Find the Best Gimbal for BMPCC 4K Camera: A Comprehensive Guide
The Blackmagic Pocket Cinema Camera 4K (BMPCC 4K) has become a hugely popular camera for independent filmmakers and videographers. Released in 2018, it packs impressive video specs like 4K 60fps recording and 13 stops of dynamic range into a compact, mirrorless camera body.
With a Micro Four Thirds sensor, dual native ISO, and extensive pro video features like 10-bit ProRes/RAW recording, the BMPCC 4K delivers cinema-quality footage at a relatively affordable price point.
However, like most small form factor cameras, the BMPCC 4K can suffer from shaky footage since it doesn’t have in-body stabilization. This is where gimbals come in – by mounting the BMPCC 4K on a motorized gimbal, you can achieve smooth, stabilized video even when shooting handheld. Having a good gimbal helps you capture fluid movement and cinematic shots without needing a large camera rig.
Importance of stabilization for video
Stabilization is crucial for getting usable, professional-looking video footage. The shaky, jittery video is distracting and looks unpolished. A gimbal stabilizes your camera by using brushless motors and sensors to smoothly pan and tilt while keeping the camera level. This lets you capture fluid camera motion when recording video.
Good stabilization allows you to shoot stable video while moving – whether you’re walking with the camera, capturing action shots, or recording from vehicles. It also lets you get slow, smooth pans and camera movements that would be impossible to do smoothly by hand. This gives your BMPCC 4K footage a cinematic, dynamic look.
Overview of key gimbal features for BMPCC 4K
When choosing a gimbal for the BMPCC 4K, there are a few key factors to consider:
- Weight capacity – The gimbal must be able to support the weight of the camera plus any accessories like lenses, mics, lights, etc.
- Size and form factor – The BMPCC 4K is very compact, so you want a gimbal that won’t dwarf the camera.
- Battery life – Long battery life allows you to shoot stabilized footage for extended periods.
- Controls and adjustment – Ability to tweak settings like motor strength for balanced stabilization.
- Portability – Lightweight and easy to transport to shoot in different locations.
In this guide, we’ll be looking at 5 great gimbal options that are well-suited for the BMPCC 4K based on the criteria above. Let’s dive in!
Zhiyun Crane 3S Pro Kit
The Zhiyun Crane 3S Pro Kit is a professional 3-axis gimbal stabilizer designed for DSLR and mirrorless cameras. It is the flagship model in Zhiyun’s Crane line of camera stabilizers.
The Crane 3S Pro features high-torque motors for stabilized shooting with heavier camera loads up to 6.5 lbs. It has a dedicated focus/zoom motor to remotely control focus and zoom on compatible lenses. The gimbal offers 360° unlimited rotation along all axes.
The Pro kit comes with accessories like a TransMount image transmission module, focus motor, and carrying case. It has 32-bit encoders and an improved algorithm for more precise stabilization and intelligent functions.
Detailed Features and Specifications
- Three-axis 360° rotation gimbal stabilizer
- High-torque motors support payloads up to 6.5 lbs
- Dedicated focus/zoom motor for remote lens control
- 32-bit encoders for accurate stabilization
- Quick release plate for fast balancing and setup
- 12-hour battery life per charge
- Bluetooth and USB-C connectivity
- Intelligent functions like motion memory and time lapse
- TransMount image transmitter, focus motor, carrying case included
Pros and Cons of Zhiyun Crane 3S Pro Kit
Pros:
- Excellent stabilization even with longer/heavier lenses
- Remote focus/zoom control is very handy
- Long battery life
- Sturdy build quality
- Intuitive controls and balanced design
- Useful accessories included in the kit
Cons:
- One of the more expensive gimbal options
- Relatively heavy and bulky
- Doesn’t fold down as compact as some competitors
- Setup and balancing takes some practice
Why We Selected Zhiyun Crane 3S Pro Kit?
We selected the Zhiyun Crane 3S Pro Kit as one of our top picks because of its excellent payload capacity and stabilization performance. It can comfortably handle a Blackmagic Pocket Cinema Camera 4K with a small lens, making it a great option for stabilized 4K footage.
The included focus and zoom motors allow you to control lens adjustments directly from the gimbal for more shooting flexibility. We also like the long battery life, sturdy build quality, and included accessories like the TransMount transmitter.
While it is on the pricier side, the Crane 3S Pro-Kit provides professional-level stabilization and features in a complete ready-to-use package.
DJI RS 3 Mini
The DJI RS 3 Mini is DJI’s ultra-lightweight and compact 3-axis gimbal designed for mirrorless cameras. Weighing just 1.1 lbs, it is great for travel and on-the-go shooting.
The RS 3 Mini can support mirrorless camera payloads up to 2.4 lbs. It has a foldable design that packs down into a portable size. The gimbal offers intelligent shooting modes and a user-friendly quick setup process.
Key features include powerful stabilization, an intuitive touchscreen interface, long battery life, and Bluetooth camera control. The RS 3 Mini aims to deliver professional stabilization in a highly portable form factor.
