This article should help you understand the choice of the Feiyu-Tech electronic stabilizer model that suits you.

Feiyu-Tech models are divided into groups: handheld gimbals for action cameras, handheld gimbals for SLR cameras, handheld hangers for smartphones, compact mobile hangers, hangers for aircraft and ready-made solutions in the form of a manual stabilizer with a built-in camera.

In turn, each of the groups contains models, the division into which depends on the number of stabilization axes (1-2-3 axes), the type of mount, depending on the camera or smartphone being installed and the set of additional functions.

Handheld gimbals for action cameras

Manual gimbals or hand-held electronic stabilizers are a design consisting of a mounting platform for the camera, brushless motors that stabilize the installed camera, and a handle, usually made in the form of a tube with batteries.

FY G3 Steadycam Gimbal

2-axis version of the very first stabilizer model from Feiyu-Tech. The main difference between the first versions was that the wires connecting the motors ran outside the structure and thereby limited the turning radius along the axes and risked being torn off if there were constant bends. The stabilizer mount could accommodate GoPro HERO4/ 3+/ 3 cameras and other cameras with similar dimensions.

FY G3 Ultra

3-axis version of the G3 Steadycam Gimbal. Stabilization became in 3 planes. It also had remote wires and was limited by the angles of rotation along the axes. The controls were updated and now all functions were activated with one button. GoPro HERO4/ 3+/ 3 cameras and other cameras with similar dimensions available for installation.

FYG4

New generation of 3-axis stabilizers Feiyu-Tech. Its main advantage was the absence of external wires. Now they were all hidden in the case. This makes it possible to rotate the motors over a larger radius. The entire structure has become lighter thanks to the use of aircraft aluminum, and the camera mount has become a “half-frame”. This decision allows you to install versions of action cameras with a screen without covering the image on it. An additional accessory has appeared: a remote control. By connecting it through a connector to the stabilizer, you could control it remotely, adjusting the tracking and rotation angle and changing operating modes.

FYG4 GS

This modification is designed for installation of SONY AS series action cameras. Otherwise, it is no different from basic version G4.

FY G4 QD

Another modification of the G4 with a universal mount in the form of a sliding clamp. Now it is possible to install more camera models with different overall dimensions. Among those declared, the following are suitable: GoPro with a separate screen module, Xiaomi Yi, SJCAM and others...

Feiyu-Tech's first 3-axis stabilizer with full 360° rotation in all 3 axes and a joystick with which you can select any angle while shooting. Changed the mount. It is made in the form of quick-release clips, and on the side there is a power connector for GOPRO cameras. Therefore, it will not be possible to use this stabilizer for other cameras. Remote controller remote control now works via WIFI using a module connected to the WIFI stabilizer.

Handheld gimbals for SLR cameras

Feiyu-Tech models belonging to this group:

FYMG

A specially designed gimbal for semi-professional shooting, which can be transformed with the help of individual elements into various types of structures for convenient holding on weight. Designed for installation of SLR cameras. The set of characteristics is similar to the G4S version. This includes 360° rotation on all axes, a joystick for controlling the angle of rotation, and a remote control via WIFI. The maximum load on this Steadicam is 1070 g. A number of cameras fit these parameters: SONY A7RII, ILCE-7R / ILCE-5100, SONY NEX-5N / NEX-7 and other N series cameras; Panasonic LUMIX GH4, Canon EOS M3, OLYMPUS E-M5 and other cameras of similar weight and size. The weight of the suspension itself is 821 g.

FYMG Lite

A simplified version of the MG gimbal in the form of one handle-tube, 3 brushless motors and a mounting platform SLR camera. All this is packed in a compact case.

Handheld gimbals for smartphones

Feiyu-Tech models belonging to this group:

FY SmartStab

This is a solution for smartphones in the form of a 2-axis mobile stabilizer and a monopod with control buttons. The sliding mount is designed for large smartphones like the iPhone 6 Plus.

FYG4Plus

3-axis stabilizer for smartphones. Complete solution for those who like to shoot with their smartphone. Sliding mount, 3-axis stabilization, one mode switch button, lightweight and elegant. The set of functions is similar to the G4 version.

FY G4 Pro

Analogous to FY G4S but with a mount for smartphones, with full 360° rotation on all 3 axes and a joystick that controls the angles of rotation of the motors. First handheld stabilizer approved by Apple and sold in Apple Store.

