Good News! Filmic Pro and Zhiyun just announced that the latest version of Filmic Pro can now be controlled with the physical controls on the Smooth 4!
Hi Curtis I am thinking of getting a smooth 4 or a dji 2. can the smooth 4 be used as a stabilizer without the app so i can use 60fps. If so what functions would work without the app ,As the app sounds bad as i have researched . I am wanting to use it with my Galaxy s8 plus . Thanks.
@@HandpanDemonstrate Hi, yes, you can use it without the app, but the follow-focus knob doesn't work and you cannot change camera settings from the gimbal. But otherwise, yes, it works great without the app.
Hy Curtis, this is the best Zhiyun Smooth 4 Instructionvideo i have seen on youtube. my gimbal is coming on friday and i can not wait. Thank you for this nice Video
Hi Stuart, that's correct, I haven't reviewed any other action cam gimbals. Probably best to check channels like MicBergsma for action cam related reviews.
Great review Curtis. The product was well explained, there's a few of those on RUclips already, but you included some awesome footage in your samples showing not only it's features but a glimpse at your great videographer skills. Subscribed, thank you
I think the tracking feature is the most impressive thing about this - where it actually will follow your subject around, moving the gimbal for you, even if unattended on its tripod on a table or something. I wish larger gimbals could do that with regular cameras, but without a way to install an app on the camera, there's no way to tie into their object tracking. BUT, I've heard people are now installing the app on their phones, then mounting their phones to their camera via hot or cold shoe, and letting their larger Zhiyun Crane-class stabilizers use the phone/app combo to move the stabilizer around to let the big camera do its thing. For single operators, Zhiyun is really killing it, and they price their products very fairly, unlike a lot of the other gimbal makers. Even the big Crane Plus and Crane 2 are priced fairly for their class. Now we just need to see what Red's Hydrogen One can bring to the phone recording stable.
Didn't bother watching vid.All i wanted to know was is it later than the Q version.It is according to description.That's good enough for me & have used provided link to buy..cheers mate !
Curtis, I really like your style of tuition and look forward to more from you. I’ve just bought a Smooth 4. My iPhone 7’s battery doesn’t last more than 25 minuets! I’m not recording, just getting use to it around the house. Is there a setting I need to adjust in the phone to extend battery life? I’ve bought a special charging adapter which allows the phone to remain mounted to the gimble and a iPhone cable to plug in but there doesn’t seem to be a cable on the market to connect the two when mounted and on the go. Can you advise please. Thanks Peter
This is my concern, as I just purchased the Smooth 4. Waiting for it to be delivered, today. I found this cable on Amazon, hopefully it’ll help solve this problem www.amazon.com/DF-DIGITALFOTO-Charge-Samsung-Android/dp/B07FDXK5SD/ref=sr_1_3?ie=UTF8&qid=1531888056&sr=8-3&keywords=charge+cable+for+smooth+4
Soon as I saw Curtis Judd next to the videos title, I knew it was going to be good. This is by far the best video on the Smooth 4. One thing I see in every video but yours however is how bad the Zhiyun app is and that the DJI app is better overall which is saying a lot since the DJI app is not very good. What’s your take on the app Curtis?
Hi Giulio, thanks! I haven’t used the DJI app so I don’t have that as a reference point. The app is ok. I like that it allows manual exposure control. I don’t like that it doesn’t use the image stabilizer of my iPhone 7. I am told they’re adding that “in a future update.” It isn’t perfect but also not the worst I’ve used.
+Eli L hi Eli, thanks. I tend not to use the joystick while shooting on most gimbals because the start/stop motion is a bit robotic looking so not something I missed here. If it is something you use a lot, you may miss it.
Thank goodness I found your video Curtis! Like the one you did for the Zoom H2n (which I shall be coupling to this gimbal soon) you get to the point and dxplain things _so_ well!
Ha ha never knew such a pro audio guy did gimbal review...you are born for reviewing a product may be sir.. a bit funny portion reminded of Mr.Bean..when twice you walked back n forth ...though serious u walked the edit reminded me of that Lol...
Thanks Tony. OIS = optical image stabilization and EIS = electronic image stabilization. OIS is hardware on your phone, EIS is software. Usually OIS is better but give each a try and see what kinds of results you get with each. Good luck!
Dear Curtis, Thank you so much for a wonderful video. Can you help us with one feature which we cannot find. How to turn off sound while taking a picture or video in a silent event? Regards, ChessBase India
Curtis...Thank you for this Zhiyun Smooth 4 info video! You are my go to for any camera, video, lighting and audio. Ordered one yesterday on Amazon Prime...only $100. I will be using a Samsung Galaxy S7 of which they say should be fine. Software app...your thoughts on FilMic Pro vs ZY ZY Play? Thanks again Curtis!
