This post was most recently updated on April 10th, 2022
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10 Best Gimbals For Sony A7s in 2022 – Reviews, FAQS, & Guide
A gimbal is a type of camera stabilizer that attaches to your camera, allowing it to be mounted on a tripod and get the same degree of stability that a handheld camera usually has. Gimbal systems can be very helpful in making smooth, stable videos.
Gimbals are helpful, but they’re not necessary for creating great videos. You can make smooth videos using smartphones and some entry-level DSLRs without gimbals — as long as you have a good tripod. If you have a smartphone or DSLR with video stabilization built-in, then all you need is a solid tripod.
The best way to determine what gimbal system is right for you is to watch how smoothly your videos turn out when compared with other people’s videos. A gimbal system allows you to move the camera around more freely while still allowing it to remain steady, which means smoother footage.
But don’t overdo it! A gimbal system isn’t absolutely necessary if your videos still look good when you can’t see them. You’ll probably still turn out better-looking results — especially for handheld footage — without the extra weight and bulk of a gimbal system.
If you want to take a steady shot for your next YouTube video the gimbal is all that you need and it’s better to get one sooner than later.
A gimbal will provide you with the much-needed stabilization during the most intense shots and make your video look professional which is the most important part. If you’ve already done the research part, job well done, if not, not a problem.
Our product experts have done their part to put together a list of some of the best gimbals for Sony a7s and I am going to review those gimbals one by one in this article plus some important buying tips to help you get the best deal.
Before getting into the real point of the article, let’s just quickly talk about some basic stuff that is important to know if you are just starting. For pros, it is advisable to skip this part and jump straight into the review part of the article.
What is a Gimbal?
A gimbal basically is a mechanical device that provides much-needed pivotal support to your camera along a single axis to help steady your camera during a video shoot.
There are three types of gimbal available in the market differing from each other in terms of axis support. The most common type is a 3 axis gimbal that allows the mounted camera to be independent of the movement of the user’s hand. The three axes are most commonly known as yaw, pitch, and roll.
Let’s just not get deeper into this and probably saves the topic for separate seating. For now, better move ahead with the review part of the top 10 best gimbals for Sony a7s.
1.DJI Ronin-S
DJI’s first handheld gimbal, introduced in 2018, Ronin-S made an immediate impact in the tech world with its state-of-the-art technology and amazing features.
Providing an alluring 8lbs payload capacity, DJI Ronin-S makes for a great stabilizer not only for your Sony a7s but for most the DSLRs and mirrorless cameras too.
The 3 axes motorized stabilization system is designed to regulate by an intuitive control panel consisting of a joystick and a rear trigger offering easy and accurate movements and shortcuts to several fundamental functions.
A handful of pre-arranged shot modes like panorama, time-lapse, and motion lapse make your life easier than ever before. Its extra smooth fluid footage won’t let you down even in the toughest shooting conditions.
The Ronin-S can’t get any better with its user-friendly ergonomic design that incorporates a bunch of accessible dedicated buttons to start and stop video recording plus to bounce between several customized profiles.
The lithium polymer rechargeable battery provides a work time of 12 hours at one charge which is more than enough to bundle out your shoot.
On top of all these great features, the DJI mobile app allows you to taste the more advanced features of your DJI Ronin-S handheld gimbal.
2.Ikan DS1 Beholder
Specially designed to accommodate the ultra-modern DSLRs and mirrorless cameras, Ikan DS1 Beholder is yet another 3 axis gimbal stabilizer based on brushless motorized technology as most of the 3 axis gimbals in the market.
A go-to option as Ikan DS1 Beholder is for Sony a7s, it doesn’t disappoint you in providing smooth footage every time you go out for an intense video shoot.
The Ikan DS1 Beholder used the tilt and roll axes to provide that much-needed stability to your camera while on a move or any other situation where the camera is not in a static position.
It can hold a payload of as weightier as 1.7 kg means you can attach heavier lenses to your Sony a7s without any hesitation with the Ikan Wei Beholder.
The quick-release base plate allows you to mount or dismount your camera without any delay whenever or wherever you want. Not only that, you can mount it on a tripod, monopod, or slider with the help of the threat mount situated on the bottom of the gimbal.
3.Andoer 3-Axis Handheld Gimbal Stabilizer
Features
- 3 axis stabilization system
- 1.7 kg payload capacity
- 3.7V rechargeable lithium battery
- Compatible with several smartphones and GoPro cameras
- Accommodate Sony a7s and other cameras with the help of a sports camera adapter plate
- Mini Tripod
- 4 different shot modes
- Wireless operation
- Supports wired connection to operate
- Blue tooth connectivity
If you can’t handle those big bulky gimbals as some of them are, Andoer 3-Axis Handheld Gimbal is what you need right now.
Compact and lightweight, this portable yet super-efficient handheld gimbal is worth a purchase for its compactness and high-performance features.
The 3 axes motorized technology is what a professional photographer seeks in a gimbal for precision video shooting. Andoer 3-Axis Handheld Gimbal is also capable of performing via a wired connection or even wirelessly.
