DJI drones are the most well-known product, however it also makes flying cameras. The Ronin series of DJI gimbals is nearly as old and has seen great improvements in design over the previous generation. RSC 2 (now $499) folds down to make it easier for storage and transportation, but is powerful enough that full-frame mirrorless cameras can be used. The RSC 2 is cheaper than the Zhiyun Crane 2S (599) in price. While some might prefer the Crane's interchangeable batteries, we think the RSC 2's folding frame wins out and it's our Editors Choice.
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For travel, foldable
Vloggers who travel the world a lot place a high value on packing the most quality gear in the smallest possible package. We've witnessed a lot of gear designed with light-weighting in mind over the years. You'll sometimes pay a premium, as is the case with the carbon fiber Peak Design Travel Tripod, but there are values to be had by going small, too—the slim, full-frame Sony a7C is just one recent example.
The DJI RSC 2 joins the chorus. It delivers the same level of stabilization as bigger rivals, like the Crane 2S, without as much bulk. It's smaller overall (15.7 by 7.3 by 6.9 inches, HWD), and makes use of carbon fiber to keep things lightweight. The RSC 2 weighs a bit under 3 pounds, about a pound less than the Crane. Payload capacity is similar—the DJI model holds rigs up to 6.6 pounds, while the Crane 2S handles about 7 pounds.
If you have a heavier rig, consider the DJI RS2 or Zhiyun Crane 3—both handle bigger cinema cameras, up to 10 pounds for the RS2 and 14 pounds for the Crane 3.
The battery is internal and charges via USB-C. DJI estimates about 14 hours of battery life on a full charge, plenty for all-day location work. Expect battery life to drop off over time as recharge cycles rack up. The Crane 2S is there if you prefer swappable batteries.
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Balance and Unfolding
The RSC 2 will be easy to use for gimbal veterans, however new users might encounter some difficulties. It's nothing you can't overcome—my biggest problem was accidentally unfolding it backward, so the camera slid into the plate in the wrong orientation. You can unfold the plate correctly if you keep the tilt motor near the grip and the USB-C control ports facing forward.
You don't need tools to get things installed, but you may want to keep a screwdriver handy regardless. DJI uses thumb screws on its mounting plates. The convenience is welcome, but the plates can slip when they're just finger-tight. A careful extra tightening with a flathead screwdriver remedies the issue.
The gimbal was tested with two mirrorless cameras: one full-frame model and the other a mirrorless camera. Sony a7S III, FE 12-24mmF2.8 GM lens and Sony a7S III spent most of their time at the RSC 2. It was also useful with the extremely small Sigma fpL and 14-24mm F2.8 DG DN Art lenses.
After the camera is properly unfolded, balance it. Connect the mounting plate in two pieces to your camera, then install the support lens cradle. Next, find your center of gravity.
You need to balance along three axes. Start by sliding the mounting plate forward and back in its cradle. When it's centered, the camera won't move at all—if the plate is too far forward, the system will be front-heavy and the camera will tilt downward, and vice versa if it's too far back.
Next, tilt your camera up so that it is centered on the vertical arm. The adjustment rail can be tightened and loosened by a large silver thumb screw. When you've got the camera centered on these two axes, you'll be able to tilt it in any position and have it stay perfectly in place—if there's any drift, something is off.
You'll repeat the same process on the third axis. This is the one that sets your horizon line. It's easier with practice, but RSC 2 won't tolerate slight imbalances. Because the Crane 2S has a larger frame, you don't have to use as much precision in order to achieve perfect balance.
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An enduring platform
There are many stabilization options available for the RSC 2. Pan Follow, the default mode that you will likely use most often for your shots is what you should be using. This allows the pan axis to follow your movements and delivers smooth video just like you would get from a drone. To convey motion more clearly, use POV.
These can be used at chest level or underslung and low to the ground. This is helpful for conveying motion. The RSC 2 is a great tool for smoothening my uneven steps, regardless of whether I am running or jogging.
A Vortex mode is also available, which allows for 360-degree rotations that can be used to create disorienting images. To enhance the effect, I used a fisheye lens and paired it up with my Vortex mode. The thumb stick can be used to control the roll or it will automatically go.
Integration with cameras is possible. An USB-C connector connects to compatible cameras, so that you can adjust settings directly from the gimbal handle. You can use the Record button to stop or start recording, and a wheel to adjust the aperture. To tilt and pan the camera, a thumbstick is available.
The M button switches between stabilization modes, and there's an OLED display and menu to change settings. You can also change settings via a smartphone app, DJI Ronin, a free download for Android and iOS devices. It also opens up some additional creative modes, including time-lapse photography with motion and repeated, automated camera movements for video, which DJI calls manual tracking. It's a recommended download as it makes configuration a more intuitive, visual experience.
Accessories and add-Ons For The pros
To expand the functionality of your RSC 2, you can purchase accessories. To transmit live video from your smartphone to Ronin, the gimbal can be used with DJI RavenEye wireless transmission technology.
Adding RavenEye is worth it if you don't have a good solution for monitoring video with the camera mounted—if you use a body with a fixed rear display, it's an almost necessary add-on if you don't already use an external monitor. It also opens ActiveTrack as an option in the app, a subject recognition mode that moves the gimbal automatically to follow an identified subject.
RavenEye can be added later to your package for $159. The $739 RSC 2 Pro combination includes RavenEye and additional functionality. This combo costs $159.
We love the folding design
A gimbal is a great choice for creators looking to create smooth 4K video. DJI RSC2 reduces the size of company's Ronin series by reducing its moniker and physically.
This platform is also extremely stable. It will allow you to create handheld walk-and talk vlogs that have less bounce than a stabilized sensor or lens. YouTubers can control their mirrorless cameras using camera control. The folding design of the Zhiyun Crane 2S makes it an ideal travel companion.
It's not a perfect product. The built-in battery is the biggest hurdle for many. You'll be out of luck if you run out of power in the field—USB charging is available, but requires more time than swapping out for a fresh set. Balancing a camera is a little trickier than with the Crane 2S, but it's really only a matter of spending a few extra minutes making sure everything is set right before starting to roll footage.
The Crane 2S may be worth looking into if you are willing to pay more for a larger gimbal and want the possibility of changing batteries out in the field. Although it is $100 more expensive than the RSC 2 but sometimes, you can get it for less. Even if the Crane 2S is priced lower, we think the RSC 2 foldable gimbal is more appealing, particularly for travelers, and it was our Editors Choice winner.