MoVi and DJI continue to battle it out to be the leaders of the stabilized cinema camera gimbal market. MoVi has held on to the wave of goodwill from being the first to market and continue to push innovation forward. DJI has done well as the cost-effective option for indies that is still capable of tremendous performance. Hence, it came as a bit of a sticker shock this week when the price was announced for the DJI Ronin 2: $6,999.

The Ronin 2 is a huge leap forward over the Ronin, as we covered in our video at NAB. If the price seems high, it's important to remember it can carry a payload up to 30 lbs, allowing for full-fledged cinema cameras with a host of accessories.

The comparable MoVi, the $7,499 MoVi Pro, maxes out at 15 lbs, and you need to spend $19,995 to get your hands on a MoVi XL to carry 30 lbs. While 30 lbs is a lot of camera—you aren't likely to fly that much weight every single shoot—it's a nice option to have when you need it. Especially considering the options for rigging the unit to vehicles at speeds of up to 75 mph, the 30-lb payload will be very useful.

It's fair for DJI to pursue price parity with MoVi. DJI isn't an unknown upstart; it dominates in the drone universe. While it didn't manufacture the first stabilizer to hit the streets, DJI has worked hard to make the Ronin the premiere stabilizer for a wide variety of users.

If you are in the market for a stabilizer, the Ronin 2 will be shipping this fall and is likely worth the wait. It's available for pre-order at B&H.

Tech Specs

  • Better stabilization with built-in GPS and SmoothTrak Algorithm
  • Built in 1000nit screen
  • Carbon fiber monopod frame with detachable grip and fold away feet
  • 30-Pound Payload Capacity
  • Stabilizes  up to 75mph
  • Detachable battery powers the R2 for 8hrs, 2.5 hours uptime, hot-swappable
  • Quick release  
  • 2-axis mode for Steadicam
  • Redesigned dual-band remote, 2.4ghz and 5.8ghz
  • New software interface includes better Panorama function, time-lapse functionality
  • Camera Control for Select Cameras
  • Up to 0.6-Mile Control Range
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Cinematography & Cameras