Multiple built-in sensors will provide that added stability and precision that every cinematographer wants but won’t get too often. And again with a load capacity of as much as 1.7 kg, you can always use heavier lenses to intensify the footage.
Also, the high-performance 3.7V 2200 mAH lithium battery provides enough work time to complete your shoot without having to change the battery in between.
The best part about the Andoer 3-Axis Handheld Gimbal is that not only it’s compatible with Sony a7s with the help of a sports camera adapter plate but also accommodates a bunch of smartphones and GoPro cameras too so you can use it with a variety of cameras alongside Sony a7s which is a great thing to have.
4.MOZA Air 2
You can’t get a more efficient gimbal stabilizer for your Sony a7s with as much load capacity as provided by the ultra-modern MOZA Air 2.
The 9lbs payload capacity of MOZA Air 2 ensures its compatibility with a wide range of DSLRs, mirrorless cameras, and even some compact cinema cameras too.
You can’t get over the whopping 16-hour battery life which is not only the best for any gimbal on the list but also more than good enough for any lengthy shoot.
Besides all these super amazing features, MOZA Air 2 works on the more traditional gimbal features such as the 3 axes motorized stabilization system and intuitive control panel.
The unique inception mode offers a variety of twisting turning video effects that you would not find generally in a handheld gimbal but with MOZA Air 2 you can get several of these unique properties.
Not only that, MOZA Air 2 has a lengthy list of pro-grade modes and features that make it one of the most attractive and competent gimbals you could ever get for the Sony a7s.
5.Zhiyun Crane 3S
Zhiyun crane 3S handheld gimbal is the most sought-after stabilizer for DSLRs and camcorders. The heavy-duty gimbal can carry a whopping payload of 6.5 kg which is more than enough for the Sony alpha7 series.
Even you use it with the heaviest lenses and it won’t be a problem for Zhiyun Crane 3S to hold that load and perform immaculately.
Made of rugged plastic, the durable Zhiyun Crane 3S gives a premium and super strong look and feel. The smart sling handle makes it easy for the user to carry the setup during a lengthy shoot.
As it is a heavy-duty gimbal and can carry almost every other camera no matter whether it is a medium, large or small camera, it offers a unique set of settings that give you an option to choose the size of the camera to adjust the settings of the motor accordingly.
For larger cameras, Zhiyun Crane 3S has an extension module to increase the length of the roll axis and for medium and small cameras the module can be removed for compactness and portability.
The user-friendly LCD screen offers a bunch of different settings and the navigation buttons on the control panel’s handle offer custom options to control the gimbal efficiently.
Zhiyun Crane 3S also has a smartphone app support that offers the luxury of remote controlling several features of the gimbal productively.
6.DJI RSC 2 – 3-Axis Gimbal Stabilizer
Yet another masterpiece from DJI, RSC 2 is an exceptional foldable 3axis gimbal stabilizer made to accommodate DSLRs and mirrorless cameras.
The compact and portable design makes for easy handling and the smart control system delivers smooth stable footage every time you go out to shoot with the DJI RSC 2 gimbal stabilizer.
The foldable design not only makes it portable and compact but helps in capturing stunning footage while shooting difficult shots.
Besides the fixed and slow charging nature of the battery, it surprisingly lasts a whopping 14 hours in one charge which is more than good enough to complete a full-fledged video shoot.
Unlike the first Ronin SC, the RSC 2 is strongly built with a combination of durable plastic and metal to last longer than you think.
The Wi-Fi connectivity feature adjoins the DJI RSC 2 with the DJI mobile app that allows you to control many of the gimbal functions effectively with your smartphone.
7.Pilotfly H2 3-Axis Handheld Gimbal (Black)
One of the few 3 axis handheld gimbals that offers a free 360° rotation on its yaw and roll axes. Designed to last, Pilotfly H2 is made of aluminium alloy which makes this heavy-duty 3-axis handheld gimbal one of the most durable and strong gimbals on the market.
The detachable handle makes for precise and exceptional moveable shots while a user-friendly 4-way joystick ensures simple and understandable operation.
On top of all that, the 5 lbs payload capacity of Pilotfly H2 means it can handle a variety of different cameras efficiently. 5 different pre-arranged profiles ensure quick and efficient operation.
8.[Beholder] DS1 Handheld Stabilizer
Beholder DS1 handheld stabilizer is yet another user-friendly gimbal stabilizer that is designed to last and made of durable material. This lightweight 3 axis handheld stabilizer is made to accommodate both DSLRs and mirrorless cameras between the weight range of 1.5lbs to 3.7lbs.
The gyro brushless motors ensure great stabilization of your mounted Sony a7 camera or any other mirrorless camera slots between the aforesaid weight range.
Powered by a lithium-ion battery, [Beholder] DS1 Handheld Stabilizer offers a work time that is more than sufficient to support any reasonable shoot time.
