Best DSLR Steadicam To Shoot Shake-free Videos

Whether you are a professional filmmaker, an aspiring blogger or a YouTuber, creating fantastic content is essential. But producing great content is not a simple task.

best dslr steadicam

One of the most challenging aspects of video-making is keeping the camera steady while moving. A shaky camera can ruin perfectly good footage, forcing you to re-shoot the segment. The best way to improve the quality of moving film footage is to use good DSLR stabilizers.

DSLR Steadicams offer the support of a tripod with the maneuverability of your own feet, improving the quality of the film while you walk and shoot. They are suitable for all kinds of filming projects and bring an edge of professionalism to your productions.

To make your job easier, I have compiled a list of nine Best DSLR Steadicam available in the market today.

9 BEST DSLR STEADICAM REVIEW

1. SUTEFOTO S40 - BEST CHEAP DSLR STEADICAM

SUTEFOTO S40 - Best DSLR Steadicam

The SUTEFOTO S40 supports GoPro and all other action cameras between 1.1 to 3.3lbs. It is portable, easy to assemble and can be extended from 11.6 inches to 15.7 inches to adjust to different cameras.

It features 360 – degrees Omni-directional shooting with a quick-release plate, two ¼ - inch screws and one 3/8 – inch screw hole. It is made of high-strength aluminum, which makes it lightweight and easier to carry. The weight plate comes with six weight plates to balance your camera on the stabilizer. The plates can be removed or added as per your requirement.

Overall, it is one of the best digital camera accessories you could ever purchase! I claim this because the Steadicam allows high and low angle shooting and consists of high precision bearings, low friction joints, and you can use it with a professional vest damping arm.

PRODUCT DETAILS:

  • Supports GoPro and other action cameras that weigh between 1.1 to 3.3 lbs.
  • Quick balancing and 360° Omni-directional shooting.
  • There is a quick-release plate with a 2*1/4” crew and 1*3/8” crew hole.
  • Easy to assemble and carry.
  • It can be extended from 29.5cm to 40cm.
  • Aluminium construction with black powder coating.
  • Six removable weights.
  • Allows high and low angle shooting.
  • Has low friction joints and high precision bearings.
  • It can be used with a professional vest damping arm.
  • Net weight: 1000g.
  • Chassis length: 185mm to 70mm.
  • Anti-skid handle for comfortable and non-slip usage.
  • Product dimensions: 12.4 x 9 x 4.6 inches.
  • Item weight: 4.85lbs.

Pros

  • Compatible with many cameras.
  • Sturdy aluminium construction.
  • Moving parts are smooth.
  • The base plate is well marked.
  • The foam handle is comfortable to hold onto.
  • Second mounting plate addition is useful.

Cons

  • Not a mechanical gimbal.
  • Does not support tilting of the camera for shooting.

2. NEEWER CARBON FIBER 24”/60CM HANDHELD STABILIZER

NEEWER CARBON

Let me start my list of the best DSLR steadicam with the Neewer 60cm Handheld Stabilizer. It is a lightweight stabilizing system created for DSLR cameras weighing up to 6.6lbs to let you have both high and low angle shooting. It is ideal for use with video cameras, and the Best DSLR Steadicam.

It comes with a camera platform with both x and y adjustments and multiple mount holes for different camera positions. The sponge-covered grip makes extended periods of shooting more comfortable. The stabilizer is designed with carbon fiber, making it durable.

The weight plate contains six weight discs to balance the camera on your stabilizer. They can be added or removed based on your requirement.

The height of the stabilizer can be adjusted from 15.2-24 inches and can be changed at your will to meet different shooting needs. The maximum load it can accept is approximately 3 kgs.

PRODUCT DETAILS:

  • Neewer Carbon Fiber 24”/60cm Handheld Stabilizer.
  • It has a quick Release Plate of 1/4” and 3/8”.
  • It has a screw for DSLR and Video Cameras that weighs up to 6.6lbs.
  • The design allows high and low angle shooting.
  • Comes with high precision bearings and low friction joints.
  • Stretch adjustment improves weight ratio.
  • Reduces the clump weights.
  • Extendable from 15.2” to 24” for adapting to the weight of the camera.
  • The Quick Shoe Plate accepts any camera with 1/4” to 3/8” screw adapter.
  • Max load capacity is about 6.6 pounds.
  • Materials include a Carbon fiber design.
  • Quick Release Plate Scale is 50mm.
  • Product dimensions: 47.24 x 171.26 x 88.58 inches.
  • Item weight: 4.64lbs.

Pros

  • Sleek look.
  • Made with black carbon fiber and black metal pieces.
  • The grip is comfortable for shooting for an extended period.
  • The weighting system works well.
  • Inexpensive.

Cons

  • The knobs feel counter-intuitive and cumbersome to use.
  • Not very durable.

