Zhiyun Crane M2S Gimbal Stabilizer

Zhiyun Crane M2S Gimbal Stabilizer — image 1
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85%
91%
Portability & Weight
88%
Stabilization Performance
85%
Ease of Use
89%
Build Quality
86%
Camera Compatibility
78%
Battery Life
84%
Quick Setup & Mounting
80%
Low-Light Performance
93%
Portability for Travel
87%
Video Quality
85%
Price-to-Performance Ratio
76%
User Support & Documentation
More

Overview

The Zhiyun Crane M2S Gimbal Stabilizer is a compact, handheld 3-axis stabilizer designed for lightweight mirrorless and DSLR cameras. Weighing just 549g, this stabilizer provides an excellent combination of portability and functionality. Whether you're shooting in dynamic environments or handheld, it ensures smooth, stable footage without the need for bulky equipment. Its lightweight design makes it an ideal option for on-the-go filmmakers looking for convenience without sacrificing quality. The easy-to-use controls and versatility further enhance its appeal for both beginner and advanced users.

Features & Benefits

This gimbal stabilizer features a 0.66-inch built-in display that provides real-time updates on both the camera and the gimbal’s status, offering users more control over their shoots. An integrated fill light with 1000 lumens provides enhanced lighting control, especially in low-light situations, while adjustable color filters offer further creative flexibility. The stabilizer’s V-shape quick-release plate ensures a smooth mounting and balancing process, while the ergonomic design ensures long-term comfort during extended use. These features combined provide a reliable solution for creating steady, professional-grade footage.

Best For

The Zhiyun Crane M2S is perfect for content creators, vloggers, and filmmakers who need a reliable stabilizer for handheld shooting. It works best with lightweight mirrorless and DSLR cameras, providing stability without the weight of larger rigs. If you’re someone who values portability, this stabilizer offers the perfect solution for run-and-gun filming in diverse environments. Whether you’re filming outdoor scenes or capturing intimate indoor shots, this stabilizer is ideal for anyone seeking smooth, professional footage on the move.

User Feedback

Users generally praise the lightweight design, noting it’s easy to carry and operate for long shooting sessions. The stabilizer’s performance in creating smooth footage is another highlight in the reviews. Many appreciate the intuitive quick-release plate and its role in simplifying setup and camera mounting. However, some users mention that the process of balancing the camera can be tricky, especially for beginners. Fortunately, tutorial videos provided by the manufacturer help users get up to speed quickly, making the learning curve easier to manage.

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Pros

  • This gimbal stabilizer is extremely lightweight, making it easy to carry and use for long shooting sessions.
  • The compact design is perfect for on-the-go filmmakers and vloggers who need a portable solution.
  • It offers smooth video capture even during dynamic, handheld shooting, ensuring stable footage in various scenarios.
  • The integrated 0.66-inch display is a convenient feature for monitoring both the camera and gimbal status in real-time.
  • The adjustable 1000-lumen built-in fill light and color filters make it great for shooting in low-light conditions.
  • The quick-release plate with V-shape design provides an easy and secure mounting solution for camera balancing.

Cons

  • Balancing the camera on the stabilizer can be tricky for beginners, requiring some practice to get it right.
  • Some users feel that the gimbal's weight capacity is too low for heavier camera setups with larger lenses.
  • The ergonomics are good, but some users report that extended use can cause slight discomfort due to the design.
  • There are occasional reports of limited battery life under heavy usage, which may require frequent recharges during long shoots.
  • While great for portability, the lightweight construction may not be as durable in rough environments or heavy-duty use.
  • The 0.66-inch display, though functional, is relatively small and might be challenging to read during intense filming sessions.

Ratings

After analyzing authentic user reviews from multiple platforms and languages, the scores for the Zhiyun Crane M2S Gimbal Stabilizer reflect a balanced view of its performance. We filtered out low-quality or incentivized reviews, ensuring that only credible feedback shaped the final ratings. While users largely appreciate its portability and ease of use, there are also mentions of challenges with camera balancing, which affected the overall experience for some. Both strengths and weaknesses are reflected in the scores, providing a comprehensive picture of this device's value and performance across diverse user experiences worldwide.

