The hand-held stabilizer is compact and has some of the pros appeal of its larger brothers but with a significant reduction in both price and size. Expanding options are impressive and the features are extensive and the app offers many possibilities for clever creators. A texture issue makes it a bit tricky to balance but once it’s done, there’s nothing to complain about.
Gimbals are now essential components of any videographer’s kit , with many are asking “Which one will work for my needs?” rather than if they really need one. DJI has a long-standing professional line of Ronin Gimbals. They are among the top DSLR Gimbals on the market, and an even smaller set of stabilizers, Osmo, offering smartphone Gimbal solutions. Thus, DJI is always had a few questions. In addition, of course they have Gimbals as well however that’s a different story.
Many operators use Ronin Gimbals for mirrorless cameras The RS 3 Mini builds on the advantages of a smaller camera by filling a gap between its larger brothers along with the Osmo. It is therefore smaller and lighter, which increases mobility. It also utilizes Bluetooth or wired controls to control this camera (like its counterparts). We’re left with a few issues: “Is this enough to meet the requirements of experienced stabilizer users?” and “Will first-time Gimbal users like and want it as much RS 3 Mini?”
DJI RS 3 Mini specifications
The device is attached to the camera through Bluetooth as well as cable. (Image credit: Adam Juniper/Digital.Camera World)
Weight 795g (1.75 pounds) vertically and 850g (1.8 1 lb) horizontal
Folded size: 323x 295 x 98 mm
Payload: 2kg (4.4lbs)
Tilt the axis: -10@ up to 210@
Axis of roll: – 95@ to +240@
Pan Axis 360° (indefinite)
Battery life: 10 hours (2.5h charge)
Handling and construction
It’s a good thing that the DJI RS3 Mini feels like an expensive product and one that is professional to boot. Unfortunately, setting up any Gimbal is a tedious procedure of balancing.’ DJI provides a QuickStart guide , and thankfully, a more friendly 10-minute instructional video. There are four clamps in the metal that need to be released, then moving into the best position to accommodate your camera and lens combo, then locking. There are physical locks to control the axes, so that you can change them according to the sequence eventually, they’ll get used to with the system, as well as the screen that provides direction. The ruler’s markings are useful but the positioning can be a bit tricky and the movement of the painted metal that’s not locked may be more fluid (as it is with the carbon fibre coated RS 3 Pro).
The RS 3 Mini in Portrait mode with the removed plate on top of it. (Image credit: Adam Juniper/Digital.Camera World)
The device has two USB-C port in the body, one close to the screen for charging , and another at the tilt axis to allow USB control connections , if required and the Bluetooth could be sufficient. DJI also include a short cable with an angled jack on the other end, which can be useful.
In order to switch to vertical mode, you’ll need to getting rid of the quick release plate on the camera and then sliding it off the support for the camera’s base. There are places to mount the plate that releases quickly to be mounted on your arm (but you’ll have to locate an area to place the base plate).
Once it is set up Once it is set up, once it is set up, the RS 3 Mini can be carried in one hand, and operate from the bottom and (in its 360@ modes) behind. The grip is like that of the RS 3 save for the removal on the switch for the modes. There’s a press-button “M mode switch and a touchscreen.
Performance
The first thing to note is that Ronin’s algorithm does an outstanding job. After the balance is achieved, the device automatically calibrates that’s a useful feature. Gimbal operation is an art by itself (and is worth learning) however, taking a picture with this gadget is a matter of relative ease. Setting up Bluetooth connections and choosing the appropriate the appropriate modes is easy. the many options can be navigable, allowing anyone to sort through their photo-list quickly.
When you are in 360@,, the lens is tilted to be aligned with its handle making things harder on the motors. In actual fact, it was at this point we realized our initial attempt at balancing had not performed as expected The motors are strong enough to handle some challenges in all types (good to know if you adjust the zoom or focus) however 360@ is operated by a flashlight and requires the normal pan motor extremely difficult. We tested it using an A7iii from Sony and the FE 28-70mm lens, which isn’t the biggest.
The app is able to follow wayspoints, provide the virtual joystick and it can be configured to capture stills and create an image. It also functions as a bridge between Playstation controller.
We loved the extra options provided by the Ronin application. You can manage the gimbal via the extensive app for your phone (and works in conjunction with the tripod base). The connection was easy and camera controls are now able to extend as far as your phone. You can also use a the game controller should you want to.
A few clips taken using DJI RS 3 Mini. DJI RS 3 Mini
A quick tip
Update your camera firmware! A good example: Although there was Bluetooth on the Sony A7 III had Bluetooth but it didn’t provide Bluetooth remote control when it was launched. If we’d tried it using the original firmware, it wouldn’t work. DJI has also included the USB-C to USB-C controller cable (the only method by which that the camera could allow focus control through an RS 3 Mini’s steering wheel). It’s worth looking over DJI’s list of connectors work with what.
DJI RS 3 Mini: Verdict
Gimbal-shot video is more commonplace nowadays and the ability to do it without adding weight or volume is an incredible feat. There is real potential to professionals. It’s the perfect second camera option for weddings, for instance.
It’s amazing that the majority of the features of its larger brothers has been transferred. If you’ve set up on the RS 3 you’ll definitely miss the knob that can be used to refine the tilt-axis. There aren’t any automated power locks however, they are not as important. You can still make use of a briefcase handle due to NATO ports for expansion.
If this is your first time using the camera (or you’re moving with earlier models such as the Osmo Mobile 6 or DJI Mini 3 drone) You’ll need be prepared for a more slow procedure (switching between portrait and vertical isn’t as simple as pressing one button). Learning all the options could take some time however they’re easy to reset, and the menu is easy to navigate (more than most camera models that are mirrorless).
Overall, it’s a great device at an attractive price. If only the balancing procedure could be more precise, it’d be a 5 star product.
