The DJI Ronin 4D is Upsetting in an Unexpected Way

Detailed review of the incredible DJI Ronin 4D 6K cinema camera. See if this camera is worth the hype and price as well as the things I did not like about this strange new camera.

In short, the DJI is an amazing camera but definitely has some drawbacks. I really hope DJI keeps making cameras and maybe I can get the dream camera mentioned in this video. For now, here is a quick pros and cons list:

PROS:
Full frame
6K RAW
Lots of record settings
Great image quality
Incredible grips and controls
9 ND filter stages
Multiple media formats
Really good monitor
Expandability
Remote monitoring and control available
Good autofocus
Great tracking modes
Can adapt manual lenses to work
The best image stabilization I've ever seen

CONS:
Start up time is long
Battery life is 1-2 hours
H.264 codecs is brutal to edit (LongGOP)
Only 3 native lenses and they are expensive
Lens Limitations
Camera is heavy
Can not use more than one media type at a time
Low Light isn't the best
Ruins other cameras after use

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GEAR MENTIONED
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DJI Ronin 4D Camera

DJI Lenses

SSD Side Module

PROSSD 1TB

Video Transmitter

High Bright Remote Monitor

Focus Motor

Lens Mount Adapters

Counter Balance Weight

Extra Batteries

Monitor Expansion Plate

Rear Expansion Plate

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VIDEO CHAPTERS
0:00 Introduction and Disclaimer
0:47 Sensor, Gimbal and Z-Arm
2:24 Main Body
2:52 Media and Expansion Modules
3:45 Monitor and Top Handle
5:09 Menu System
5:39 Camera Grips
7:19 Wireless Remote Monitor
9:06 Gimbal Control
10:12 Z-Arm Control
10:50 Tracking Mode
11:26 Sport Mode
11:50 LiDAR and Focus
13:07 Lens Options
13:59 Resolution and Frame Rates
14:38 Recording and Codecs
15:22 Image Quality
16:05 Low Light and Rolling Shutter
16:37 Pricing
17:13 Problems
18:10 Biggest Problem with DJI
19:00 Final Recommendation

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DISCLAIMERS

This video was not paid for by outside persons or manufacturers.
DJI loaned me a Ronin 4D for 3 weeks for this review.
The content of this video and my opinions were not reviewed or paid for by any outside persons.

[trowaclown]

So much information crammed into 20 minutes of non-stop talking. You're an inspiration for how information should be digested and presented.

[alexwr]

And bear in mind this is (technically) a 1st Gen product. The fact it all the elements work so well together is crazy!

They put so many amazing features in this, but I agree that a 1D version would be really great for those that don't use all those crazy features, but still want the grips and all the great accessories.

The only other issue is that everything is so proprietary. You have to buy DJI stuff to get the full experience. I understand, but also, proprietary SSDs? Is the the same as the RED situation where the SSDs in their mags were just software locked down, but otherwise bog-standard SSDs?

[philipbloom]

The thing that blew me away in this review was the Blake’s 7 VHS tape! What a great show 🤓

[clint_davis]

Probably the most informative, most concise, best product review I've seen of any camera. Remarkably well done.

[ActiveDad]

The fact that you did this review from space is just insane.

[Derrikbulginheadin]

I just want to say thanks to DJI for actually INCLUDING all the accessories you need to start shooting with the camera, and at a fair price. I'm not a fan of buying a camera only to get a brick that requires 7 more purchases just to be able to use it. The fact that you get TWO really nice hand grips, top handle, fully orientable monitor, cables, follow focus, a battery, 1 TB SSD and a gimbal all included for $7, 200 is a pretty fucking good deal. Please keep making products like this.

[iPhonedo]

What a fantastic video. So much information, neatly organized and perfectly presented. I literally know the camera now. Nicely done sir!

[youcan]

Bro, I've watched a lot of videos on the 4D, but yours is by far the best..
You're getting yourself a new 1+ subscriber

[Oliur]

Wow this was so detailed. The one video where I’ve learned the most about this beast.

[RockstarCinema]

So far the best review on this camera I’ve watched others but keep coming back to this one so far I’ve watched 15 times

[jaylamb]

This has been the BEST review of this camera by a long shot!!! Thank you very much!!!

[brad_neal]

Man, DJI is killing it at every turn! I know upwards of $10k sounds like a lot, but only a few years ago it was $100k for a 1080 cam.

[keith-knittel]

A gimbal-less 4D to account for larger lenses would be awesome. Can't wait to see how well the autofocus works once adapting to other glass. Would love to have more non-prores recording options for projects that don't require serious grading and dynamic range (sometimes you just have to film something quickly and get it out the door!) as well, but as the first round of a cinema camera, it's pretty exciting

[JakeBaconDigital]

Love your videos! You're literally the ONLY person who has mentioned how to balance this camera

[MattOdomcreative]

The feelings I get about this camera remind me very much of how I felt about the first Black Magic Ursa (which was an insanely amazing camera when on a tripod). That first Ursa, while flawed, ultimately led to the very nicely designed Ursa Mini Pro. Which is to say, this is a first gen, completely new camera paradigm. I think the 2nd gen version of the 4D will be even more stunning, and a 1D version to complement your 4D would an amazing kit.

[twpro]

I was upset when i got mine and i was not informed NONE OF THE "combos" come with lenses and to top if off B&H was the worst at "trying" to help i had to re irder everything to add lenses and ssd card and mount, but well hopefully i get my setup soon

[SamHolland]

Amazing review and video AS ALWAYS! You confirmed all of my thoughts about this and I want the "1D" also. That would be the dream. Thanks again

[johnpopedp]

Thoroughly enjoyed this review and could not agree more with your closing statements on how enjoyable the features are. My vote is with the 1D proposition. Thank you!

[liberalpoet]

Wow!! Thanks for the review! That thing is unbelievable!!

[edwardcutler]

Z-arm is insane! It's a seriously clever innovation from DJI and greatly adds to why this cinema camera is so amazing!