Cheap Stabilizer vs Gimbal

check out this little test between a cheap stabilizer and a 3 axis gimbal!

$40 Stabilizer:

iSteady Gear Gimbal:

My whole filmmaking kit:

Gear used in this video:
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Camera:
Panasonic GH3 (discontinued)
I recommend this instead:

My go-to wide angle:

Mics:
US:
CA:
UK:

Other micro 4/3 Lenses:
US:
CA:
UK:

Variable ND Filters I use!

Tripod:

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#CheapStabilizer #BudgetGimbal

[MontellFishMusic]

actually couldn’t tell the difference until your sister used it to film! Good content 📸

[davidlongenecker]

I actually use a glidecam for my professional work. It takes a bit of technique, but once you have it down, you can get 90% of the same shots. And you don't need batteries, and it will never glitch out... Like I always say, physics will never malfunction.

[TheCrowleyCrew]

The steady cam was not exactly as smooth but it didn't have the weird bouncing movement that plagues gimbals. Both require learning before you get cinematic results. Good comparison and clever to use someone that hasn't used them to show the difference skill makes with the steady cam.

[Kelkschiz]

I like that you showed how much difference the skill level makes: gimbals good for everyone, and steadicam only good with skill. I recently bought a cheap steadicam and was surprised by how difficult it was. The balancing alone was a nightmare.

[NicolasWaldvogel]

I actually thought the cheap gimbal looked better when you did the test. It just seems more natural and organic (and therefore more cinematic) than the motorized one. The only motorized gimbal that didn't seem robotic to me is the Ronin S! Thanks for the video:)

[NatesFilmTutorials]

The Steadicam feels more fluid and natural

[Noojtxeeg]

Very glad that you decided to explain that it took some skill to use the cheaper option as well as showing the difference in skill. I feel like many YouTubers would have left this part out.

[Nonameyu]

That cheap stabilizer design use to cost about 400 dollars back in the day.

[Tokiofritz]

The great thing with Nigel is that he understands not everyone can spend $400 on a gimbal. Another budget gimbal video on here starts at $500!

[fizikone]

Still waiting for the tutorial on how to balance the $40 gimbal.

[itsKEVO]

This makes me feel better that I went out and got a 3 axis gimbal from using my glidecam hd2000..stable footage with minimal enough or skill. Great content man glad I found your channel and yes I've hit the bell lol

[jeremyc]

This was the most straightforward and honest comparison between the two. Subscribed!

[MikeAzul]

Appreciate the video and honesty on both systems. I'll be getting a stabilizer for now and a gimbal later on

[jorgem]

I've always preferred the smoothness of a stabilizer but with the right gimbal, camera, and IBIS you can get amazing buttery smooth footage from a gimbal.

[RecordS]

the $40 cisno is now $52.99, wtf, lol

[nilent]

My inexpensive Vixia HFR800 already has pretty good digital stabilization. When combined with the inexpensive mechanical stabilizer *and* a skilled/attentive technique it should do a great job!

Your review was very helpful, thanks.

[martinf]

I use both . The stabilizer for more natural look or cinematic mood and the Crane 2 for more technical scene . but the only problem i encountered with the stabilizer is when you are outside and you have to much wind . then you can't use it . and yes you need a lot of practice to operate the Stabilizer. I use a Canon T7I with a big wide angle Tamron 10-24 mm

[markusgroyss]

I personally prefer the Steadycam look because it‘s more natural and you can operate it better - especially for slow slider like movements. only prefer the gimbal for higher speed shots (dirt bike etc.)

[almanages]

Thank you for providing this very interesting comparison Nigel. I appreciate your down to Earth approach and format. It's entertaining, short to the point and very informative. Good Job!

[Bobster]

The advantage of using a electronic gimbal is that you can focus all your effort on composition vs keeping it stable.