Great video Curtis. My questions are: 1. Does it work with Filmic Pro, and 2. How would you compare this gimbal to the Osmo 2? Thanks for your answer, and I’m a new subscriber!!
Hi Paindoctor, 1) there is no special integration with Filmic pro to control the app via the gimbal's physical controls but of course you could use Filmic Pro to record while using the gimbal. 2) Unfortunately I haven't used the Osmo 2 so I'm not sure how it compares. Best wishes and happy recording!
Curtis, should talk with others that use this gimbal. Specifically ones that aren't pawns of the company. I had a different experience with the Zhiyum Smooth 4. It never worked and support would allow me to return/replace. It sets in the local land fill now for it's constant software/firmware errors. I bought a FreeFly Movi two weeks ago and have experienced a gimbal now that WORKS so I can add specifically that this gimbal is loaded but problems are too pervasive to make it one that you' d be able to use. It works as a gyroscope, but you don't buy it for that, you buy it to link with the phone via bluetooth. This is a poorly executed gimbal. I am far from the only person with problems.
I've recently ordered this gimbal and then watched your nice review. Liked it and subscribed. I have an idea. What if you add the window (with previously recorded on the phone for example) on the video where you show the device while it's recording? Like on the 00:22 seconds the video begins showing your phone and in my mind I was imagining how the video was recorded (if it was recorded at that time). I hope I could express myself so you could understand. Thanks in advance.
Thanks for your very helpful reviews! Can you please comment whether one could manage to plug a wired lavalier microphone into an iPhone while using this?
Thanks Diane, It looks like you'd need an adapter because the lightning port on iPhone is pressed up against the gimbal harness when operating it. An adapter like this should do the job: amzn.to/2RKOxU6
It looks very slick and the servos look very smooth. Does the standby lock let you go from upright to inverted without turning on and off ? Nice review .
It got confused when I tried this. Looks like a software limitation that hopefully, Zhiyun could address in a firmware update. When I put it into standby and inverted and then took it back out of standby, it evidently expects to still be in upright position as the arm kept trying to turn the camera "upright."
Thanks for giving it a go, yes it is a bit limiting especially if the desire to film wildlife for example nesting birds that would involve quick angle changes from land to sky or anything that changes on the vertical, so much is taken for granted that life lives on the horizontal .... but it doesn't .
Hi, great video, I’ve just bought the smooth 4 and so far I’m very impressed - but do you know if it can do a fully automated normal video pan? E.g. using the tripod legs - start recording video at exact point and pan for 10 seconds and finish at another exact point. I can do a motion time lapse at 1/30 frame rate which gives me great video but because it’s time lapse it doesn’t record any sound.
Great overview, thanks Curtis! I have a Pocophone F1 so I presume the Smooth 4 zoom function is not going to work for me? The only thing holding me back from buying is the issue of the batteries not being replaceable. Are yours still charging? Have you heard of this aspect bring a problem?
Hi Liam, that was what I heard - Android app did not support the zoom function. I gave mine to my brother and he still has it. He doesn't use it a lot, but still working.
Nice review, almost buying this gimbal on Amazon but when i saw so many negative review about Zhiyun app, not sure if I getting this anymore. What a shame gimbal look very promising but what the point using it when it don't work well with app!!
Curtis Judd I own the Note 8 and yes most of them are on Android and very sluggish, i really like this gimbal a lot more than Dji Osmo mobile 2 but heard about the problem with Android and mostly on the Note 8. I was so disappointed, guess i have to wait for a while see if there any update or anybody having luck get it to work well like ios, then I'll buy it!!
