Best Gimbals for Sony ZV-1 II

The Sony ZV-1 II marks an exciting milestone for content creators, becoming the camera of choice for many vloggers, social media influencers, and short-form video creators. To unlock the camera’s full potential, a reliable gimbal stabilizer is essential to ensure smooth and steady shots.

In this comprehensive guide, we have curated a selection of the best gimbals for the Sony ZV-1 II. Our selection process takes into account crucial factors such as payload capacity, battery life, charging time, weight, size, stability, ease of use, and affordability.

We understand that each individual has unique needs and budgets, which is why our list encompasses a range of options, from high-end professional-grade gimbals to more budget-friendly alternatives. Whether you are an experienced videographer, an aspiring social media influencer, or a beginner content creator, we are confident that you will discover the ideal gimbal that suits your requirements within this guide. So, let us delve into the world of gimbals and explore the top choices for the Sony ZV-1 II compact camera.

And if you’re interested in other accessories for your Sony ZV-1 II, be sure to check out our Sony ZV-1 II Memory Card Guide for even more helpful recommendations.

Sony ZV-1 II Store Links: B&H, Adorama.

Best Gimbals for Sony ZV-1 II

After extensive research and rigorous testing, our team has compiled a comprehensive selection of the top gimbals for the Sony ZV-1 II vlogging camera. These gimbals have been carefully chosen based on their exceptional performance, stability, and versatility, empowering you to effortlessly capture stunning visuals and achieve professional-quality footage.

Here are our top recommended gimbals for Sony ZV-1 II vlog camera:

  1. Zhiyun CRANE M3S â€“ Best overall.
  2. Zhiyun CRANE M2S â€“ Cheaper alternative.
  3. Zhiyun WEEBILL 3S â€“ Best for heavy cameras.
  4. DJI RS 3 â€“ Top gimbal but a little expensive.
  5. Feiyu SCORP-C: Affordable gimbal with excellent performance.
  6. Feiyu SCORP-Mini: Affordable gimbal for smaller cameras.

Within the following detailed reviews, we provide an in-depth analysis of each recommended gimbal, showcasing its key features, benefits, and drawbacks. Our objective is to equip you with the necessary information to choose the perfect gimbal that aligns seamlessly with your specific requirements and budgetary constraints. Whether you’re an experienced filmmaker, a freelance photographer, or an enthusiastic hobbyist, we guarantee that you’ll find a gimbal that precisely meets your needs and financial considerations.


1. Zhiyun CRANE M3S

Zhiyun CRANE-M3 S Key Features:

  • Max. Payload: 2.48 lb / 1.12 kg
  • Battery Runtime: 7.5 Hours (1150 mAh)
  • Battery Charging Time: 2 Hours
  • Connections: Bluetooth 5.0, Wi-Fi, USB-C
  • Display: 1.22″ Color Touchscreen
  • Smartphone App: Yes
  • Compatiblitle Cameras: Click Here to Check
  • Weight: 1.6 lb / 705 g (with Camera Plate)
  • Dimensions: 184.2 x 163.5 x 74.5 mm (Folded)
  • Warranty: 1 year
  • Special Feature: Ultra-Portable Design, Improved Quick Release Camera System, 360° Pan, 305° Tilt, 314° Roll Rotation, Bluetooth 5.0 Shutter Control, Built-In 1000 Lux Fill Light, Adjustable Color Temperature
  • Store links at B&H.

The Zhiyun CRANE M3S Gimbal is a compact and lightweight gimbal designed for vloggers, travel videographers, and live streamers. With its upgraded features and improved load capacity, this gimbal offers impressive performance and versatility in a portable form factor.

Weighing only 705 g, the CRANE M3S strikes the perfect balance between portability and load-bearing capacity. It can accommodate mainstream full-frame cameras and lens combos, making it suitable for professional video quality. Additionally, you can also use smartphones or action cameras with separate mount adapters.

