooting scenarios, while its lightweight design and advanced control features make it easy to use in the field.

What sets the RS 3 Pro apart from its competitors is its advanced control features, including Force Mobile and ActiveTrack, which allow users to control the stabilizer with their smartphone and track subjects with ease. Not only that but also its compact design and high payload capacity make it a versatile choice for a wide range of cameras and accessories.

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Zhiyun Crane 3S Pro Camera Stabilizer

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Benefits:

• Allows for stable footage and smooth camera movements
• Can support heavy camera setups
• Offers versatile shooting angles and modes
• Helps reduce fatigue during long shoots

Battery Life:

• 12-hour runtime on a single charge
• Hot-swappable batteries allow for continuous shooting without downtime

Payload:

• Supports up to 6.5kg (14.3lbs) payloads, including large cinema cameras and lenses

Charging Time:

• Takes about 4 hours to fully charge

Connections:

• Features a USB-C port for charging and firmware updates
• Offers various camera control options with the included cables and control wheel

Display:

• Comes with a smart OLED screen that displays important information such as battery level and modes

Weight:

• Weighs 2.8kg (6.17lbs), making it portable and easy to handle

Warranty:

• Comes with a 1-year warranty for parts and labor

Product Features:

• Features the FlexMount system for easier and more flexible setup and attachment of accessories
• Offers various shooting modes, including lock mode, pan-follow mode, and POV mode
• Comes with a built-in focus motor and control wheel for more precise focus adjustments
• Features the SmartSling handle for easier grip and comfortable operation
• Supports various accessories, such as an external monitor, microphone, and follow focus system

What sets it apart from competitors:

• Offers a higher payload capacity compared to similar stabilizers
• Comes with the FlexMount system for easier and more flexible accessory attachment
• Offers a longer battery life than many competitors
• Comes with a built-in focus motor and control wheel for more precise focus adjustments
• Supports various accessories, such as an external monitor, microphone, and follow focus system

Comparable things to consider:

• Zhiyun Crane 3S (non-Pro) offers similar features with a lower payload capacity and without the FlexMount system
• DJI RS 2 and Ronin-S offer comparable features and performance with a slightly lower payload capacity
• Glidecam HD-PRO offers similar capabilities but requires more experience to operate and may be less versatile for certain camera setups

Why I recommend it:

The Zhiyun Crane 3S Pro Camera Stabilizer offers exceptional performance and features for professional filmmakers and videographers. Its high payload capacity, versatile shooting modes, and built-in focus motor make it an ideal choice for heavy camera setups and demanding shooting scenarios. This gimbal also has Its FlexMount system and SmartSling handle which make it easier to operate and attach accessories, while the long battery life and hot-swappable batteries provide added convenience and flexibility during shoots.

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DJI Ronin-SC

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• Payload: up to 2 kg (4.4 lbs)
• Battery Life: up to 11 hours
• Charging Time: 2.5 hours
• Connections: Bluetooth 5.0, USB-C, and 2.4 GHz wireless
• Display: OLED display with clear status information
• Weight: 1.1 kg (2.4 lbs)
• Warranty: 1-year limited warranty

Some of the other key features of the DJI Ronin-SC include:

• ActiveTrack 3.0 technology, which allows the gimbal to automatically track the subject in frame
• Three-axis lock mode, which stabilizes the camera when moving in a specific direction
• Quick release plate for easy camera mounting and removal
• Advanced stabilization algorithms and motors for smooth footage
• Multiple shooting modes, including panorama, time-lapse, and motion-lapse
• Intelligent modes such as Sport mode and Trigger mode to capture fast-moving subjects or start and stop recording remotely
• Compatibility with the DJI Ronin app, which offers advanced features such as Force Mobile and Ronin Focus

The DJI Ronin-SC is my top pick for those looking for a lightweight and portable stabilizer for their mirrorless camera. Its compact size and ease of use make it perfect for those on the go or for filmmakers looking for a stabilizer that can handle long hours of shooting without weighing them down.

