11 best gimbals for action cameras

Review of the best according to the editorial board. On the selection criteria. This material is subjective and does not constitute advertising and does not serve as a purchase guide. Before buying, you need to consult with a specialist.

Miniature photo-video cameras are now found in almost all imaginable and unimaginable models of wearable electronics, but cameras, as separate devices, remain relevant. This applies to both the professional technique used to shoot movies or serious TV shows, and a kind of new trend of the 21st century – action cameras. Such cameras, by definition, are geared towards shooting in extremely dynamic environments: skydiving, windsurfing, rallying and the like. To make the 'picture' as a result more or less even and digestible for the viewer's perception, such cameras require an additional accessory – a stabilizer.

The editors have prepared for you an overview of the best stabilizers for action cameras in the opinion of our expert group as of early 2020. To clarify right away, we will only consider handheld stabilizers for compact action cameras. Steadicam oversized systems for serious filmmaking are a separate topic.

How gimbals work for action cameras and how to choose the right one

In general, it is worth starting with the fact that stabilizers are of two types – mechanical and electronic. The latter are also called electrical, and, in principle, both options are correct to one degree or another. We will call them electronic in view of the actual presence in them of a wide variety of electronics, and not just electric drives.

1. A mechanical stabilizer for a camera is the simplest and cheapest option, and also the least functional. Its principle of operation is based on the use of counterweights, and the camera is attached to the structure on hinges. Such models allow some adjustment, say, of the shoulder, where the camera is located, but this is where their functions end. Therefore, a mechanical stabilizer is suitable only for the most undemanding operator. After all, there is very little choice of them for sale.
2. Electronic stabilizers for action cameras are another matter. These are already much more 'smart' and nimble devices in every sense. Here the market is already replete with a variety of models for any technical requirements and any budget. The principle of operation here is based on the motor system. The camera displacement is detected by sensors, to which the control responds quickly by sending appropriate signals to the motors. These, in turn, quickly return the camera to the correct position.
3. The manipulations with the camera in the electronic stabilizer can occur along two or three axes – it already depends on the specific model. Of course, three-axis stabilizers cope with this task much better than two-axis ones, but they are also, as a rule, significantly more expensive.
4. Electronic stabilizers also have drawbacks – this is a disproportionately higher price than mechanical ones, limited battery life, and the likelihood of failure. In addition, not all stabilizers are protected from external influences (rain, snow, frost), while mechanical ones do not care.
5. Among other things, when choosing any stabilizer for action cameras, you need to make sure that it is truly compatible with your specific camera model. There are quite a few gimbals on the market that are targeted only at smartphones. And if the technical specifications indicate that this or that model is compatible with action cameras, then you need to understand that such cameras are very different.
6. Another important detail is the presence of protection from external factors. Action cameras are also 'action' cameras, which can be in any conditions – in dust, mud, snow, pouring rain, etc. It is important that the stabilizer is also ready to withstand such loads.
7. Finally, a point that many people wonder about when choosing any wearable electronics, and forget when choosing a gimbal for an action camera. It's about battery life without recharging. After all, an electronic stabilizer is the same wearable gadget as the camera itself, just its role is auxiliary. And you need to focus not so much on the dry figures of the battery capacity, as on the test results declared by the manufacturer and confirmed by independent testers. After all, energy consumption, like optimization, can be very different.

Rating of the best stabilizers for action cameras

Nomination	a place	Name of product	price
Best mechanical gimbals for action cameras	1	Steadicam v2	RUB 2,590
	2	Fujimi FJSB-S3 1456	RUB 2,860
Best budget electronic gimbals for action cameras	1	Xiaomi Mi Action Camera Handheld Gimbal	RUB 8,899
	2	Hohem iSteady Pro 2	RUB 7,000
Best mid to high end electronic gimbals for action cameras	1	Zhiyun Crane-M2	RUB 13,590
	2	Feiyu Tech WG2	RUB 9,700
	3	Zhiyun Rider M	RUB 11,000
	4	DJI Ronin-SC	RUB 21,340
	5	TILTA Gravity G2X	RUB 56,900
Best electronic gimbals for GoPro action cameras	1	GoPro Karma Grip	RUB 23 900
	2	Feiyu Tech G6	9 550 rub.