Compact mobile gimbals

The main purpose of these stabilizers is the ability to easily fix them in non-standard places and at the same time they should take up as little space as possible.

Feiyu-Tech models belonging to this group:

FY WG Lite

The smallest and most compact 1-axis model. Stabilization occurs only by the angle of rotation. The stabilizer comes with an adapter for Gopro mounts. This means that you can install this gimbal on any accessory that supports the Gopro mounting standard. The set also includes 2 adapters for threaded mounts. With their help, it becomes possible to use the gimbal together with a monopod.

FY WG Mini

2-axis version of the WG series. The set also contains adapters for standard Gopro mounts and threaded adapters for tripods and monopods.

FY WGS

Specially designed 3-axis stabilizer for the GoPro HERO4 Session camera. In combination with the small size of the camera and a set of additional mounts for GoPro, they provide excellent installation options on any surface and shape: motorcycle helmet, bicycle, motorcycle, car, person and much more.

FY WG

A 3-axis version similar to the previous model, but for GoPro HERO4/ 3+/ 3 cameras and other cameras with similar dimensions.

Aircraft gimbals

A type of gimbal for those who like to take pictures from the air. Designed for mounting on aircraft, such as copters and radio-controlled aircraft models. They have two plates with damping elements in the form of rubber tubes to get rid of small vibrations during flight and connectors for connecting external power.

Feiyu-Tech models belonging to this group:

FY G3 Gimbal for Aircraft

2-axis gimbal. It was produced in parallel with the first versions of manual steadicams. It has the same drawback as the first models - external wires. Intended for GoPro HERO4/ 3+/ 3 cameras and other cameras with similar dimensions.

FY G3 Ultra Gimbal for Aircraft

3-axis version of the previous gimbal. The third axis made it possible to rotate the camera in a horizontal plane without resorting to rotating the aircraft itself. True, the turn is limited in radius.

FY MiNi 2D

An updated version of a 2-axis gimbal for aircraft. The main difference from the previous ones was the absence of external wires. Improved design throughout. The platform for the camera has become a frame, which allows you to install cameras with a screen without covering it.

FY MiNi 3D

An updated version of the 3-axis gimbal for aircraft, just as wireless as the 2-axis version.

FY MiNi 3D Pro

An improved version of the 3-axis gimbal for aircraft. More powerful motors were installed and the horizontal rotation angle became a full 360°.

Handheld stabilizers with built-in camera

One of the new directions of Feiyu-Tech is the creation ready-made solution stabilization and video recording in one device right out of the box.

Feiyu-Tech models belonging to this group:

This is a 3-axis stabilizer with a built-in 16 megapixel camera that shoots video in 4K format at 25 frames per second. In combination with the available stabilization and video shooting in slow-motion mode (120 fps), you will get an incredibly smooth and clear picture. An automatic axis rotation algorithm has been implemented for filming timelapse videos. The camera has a 2-inch screen and a distortion-free 95° lens. All elements are made from durable metal. The case already has a threaded mount that will allow you to install the device anywhere.

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When choosing equipment for video shooting, it would be a mistake to think that it is enough to buy a sophisticated camera with high resolution and the picture will look good. In fact, if we watch a video shot by professionals, we can already see from the smoothness of the camera movement that the camera is mounted on something that allows us to avoid sharp turns and shaking. That is, in fact, no less important role play various systems, fixing the camera or allowing it to be moved smoothly. In the case of handheld shooting, the most modern version of such a system is electronic stabilizers (steadicams), which compensate for camera rotation due to built-in electric motors.

Let's take a closer look at what they do.

With any electronic stabilizer, the camera and the handle by which it is held are connected by two frames located perpendicular to each other. Between the frames there are three hinges driven by electric motors. Each of these electric motors keeps the camera from rotating along one of three axes. These three axes are usually referred to in aviation terminology:

1. Roll - camera tilt left and right
2. Pitch - tilt forward and backward
3. Yaw - rotation around a vertical axis

The design of the stabilizer also includes gyroscopes, which, in fact, determine the desire of the camera to rotate around these axes.

From all this it is clear that even in its simplest form, an electronic stabilizer is a high-tech device, the capabilities of which previously could only be realized for a lot of money.