There's a lot to comment on this video, but I will choose to keep it relatively short. I'll start with price since that's typically one of the first things I look at next to features. This is the same price as the smooth Q when it was first launched and now the smooth Q can be had for about $80. The added features don't justify (almost) doubled price and I'm not about to start becoming a stabilizer hoarder and buy every new iteration. I will probably end up just getting the crane Plus or the next version of the crane Plus which was the updated version of the crane V2. So maybe they'll call it the crane plus plus 😂? I'm just glad I've did my research and have kept up with the naming road map. The way zhiyun is naming their gear is really confusing if you're new. One of the main problems with this stabilizer is that they forgot to include or think about things such as external mics and lights. I know there are there party adapters and I'm sure this might have been on purpose for them to sell additional accessories but I find this to be a horrible model. I had to use my manfrotto mini Pixi legs for the bottom of my smooth Q so it could stand. I just can't believe that it was an afterthought and then they put it into the smooth 4. The weight limit also is a problem and the size of the phone mount. As you noted this doesn't like Big Apple phones and also big phones without the case. I don't want to have to constantly take out my phone in order to use it with the smooth for. I also would like to use my external mic like the videomic me. It also boggles the mind how zhiyun thought about only the phone but didn't leave enough weight capacity to attach a moment lens or similar cheap lens or a tiny mic. With all these issues a person should just get the crane M or crane plus. After seeing you at NAB (video). I knew you would eventually get around to reviewing the smooth 4. Your fellow "RUclipsrs" like kitty from atola visuals and James Matthews (who by the way don't even know what NAB stands for,) already released their videos a few weeks ago but as always I was somewhat disappointed in their presentation and review. I tend to take in the entire landscape even if I don't like some of the people in it just to stay current on who's who and who sponsors like. The younger tech RUclipsrs always try to be "creative" with their product reviews but tend to leave out the important details of the actual products. They are more interested in making the viewer click their affiliate link. While I don't think I'll buy the smooth 4, at least until it gets to the $80 level which will take another 6-8 months. I'm always interested in knowing the new features. That way I don't have to do research when it comes time for me to buy. Even though I already knew the features of this stabilizer, I much prefer giving you my AdSense time.
Thanks for the thoughts! I didn't have high expectations, but was pleasantly surprised and had fun shooting with the Smooth 4. Is it a critical, must-add-to-the-kit piece of gear? Definitely stick with your instincts, That'll differ from person to person. Happy shooting!
I'm very excited to see an overview of this gambling also with the Samsung Galaxy S8 / S8 + or S9 / S9 +. At least once. I'm tired of this IPhones. Why? Because the camera is a bit closer to the middle of the phone, and often the rear gimbal engine enters the image, and quite a lot.
Hello dear, may you please advise me, which is better as response of gimbals, Hohem iSteady or this one Zhiyun Smooth 4 smartphone Gimbal Stabilizer? And how much do you think that the microphone type FM1 (shown in video) enhance the voice comparing to without it? thanks
Great video. Literally just click the purchase button for the gimbal, and you'rs in the first video on RUclips that search threw at me. I'm going to be using the gimbal for internal videos, promotional for spaces... maybe you could do a "How I would shoot" series. Practical series showing how you would do different setups depending on what you were going to shoot, such as; Real Estate, Large venues, small apartments, city tours, etc... would be a great help to me, and I am sure to many others here. It's my first gimbal purchase, but I have many many years of editing videos done by others... but still have a mountain to learn.
Curtis - any idea how well this might work with an aftermarket clip-on lens on a smart phone like the 7+ or 6+? Do you think you'll have balance problems?
Hi Pat, I didn't try that as I don't have any clip-on lenses, unfortunately. I think that'd work fine with smaller cameras but might push the weight too far for the larger phones like the 6+ and 7+. I'll let you know if I get a chance to try.
Hi sir. Is Zhiyun Smooth 4 compatible with Oppo F9? I really need answers because if its compatible with my oppo f9, i have a plan to purchase one for myself. Thank you sir and God bless!
Thanks Lucas, yes, if your phone and app can do that, then you'll just put it in the gimbal for the live video. The gimbal's controls will not control the facebook app, but once you get the live video going, there usually isn't a need to change anything.
Curtis, have you heard of any complaints with the Smooth 4 with Android phones (maybe more specifically Samsung Note 5) where the dial's actions are not smooth at all? I find it very jerky and unreliable with respect to that.
So I recently got my smooth 4 and it's amazing your tips really help but one thing I have noticed is that a pinkish purple ish light appears after awhile and the stabilizer turns itself. The smooth 4 is still connected to my phone through Bluetooth but the stabilizer is off completely any idea on how to fix that?
Depends on what you're trying to accomplish and where you're shooting - If you're not in good ambient light and the subject will be a little farther from the camera, then yes, a light and microphone will help. Sadly, with iPhones, the lightning port is blocked when in the gimbal so there isn't an easy way to add a microphone.
Lock v PF - this is the main question I have for this. I film walks in London on my Samsung 6 using either the DJI Osmo 2 or the Zhiyun Smooth 4; this is for upload to my RUclips channel as a hobby. I find pan focus to just whizz wildly from one side to the other as I turn slightly while walking along the street on the Zhiyun, but the lock mode seems a little heavy on the footsteps. For just filming a walk through city streets I still don't know the best setting. The DJI does not force me to make this choice, but again is very whizzy the minute I start moving the gimbal. and footage suffers as I turn However I use the DJI much less these days even though it is lighter and has the pan function, as the app/phone and gimbal do not seem to communicate so it's as if there is no gimbal at all and I might as well just walk along without it. On both gimbals the edge of the gimbal appears on one side of the footage wherever I position the phone and I am now trying to edit this out in Sony Vegas. I struggle with both gimbals but in particular wonder if it's PF or lock for my kind of usage on the Zhiyun.