One notable feature of the CRANE M3S is its two-in-one quick-release system. This system allows for easy camera mounting and dismounting without the need for rebalancing the gimbal. You can change camera batteries or add accessories effortlessly, saving you time and hassle during shoots.

The gimbal features Bluetooth shutter functionality, enabling wireless control of zoom and recording without the need for cable connections. This wireless control adds convenience and flexibility to your shooting experience.

Zhiyun has integrated a built-in fill light into the CRANE M3S. With Zhiyun’s Lumen Amplifier technology, the fill light delivers a brightness of 1000 lux and adjustable color temperature ranging from 2700K to 5500K. This feature enhances your shooting capabilities, allowing you to capture well-lit footage in various lighting conditions.

Operating the gimbal is intuitive and user-friendly. The 1.22″ color touchscreen provides easy access to functions and settings. You can toggle between four creative filming modes, including panorama, time-lapse, mono-lapse, and vortex, adding dynamism to your vlogs and videos.

The CRANE M3S boasts a built-in 1150mAh battery with a runtime of up to 7.5 hours. This allows for extended shooting sessions without worrying about running out of power. The USB-C charging port supports PD fast charging, enabling you to quickly recharge the gimbal in just two hours.

In summary, the Zhiyun CRANE M3S Gimbal is a lightweight and versatile tool for vloggers, travel filmmakers, and live streamers. Its compact form factor, improved load capacity, and quick-release system make it ideal for on-the-go shooting. With the built-in fill light, Bluetooth shutter control, and creative operation modes, this gimbal offers a range of features to enhance your filming experience. Whether you’re capturing travel adventures or creating engaging vlogs, the Zhiyun CRANE M3S Gimbal is a reliable and efficient companion for your videography needs.

Zhiyun CRANE M3S Gimbal Stabilizer at B&H.

Zhiyun CRANE M3S Gimbal Combo Kit at B&H.


2. Zhiyun CRANE M2S

Zhiyun CRANE-M2 S Key Features:

  • Max. Payload: 2.2 lb / 998 g
  • Battery Runtime: 10.5 Hours (1150 mAh)
  • Battery Charging Time: 1.5 Hours
  • Connections: Bluetooth 5.0, Wi-Fi, USB-C
  • Display: 0.66-inch OLED Display Screen
  • Smartphone App: Yes
  • Compatiblitle Cameras: Click Here to Check
  • Weight: 1.2 lb / 549 g
  • Dimensions: 240 x 150 x 68 mm
  • Warranty: 1 year
  • Special Feature: Updated Ultra-Portable Design, New Color, 360° Pan, 320° Tilt & 320° Roll Rotation, Six Operation Modes, Built-In Fill Light, Bluetooth/Wi-Fi, ZY Play iOS/Android App, One-Button Quick Release Camera System
  • Store links at B&H, Adorama.

The Zhiyun CRANE M2S Gimbal is a compact and lightweight 3-axis handheld gimbal stabilizer that offers exceptional power and versatility. With its sleek design and impressive features, this gimbal is designed to support a wide range of cameras, smartphones, and action cameras up to 2.2 lbs. It is the perfect tool for filmmakers and content creators who are always on the go.

Weighing in at just 549g, the CRANE M2S is highly portable and can easily be carried around like a phone gimbal. Despite its small size, it has been equipped with stronger motors and extended axes compared to the standard CRANE-M2 series, allowing it to handle cameras such as the Sony A7SIII with small prime lenses. This makes it a reliable choice for filmmakers who require agility and flexibility in their shooting.

The gimbal features an intuitive and ergonomic design, ensuring a comfortable and natural grip during operation. It incorporates a built-in 0.66-inch display that provides real-time status and operating parameters of the camera and gimbal, allowing users to easily monitor their shots. The CRANE M2S offers various operating modes, including Pan Follow, Follow, Lock, POV, Vortex, Go, and more, providing creative freedom and flexibility in capturing dynamic shots.