Detailed Features and Specifications
- Ultra-lightweight 1.1 lb carbon fiber construction
- 3-axis gimbal stabilizer for mirrorless cameras
- Tested payload capacity up to 2.4 lbs
- Foldable design for easy transport
- 12-hour runtime on a full charge
- Bluetooth camera shutter control
- 1.8 inch touchscreen OLED display
- Multiple intelligent shooting modes
- Quick setup process
Pros and Cons of DJI RS 3 Mini
Pros:
- Incredibly lightweight and portable
- Good stabilization performance
- Intuitive touchscreen interface
- Camera control via Bluetooth
- Long battery life
- Quick and easy setup
Cons:
- Lower payload capacity than other options
- Not suitable for heavier camera setups
- Lacks some advanced features of pricier gimbals
- Build quality not as rugged as some competitors
Why We Selected DJI RS 3 Mini?
The DJI RS 3 Mini stands out for its ultra-portable and lightweight design. At just 1.1 lbs, it is easy to take anywhere and perfect for travel and on-the-go shooting.
The compact size and lower payload capacity make it ideal for smaller mirrorless cameras like the Blackmagic Pocket Cinema Camera 4K. The included battery provides up to 12 hours of runtime for all-day shooting.
We like the quick and intuitive setup process via the touchscreen interface. The RS 3 Mini makes stabilized shooting easy and straightforward even for beginners. The folding design packs down neatly for storage and transport.
For those needing professional stabilization in an ultra-compact package, the DJI RS 3 Mini is a great choice to pair with a Blackmagic mirrorless camera.
DJI RS 3 Combo
The DJI RS 3 Combo is a versatile 3-axis gimbal designed for larger interchangeable lens cameras. It offers a robust stabilization platform that can support camera payloads up to 3 kg or 6.6 lbs.
The RS 3 Combo features automated axis locks for fast setup and breakdown. It has a 1.8 inch touchscreen interface and multiple intelligent shooting modes. The combo package includes useful accessories like an external focus motor and RavenEye image transmitter.
With powerful motors, robust build quality, and excellent usability, the RS 3 Combo aims to be a comprehensive gimbal solution for professional cinematographers.
Detailed Features and Specifications
- 3-axis gimbal for DSLR and mirrorless cameras
- Supports payloads up to 3 kg or 6.6 lbs
- Automated axis locks for fast setup
- 1.8 inch touchscreen OLED display
- Camera control via Bluetooth
- Focus motor and RavenEye transmitter included
- 14-hour battery life
- Multiple intelligent shooting modes
- Durable magnesium alloy construction
Pros and Cons of DJI RS 3 Combo
Pros:
- Excellent payload capacity for larger cameras
- Solid build quality and stability
- Useful accessories included in combo
- Long battery life
- Automated axis locks speed up setup
- Easy to use touchscreen interface
Cons:
- On the heavier side at 5.5 lbs
- More expensive than basic gimbal models
- Not as compact as lighter gimbals when folded
- Setup can still be time-consuming
Why We Selected DJI RS 3 Combo?
With its high payload capacity, the DJI RS 3 Combo is a great match for the Blackmagic Pocket Cinema Camera 4K rigged out with a lens and accessories. It has the power to smoothly stabilize camera setups up to 6.6 lbs with ease.
We like the included focus motor and transmitter for advanced shooting capabilities. The long 14-hour battery allows you to shoot all day without interruption. The combo offers the performance and features of DJI’s premium RS line in a complete ready-to-shoot package.
DJI Ronin-SC
The DJI Ronin-SC is a compact single-handed 3-axis gimbal designed for mirrorless cameras. It combines performance and portability in a lightweight carbon fiber frame.
With a tested payload of 4.4 lbs, the Ronin-SC can stabilize a range of mirrorless cameras with lenses and accessories. It has a unique upright mode for shooting vertical videos. The gimbal offers intelligent shooting modes accessed via the rear touchscreen.
By condensing professional stabilization into a portable form factor, the Ronin-SC aims to bring cinematic movement to on-the-go mirrorless filmmaking.
Detailed Features and Specifications
- 3-axis gimbal for mirrorless cameras
- 4.4 lbs maximum payload capacity
- Lightweight 2.4 lbs carbon fiber construction
- 360° rotation on all axes
- Upright mode for vertical shooting
- Rear touchscreen for settings and modes
- 12 hour battery life
- Intelligent shooting modes
- Bluetooth camera control
Pros and Cons of DJI Ronin-SC
Pros:
- Lightweight and compact frame
- Good payload capacity for mirrorless setups
- Upright mode enables vertical shooting
- Long battery life
- Intuitive touchscreen interface
- Excellent stabilization performance
Cons:
- Less payload capacity than larger gimbals
- Touchscreen not as robust as dedicated controllers
- Setup and balancing takes time
- Lacks some pro features like focus wheel
Why We Selected DJI Ronin-SC?
The DJI Ronin-SC hits a sweet spot between performance, portability, and price. Its compact size and 4.4 lb payload make it a great fit for the Blackmagic Pocket Cinema Camera 4K rigged out for shooting.