Depending on the tasks and budget, different cameras can be used for video shooting. Accordingly, since cameras have different weights, stabilizers differ in maximum load. Therefore, we decided not to mix everything together, but to consider these devices in order of increasing maximum load.

Electronic stabilizers for action cameras

Action cameras are compact in size, so stabilizers for them are lightweight. They can be used with monopod extensions, which turn them into an advanced selfie stick.

The most popular and widespread stabilizers are the Chinese company Feiyu. Their popularity arises from their low price, which, in turn, is due to their functional simplicity.

The first of the models with which it all began - designed for GoPro HERO 3 - served as the starting point for subsequent devices. For control, only two buttons are used here - one to turn on, the other to switch modes. The camera is only attached to the stabilizer; it is impossible to control the camera from the stabilizer. Feature Feiyu FY-G4 - it cannot be turned on without a load, that is, a camera.

It had three modes, depending on which axes remain fixed with the stabilizer and which do not. Later a model was released, the mount of which became universal and was suitable for cameras from other manufacturers.

The main improvement of another updated model is the ability to rotate the camera 360 degrees horizontally, as well as connect a GoPro to the connector on the stabilizer for ease of use, all this coupled with a new, more convenient mount for the camera itself. The stabilizer finally has a joystick to control rotation.

Another form factor of electronic stabilizers for action cameras is represented by the model. The name itself suggests that it is more compact.

It has a small body without a handle, as it is designed for installation on various mounts for action cameras. That is, you can put it on a bicycle, helmet, or any moving platform, and it will stabilize the fixed action camera. However, no one bothers you to attach it to a monopod and use it for selfie videos, like the FY-G4.

Stabilizers for smartphones

A professional is unlikely to purposefully shoot on a smartphone, but for an amateur it may turn out to be the main video recording device, fortunately modern models“smart phones” allow this.

Feiyu launches the FY-G4 Pro and FY-SPG Live in this segment.

The main feature of the second one is the ability to rotate to a vertical shooting position and connect to a smartphone via Bluetooth. At the same time, it is installed on the smartphone special program, with which you can calibrate the stabilizer.

But the best stabilizer for this style of shooting is probably .

The main advantages of this device:

1. The stabilizer connects to a smartphone via Bluetooth and can control photo and video shooting using dedicated buttons.
2. The software supports face detection, so Osmo Mobile can automatically capture a person by tracking their movements by turning in their direction.
3. The stabilizer supports motion timelapse function. The smartphone camera takes a series of pictures with a slight angle shift after each one, and then these pictures are combined into a video.
4. The ability to upgrade image quality with the advent of new smartphone models.
5. Ability to use the stabilizer with GoPro HERO using third-party mounts.

Stabilizers for cameras and video cameras

From compact stabilizers come the most simple models- with one handle. Here we return to the Feiyu models. The fact is that they have developed a stabilizer model similar to the FY-G4, only designed for larger cameras. This model is called FY-MG.

It supports cameras weighing up to 1 kilogram, which, of course, is not only a quantitative but also a qualitative leap.

When using such a stabilizer, it is necessary not only to adjust it to the weight of the camera, but also to adjust it to the center of gravity. Therefore, the FY-MG provides the ability to adjust the camera balance in all planes.

This device has two versions: FY-MG Lite and FY-MG V2. The second differs from the first in a plastic carrying case and, most importantly, in the included holder that allows you to hold the stabilizer with two hands. Thus, the stabilizer has several usable configurations, shown in the photo below.

Devices of the DJI Ronin series, despite the same principle of operation as those of other manufacturers, have a number of qualitative differences that allow them to be considered as a separate class. Let's list these features:

conclusions

The choice of an electronic stabilizer is determined primarily by what kind of camera you want to use and what your budget is. This is not the case when you have to choose from many similar models, since the number of manufacturers in our market is very limited. One way or another, any electronic stabilizer significantly improves work productivity. In some cases, it can be replaced by a classic mechanical steadicam, which, oddly enough, gives a more natural stabilization effect, but that's a completely different story.