One of the standout features of the CRANE M2S is the integrated ultra-bright light. Using Lumen Amplifier technology, it delivers over 1000 lumens of brightness within a compact space, making it ideal for illuminating subjects directly in the shot. With five adjustable brightness levels and four color filters, users have complete control over the lighting and can explore their creativity.

The gimbal also boasts Zhiyun’s latest quick release technology, which provides better working efficiency and secure attachment. The dual safety locks ensure that the equipment remains firmly in place during operation, providing peace of mind to users.

The CRANE M2S supports fast charging via USB-C, allowing for a full charge in just 100 minutes. It also offers the ability to charge compatible cameras while operating, effectively extending the camera’s battery life. With a runtime of approximately 10.5 hours, users can rely on the gimbal for long shooting sessions without worrying about running out of power.

Overall, the Zhiyun CRANE M2S Gimbal is a powerful and feature-packed tool for filmmakers and content creators. Its compact design, enhanced compatibility, and built-in fill light make it an excellent choice for capturing smooth and professional-looking footage. Whether you’re shooting with a compact camera, smartphone, or action camera, the CRANE M2S empowers you to explore new possibilities in filmmaking and unleash your creativity.

Zhiyun CRANE M2S Gimbal Stabilizer at B&H, Adorama.

Zhiyun CRANE M2S Gimbal Combo Kit at B&H, Adorama.


3. Zhiyun WEEBILL 3S

Zhiyun WEEBILL 3S Key Features:

  • Max. Payload: 14.33 lb / 6.5 kg
  • Battery Runtime: 11.5 Hours (2600 mAh)
  • Battery Charging Time: 2 Hours (Supports 14W PD Fast-charging)
  • Connections: Bluetooth 5.0, USB-C
  • Display: 0.96-inch Non-touch Single-color screen
  • Smartphone App: Yes
  • Compatiblitle Cameras: Click Here to Check
  • Weight: 2.33 lb / 1.05 kg
  • Dimensions: 305 x 210 x 72.5 mm (Folded)
  • Warranty: 1 year
  • Special Feature: Optimized 2.5 Sling Structure, Integrated 1000 Lux Fill Light, Landscape / Portrait integrated quick release plate, Bluetooth Shutter Control, Native Portrait Shooting, Control Wheel, Trigger Button
  • Store links at B&H.

Pros:

  • Incredibly comfortable
  • Built-in light
  • Handles heavy cameras
  • Competitively priced
  • Landscape / Portrait integrated quick release plate
  • Powerful motor and stabilization
  • Easy trigger and wheel control
  • Extended handle grip and wrist support

Cons:

  • Small OLED screen

The Zhiyun WEEBILL 3S Gimbal Stabilizer is a highly impressive camera stabilizer that takes the features of its predecessor to the next level. Packed with wireless shutter capabilities, an improved fill light, and Sling Mode 2.5, this gimbal is designed to excel in run-and-gun shooting scenarios. Its lightweight and compact form factor, along with its optimized sling structure and integrated fill light, make it a top choice for filmmakers on the go.

One standout feature of the WEEBILL 3S is its upgraded quick release system, which supports seamless switching between portrait and landscape orientations. This flexibility is particularly useful for content creators looking to capture footage for different social media platforms. Whether you’re shooting vlogs or TikToks, this gimbal has got you covered.

The gimbal controls on the WEEBILL 3S are versatile and intuitive. You can control your camera’s shutter wirelessly via Bluetooth 5.0 or use the included control cables for popular camera models. The 0.96″ touchscreen allows for easy navigation and mode selection, and the customizable trigger button and wheel control provide quick access to your preferred settings.

Battery life is a crucial consideration for any filmmaker, and the WEEBILL 3S delivers with its built-in 2600mAh batteries, offering an impressive runtime of up to 11.5 hours. It supports real-time charging for your camera and fast charging technology for the gimbal itself, ensuring you stay powered up during extended shoots.