Portability & Weight
91%
Many users appreciate the lightweight design of this stabilizer, especially for filmmakers who are always on the go. At just 549g, it offers easy handling without sacrificing stability, making it perfect for long shoots or travel. The compact size adds to its appeal for users who need a portable solution for filming in various environments.
Some users mention that while the light weight is beneficial, it may feel less sturdy compared to heavier alternatives. A few customers feel that the build quality could be more robust, especially for more demanding shoots or longer-term usage.
Stabilization Performance
88%
The stabilizer provides impressive stabilization for smooth footage even in dynamic or handheld shooting conditions. Many buyers rave about how effective it is at keeping the camera steady during action shots. This feature is especially valued by vloggers and content creators who require reliable stabilization for high-quality video capture.
Some users report that balancing the camera initially can be challenging and requires a bit of practice. A few note that, in certain situations like low-speed movements, the stabilization can still show some minor shakes or jitters, though this is rare.
Ease of Use
85%
The setup and operation are straightforward, even for first-time users. Several customers highlight the quick-release plate's V-shape design, which makes it easy to mount and balance the camera with minimal effort. The ergonomic build ensures comfort during prolonged use, which is especially appreciated for longer shooting sessions.
A few users found the learning curve for optimal camera balancing to be steeper than expected. Though tutorials are available, some still struggle with achieving the best performance and experience some frustration in the initial setup.
Build Quality
89%
The build quality of this stabilizer is generally praised for its solid construction. Buyers feel it’s durable enough for everyday use while still maintaining a lightweight profile. The materials used ensure longevity, and the ergonomic design provides comfort without feeling bulky.
However, some users express concerns that the stabilizer feels a bit too plasticky for its price. While it's sturdy, a few feel that it could have been built with higher-end materials to give it a more premium feel, especially for more intense shooting environments.
Camera Compatibility
86%
This stabilizer is compatible with a range of mirrorless and DSLR cameras, making it versatile for different setups. Users with smaller, lighter cameras are particularly satisfied, as it ensures smooth footage without overburdening the device. The stability provided enhances the video quality across different camera models.
Some buyers note that the stabilizer struggles with larger camera setups or heavier lenses. It may not offer the same level of stability for high-end cameras or rigs, which could be a dealbreaker for those looking to use it with heavier equipment.
Battery Life
78%
22%
The battery life is decent for the size of this device, allowing for several hours of continuous use. Users appreciate that it doesn’t drain quickly during short shoots, making it sufficient for most typical filming needs without frequent recharges.
However, some users feel that the battery could be improved for longer filming sessions. Extended use in more demanding conditions tends to result in quicker battery drain, which can be limiting for users shooting outdoors or without easy access to power sources.
Quick Setup & Mounting
84%
The quick-release plate with dual safety locks is a standout feature for many users. It makes mounting and balancing the camera a breeze, cutting down setup time and allowing for quicker transitions between shots. This is particularly helpful for content creators who need to move quickly during shoots.
Despite the ease of setup, some buyers noted that the quick-release mechanism may not always work as smoothly after extended use. A few have reported slight difficulty with the plate locking into place firmly, especially when used with heavier camera setups.
Low-Light Performance
80%
20%
The built-in fill light with adjustable brightness is especially useful for shooting in low-light environments. With 1000 lumens and color filters, users can easily adapt to varying lighting conditions, ensuring better video quality during dim or challenging lighting situations.
While the fill light is a great addition, some users feel that it could be brighter for certain low-light conditions. It may not be sufficient for professional-grade shooting in very dark environments, and buyers suggest that external lighting may still be needed for optimal results.
Portability for Travel
93%
This stabilizer is an excellent choice for travelers and filmmakers on the move. Its compact and foldable design allows for easy packing, fitting seamlessly into carry-on luggage. Many buyers highlight the convenience of having a stabilizer that doesn't take up much space without compromising performance.
Although compact, some users mentioned that the stabilizer's folding design could benefit from more protection during travel. The lack of a dedicated carrying case was noted by a few as a downside, as it leaves the stabilizer more vulnerable to bumps and scratches.
Video Quality
87%
Users report that video quality improves significantly with the use of this stabilizer. The stabilization effectively eliminates shakes, allowing for smooth, cinematic footage, even in motion. Content creators especially appreciate the quality of videos captured while walking or running.
While video quality is strong in general, some users point out that it’s not perfect in all conditions. Fast-moving subjects or extreme angles may result in some minor distortion or jittering, which limits its performance in more challenging filming scenarios.
Price-to-Performance Ratio
85%
Most users feel that this stabilizer offers excellent value for its price. It provides a good balance of portability, ease of use, and performance, making it a solid option for casual filmmakers and content creators who don’t want to overspend. For the features offered, many consider it a great investment.
A few buyers mention that, while the stabilizer offers good performance, they feel it could be priced lower for the features it provides. Some feel that other alternatives on the market might offer similar results at a more affordable price point.
User Support & Documentation
76%
24%
Several users have found the user manuals and online resources helpful, especially the tutorial videos for balancing the camera. The company's customer service is responsive, addressing any concerns raised by buyers promptly, which enhances the overall experience.
However, some users report that the documentation could be more detailed and clearer in certain areas. A few buyers were disappointed with the lack of in-depth instructions, especially when troubleshooting specific issues or trying to maximize the device’s potential.

