Introduction

We would like to thank Zhiyun for supplying the review sample.



There are probably people who don't have a clue what a gimbal is or how it can be used. Put simply, a gimbal is a handle with a clamp similar to a selfie stick. However, a gimbal allows its mounted device (smartphone, action camera, or DSLR/mirrorless camera) to be rotated around at least an axis for more shooting/filming options. The majority of today's gimbals have 3-axis motors, which makes completely free camera movement possible. What is most important when it comes to gimbals, though, is the smooth and professional filming result without any shaking in the footage. A gimbal then is a filming stabilizer for a precise outcome. We have already reviewed a gimbal for entry-level users who use their phones for video and photo shooting, so it is now nigh time to look at a more high-end gimbal that is compatible with proper cameras.


ZHIYUN offers an abundance of gimbals. The Crane 2 is a 3-axis stabilizer and the latest addition to the company's professional gimbal portfolio. A plastic dial is embedded into the handle, and ± 0.02 degrees focus precision is also possible via a cable connected to the camera, which allows for more than a feature to be controlled without ever touching the camera. An OLED screen equips the gimbal for access to a lot of data, which we are able to configure with the joystick and buttons next to it. The Crane 2 can hold a payload of up to 3.2 kg (7.04 lb), which makes it compatible with DLSR and mirrorless camera models even when those are paired with heavy lenses. The Crane 2 promises to put an entire filming crew into your hands for slightly under $800; whether this professional gimbal will be able to fulfill its promise is something we will take a look at in this review.

Packaging

The ZHIYUN Crane 2 arrived inside a wide carton box. Once we opened the box, we encountered a white package inside of which is the one that houses the Crane 2. The cuboid white package was intact and has a plastic handle on top.


The company's name and logo appear on all sides of the package. On its front is a Chinese inscription and an elaborate picture of the Crane 2; however, its main descriptor is in English.


We find some general information on the company on the left side of the package, and the rear goes over the main features of the Crane 2, its camera compatibility, which items are included, and some of the gimbal's restrictions.


The Crane 2 and its components are nicely protected inside a hard PU portable case. As such, the Crane 2 can travel with you anywhere safely.

Contents

As mentioned, all components are well protected inside a hard PU case that houses the gimbal.


The bundle includes the following items:

• Crane 2
• Storage case
• Tripod
• 18650 Li-ion 2,000 mah batteries (x3)
• Battery charger
• Cannon camera control cable (ZW-Mini-002 & ZW-Micro-002)
• Panasonic camera control cable (ZW-CTIA-002)
• Sony camera control cable (ZW-Multi-002)
• Micro USB cable
• Shoulder strap
• User guide (37 pages) in English