When it's 2017, action cameras no longer look like gimmicks. They have firmly entered our world and began to be used not only in sports, but also in Everyday life. Moreover, some YouTube bloggers film exclusively with such cameras, as you can see for yourself. Already with the advent of the first generation of action cameras, our requirements for filming equipment have changed radically. Back then, back in 2008, everyone had just realized the benefits of such a device and began queuing up to purchase it. From that moment on, a race of technologies began: cameras were made lighter, stronger, more convenient, more powerful... GoPro specialists were the first to prove to the general public that high-quality video shooting of dynamic scenes does not necessarily imply the use of a heavy camera with a lens. And what did the SJCAM company do? - they were the first to prove that an action camera for the public can be several times more affordable than a GoPro and at the same time not inferior in quality. Now even middle-class people have the opportunity to record the best moments of life and share them with friends and family, while conveying the whole atmosphere of the events.

But no matter where progress goes, there are always technical difficulties that cannot be overcome. This concerns image stabilization when shooting. Often, when shooting with a camera like this, hand tremors let you down, which cannot be fully compensated. internal algorithm stabilization. It can be caused by a simple slight tilt of the arm, vibration when walking, jolts, etc. No matter how cat-like a gait you have, no matter how smoothly you move your hand, shaking will be an obvious phenomenon, due to the lack of three points of support. But there is a way out of this situation. Stabilizers designed specifically for action cameras will help you achieve decent, close to professional results. These models are quite lightweight, comfortable to hold with one hand, they are powered by popular battery models or work without them at all, and after shooting they easily fold into a case. Note: even the cheapest stub with correct setting greatly improves the picture. Which stabilizer should you choose? We have prepared for you a short tour of the ten most effective models. Today we will get acquainted with the first part.

• Compatible with small rectangular cameras like GoPro Hero 4, 3, 3+, 2, and 1.
• Wide rotation angles - working tilt angle 270°, roll angle 90°.
• Powerful, high-torque brushless motor and advanced position sensor for smoother shooting.
• Possibility of charging the camera from the gimbal via a USB cable.
• Three operating modes to choose from.
• Turns on in 2 seconds.

Flaws:

• After several minutes of operation, blockages to the sides are possible.
• The engines are noisy, which can ruin the sound on the microphone.
• Complex calibration process.

The reason for the stabilizer skidding may be problems with calibration, which are difficult to avoid even with instructions. As for engine noise, you can remove it in Adobe Audition or add background music in the edit instead of the desired track. It's still a bit of a shame to spend extra time.

And so, in general, Zhiyun Z1-Pround is a suitable stabilizer at a very reasonable price. By the way, many YouTube bloggers use this particular model, because... it has a large battery life.

EVO GP-Pro 3-axis gimbal for GoPro Hero4

Advantages:

• Equipped with high-speed engines of increased power. Able to quickly respond to a control signal.
• There are 4 dynamic shooting modes available at once: Heading follow mode, Heading lock mode, Heading/pitch follow mode and Inverted mode.
• An official 1 year warranty is provided.

Flaws:

• The kit does not include a case for transportation and storage.
• To use with GoPro Hero 5 and 6, you must purchase an adapter.
• High price.

EVO GP-Pro does a great job main task. It already contains protection settings for each of the GoPro Hero cameras. At the time of the stabilizer's release, only Hero 4 was available, so for subsequent models it is necessary to use an adapter (adjusts the center of gravity). Otherwise, unpleasant sounds may occur due to voltage in the motors.

Three-axis stabilizer for GoPro - Ikan FLY-X3-GO

This stabilizer can be controlled manually or using a remote control. The remote control has a 1.5 meter long cable and a joystick with five buttons. This makes it convenient to control the camera on the hood of the car while being in the cabin. This camera is also convenient to use in conjunction with a long monopod to achieve the effect of quadcopter flight.

Advantages:

• Pre-programmed firmware allows you to work right out of the box.
• Comfortable rubberized handle.
• Storage case included.

Flaws:

• Does not provide 360° rotation. After reaching the end point of rotation, vibration begins.
• Weakly damped oscillations after turning to the side.
• Slow battery charging and short operating time. If you plan to shoot for a long time, make sure to buy spare batteries. The maximum operating time on one charge is no more than 3 hours.

Mechanical stabilizer with counterweight Movo Photo VS01-SP

The next model is a good combination of price and quality. This model is intended primarily for experienced users, because adjusting the balance requires some patience. The stabilizer works on the principle of balanced scales, where a weight on the bottom of the bracket acts as a counterweight.

Advantages:

• Hinged suspension design.
• Bubble level for fine adjustment of balance.
• The kit includes adapters for various action cameras and small smartphones.
• Low cost.
• Works without batteries.