3. FLYCAM HD-3000 24”/60CM - BEST DSLR STEADICAM GIMBAL

 FLYCAM HD-3000

Next up in my list of best DSLR steadicam comes the FLYCAM, which offers high quality with precision design at reasonable price. The 60 cm long stabilizer is compact and lightweight and offers advanced features which transform shaky camera footage into smooth and professional videos.

It is ideal for DSLR and video camcorders weighing up to 3.5 kg. It comes with micro balancing technique for precise balancing with ease. It allows you to take incredibly smooth shots even when you are running, going up/ downstairs & even shooting on uneven terrains.

The Top Camera Base plate has 1/4 “-20 mounting slots to hold most camera bases. The quick-release plate has ¼”-20 & 3/8”-16 screws that enable quick mounting & dismounting of cameras. Comfortable foam cushioned handle attached with 3-axis gimbal lets you move the stabilizer up and down or side-to-side accordingly.

PRODUCT DETAILS:

  • FLYCAM Head Assembly.
  • Quick Release Plate.
  • Central Post.
  • Base Platform with 16 Weight Discs.
  • Precise Micro Balance Handheld Stabilizer.
  • Allows you to balance the set up with ease, saves your time.
  • The top plate is adjustable on both X & Y axis.
  • Quick Release Plate accepts all DV HDV DSLR Video Cameras.
  • Foam cushioned handle grip attached to the 3-Axis Gimbal.
  • Vertical balance is adjusted by varying the number of counterweights on the base platform.
  • Item Weight: 8.8lbs.

Pros

  • Inexpensive.
  • Works well with enough practice and patience.
  • Fine-tuning knobs are a useful addition.

Cons

  • The Quick Release page is not reliable.
  • The table clip is not very useful.

4. SUTEFOTO S60 - BEST DSLR STEADICAM ON BUDGET

SUTEFOTO S60 - Best DSLR Steadicam

The SUTEFOTO S60 is one of the Best DSLR Steadicam and also suits for camcorders, GoPros and smartphones to create high-quality video recordings. The stretch adjustment improves weight ratio and reduces the clump weight.

The stabilizer can be extended from 15.2-24 inches to adapt to the weight of the camera. The bidirectional weight plate with fine adjustment system can be adjusted freely to any direction. The weight plate has six weight discs that are used to balance your camera on the stabilizer. The weights can be removed or added as per your requirement.

This dslr steadicam also comes with a soft foam handle to help reduce the fatigue associated with long shooting periods. It can be used with a professional vest and a shock-absorbing arm.

PRODUCT DETAILS:

  • Specially designed for DSLRs, Camcorders, GoPros and smartphones.
  • Helps to create high-quality video recordings.
  • Stretch adjustment increases weight ratio and minimizes the clump weights.
  • Can be extended from 15.2-24” to adapt to the weight of your camera.
  • Supports up to 6lbs.
  • Bidirectional base plate with fine adjustment system.
  • Compact and classic design.
  • Contains six weight discs on weight plates.
  • The Quick Release Plate can support any camera within the range of 1/4” and 3/8”.
  • Supports 360-degree steady shooting.
  • Soft foam handgrip for reducing the pressure.
  • The length of the stabilizer rod can be adjusted for matching with professional vest.
  • Product dimensions: 19.69 x 15.75 x 18.11 inches.
  • Item weight: 5.49lbs.

Pros

  • Inexpensive.
  • Robust construction.
  • Feels smooth; flexible operation.
  • Exquisite appearance.

Cons

  • Doesn’t stay balanced for a long duration.
  • Feels heavy after long shoot.

5. NEEWER DSLR - BEST DSLR STEADICAM RIG

NEEWER DSLR

Next comes the Neewer DSLR movie making rig set, which is a DSLR rig set that comes with Matte box, Rail rod system and a shoulder mount to satisfy your basic requirements for video recording. This would be one of the Best DSLR Steadicam available in market.

The adjustable top and side matte box help you control the light and keeps unwanted light away from the lens. The shoulder bracket and hand grips allow you to direct your DSLR or system camera easily.

The rail rod system comes with a ¼-inch and a 3/8-inch threaded hole if you need to set it on a tripod. It is built with aluminium alloy, making it durable and lightweight.

PRODUCT DETAILS:

  • Adjustable top and side flags that help to control the light of the lens.
  • Unwanted stray light helps to distribute the image.
  • Height adjustment feature to adjust with cameras of different height.
  • Fits 15mm rail rods.
  • Anti-slip blue knobs are used to tighten.
  • 1/4” and a 3/8” threaded hole which is used to set on a tripod.
  • Industrial rail rod is made of aluminium alloy.
  • Comfortable and firm hand grip for ensuring an easy holding and better stabilization.
  • Aluminium knobs for long-lasting tightening and screwing.
  • Partially rubber padded mounting plate with a 1/4” screw to fit numerous cameras.
  • Helps alleviate the pressure on your shoulder.
  • Enhances stabilization when filming.
  • Easy to set up and carry.
  • The material used is aluminium, ABS and plastic.
  • Screw thread: 1/4”.