The gimbal’s motor performs exceptionally well, providing smooth movement with 310° of tilting, 360° of panning, and 340° of rolling. The improved sling design allows for left and right tilt adjustments, making low-angle shots effortless. Additionally, the fill light with Lumen Amplifier technology enhances lighting conditions with just one click, further enhancing the overall visual quality.

In conclusion, the Zhiyun WEEBILL 3S Gimbal Stabilizer is a remarkable piece of equipment that combines advanced features, powerful performance, and a competitive price point. Its comfortable design, built-in light, and compatibility with a range of cameras make it a top choice for filmmakers. Despite a few minor limitations, the WEEBILL 3S delivers exceptional stability, smooth movements, and impressive battery life, making it a standout gimbal in its class.

Zhiyun WEEBILL 3S Gimbal Stabilizer at B&H.

Zhiyun WEEBILL 3S Gimbal Combo Kit at B&H.


4. DJI RS 3

DJI RS 3 Key Features:

  • Max. Payload: 6.6 lb / 3 kg
  • Battery Runtime: 12 Hours (Removable, 3000 mAh)
  • Battery Charging Time: 2.5 Hours (Supports 18W PD Fast-charging)
  • Connections: Bluetooth 5.0, USB-C
  • Display: 1.8-inch OLED Touchscreen
  • Smartphone App: Yes
  • Compatiblitle Cameras: Click Here to Check
  • Weight: 2.2 lb / 990 g
  • Dimensions: 410 x 260 x 195 mm
  • Warranty: 1 year
  • Special Feature: 3rd-Gen RS Stabilization Algorithm, Instant Mode Switching, Supports Wireless Image Transmitter, Motion Control with Smartphone, PD Fast Charging, Multiple Operation Modes, Fine-Tuning Knob on Tilt Axis, Wireless Shutter Control, Lots of accessories
  • Store links at B&H, Adorama.

Pros

  • 1.8-inch OLED Color touchscreen
  • Up to 3 kg payload
  • Beyond Smooth
  • Instant Mode Switching
  • Customizable Front Dial
  • Bluetooth shutter button
  • Stabilizes full-frame systems
  • Wireless and integrated controls
  • Quick-Release Design
  • 12-Hour Operating Time + Fast Charging

Cons

  • Long lenses may not fit

The DJI RS 3 gimbal is an ideal choice for vloggers seeking a compact and lightweight solution with impressive payload capabilities. With a payload of 3.0 kg, this gimbal is perfectly suited for mirrorless, DSLR, and compact shooters who prioritize portability. It is particularly well-suited for travel vloggers and elopement wedding filmmakers who need to keep their equipment lightweight and agile.

The DJI RS 3 brings significant improvements over its predecessors, enhancing the user experience in several ways. Notable upgrades include stronger motors, a larger 1.8″ OLED touchscreen, and the addition of an auto-lock axis feature. All these enhancements are packed into a compact design that sets the RS 3 apart. Weighing just 990g at the base, it is substantially lighter and more manageable than the Ronin-S, making it a breeze to transport and set up.

One of the standout improvements in the DJI RS 3 is its expanded payload support. With a 20% increase in motor strength compared to the DJI RSC2, it can handle a payload weight of 3 kg, bringing it closer to the capabilities of the much heavier Ronin-S. This impressive payload capacity provides ample flexibility for mainstream camera setups within a compact form factor.

The DJI RS 3 incorporates convenient controls to enhance usability. It features a focus and zoom ring, a trigger that fixes the camera position, a double-tap function for recentring the camera, and a triple-tap option for rotating the camera into selfie mode. Additionally, the handle includes slots for attachments like the briefcase handle and video monitor. The handle grip lock mechanism is similar to the RS2, utilizing a swing lock mechanism to keep everything securely in place.