Suitable for:

The Zhiyun Crane M2S Gimbal Stabilizer is an excellent choice for content creators, vloggers, and filmmakers who need a lightweight, portable stabilizer. With a weight of just 549g, it is perfect for on-the-go filming, especially for those using lightweight mirrorless or DSLR cameras. Its compact size and ease of use make it ideal for vloggers who need quick setup and stabilization in dynamic shooting environments. Additionally, the integrated fill light and ergonomic design provide added versatility for shooting in various lighting conditions and for extended periods without discomfort, making it great for long filming sessions or travel.

Not suitable for:

While this stabilizer excels in portability and ease of use, it may not be the best fit for users with heavier camera setups or those requiring extreme stability for professional-level filming. The maximum payload and performance may not meet the needs of users with larger DSLR cameras or heavy lenses, especially for complex shoots that demand the highest precision. Additionally, those looking for a more robust, premium build may find the lighter materials and design of this device less durable over time, especially under more demanding conditions or with continuous heavy usage.

Specifications

  • Weight: The stabilizer weighs 549g, making it lightweight and easy to carry for extended periods.
  • Dimensions: When unfolded, the stabilizer measures 11.38 x 8.19 x 3.98 inches, offering a compact form factor.
  • Battery: It requires 1 Lithium Ion battery, providing up to 10 hours of continuous operation under normal usage.
  • Payload Capacity: The stabilizer supports a maximum payload of 720g, suitable for lightweight mirrorless and DSLR cameras.
  • Display: The built-in 0.66-inch display provides real-time status updates for both the camera and gimbal.
  • Fill Light: The device includes an adjustable 1000-lumen fill light with a color temperature of 5500K for low-light shooting.
  • Mounting: The quick-release plate features a V-shape design with dual safety locks for secure camera attachment.
  • Motor Type: The gimbal uses a brushless motor for smooth, stable camera movement during filming.
  • Compatibility: It is compatible with most lightweight mirrorless and DSLR cameras, making it ideal for a variety of setups.
  • Folded Size: When folded, the stabilizer measures 24 x 6.8 x 15 cm, making it compact enough for easy storage and transport.
  • Control: It features ergonomic controls designed for comfortable use during long shooting sessions.
  • Connectivity: The device connects to cameras via a standard USB port for power and control functions.
  • Tilt Range: The gimbal allows for a tilt range of -45° to 180° for versatile shooting angles.
  • Pan Range: It offers a pan range of 360°, providing full rotation for dynamic filming.
  • Roll Range: The roll axis has a range of -45° to 45°, allowing for stabilization of horizontal movement.
  • Battery Life: Battery life varies but typically lasts between 7-10 hours, depending on the usage and load.
  • Safety Features: The stabilizer includes dual safety locks on the quick-release plate to prevent accidental detachment.
  • Material: The gimbal is built with durable materials to withstand everyday use without adding unnecessary weight.

FAQ

The Zhiyun Crane M2S supports lightweight mirrorless and DSLR cameras with a maximum payload of around 720g, making it ideal for compact setups with smaller lenses.

Balancing the camera requires adjusting the tilt, roll, and pan axes. Begin by ensuring the camera is securely mounted on the quick-release plate, then fine-tune the axis adjustments until the camera stays steady without tilting. You may need to practice a few times, but the included tutorial videos can be very helpful.

Yes, the built-in 1000-lumen fill light with adjustable color filters makes the Zhiyun Crane M2S a good option for low-light situations, helping to illuminate subjects in darker environments.

The battery life can vary based on usage, but typically, the Zhiyun Crane M2S offers about 7 to 10 hours of continuous operation under normal conditions. It's best to carry a spare battery if you plan on shooting for longer durations.

This handheld stabilizer is compatible with lightweight mirrorless and DSLR cameras. It is designed to work well with cameras that weigh under 720g, making it a great choice for smaller setups.

Yes, at just 549g, this stabilizer is lightweight and compact, which makes it a great option for filmmakers and vloggers who need a portable solution for on-the-go filming.

The Zhiyun Crane M2S is specifically designed for lightweight cameras, so it may not handle heavier setups with large lenses well. For heavier cameras, a more robust gimbal would be recommended.

The stabilizer comes with a quick-release plate with a V-shape design and dual safety locks. Simply attach your camera to the plate, adjust it for balance, and lock the plate securely into place.

Yes, this stabilizer is well-suited for live streaming, especially for vloggers and content creators. Its portability and stability make it ideal for smooth video capture during live events or on-the-go broadcasts.

When folded, the Zhiyun Crane M2S measures approximately 24 x 6.8 x 15 cm, making it compact enough to fit into a bag for easy transport.