Best mechanical gimbals for action cameras

And we will start with a couple of examples of the simplest solution to the issue of camera stabilization when shooting in motion. These are completely mechanical models without any electronics. Their advantages are affordable price, no batteries are needed, they are absolutely indifferent to the nature of the environment.

Steadicam v2

Rating: 4.9

First, we will consider a funny but interesting Chinese product, which does not even have a name, but is simply called Steadicam v2 on Russian and international trading platforms. The index means that even this simplest device had a predecessor and underwent a number of improvements, expressed in the second improved version of the Steadicam. Despite such sterile purity in terms of the origin of the 'brand' and in general any details of production, the model is in decent demand.

It is a handheld mechanical stabilizer for action cameras as well as DSLR cameras – digital single lens 'DSLRs'. The task of the device is obvious – as far as possible to compensate for shaking, rocking, jerking and vibrations during dynamic shooting. Works in three planes, which is commendable.

The materials in this model are of unexpected quality, as for such a cheap and uncomplicated product. Exactly the same can be said about the build quality. The metal parts of the Steadicam v2 are made of aluminum ('aviation' according to the manufacturer, but there are certainly doubts here). Weighs 968g.

The stabilizer works exclusively due to the most basic laws of physics. The structure is tied to a two-axis hinge, and a special counterweight directed downwards acts as a compensator. Importantly, the 'power' of the counterweight can be adjusted by adding or removing the special weights that come with the device.

The very design of the stabilizer is foldable, which greatly simplifies transportation. The handle is made of rubberized material, so the stabilizer is held firmly and securely in the hand. Steadicam v2 even has some kind of design – the metal parts are partly matt polished, and partly painted in bright red. The handle of the holder is black.

The most common camera mount format is 3¼, which makes it possible to easily mount almost any camera up to any GoPro version. If you plan to install a DSLR, you need to remember that its weight should not be more than a kilogram.

Before starting operation, the device must be calibrated – adjust the weight of the load and the length of the arm.

Advantages

• you can adjust the length of the arm and the weight of the counterweight;
• quite convenient to use;
• folding design;
• not afraid of any extreme environmental conditions;
• quite attractive appearance;
• affordable price.

disadvantages

• limited functionality, like any mechanical stabilizer.

Fujimi FJSB-S3 1456

Rating: 4.8

And the second mechanical model in the review of the best stabilizers for action cameras according to the version is essentially the same product as the previous one, but a little more impressive due to some additional features, and at least because Fujimi is quite well known Chinese brand.

In general, the design of the stabilizer is not much different from the previous version – the same hinges, the same counterweight with weights. But there are still differences. This model uses both aluminum and steel elements, painted in black or bright red. Black handle made of polymer foam, reminiscent of dense fine-grained foam rubber. The dimensions of the device are 33x20x3cm, weight – 1kg.

Almost everything can be adjusted in Fujimi FJSB-S3 1456 – the weight of the counterweight (one main weight 270g and two additional weight 184g each with a mirror chrome finish), the angle of inclination of the counterweight, the position of the camera itself horizontally, etc. The kit includes an additional removable accessory for fastening smartphones. A small bubble level is built into the body of the stabilizer.

Fujimi FJSB-S3 1456 is designed for a maximum load of 1.5 kg. This should be taken into account if you plan to use it for DSLRs. No one, of course, forbids installing a more massive apparatus on the stabilizer, but then the stabilization efficiency will rapidly fall.

The gimbal is compatible with action cameras, light camcorders, DSLRs and smartphones. The manufacturer provides this model with an official guarantee for a check for a period of 12 months.

Advantages

• famous brand;
• quite effective stabilization of cameras up to 1.5kg in weight;
• ease of use;
• advanced adjustment and calibration options;
• built-in bubble level;
• quite attractive appearance;
• high-quality packaging.

disadvantages

• limited functionality and capabilities in general, as in the previous case.

Best budget electronic gimbals for action cameras

Now we turn to the most common and demanded category of stabilizers, and first consider the most inexpensive models. These are quite working samples, even of very well-known brands, only due to the limitations in functionality they can be bought at a more or less affordable price. In any case, in terms of functionality, they are not one head taller than any mechanical stabilizer.