The eco-friendly on/off switch illuminates with the command to eliminate any complications during the operation. Your [Beholder] DS1 Handheld Stabilizer also supports a tripod mount that came with the unit to ease the process of complicated video shoots.
The quick-release base plate ensures easy mounting dismounting of the camera to avoid any delay in hustling times. The user-friendly joystick makes for easy control of the gimbal even in the most difficult situations.
Also, the compact and durable design offers easy handling while working for long hours. If all of this is not sufficient, [Beholder] DS1 Handheld Stabilizer offers 4 different preprogrammed shot modes to strengthen the quality of the footage.
9.Zhiyun Weebill S Compact Gimbal Stabilizer
Over the years, Zhiyun has managed to make a name for itself in producing high-quality gimbal stabilizers and Zhiyun Weebill A is no exception to that great reputation. Compact and lightweight, Zhiyun Weebill A is a perfect option for those who normally shoot for long hours.
Even though it is lightweight and compact, it can easily hold a variety of different cameras ranging from small to most medium-sized cameras and yes Sony a7 series included that too with additional lenses.
A combination of rugged plastic and high-quality metal with a total weight of just 970 grams makes it one of the most durable and lightweight gimbal stabilizers you could ever imagine.
The precise weight distribution of the gimbal ensures easy handling and balancing during the toughest shoots. The slide lock feature on each of the three axes ensures that it doesn’t move even a bit without your permission.
The double plate mounting mechanism ensures that you won’t have to balance the camera out every time you mount the camera on your Zhiyun Weebill A gimbal stabilizer.
On top of I’m all these amazing features, the ZY mobile app support offers easy controls of every advanced function of your Zhiyun Weebill S.
10.DJI Ronin SC Pro
Besides producing state-of-the-art drone cameras, DJI is gradually making its mark in manufacturing high-quality gimbals too.
Starting with the Osmo Pocket, DJI is now moved on to creating more professional versions of gimbals that can accommodate a variety of different cameras and Ronin SC Pro is one of their few claim to fame gimbals across the market.
The pro version is more of a lightweight and portable interpretation of the original Ronin S. The 4.4 lbs payload capacity means it is specifically designed to accommodate small DSLRs and mirrorless cameras.
Also, with the total weight not exceeding 2.7 lbs, DJI Ronin SC Pro is extremely easy to carry for long hours. Active track 3.0 ensures accurate and precise subject tracking while shooting on the move.
BUYERS GUIDE
While we are done with the product reviewing part of the article, there are some important aspects of gimbals that you need to know before finalizing the decision to purchase the best gimbal for Sony a7s. Let’s just quickly discuss some of them to get a better idea.
Payload Capacity
The most important thing to consider before buying a gimbal for a specific camera series like the Sony a7s is the payload capacity of the gimbal.
It is important because you need to have a gimbal that can accommodate not only your camera but also the heavy lenses you will be using with your camera shortly and if your gimbal can’t take that it is of no use.
Stabilization
The basic factor to consider before buying any gimbal is because the sole purpose of buying a gimbal is to stabilize your camera and if your gimbal can’t do that it’s just a piece of wreck. So do look at the stabilization system of the gimbal before making a purchase.
Weight & Size
If you are a professional you would be using your camera setup along with the gimbal stabilizer for long hours more often than not.
And if it’s a compact and lightweight gimbal, it does make your life easier than ever before but if not, you are in a lot of trouble. But don’t compromise the quality of the product on compactness.
Battery life
Do consider the battery life and mode of charging before buying a gimbal because it does matter a lot. Nobody wants to stop everything during the shoot just because your gimbal doesn’t get you enough work time, so get a gimbal with a long-lasting and fast-charging battery.
FAQs
What is the recording limit of Sony a7s?
Like most of the DSLRs, the Sony a7s also has a recording limit and that is 29minutes and 59 seconds.
Can I use any camera on any given gimbal?
While you can use various cameras on a gimbal, that doesn’t mean you can use just any. Gimbals have their limitations and most of them come with a list of cameras they are compatible so do read the product review part before buying a product.
Is a camera gimbal worth buying?
Although gimbals can make your photos look great with their still shots, the main purpose of a gimbal is to give much-needed stabilization to your camera during a video shoot. So if you are a videographer, a gimbal is definitely worth buying a product for you.
Can a great gimbal guarantee me great footage?
Although a gimbal gives your camera the needed stabilization and can be a defining factor in your videography career, it can’t guarantee great footage because that’s basically your job. A gimbal can help you through it but it’s the cameraman’s skills that can guarantee a cinematic shot.
Our Recommendation
If you are a struggling videographer a gimbal can do a lot of good to strengthen your career but that will happen only when you will be able to make the right call at the right time.
Our product experts have done a tremendous job to make a list of the top 10 best gimbals for Sony a7s.
And all of them are great options to choose from but the standout product of today according to our experts is MOZA Air 2 because of its heavy-duty design, great payload capacity, and unbeatable battery life.
That’s all from our side today. Hope you get the best deal out of it as per your needs and budget.