What sets the DJI Ronin-SC apart from its competitors is its lightweight design and advanced features. It is one of the lightest 3-axis gimbals on the market, making it easy to carry around and use for extended periods. And to make matters even better, its ActiveTrack 3.0 technology and intelligent shooting modes make it easy to capture stunning footage without the need for any extra equipment or accessories.

Compared to other gimbals, the DJI Ronin-SC has a longer battery life and can handle a slightly heavier payload. However, it may not be suitable for larger cameras or heavier lenses.

The DJI Ronin-SC has evolved from previous models by offering a more compact and lightweight design, while still maintaining advanced stabilization algorithms and intelligent features. It has also improved battery life and a faster charging time compared to its predecessor, the DJI Ronin-S.

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Pros & Cons Of All Gimbals

While each gimbal offers unique features, understanding their strengths and potential drawbacks can help you make an informed decision. Let's delve deeper into the pros and cons of some of the top gimbals for the Sony Alpha 7 IV.

DJI RS 3

Pros:

1. Exceptional Stabilization: The DJI RS 3 boasts the third-Generation RS stabilization algorithm, ensuring that every movement, whether rapid or slow, is captured with unparalleled smoothness.
2. Long Battery Life: With approximately 12 hours of operation on a single charge, you can shoot for extended periods without worrying about battery drain.
3. OLED Screen: This feature provides real-time feedback, allowing for on-the-fly adjustments without needing to connect to an external device, streamlining the shooting process.
4. LiDAR Compatibility: Working in tandem with the Sony Alpha 7 IV's phase and contrast detection, this feature ensures sharp focus, especially in challenging lighting conditions.
5. Auto Lock Axes: Once you've set your camera's position, it remains locked in, ensuring consistent framing and composition.

Cons:

1. Weight: The DJI RS 3 is slightly heavier than some of its competitors, which might be a concern for those shooting for extended periods or traveling frequently.
2. Price Point: Being a premium product, the DJI RS 3 comes with a higher price tag, which might not fit everyone's budget.
3. Learning Curve: While packed with features, beginners might find it takes some time to fully harness all its capabilities.

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Zhiyun Crane M3

Pros:

1. Budget-Friendly: For those looking for a balance between price and performance, the Crane M3 offers a compelling package.
2. Compact Design: Its design is ideal for travel videographers or those who prefer a lightweight setup.
3. Gesture Control: A unique feature that allows users to start or stop recording with simple hand movements, especially useful for solo videographers.
4. AI Calculation: Adjusts the gimbal's movements based on the camera's weight and balance, ensuring optimal stabilization.
5. Quick Setup: Intuitive controls and design mean you can get shooting faster.

Cons:

1. Battery Life: Offering around 7 hours of operation, it falls short compared to some competitors.
2. Lacks Advanced Features: While it offers a solid performance, it doesn't have some of the high-end features found in pricier models.
3. Build Quality: While decent, it might not withstand the rigors of extreme conditions as well as some of its more robust counterparts.

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FeiyuTech SCORP

Pros:

1. Robust Build: Made with high-quality materials, it's designed to withstand the challenges of on-location shooting.
2. AI Calculation: This feature ensures optimal stabilization by adjusting the gimbal's movements based on the camera's specifics.
3. Intuitive Controls: Even for beginners, the controls are easy to understand and use, reducing the learning curve.
4. Versatility: Suitable for a range of shooting scenarios, from dynamic action shots to slow cinematic pans.
5. Payload Capacity: Can comfortably support the Sony Alpha 7 IV along with most lenses and some additional accessories.

Cons:

1. Weight: Its robust build translates to a heavier design, which might not be ideal for everyone.
2. Setup Time: While it offers intuitive controls, the initial setup might take longer for those unfamiliar with gimbals.
3. Price: Positioned as a mid-range gimbal, it might be slightly pricier than some budget options, though it offers more features in return.

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Best Gimbal For Sony a7iv - Reddit Opinion

Let's see what reddit has to say about the best gimbals for the Sony a7iv.

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Conclusion - Which Gimbal To Choose?

That's about it! It's up to you from here onwards. Have a look at each of these gimbals and choose one you like. After all, they're all the best in different qualities.