Xiaomi Mi Action Camera Handheld Gimbal

Rating: 4.8

Let us first consider the most controversial model of the three budget stabilizers. The ambiguity lies in the fact that the stabilizer is almost the best in terms of the combination of price, quality and features, plus something that is produced by one of the most famous Chinese manufacturers of wearable gadgets. But the huge disadvantage of the model is that it is compatible only and exclusively with the 'native' action camera Xiaomi Mi jia 4K, and also 4K and 4K Lite. No other device will work with this stabilizer. So the potential target audience is quite narrow here.

The body of the steadicam is made of durable plastic. The material is really strong, so there is no need to fear for its safety during dynamic shooting, and it also adds advantages to it due to its very modest weight – only about 200g. The color is black, the coating has a matte texture. Unfortunately, the handle does not have a more 'grip' material or rubberized coating. Accordingly, in the heat due to sweat it can slip out.

There is a tripod mount at the bottom of the unit. The platform itself allows you to install the stabilizer on a flat surface in a vertical position even without a tripod.

The control unit is located in a well thought out place and position so that it is easy to reach with your finger. There is a power on / off button for the device, a button for switching from operating mode to calibration and vice versa, starting and stopping recording on the camera, switching shooting modes, a stick for changing the position of the camera.

On the left side of the control unit there is a USB-Micro connector. At the top of the device is a carrier platform with three miniature motors. The mount for the camera is metal, the mount is by means of two screws, and, judging by the test results, it is extremely reliable.

And now a few words about the operating modes. There are three of them in total – horizon hold, tracking and selfie. This is the most basic set of modes that almost all electronic gimbals for action cameras have. With the first regime, everything is obvious. The second involves changing the position of the camera following the movement of the handle: turning the hand to the right – the camera also moves to the right and vice versa. When the selfie mode is activated, the camera simply rotates 180 degrees and looks into the face of the operator.

The declared autonomy provided by the battery is 6-8 hours of continuous operation. In fact, the battery lasts for 4-6 hours. It is not recommended to work in cold weather.

The package includes the stabilizer itself, USB Micro cable, standard documentation in different languages. There is no cover in the kit, so for transportation, as well as for returning under warranty, it is recommended to keep the original packaging. It is extremely reliable and strong, so that the device is not in danger during transportation.

Advantages

• effective stabilization for three basic repairs;
• three-axis system;
• convenient control;
• light weight and compactness;
• built-in Bluetooth to sync with the camera.

disadvantages

• non-rubberized handle;
• only compatible with Xiaomi Mi jia series of action cameras.

Hohem iSteady Pro 2

Rating: 4.7

And the second number in the mini-selection of the best budget stabilizers for action cameras according to the version, we will consider a model of a fairly common brand Hohem. This is the second edition of the iSteady Pro steadicam, which is significantly superior to its predecessor, and they cost almost the same. And the price, by the way, is slightly lower than that of the above Xiaomi, but in terms of functionality, Hohem 'makes' Xiaomi playfully.

So iSteady Pro 2 is a 3-axis electronic stabilizer for action cameras. Unlike 'snobbish' Xiaomi, it already has much broader compatibility: almost all versions of GoPro except 8th; SONY RX0; SONY RX0; SJCAM; NOVELEKA and several others.

The package includes a main unit with a control module and a camera mount; additional transformer handle, which can be used as a mini-tripod; USB Micro cable, documentation. All this is neatly stowed in a hard, compact case, which makes it very easy to transport the stabilizer.

The control module includes a main power switch, a mode switch button, a joystick. The power button is two-functional – a short press shows an indication of the battery charge level by 4 divisions, and when pressed, turns the device itself into operating mode. The joystick changes the shooting direction. There is also a slider on the left side, with which you can change the shooting angle.

Hohem iSteady Pro 2 has 4 main modes of operation. One press of the mode switch will lock the camera up and down and unlock the side movement. Double-clicking completely unlocks camera movement in all 4 directions. Pressing three times locks the camera in the current direction and leaves it motionless for any gimbal manipulation. Four clicks completely unlock the electromagnetic motors, and the camera begins to follow all the operator's movements along all axes. On the back there is a 'trigger', pressing on which aligns the camera from any position.