The gimbal is equipped with a front record button for video, while the M button can toggle between modes or be reassigned as a stills shutter. The joystick on the side provides precise control over gimbal movement, and the 1.8″ OLED touchscreen display makes it effortless to switch between various settings and modes such as 3D roll 360, portrait, and panorama. The DJI Ronin mobile app further expands control options, enabling user profiles and basic camera functions through Bluetooth connectivity.

In summary, the DJI RS 3 stands out as the best overall gimbal, combining a lightweight design with a 6.6 lb payload capacity. Its instant mode switching, customizable front dial, and Bluetooth shutter button contribute to its versatility and ease of use. The gimbal excels in stabilizing full-frame systems, offers wireless and integrated controls, and features a quick-release design. With a 12-hour operating time and fast charging capabilities, the RS 3 meets the demands of busy vloggers who require a gimbal that can keep up with their rigorous schedules. Nonetheless, for most vloggers in search of a lightweight and powerful solution, the DJI RS 3 is an exceptional gimbal that will undoubtedly meet their needs.

DJI RS 3 Gimbal Stabilizer at B&H, Adorama.

DJI RS 3 Gimbal Stabilizer Combo at B&H, Adorama.


5. Feiyu SCORP-C

Affordable Gimbal with excellent performance

Feiyu SCORP-C Key Features:

  • Max. Payload: 5.5 lb / 2.5 kg
  • Battery Runtime: 13 Hours (Non-removable, 2500 mAh)
  • Battery Charging Time: 1.6 Hours
  • Connections: Bluetooth, USB-C
  • Display: No
  • Smartphone App: Yes
  • Compatiblitle Cameras: Click Here to Check
  • Weight: 2.7 lb / 1.2 kg (with Camera Plate)
  • Dimensions: 280.8 x 266.2 x 71.3 mm (Folded), 314.4 x 243.3 x 210.7 mm
  • Warranty: 1 year
  • Special Feature: Control via Buttons and App, Quick Release Camera Plate, Five Follow Modes for Customized Control, Three 1/4″-20 Mounting Threads, USB Type-C Camera Connections, Macromolecular Resin, Aluminum Alloy, Motorized 3-Axis Gimbal, Folding Aileron Bracket, Various shooting modes on Feiyu SCORP APP, Various Automated Modes
  • Store links at B&H.

Pros

  • Balance and setup is far easier
  • Underslung grip is comfortable
  • Incredibly stable and smooth
  • Longer battery runtime with fast charging
  • Exceptionally economical

Cons

  • Camera life dramatically impacted by weight
  • App needs a LOT of work

The Feiyu SCORP-C is a motorized 3-axis gimbal designed specifically for lightweight mirrorless cameras. With a maximum payload capacity of 2.5kg, it can easily support popular compact and mirrorless models on the market. One of its key advantages is its affordability, making it an excellent option for videographers on a budget.

The standout feature of the Feiyu SCORP-C is its lightweight and compact design. Weighing just 1.2kg with the camera plate attached, it is highly portable and convenient to carry around. The folding aileron bracket further enhances its portability, allowing for easy storage and transport when not in use.

The gimbal offers various shooting modes, including pan-follow, tilt-follow, and lock mode, providing versatility in capturing different types of shots. It even features a selfie mode, catering to vloggers and content creators who frequently film themselves on the go. Additionally, the gimbal boasts five follow modes, enabling customized control and ensuring you achieve the perfect shot regardless of your filming needs.

Battery life is impressive on the Feiyu SCORP-C, with a runtime of up to 13 hours on a single charge. While the battery is non-removable, it can be conveniently charged through the USB-C port on the gimbal. This allows for quick charging, minimizing downtime and enabling extended filming sessions.

Overall, the Feiyu SCORP-C is an excellent budget gimbal that delivers impressive performance and stability. Its lightweight design, range of shooting modes, and customization options make it suitable for various filming scenarios. Despite the app’s limitations, the gimbal remains a compelling choice for budget-conscious individuals seeking a reliable and high-quality stabilizer for their cameras.