Flaws:

• Weight restrictions (no more than 1.5 kg). In other words, not every camera can be installed on this stabilizer.
• It's difficult to change the direction the camera is pointing. Works best using your second hand.
• Little effective against vibration.

If you are in a car or on any moving surface that causes camera vibration, then you should not rely heavily on the Movo Photo VS01-SP. Be that as it may, the main task of this stabilization system is to provide maximum stability when shooting handheld, and it copes with it “well.” When walking, it provides stabilization close to the operation of a three-axis gimbal.

Feiyu G3 Ultra Stabilizer

Feiyu G3 Ultra is a compact handheld three-axis stabilizer designed for GoPro Hero 4, 3+ and 3. The gadget, although Chinese, is well built, the materials are of high quality, and the software performs its task quickly and clearly.

Advantages:

• Operating angle ranges: forward-backward tilt 300°, left-right tilt 90°.
• Very convenient control modes (modes with and without tracking).
• Simple installation process.
• High quality build.

Flaws:

• Not compatible with GoPro Hero 4+ or 5.
• After purchase you need to update software, which is quite difficult (there is no Russian version). In addition, this is only possible for Windows PC owners.
• The kit comes with 4 batteries, but the charger is only designed for 3.

As you can see, all the main disadvantages are related to the instructions and installation of the software. It may take you some time to understand the manual.

Equipment for shooting photo and video materials has long accompanied users in the most unexpected places, capturing interesting moments outside the studios and home interior. Action cameras, which have become popular, complement the equipment of fans of extreme sports. But this format of using the device rarely produces high-quality materials without distortion. A camera stabilizer, which softens the vibrations affecting the equipment, helps to cope with the negative factors of shooting in motion. Even in a simple design, such a device provides invaluable assistance, simultaneously acting as a clamp and damping accessory.

General information about the stabilizer

The stabilizing device may have different embodiments. Such devices include modules built into camera matrices, tripods, and more technologically advanced steadicams, which are used in combination with GoPro models. In its latest version, the camera stabilizer can be considered as optimal option specifically for video. Such accessories are somewhat autonomous and at the same time manual.

During operation, the user controls the movement of the camera, and the “smart” filling of the device softens vibrations, reacting to them through special sensors. This is already for the camera, which is the most effective solution for active shooting. As for built-in stabilizing models, their use is more likely to be justified in photographic equipment that does not involve sudden movements during the shooting process.

Types of stabilizers

Three categories of such devices have already been identified, among which the Steadicam stands out. But this segment also has its own signs of separation of devices. The main one is on this moment development of stabilizing technology is the number of axles. The simplest models work with one or two axes. This means that camera rotations will be controlled in a maximum of two directions - and the user himself must avoid other actions. In turn, three-axis makes it possible to smooth movements in three directions. This solution has significantly simplified the process of active shooting, although you should not expect a significant improvement in eliminating sharp fluctuations in focus.

Pros and cons of handheld stabilizers

Simple models, as a rule, have a mechanical principle of stabilization and their design is based on it. This solution has its advantages and disadvantages. As for the advantages, they are expressed in the strength, clarity and overall durability of the device. On the other hand, the handling of some models is complicated by the presence of many regulatory elements. Even an experienced user in a quick shoot setup can delay the process just because of mechanical adjustments to achieve the initial balance. Many people include mass as a disadvantage. Especially the stabilizer for an action camera can be felt in the hand with almost every gram. In general, such a device can add about 1 kg of weight to the camera. It is clear that during long-term use there is no need to talk about comfort.

How to choose the optimal stabilizer?

You should start from the way you use the camera. If you plan to shoot indoors, then you can completely use a tripod, which dampens small vibrations. For active operation, it is best to contact electronic models with three axes of motion control. But here it is important to take into account the aspect of versatility. There are models designed specifically for the GoPro segment, and you can also find a multifunctional handheld stabilizer for a camera weighing up to 4 kg. Another selection criterion also involves design features. Typically, the more compact the device, the more functional and more expensive it is. Massive models are not as technologically advanced and are heavier, but handling them in some conditions can be more comfortable due to clear physical ergonomics.