The model is characterized by a very good autonomy – up to 12 hours from the built-in 3600mAh battery. There is a useful additional function – with the help of a separate cable from the stabilizer battery, you can power the camera itself, if suddenly its charge becomes insufficient. Of course, this will reduce the battery life of the gimbal itself, but given the large margin of autonomy, this can save the shooting in general.

Advantages

• effective stabilization;
• autonomy;
• the ability to power the camera from the steadicam battery;
• additional tripod handle;
• solid appearance;
• hard case.

disadvantages

• no pronounced flaws were found.

Best mid to high end electronic gimbals for action cameras

Now let's move on to the category of more functional stabilizers, which can be conditionally classified as middle and high class. They are more expensive than any of the above models, in some places significantly. But they also cope with a much wider range of tasks. Again, we remind you that we are not talking about professional equipment for film studios, which costs thousands and tens of thousands of dollars. These are devices for high-quality, but still amateur or semi-professional photography.

Zhiyun Crane-M2

Rating: 4.9

We will be the first in this category to consider the novelty of 2019 from the famous Chinese manufacturer Zhiyun Tech. This is the stabilizer of the Crane-M2 model, which quickly earned the most positive feedback from the target audience due to the main and additional functionality.

The main 'feature' of the Crane-M2 is its versatility in terms of compatibility with cameras. It doesn't even make sense to list with which action cameras this model is compatible, since it is difficult to find a gadget with which it would not be able to interact. In addition to action cameras, other devices up to smartphones (via the included adapter) are also suitable here.

In principle, the Crane-M2 is a three-axis stabilizer. Made in a convenient and compact form factor from high quality materials. The shoulders are protected by locking locks that prevent the axles from moving during transportation. A comfortable grip, well-thought-out placement of controls – all this greatly attracts users due to its special convenience. The current settings and battery level are shown on the compact OLED – display. The special platform Lite adds the advantages of this model in terms of the speed of installation and installation, and the scale with a lock ensures quick balancing.

In addition to the three basic modes – PF / F / L – that all electronic steadicams have, the Crane-M2 can boast of additional, very interesting ones. Here we see the Full-Range POV mode – a full range view, which means synchronous movement along all three axes at 360 °. Then, Vortex mode – 360 ° rotation in all three axes. Go mode lets you shoot action scenes without losing direction.

This model also knows how to control the camera's zoom, and this is done easily and conveniently through a wireless connection via Bluetooth or Wi-Fi. You do not need to look for anything in the menu, you just need to press the mechanical button on the handle.

The proprietary application ZY Play significantly expands the capabilities of the steadicam. With it, you can control the camera and the stabilizer itself, as well as supplement the functionality with special modes – slow motion, panoramic shooting, time-lapse.

Zhiyun Crane-M2 is powered by a lithium-ion battery that provides autonomy up to 8 hours. CRANE-M2 can be used as a power bank to recharge other wearable gadgets.

Advantages

• universality for compatibility with cameras and gadgets;
• increased ease of use;
• OLED – display;
• easy camera control via Bluetooth or Wi-Fi;
• additional modes through a proprietary application;
• good autonomy;

disadvantages

• there are problems with connecting via Wi-Fi to certain camera models.

Feiyu Tech WG2

Rating: 4.8

Continues the selection of the best medium and high-end electronic stabilizers for action cameras according to the product of the famous brand Feiyu Tech. A distinctive feature of the WG2 model is its water resistance, which not every electronic steadicam can boast of. It is for this feature, against the background of general functionality and more or less tolerable price, that the model has earned the attention of our experts.

Feiyu Tech's WG2 is a 3-axis gimbal that's versatile enough to work seamlessly with cameras Xiaomi, GoPro, SJCAM and just about any other that doesn't have much of a size difference. I am pleased with the quality of the materials from which the stabilizer is made, as well as the build quality. Made in black, the surface is mostly matte. There are rubber inserts on the side and bottom for increased stability. There are screw fasteners ¼ on the bottom and rear sides. On the front there is an LED that glows blue in normal mode and red if the battery starts to run out. The weight of the gimbal without the camera is only 265g.

All control directly from the device is carried out with a single button. Press and hold to turn the gimbal on or off. One press – toggle panning mode and lock mode. Double click – Panning and tilting mode. Triple – Selfie mode. Four taps will activate the auto rotate mode. Five clicks start initialization of the device.

