This gimbal can stabilize your phone or mirrorless camera

ZHIYUN has launched a new gimbal, the compact and lightweight ZHIYUN Crane-M2 S.

Lightweight

The Crane-M2 S weighs only 19.3 ounces. Given its small size, we would forgive you for thinking it’s only useable with smartphones or action cams. However, the powerful motors and extended axes mean you can use the gimbal with mirrorless cameras as well. ZHIYUN states that the Crane-M2 S will even support a Sony A7SIII with small prime lenses.

Display

ZHIYUN Crane-M2S
Image courtesy: ZHIYUN

The Crane-M2 S has an ergonomic design to feel balanced and natural in your hand during use. It also has a built-in 0.66-inch display that shows the real-time status and operating parameters of your camera as well as the gimbal. This means you can quickly and easily monitor your kit while shooting.

Modes

The Crane-M2 S has a selection of modes to choose from. In Pan Follow mode, the camera pans as you turn the gimbal left and right, while in Follow mode, the camera will follow the handle movements in all directions. In Lock mode, the camera direction is locked. While in POV mode, the gimbal gives you 360-degree synchronous movement on all three axes. With Vortex mode, you can shoot 360-degree barrel roll shots. Finally, in Go mode, the gimbal responds quickly to follow the rotation of the handle.

Built-in light

ZHIYUN Crane-M2S with camera
Image courtesy: ZHIYUN

One unique feature of the Crane-M2 S is its ultra-bright built-in light. The integrated fill light uses what ZHIYUN calls Lumen Amplifier technology to generate 1000 lumens of brightness. It is balanced at 5500 K and has a CRI or 90+. It is also adjustable with five levels of output and four color filters.

Quick release

The Crane-M2 S has ZHIYUN’s latest quick release plate, which the company has previously only used on its flagship gimbals. The quick-release mechanism has a v-shape design for better working efficiency. It also has dual safety locks to ensure that your camera remains attached when you need it to.

Battery life

The Crane-M2 S battery will power the gimbal for up to 10 hours. It can support USB PD fast-charging up to 12 W via its USB-C connector. This means it can be fully charged in only 100 minutes. Compatible cameras can be connected via a USB-C cable so that you can control the shutter. It will also supply up to 5V/1A of power directly to the camera, extending its battery life.

Price and availability

The ZHIYUN Crane-M2 S is available for preorder now and retails at $269. It is also available in a Combo kit priced at $349. This includes a smartphone clamp, an enhanced mini tripod, and a backpack.

Pete Tomkies
Pete Tomkies
Pete Tomkies is a freelance cinematographer and camera operator from Manchester, UK. He also produces and directs short films as Duck66 Films. Pete's latest short Once Bitten... won 15 awards and was selected for 105 film festivals around the world.

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