Manufacturers of stabilizers

There are no obvious leaders in the segment, and in different categories there is a fierce competition between manufacturers of different levels. For example, if it is important different types offered by Nikon and Canon, then in the field manual models The Chinese company ZhiYun can compete with its budget development Z-ONE and Raylab, which represents an entry-level modification of the Kino SC-01. But it is important to note here that each version has a lot external differences, which make the models unique. A high-quality camera stabilizer can also be found in the Poise, Feiyu-Tech and Golle Micro lines. The devices of these brands differ not only in their technological implementation in the form of the same three-axis mechanics, but also in the basic strength of the element platform.

Question of price

The simplest models, resembling shortened tripods with handles, can be purchased for 1.5-2 thousand rubles. These are completely mechanical devices, devoid of modern options in terms of ergonomic convenience. The middle level is represented by the same three-axis modifications - the cost of such products is 3-5 thousand. This is the widest and most popular class of this equipment. A high-tech stabilizer for action cameras is also presented on the market, complemented by a set of auxiliary mounting and holding accessories. Moreover, some elements in premium versions of this type are made of carbon. Such a stabilizer costs about 7-9 thousand. Its advantages include the ability to be used in active shooting and its benefits for stationary use indoors. True, you shouldn’t count on a high operating effect of vibration suppression in both cases; at least, highly specialized devices cope with similar functions better.

Conclusion

Modern video cameras are complemented by many auxiliary devices. Some of them exist as nothing more than marketing product, without being of practical interest. Can this be said about the function that a camera stabilizer provides? Most likely not, since the same GoPro models during use are subject to high-amplitude vibrations and the effect of the Steadicam, expressed in minimizing vibration, is clear and obvious. Another thing is that not in every case the camera will experience severe shaking, and a stabilizer will not always save you from vibrations. Unless universal models of electronic devices can be suitable for any use of a video camera, although they also have their limitations.

Handheld stabilizers, which appeared on the market relatively recently, have made a real revolution in amateur video shooting. Now anyone, armed with such a monopod, can create incredibly smooth and clear videos on the go, comparable in quality to professional work. Of course, you shouldn’t forget about artistic value either, but a jerky frame that can kill any masterpiece is now definitely a thing of the past. If you want to learn more about the design and operating principles of a manual stabilizer, we recommend that you read the article “”, and we will look at 5 best models available for purchase. Let’s also make a reservation that gadgets from the same manufacturer with mounts for smartphones and action cameras have an identical design, so it would be wiser to consider them together.

LanParte HHG-01

First in line - the brainchild of the LanParte company, produced under the “name” HHG-01. The main thing that sets it apart from its competitors is its versatility. The delivery set includes 3 platforms, one of which is designed for installing a GoPro, and the other 2 will help place any smartphone model, including even large ones such as the Galaxy Note or iPhone 6S Plus. Also, recently, a mount for GoPro Session is available. The stabilization quality of the HHG-01 is very good; it easily copes with the sharpest jerks, compensating for any movements. The gadget weighs just under 500 grams and has a single multifunction control button. Before use, you will need to perform some simple calibration. Power is supplied by a removable 1500 mAh battery installed in the handle and equipped with a 4-segment indicator of the remaining charge and a power button. Battery life is up to 3 hours. On Russian market The device is available at a price of about 20,000 rubles and comes in a convenient carrying case.

By the way, the LanParte company itself is no longer a newcomer to the market of stabilization systems, however, before that it dealt exclusively with products for professional use, in the development of which she has succeeded a lot. Therefore, the workmanship and reliability, despite (of course) Chinese production, are at the highest level.

Feiyu Tech FY-G4

FY-G4 is another excellent example of a manual stabilizer from engineers from the Middle Kingdom, created by Feiyu Tech. The device is available in different versions: for smartphone, iPhone, GoPro, as well as Sony AS100V, AZ1 or AS20 action cameras. Unfortunately, the mounting platforms are not removable, which precludes their use with another model. This means that you will have to decide in advance what you are going to shoot with, and when changing the camera, you will have to buy a new stabilizer, which is not very practical. The advantages include its own weight of only 265 g, the ability to rotate the action camera towards the operator, charging the device from the gimbala, an optional remote control, a handle extension and an additional battery compartment that can be used in conjunction with the main one. The special version FY-G4S has 360-degree movement in all 3 axes and a convenient joystick for rotating the camera in any of 4 directions.