A little more about the modes. In Panning mode, the steadicam simply holds the camera evenly, following the operator's movements, while fixing the horizon. In Lock mode, the gimbal fixes the camera in the current position and, with any movement, holds this position along all axes. Tilting mode – repetition of the movements of the operator or an object on which the stabilizer with a camera is installed. Selfie mode – flip the camera 180 degrees. Initialization mode is used to calibrate the gimbal. Autorotation mode allows the device to work in automatic mode, filming smooth time lapses.

The main feature of the WG2 – water resistance – has features and limitations. So, the technical characteristics provide that the steadicam can be under water at a depth of no more than 1 meter and for no more than 10 minutes. And all this concerns only fresh water. Operation in salt water is not recommended, but if you still have to, you need to rinse the device under fresh running water at the first opportunity to remove the salt.

This model has a proprietary application for wearable gadgets, with which the gimbal can be controlled remotely. True, it is 'damp' and needs to be corrected.

The main, albeit somewhat forced, drawback of this model is the not too capacious 1500mAh lithium-ion battery, which, moreover, is non-removable. It can only provide no more than 2.5 hours of battery life. A full charge will take two hours.

The package of this model includes, in addition to the device itself, a neoprene case, a USB cable for recharging, a set of brackets and bolts for attaching cameras of different sizes, and documentation.

Advantages

• effective stabilization;
• wide support for different camera models;
• waterproofness;
• Bluetooth to interact with the application;
• more or less affordable price;
• case included.

disadvantages

• not everyone is satisfied with autonomy;
• unfinished application.

Zhiyun Rider M

Rating: 4.8

The third number in this collection is another Zhiyun stabilizer. This is Rider M, which became famous about five years ago. The model has not yet lost its relevance due to some features that sharply distinguish it from the background of the general mainstream in this area.

First, just about the main feature. Zhiyun had experimented with steadicam form factors before, but this time around, the new (at that time) Rider M model did not receive any handle with a control unit at all. All that is on the case is the power button. This was done for many reasons, not least in order to minimize the weight of the device. The weight has indeed been minimized to a paltry 180g, a record for electronic 3-axis gimbals for action cameras. But the question remains – how then to manage it? The answer is simple – through a dedicated smartphone app. Or, as an option, through a proprietary remote control, but then you have to buy it separately.

Obviously, this form factor does not imply convenient manual use of the gimbal. But Rider M can be attached to anything – a car, motorcycle, bicycle, helmet, or even a dog or a cat (many video bloggers do this).

The second important feature of the Rider M, which is present in a vanishingly small part of electronic steadicams, is the presence of a full-fledged video output. Thus, the problem of a minimum two-second delay and low fps when viewing content in real time is completely solved.

In terms of compatibility, the Rider M is primarily focused on GoPro – it supports all versions, including those with BacPac extensions, and even with the Hero 4 Session, if you purchase a separate holder. But the compatibility doesn't end there – the Rider M will work seamlessly with any GoPro-like camera form factor: Xiaomi Yi, SJ Cam and others.

Another advantage of this model is the increased power of the drives, which makes the stabilizer much more agile than its closest competitors. The model is capable of instantly and effectively reacting to the most unexpected jerks with great overload. It also makes it possible to rotate the camera simultaneously along the tilt axis by 320 degrees and clockwise also by 320 degrees. The Turn Back mode is provided – at any time, with one click, the stabilizer will turn the camera 180 degrees.

The autonomous operation of the device is provided by a removable lithium-ion battery, the capacity of which is quite enough for 12 hours of operation. Supports camera 'refueling' from the gimbal itself.

Advantages

• record low weight;
• wide compatibility with models of action cameras;
• drives of increased power (instant reaction to jerks);
• video output;
• autonomy;
• support for use as a power bank.

disadvantages

• rather narrow specialization with noticeable and useful advantages.

DJI Ronin-SC

Rating: 4.7

In the review of the best stabilizers for action cameras according to the version, we found a place for products of the famous DJI brand. This is new in 2019 – the Ronin-SC semi-professional stabilizer. It is significantly more expensive than any of the above models, but it's definitely worth its money.