We like the upright shooting mode for easily capturing vertical videos – a must for today’s social media landscape. The intuitive touchscreen interface provides quick access to gimbal modes and settings on the fly.
For shooters needing professional stabilization in a lightweight, on-the-go form factor, the Ronin-SC is an excellent choice to stabilize your Blackmagic camera.
DJI RS 2 Combo
The DJI RS 2 Combo is DJI’s top-of-the-line 3-axis gimbal designed for professional cinema cameras and rigs. It offers powerful stabilization along with advanced shooting features.
This flagship gimbal can support huge payloads up to 10 lbs. It has super-smooth stabilization even with long telephoto lenses. The combo includes useful accessories like an external focus motor and RavenEye transmitter.
With robust construction, high-end components, and extensive controls, the RS 2 Combo provides everything professional cinematographers need in a camera stabilizer.
Detailed Features and Specifications
- 3-axis gimbal for cinema cameras
- Supports payloads up to 10 lbs
- Carbon fiber construction
- SuperSmooth algorithm for stable footage
- 1.4 inch full color touchscreen
- Focus motor and RavenEye included
- 14-hour battery life
- Advanced shooting modes and settings
- Modular design for customization
Pros and Cons of DJI RS 2 Combo
Pros:
- Massive payload capacity
- Amazingly stable with heavy camera loads
- Packed with professional features
- Modular and customizable
- Long battery life
- Sturdy and durable construction
Cons:
- Very expensive
- Overkill for smaller cameras
- Heavy at over 5 lbs
- Steep learning curve
Why We Selected DJI RS 2 Combo?
With its industry-leading 10 lb payload capacity, the DJI RS 2 Combo can easily stabilize even the heaviest Blackmagic cinema cameras and lens setups.
We like the robust carbon fiber frame and advanced stabilization algorithm that deliver incredibly smooth footage even when moving quickly with large cameras. The 1.4 inch touchscreen puts all controls at your fingertips.
While it is overkill for smaller mirrorless cameras, the RS 2 Combo is the ultimate gimbal for professional Blackmagic shooters. It unlocks the most demanding camera moves and opens up creative possibilities that lighter gimbals simply can’t achieve.
Conclusion
Final thoughts on choosing a gimbal for BMPCC 4K
Finding the right gimbal for the BMPCC 4K comes down to weighing factors like price, portability, features, and ease of use. Lightweight single-handed gimbals like the DJI RS 2 and Zhiyun Weebill S provide exceptional stabilization while remaining highly portable for travel. For those on a budget, the FeiyuTech AK2000S delivers very smooth footage at an affordable price point.
If you don’t mind a larger gimbal and want extended shooting time, the Zhiyun Crane M2 and Moza Aircross 2 offer exceptional stabilization, long battery life, and useful features. Think about your specific needs and shooting scenarios. For most BMPCC 4K shooters, any of these gimbals will provide a major boost in production value by capturing incredibly smooth, stabilized footage for professional-looking videos.
Summarizing our top recommendations Here’s a quick summary of our top gimbal recommendations for the BMPCC 4K:
DJI RS 2 – The best overall option if budget is no concern. Incredibly smooth stabilization with a lightweight and portable design.
Zhiyun Weebill S – A tiny and lightweight single-handed gimbal perfect for travel and portability. FeiyuTech AK2000S – Provides professional-level stabilization at an affordable price point.
Zhiyun Crane M2 – An excellent mid-range option with great performance and long battery life.
Moza Aircross 2 – A customizable high-end gimbal with tons of features and modularity.
Hopefully, this guide has helped you identify the ideal gimbal based on your budget, shooting needs, and preferences.
Any of these options will help you get perfectly stabilized footage with the BMPCC 4K. Just be sure to factor in payload capacity, battery life, portability, and overall performance as you make your decision.
Frequently Asked Questions
Relevant FAQs about gimbals for BMPCC 4K
Do I really need a gimbal for the BMPCC 4K?
A gimbal is highly recommended to get the most out of the BMPCC 4K’s video capabilities. The built-in stabilization only reduces minor shakes. A gimbal gives you true cinematic stabilization for handheld shots, movement, and action sequences.
How do I balance a BMPCC 4K on a gimbal?
Start by mounting the camera on the gimbal’s quick release plate. Adjust the plate back and forth to center the camera over the gimbal axis. Then tweak the pan and tilt axes by sliding the BMPCC 4K forward/backward and left/right. Check the tilt angle and weight distribution to fine tune balance.
What accessories can I use with a BMPCC 4K gimbal?
You can use microphones, lights, external monitors, handles, and other compact accessories as long as you don’t exceed the gimbal’s maximum payload capacity. Keep accessories light and well-balanced for best performance.
How long does a gimbal battery last with the BMPCC 4K?
Battery life depends on the specific gimbal but expect anywhere from 8-16 hours on a single charge. Larger-capacity batteries will provide longer runtimes. Carry spare batteries for extended shoots.
Do I need a gimbal for slow, cinematic shots?
A gimbal excels at slow, smooth motion like sliders, pans, and tilts. Manual handheld shots will have micro-jitters. A motorized gimbal ensures perfectly fluid cinematic camera movement.
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