Pros

  • Sturdy aluminium construction.
  • Excellent product for the price.
  • Able to be set on a tripod.

Cons

  • The hood pieces are not very durable.
  • Visual plastic wear.

6. DJI RONIN-M

DJI RONIN-M - Best DSLR Steadicam

The DJI Ronin-M Gimbal Stabilizers you capture shots that are almost impossible to achieve with any other set up. You can switch effortlessly between the 3 modes of operation without having to adjust the settings.

It is lightweight (5 pounds) and small enough to fit in your backpack, yet strong enough to support cameras weighing up to 8 pounds. The upgraded ATS (Auto Tune Stability) technology is exact and completes the tuning and balancing processes with no tools necessary. The top handle bars twist off easily, allowing you to minimize its size or achieve different shooting configurations.

It features a strong and rigid magnesium frame. Increased rigidity is offered by a single, complete piece of fine-tooled magnesium that forms the U-shaped arm holding the camera plate. This unified design eliminates the imperfections that are common in systems made of multiple pieces assembled.

PRODUCT DETAILS:

  • Capture shots with DJI Ronin-M 3-Axis Handheld Gimbal Stabilizer.
  • Switches effortlessly between the 3 modes of operation, without adjusting any settings.
  • Weighs only 5 pounds (2.3kg).
  • Small enough to fit in your backpack.
  • Can support camera setups weighing up to 8lbs.
  • Takes less than 5 minutes to set up.
  • The upgraded ATS (Auto Tune Stability) technology is very precise.
  • The top handle bars quickly and easily twist-off.
  • Features a superbly strong and rigid magnesium frame.
  • Stiff yet light.

Pros

  • Magnesium gives a better shooting experience.
  • Unified design eliminates imperfections.
  • Arms provide stability.
  • Reliable design.

Cons

  • DJI has issues.
  • Battery life is not good.

7. GLIDECAM XR-PRO HANDHELD VIDEO CAMERA STABILIZER

GLIDECAM XR-PRO - Best DSLR Steadicam

The Glidecam XR-PRO helps you capture smooth and steady footage with cameras weighing up to 10 pounds. It features a three-axis gimbal and foam handgrip, making it easier to capture professional-looking handheld footage.

It has a dynamic camera balance platform and a toolless 14-25” telescopic center post for balancing most cameras and can be used for panning, tilting, booming or running.

The plate has ¼”-20 and 3/8”-16 threads for working with a variety of cameras and the base platform has a ¼”-20 thread for connecting an additional accessory, such as a monitor. The aluminium stabilizer also comes with an assortment of counterweights to ensure a perfect balance.

PRODUCT DETAILS:

  • 14x Large Counterweight Discs.
  • 4x Small Counterweight Discs.
  • 4x Large Camera Platform Weight Plates.
  • Dynamic Camera Balance Platform.
  • Adjustable convergence.
  • Adjustable precision.
  • Three-axis Gimbal.
  • Telescoping Centre Post.
  • Adjustable inertial-control base platform.
  • Product Dimensions: 9.06 x 3.94 x 19.69 inches.
  • Item Weight: 7.7 pounds.

Pros

  • Well-built.
  • Inexpensive.
  • Smooth footage.

Cons

  • Hard to find the midpoint.
  • Outdated design.

8. RALENO HANDHELD CAMERA STABILIZER STEADICAM ALUMINIUM ALLOY

RALENO HANDHELD

The Raleno S60N is ideal for recording fast-moving action. This stabilizer system is specially engineered to reduce camera shake and stabilize videos on cameras and camcorders.

It is built with high-strength aluminum alloy, making it more durable, lighter and easy to carry around. It comes with a 2-way adjustable quick release plate that can mount or tilt the camera in both horizontal and vertical direction.

It comes with a laser precision scale for accurate adjustments and is suitable for all DSLRs. It allows both high and low angle shooting and comes with high precision bearings and low friction joints. It can also be used with professional vest damping arm.

The height of the stabilizer is between 16 – 24 inches and can be changed at will to meet your shooting requirements. The weight plate comes with a total of 6 weight plates that you can use to balance your camera on the stabilizer.

