Is the Crane 2S Zhiyun's Best Gimbal Yet?

The Crane 2S is follow up to the Crane 2, and creators looking for a gimbal that allows you to shoot vertical footage should take note. The 3-axis gimbal features a sleeker modular design, improved locking capabilities, a larger screen, and a FlexMount system that makes mounting a camera simple and efficient.

Check out the video below.

One of the standout features of the Crane 2S is the upgraded locking mechanism. The 2-phase locking system is very easy to use and guarantees your camera won't move once locked. You can also reconfigure the Crane 2S so the back arm doesn't block the view of the camera's viewfinder. Removing the 30° extension arm from the back allows you to choose between two different setups.

All of the same shooting modes from the Crane 2 have been carried over, including Go mode, POV mode, and Vortex mode. The new mounting system is impressive. Not only does it allow you to mount your own tripod plates that are not Manfrotto style, but it also allows you to switch from horizontal to vertical shooting modes very quickly.

For payload capacity, the Crane 2S doesn't compete with the more capable Crane 3S, but it's compatible with dozens of cameras from Sony, Panasonic, Nikon, and Canon, as well as the Blackmagic Pocket Cinema Camera 6K/4K. As for runtime, you can expect the batteries to offer around 12 hours, powered by 3 removable 18650 Li-ion batteries.

The Crane 2S is priced at $599 and will be shipped later this month.

What do you think of the new gimbal? Let us know in the comments below.