One set of batteries lasts for 4 hours of shooting, and thanks to the possibility of using a second battery compartment, this time can be doubled. A multifunction button is used for control; 3 different operating modes are provided. The Feiyu Tech company does not lag behind LanParte, also mainly specializing in stabilization systems, of which it already has dozens in the amateur segment. The manufacturing quality and stabilization of the FY-G4 is very decent. The price is approximately the same 20,000 rubles.

BeStableCam SteadyGim3 and SteadyFone3

These electronic stabilizers are produced Chinese company BeStableCam, who succeeded with the best side establish yourself in the market and acquire a decent assortment of various gimbalas, gimbals for copters and devices for panoramic photography. SteadyFone3 and SteadyGim3 have an identical design, but the Fone3 version is designed for use with smartphones, while the Gim3 with GoPro. There is also a Gim3SE modification for GoPro Session. The main disadvantage is the same as that of the FY-G4 - the impossibility of installing both a camera and a smartphone on one gadget. Among the advantages, it is worth noting the battery life, which is about 6 hours when using one battery, and can be increased by the battery compartment to a record 12 hours, as well as the presence of a joystick for controlling the rotation of the camera, a port for recharging it and an AV output, which allows you to transmit the captured image in real time and sound. An optional remote control and a small monitor attached to the stabilizer are available. For all its advantages, the gadget is found on domestic market at a price of 17,000 rubles.

Swiftcam G3S and M3S

The G3S and M3S are the latest generation of handheld stabilizers; this series was announced by Swiftcam recently. The official price stated on the manufacturer’s website is $299, which is the same 20,000 rubles. G3S is designed for GoPro action cameras and the corresponding size of Xiaomi and SJCAM. M3S is suitable for any smartphone model up to 81 mm wide, for installation of which the kit includes 2 different plates and a set of rubber gaskets. Both models are capable of rotating 360 degrees horizontally, making it easy to produce panoramic photography, have mode indicators and use a joystick for control. The version for the smartphone is slightly heavier and weighs 500 grams, versus 374 grams for the GoPro gimbal. The M3S is powered by its own battery, while the G3S can use AAA batteries.

ZhiYun Tech

ZhiYun Tech's assortment includes quite a lot of stabilizers of similar design, the top ones being Evolution for GoPro, as well as Smooth-II and Smooth C for smartphones. Simpler and cheaper models are Pround and Z1-Pro for GoPro and Z1-Smooth for smartphones. In terms of quality and capabilities, ZhiYun Tech products are comparable to the previously reviewed devices, but they also have their own characteristics. Top models are able to work with 2 installed sets of batteries for up to 12 hours, have a 320-degree motion on each of the 3 axes and are equipped with a convenient joystick that allows you to easily change the shooting angle. There is an AV output and the ability to recharge the camera. Smooth-II is also equipped with a wireless module for remote control. On the Russian market, Evolution is found at a price of 23-25,000 rubles, the latest Smooth models are approximately in the same range, and simpler devices are around 20,000 rubles.

Conclusion

All the models reviewed have approximately the same quality of stabilization and manufacturing; the differences lie only in performance and capabilities. Those who plan to use the stabilizer alternately with several shooting devices will most likely prefer the universal LanParte HHG-01. For those for whom it is paramount long time battery life and the ability to recharge GoPro, it makes sense to pay attention to BeStableCam SteadyGim3 or ZhiYun Tech Evolution. If you want to get absolute freedom of movement 360 degrees in any direction, then it would be wiser to take the Feiyu Tech FY-G4S or the same Evolution. And finally, the weight, which varies almost 2 times from model to model, can also be a deciding factor for some.

Why are all the manufacturers Chinese, you ask, and can you trust them? Oddly enough, the leadership in the field of mobile electronic stabilization belongs to developers from the Middle Kingdom. While they are creating entire companies that can offer customers a wide range of various goods, European and American manufacturers are modestly content with startups on crowdfunding platforms, of which we can note very promising projects AutoSteady and Aetho Aeon. If we talk about quality, then here too everything is in in perfect order. LanParte is well known in the professional device market, offering operators great products for a significantly lower price than many competitors. Other manufacturers, although less famous, all have professional steadicam models in their assortment, and some even boast manned drones own development. Apparently, Chinese manufacturers are increasingly aware of the prospect of creating high-quality electronics, Lately delighting us with truly interesting, worthy and very competitive products.