PRODUCT DETAILS:

  • Lighter and more portable.
  • Made of high strength aluminium alloy.
  • Steadicam stabilizer is more durable, lighter and more portable.
  • Has two-way adjustable quick release plate.
  • Mounting pan/tilt and camera in the vertical or horizontal direction.
  • Laser precision scale used for precise adjustment.
  • Reduces shaking during shooting.
  • Designed for reducing shake and stabilizing video on cameras.
  • Supports multi-angle shooting.
  • Allows high and low angle shooting.
  • Has high-precision bearings and low-friction joints.
  • Can be used with a professional vest damping arm.
  • Handle round hole diameter: 22mm.
  • Total weight: 1.96 kg.
  • Bearing weight: 0.5kg-3kg.
  • Shortest height: 41.5 cm.
  • Maximum height: 60 cm.

Pros

  • Works very well under low light.
  • Right amount of exposure from the flash.
  • The highest power ranges from 1/1 to 1/128.
  • Affordable.
  • Settings are simple to explore.
  • Supports manual and automatic modes in Canon DSLR.

Cons

  • Makes the camera a little heavy.
  • Not the best for continuous shootings.
  • You need to change the camera setting to enable the Speed-lite.

9. ZHIYUN CRANE 2 FOLLOW FOCUS 3-AXIS HANDHELD GIMBALS

ZHIYUN CRANE - Best DSLR Steadicam

If you are looking for the best DSLR steadicam which is ideal for cameras weighing between 1.1-7 lbs, like Canon EOS series, Panasonic Lumia series, Nikon D series etc, then check out this Zhiyun Crane 2. It comes with an Instune Algorithm System which realizes a 50% increase in motor torque and 20% improvement in noise reduction.

It is integrated with an unprecedented follow focus wheel and attached Servo Follow Focus that allows ±0.02° real time follow focus. You can keep your subject in focus while moving too. The 18 – hour long battery life makes it the Best DSLR Steadicam perfect for high-intensity shootings.

The POV Mode allows for additional camera movement by providing up to 45 degrees of synchronous motion on the roll axis. It is integrated with 32-bit x 3 high-speed MCU parallel control technology which realizes a 100% improvement in respond speed.

The intuitive interface design helps you quickly identify the connection status, battery level, control mode and multiple camera params, giving you full control over every detail.

PRODUCT DETAILS:

  • Supports Cameras weighing up to 7 Pounds.
  • Quick, direct camera control via handgrip buttons.
  • LED screen displays camera and stabilizer settings.
  • Maximum of 18-Hour runtime with included batteries.
  • Manfrotto-Standard Quick Release Plate for quick camera mounting.
  • 50% increase in motor torque.
  • 20% improvement in noise reduction.
  • Unique dovetail slot enables high-precision balance adjustment.
  • Maximum battery runtime: 18 hours.
  • Charging time: 2.5h.
  • Product Dimension are 210 x118 x 450mm.
  • Product net weight: 1250g.
  • Gross weight: 3700g.

Pros

  • Small and easily portable.
  • Long battery life.
  • Smooth focus wheel.
  • Quality case.

Cons

  • Difficult to get the perfect settings. 
  • Users get tired quickly when holding it by one hand.

Factors to consider

Most of the Travelers, Videographers, YouTubers, and famous Instagram geeks, use tools like drones, gimbals, tripods to stabilize their professional DSLR cameras to improve their video production quality.

However, there are a few things you should consider before you invest in a DSLR Steadicam. Everybody’s requirements might be different, depending upon their filming needs. If you are looking  for some budget friendly DSLR steadicam, make sure you get the best of it.

Some of the essential aspects are:

  • Weight: This is the most crucial factor you need to consider. The heavier camera, the more weight you will be carrying. Most DSLR Steadicams are designed to be light weight but still you need to make sure whether you are able to carry your Steadicam along with your camera.
  • Batteries: Batteries are the power source for DSLR steadicam. Some DSLR steadicams use alkaline batteries, although most of the Steadicams use lithium-ion batteries. 
  • Balance: A balanced stabilizer is less clumsy to use and makes your job easier. The balance stabilizer is measured by how well the DSLR Steadicam balances your camera and how easy it is to balance.
  • Versatility: DSLR Steadicams are designed to carry cameras of various sizes. So see to that the Steadicam which you choose can be set up in multiple ways to accommodate different shooting styles.
  • Price: DSLR Steadicams cost starts from $500 to $60,000. DSLR Steadicams with higher cost will have more advanced features and come with extended warranty. 

CONCLUSION

These are the Best DSLR Steadicam available in the market currently. You’ll notice that I have taken care of all the aspects that I mentioned earlier. Apart from those, I have also emphasized on some other vital points like durability, ease of use, cost, compatibility etc.

I hope you’ve found what you were looking for. Happy shooting!

Nicolas Gilli
 

Hi, I'm Nicholas Gilli, I'm a blogger who is very much interested in blogging about film-making gadgets. I have experience as a cinematographer in the film industry for more than 15 years. My blogs would comprise of articles about film making gadgets and guides on how to use them. Even if you are a beginner you will learn a lot about cinematography here. Happy reading.

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