In fact, the Ronin-SC is a more compact version of the older Ronin-S model. But this circumstance in no way diminishes his merits. There are no questions about the quality of materials and assembly, DJI here, as always, is at its best. In terms of functionality, the Ronin-SC, just like the Ronin-S, is ideal for any type of shooting, including shooting dynamic action scenes.

The device is actually almost half the weight of the older model – 1.1kg. The materials are dominated by steel, high-quality composite plastic, magnesium and aluminum alloys. The unit can be easily and quickly disassembled for transportation. The maximum weight load that the drives can withstand is 2kg. This allows using steadicams not only with light action cameras, but even with not too massive DSLRs.

As with most previous models, the Ronin-SC's gimbal provides 3-axis stabilization. The device supports all basic modes of operation, for which, in fact, steadicams are needed, as well as some additional ones.

It is the additional modes that are the striking difference of this model. They themselves, as well as in the branded mobile application, use a significant component of artificial intelligence technologies. This is most noticeable in the new version 3.0 ActiveTrack. It involves identifying and automatically following a specific object.

A special Force Mobile mode is designed to synchronize with the movements of the smartphone, which gives a special effect of immersion in the shooting process. There is also a whole set of other interesting modes: panorama; Motion Control with the creation of trajectories based on 2 to 10 points; time-lapse photography, virtual joystick, etc.

The Ronin-SC is equipped with a wireless communication module Bluetooth 5.0, which allows remote control at a distance of up to 25 meters. Autonomous operation is provided by a 17Wh battery. The Ronin-SC can operate for up to 11 hours without recharging.

Advantages

• effective stabilization;
• powerful drives;
• relative compactness;
• useful additional functions;
• intelligent ActiveTrack function – following the selected object;
• autonomy up to 11 hours;
• spectacular appearance;
• impeccable quality of materials.

disadvantages

• no obvious flaws and systematic user complaints have been identified.

TILTA Gravity G2X

Rating: 4.7

This part of our review ends with a truly premium Gravity G2X stabilizer made by TILTA – one of the market leaders in this segment. This is already a technique that, in terms of technical performance and capabilities, comes close to a professional one, and many sites, and the manufacturer itself, position this model this way.

Here you can start not even with a description of the model, but with a complete set – it will immediately become clear with what high level we are dealing. In the GR-V02A modification, the entire kit is supplied in a fairly dimensional shock-resistant and waterproof case. The case is not provided in the GR-V02 modification. The scope of delivery includes the main base of the steadicam, a Manfrotto standard platform, a charging port, four batteries, an additional podium to the platform, a set of cords, a screwdriver with a replaceable blade, a holder for a lens, a holder to increase structural strength and install additional elements.

The gimbal assembly weighs 1.9kg. A screw mount is used, and the camera can be mounted in any way in relation to the motors – conditionally, the rear motor can be in the front, in the same way, the side motor can be either on the right or on the left. The maximum permissible weight load for this model significantly exceeds the capabilities of any of the above – up to 3.6kg.

The Gravity G2X has no restrictions on panoramic rotation. The maximum tilt angle is 60 degrees. The device offers four stabilization modes: tilt lock, full tracking, all axes lock and a special tracking mode with permissible lateral tilt. The LED indicator will inform about the current mode in red, green, blue or blinking blue.

Of course, for such a powerful model, the manufacturing company could not help but release a proprietary smartphone application. It is called TiLta Asistant. Obviously, this application serves not only to provide this particular model, but also others in the line. It can be used to calibrate the steadicam, set the start and end positions of the camera position when shooting in time-lapse mode, and remotely control it.

Four batteries can be turned on at once and even for such a 'monster' as TILTA Gravity G2X they will provide up to 10 hours of operation without recharging. The device has a mini-USB output and a separate 14.8V output for powering external accessories.

Advantages

• premium class;
• high stabilization efficiency;
• wide functionality;
• 4 batteries included;
• autonomy;
• rich equipment in general.

disadvantages

• no obvious deficiencies were identified.

Best electronic gimbals for GoPro action cameras

The final selection in the review of the best gimbals for action cameras according to the version is special, as it includes the models that are most closely integrated for GoPro cameras. This particular focus on GoPro solutions has been given because of the 'benchmark' of these cameras and their legendary status.

