Introduction
I would like to thank
Zhiyun for supplying the review sample.
Zhiyun has made a name for itself by offering a wide range of gimbals for all sorts of users. Today, we get to take a quick look at their latest higher-end model aimed at professionals who shoot commercial video, but require a higher payload limit than the original Crane 2 without quite the specs, size, and weight of the Crane 3S. On top of that, for the most flexibility, the Crane 2S comes in three different bundles with a varying range of accessories. Also, unlike the Crane 2, the S variant allows you to directly connect various powered accessories, like an auto-focus motor.
Specifications
Zhiyun Crane Gimbal Comparison | | Crane 2 | Crane 2S | Crane 3S |
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| Price | $732 | $799 | $865 |
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| Operating Voltage | Max: 12.6 V Standard: 11.1 V Min: 9.8 V | Max: 12.6 V Standard: 11.1 V Min: 9.8 V | Max: 25.2 V Standard: 11.1 V Min: 9.8 V |
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| Output Voltage | N/A | Standard: 5 V | Standard: 5 V |
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| Operating Temperature | Max: 45 °C Standard: 25 °C Min: -10 °C | Max: 45 °C Standard: 25 °C Min: -10 °C | Max: 45 °C Standard: 25 °C Min: -10 °C |
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| Battery Runtime | Max: 18 h Min: 12 h Gravity balance | Standard: 12 h | Standard: 12 h |
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| Charging Time | Standard: 2.5 h | Standard: 4 h | Standard: 4 h |
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| Following Deviation in Motion State | Max: ±0.1° Min: ±0.05° | Max: ±0.3° Standard: ±0.1° Min: ±0.05° | Max: ±0.3° Standard: ±0.1° Min: ±0.05° |
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| Following Deviation in Static State | Max: ±0.03° Min: ±0.01° | Max: ±0.04° Min: ±0.01° | Max: ±0.04° Min: ±0.01° |
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| Tilt Mechanical Range | Max: +185° Min: -135° | Max: +155° Min: -91° | Full 360° |
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| Roll Mechanical Range | Full 360° | Max: +237.5° Min: -57.5° | Max: +237.5° Standard: 330°Min: -255° |
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| Pan Axis Movement Angle Range | Full 360° | Full 360° | Full 360° |
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| Payload Limit | 3.2 kg | 5 kg | 6. 5 kg |
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| Net Weight | 1.25 kg | 1.88 kg | 2.47 kg |
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Packaging and Contents
The box is pretty unassuming, with a different image of the gimbal on either side. The handle is actually part of the storage box the unit and all its extras come in.
That box is made out of sturdy formed foam, and as it comes with space for additional accessories as well, it isn't meant to only hold the Crane 2S—you should be able to keep it all nice and tidy even after expanding things over time.
To accommodate all kinds of cameras and use cases, you will find every kind of USB cable ending with USB-C on one end, much like what you are used to with the bigger Crane 3S. A little set of manuals is also included, which is quite helpful for those using Zhiyun units for the first time. That said, it would be easier to read if bigger.