Feiyu SCORP-C 3-Axis Gimbal Stabilizer at B&H.


6. Feiyu SCORP-Mini

Feiyu SCORP-Mini Key Features:

  • Max. Payload: 2.65 lb / 1.2 kg
  • Battery Runtime: 13 Hours (Non-removable, 2500 mAh)
  • Battery Charging Time: 1.6 Hours
  • Connections: Bluetooth, USB-C
  • Display: 1.3″ OLED Touchscreen
  • Smartphone App: Yes
  • Compatiblitle Cameras: Click Here to Check
  • Weight: 1.7 lb / 787 g
  • Warranty: 1 year
  • Special Feature: Arca-Type Quick Release Camera Plate, Smooth, Electronically Dampened Knob, 5 x Follow Modes for Customized Control, Dedicated Portrait Mode Button
  • Store links at B&H.

Pros:

  • Compact size
  • Light weight
  • Sling arm for low angles
  • Programmable dial

Cons:

  • Occasional vibration
  • Didn’t auto track subject via app
  • Longer lens combos may not fit

The FeiyuTech Scorp Mini is a compact, lightweight, and versatile gimbal that caters to the needs of smartphone, compact camera, action camera, and mirrorless camera users. It offers smooth pans, tilts, and tracking shots while keeping your footage level. With its sling arm, you can easily capture low-angle shots, and the tactile front knob and rear joystick allow for seamless camera movements.

The Scorp Mini stands out as a 4-in-1 gimbal, supporting mirrorless cameras, compact cameras, action cameras, and smartphones. It offers a range of creative features, such as time-lapse, motion-lapse, and hyper-lapse in video mode. Additionally, it enables the creation of stunning panoramic shots, including 360-degree panoramas and self-defined panoramas of different sizes.

The SCORP-Mini includes an Arca-type quick release camera plate, detachable tripod, lens holder, and USB-C ports for camera connectivity, accessory attachment, and charging the built-in 2500mAh battery. By downloading the SCORP app for Android/iOS, mirrorless camera control is made possible, while the ON app is useful for smartphone capture.

The SCORP-Mini is an ideal choice for smartphone and mirrorless camera users, offering Bluetooth control for smartphones, cabled control for cameras, and stabilization for action cameras. With a weight of only 1.7 lb, it supports payloads up to 2.65 lb and comes with a detachable tripod for added convenience.

Featuring a 1.3″ OLED touchscreen and a smooth electronic dampening motion, the gimbal allows for easy parameter adjustments using the multifunction knob. It offers multiple modes and effects, including Auto Rotation, Motion Timelapse, Panorama, Pan/Follow, Pan/Tilt/Follow, First Person View, Lock, and Flash Follow. A dedicated Portrait Mode button enables effortless switching to a vertical/vlogging perspective.

However, it’s important to note that occasional vibrations may occur, and auto-tracking via the app may not always function correctly. Additionally, longer lens combinations may not fit well on the gimbal.

In summary, the FeiyuTech Scorp Mini is a feature-packed gimbal that offers convenience, versatility, and smooth stabilization for a range of cameras, including smartphones, compact cameras, action cameras, and mirrorless cameras. Its compact size, lightweight design, sling arm, and programmable dial make it a valuable tool for capturing creative shots, although some minor drawbacks should be considered.

Feiyu SCORP-Mini Gimbal Stabilizer at B&H.


We appreciate you taking the time to read our guide on the top gimbals for the Sony ZV-1 II. We recognize the significance of selecting the right equipment to enhance your creative capabilities. We value your input and suggestions for future evaluations, as they allow us to continually improve and offer up-to-date guides. If you have personal experience using any of the recommended gimbals, we would be delighted to hear your impressions. Your feedback can be incredibly valuable in assisting others in making informed decisions when choosing a gimbal.

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