GoPro Karma Grip

Rating: 4.9

And we'll start, of course, with GoPro's own Karma Grip. This model was the most expected among fans of the action cameras of the same name precisely because of its origin from the same 'family' as the cameras themselves. I must say, the GoPro team really did their best here.

There are no questions about the quality of materials and workmanship, as well as ergonomics. High-quality plastic, quiet drives, stylish design, comfortable grip with a rubberized surface – all this sets the GoPro owner in the most positive way. The device weighs 245g without a camera, which is also significantly below the 'norm'. The dimensions do not create any inconvenience either – 20.5×4.3×4.3cm. The gimbals are comfortable to hold in your hand, and can just as easily be attached to the GoPro Seeker branded backpack. The scope of delivery includes a special mounting ring for placing the stabilizer with the camera on the chest.

The control panel is represented by four buttons, of which two are multifunctional. Clicking on the first one shows the battery level. The second one turns on and off the device itself, switches operating modes. The red button is the start and stop of video shooting, as well as photo shooting. The checkbox-shaped button, when clicked, marks specific places in the captured video – perhaps frames that the user particularly liked.

The Karma Grip is extremely obedient and predictable in GoPro. After turning on, the device needs 3 to 5 seconds to find the horizon, stabilize and calibrate. By default, the camera remains stationary for any rotation or tilt of the gimbal. If you need to fix a certain angle different from the set horizon, you need to press the button with the image of the lock. In this mode, if, for example, raise the stabilizer, the camera will rise with it. You can return the default mode by double-clicking the lock button.

The device is powered by a non-removable lithium-ion battery, and there is just one weak point here. The stated time of continuous operation of the stabilizer without recharging is only 1 hour and 45 minutes. Charging – via USB. If at the moment of connecting for charging the camera is installed on the stabilizer, then both the stabilizer and the camera will be charged simultaneously. If you buy a Supercharger adapter, then with it the full charge time will be 2 hours. If charging comes from a computer – 6 hours.

Advantages

• a 'native' device for GoPro cameras from the same manufacturer;
• impeccable quality of materials and workmanship;
• compact size, light weight;
• reliability and durability;
• ease of use.

disadvantages

• autonomy.

Feiyu Tech G6

Rating: 4.8

The second number in the final collection of our review is a very interesting model, which is often called a 'direct competitor' to the above-described GoPro Karma Grip. I must say that this model deserves this positioning in full. The basic version is designed only for action cameras, while the extended G6 Plus allows the installation of larger devices. We will consider the first option.

Feiyu Tech G6 is the same compact 3-axis gimbal as the previously described GoPro Karma Grip. The body parts are mostly metal, the handle is covered with rubberized material, and the shape itself assumes a comfortable grip. The camera is fixed in the most common way – using metal screws that must be tightened by hand. The manufacturer also claims moisture protection, and it really is – class IP67, but only applies to fresh water.

Gimbal controls are located on the handle. There is also a compact, but very informative screen with indication of the charge level, the presence of a Wi-Fi connection or Bluetooth and an indication of the current operating mode.

It is turned on by the stabilizer by long pressing the power button. There is a separate button that starts or stops the recording itself on the camera. During shooting, the position of the camera can be changed manually using the joystick. On the back of the handle there is a button that locks the direction of shooting and a miniature tilt control lever.

Gimbal modes include horizontal tracking, heading lock, all-direction tracking, and selfie mode. They all switch with one button with a different number of clicks.

For more thoughtful work and more flexible settings, a branded mobile application is used. It was created specifically for this model – FeiyuTech G6. Allows you to fine-tune the sensitivity of the reaction to joystick movements, the intensity of rotation and potential power of the drives, and much more.

The battery pleases with its capacity of 5000mAh and the corresponding time of continuous autonomous operation – up to 12 hours. In this respect, the model leaves the proprietary GoPro Karma Grip far behind. Moreover, the stabilizer can be used as a power bank.

Advantages

• high-quality stabilization;
• impeccable quality of materials and workmanship;
• quite compact and lightweight;
• ease of use;
• moisture protection;
• extremely capacious battery;
• can be used as a power bank.

disadvantages

• user complaints about the software;
• there are flaws in the time-lapse function.

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Attention! This rating is subjective and does not constitute an advertisement and does not serve as a purchase guide. Before buying, you need to consult with a specialist.