Thank you for replying:) I have just spent an hour with both gimbals just recording around the house and it seems pan focus is the correct one to use after all on the Zhiyun. The only problem seems to be that it doesn't always do anything when I press the record button and it can take a bit of on and off to get it started. The DJI just refuses to have my phone straight, it is just constantly on a tilt and - to get back to your answer - I find I am having to hold the handle at multiple odd angles to keep it straight. A shame because the DJI is so much lighter! So yes, holding it vertically does indeed work fine:)
Was this review made with an iPhone or Android phone (which?)? I've read horrible reviews about the Android app having limited and terrible functionality. Any opinions about this?
Curtis, thanks for the great info, and for being so generous with your advice and replies! I just purchased a ZS4 from B&H (not through your link, sorry, didn't know about it - next time, I promise!), and was dismayed to learn about the conflict involving iPhones and the ability to power them from the gimbal unit itself -- seems like a rather major oversight to put on the "con" side of the list. I'm shooting an event this weekend that last about three hours (SF Carnaval Parade), and can't afford to run out of juice (or storage space for that matter!), From your experience, how long can one reasonably expect to shoot video on a fully charged iPhone 7+ or 8? Will using the gimbal and the app drain more power from the camera than normal? Also, do you know how much storage space is required per 1 hour of 1080 HD/60fps on the above mentioned phones? And finally, is there a viewer hood that you could recommend for using these phones in bright daylight conditions? Many thanks in advance.
Hi janosanfran, I get about 4 hours recording time on my 7+. It doesn’t appear to drain the phone faster than just using the camera app without the gimbal. I don’t know the amount of space required off the top of my head but I would record 1 minute of rapidly moving the camera (this results in the worst case file size as movement potentially increases file size) and use that to estimate hourly usage. I haven’t come across or used any hoods so I don’t have a specific recommendation, unfortunately. Regarding the inability to charge or power the phone while on the gimbal, we’ll need a radically different gimbal design for that to be possible. It seems the design used by all of the gimbal designers suffer from the same issue unless shooting in vertical mode. There a market opportunity there for a creative designer.
Hi Floyd, I'm sorry, I don't have an Android phone to tell. Might be best to find a review somebody did with an Android phone and this gimbal. Best wishes!
Hi Thanks for your effort I bought smooth 4 How can i make it stable before i turn it on Is there an automatic installation (stabilization)in zy application as is available in the application of osmo mobile? Thank
Hi Ahmad, I'm afraid I cannot, I don't have access to the Play store on my iPhone. Probably best to contact Zhiyun support. They should be able to guide you in the right direction. Best wishes!
Been looking at this for doing some filming of RC cars. But I've heard and read that the app is not the greatest specially on android. I have a Samsung s9 anyone tested it and what are you thoughts. And also are you able to use the gimbal with out all the special functions like tapping the phones screen to start shooting etc
Good News! Filmic Pro and Zhiyun just announced that the latest version of Filmic Pro can now be controlled with the physical controls on the Smooth 4!
Curtis Judd does it work in iPhone 6s ???
@@motorrad_vlogs Yes
Curtis Judd thanks a lot
Hi Curtis I am thinking of getting a smooth 4 or a dji 2. can the smooth 4 be used as a stabilizer without the app so i can use 60fps. If so what functions would work without the app ,As the app sounds bad as i have researched . I am wanting to use it with my Galaxy s8 plus . Thanks.
@@HandpanDemonstrate Hi, yes, you can use it without the app, but the follow-focus knob doesn't work and you cannot change camera settings from the gimbal. But otherwise, yes, it works great without the app.
This is the best review on the Smooth 4 on RUclips. Great job!
Thanks!
I'd have to agree. Very well done and I've watch quite a few videos so far.
+1
The black is so much more nicer looking. 👍
With my dirty paws, I think its the better choice. 😉
Hy Curtis, this is the best Zhiyun Smooth 4 Instructionvideo i have seen on youtube. my gimbal is coming on friday and i can not wait. Thank you for this nice Video
Thanks Christian! I hope you like the Smooth 4!
Can u share urexperience with this gimbal sir?thanks
i just bought smooth 4 and struggling to learn on how to use it. your review and tips helps a lot. thanks again.
👍
This is the best video overview of Smooth 4 gimbal. Thanks for making and sharing it.
Thanks D Manalang!
Good video. I read that the walking mode you should adopt whilst filming is the "Groucho walk".
Thanks. I haven't heard of the groucho walk. Will need to look that up. :-D
You pretty much convinced me to buy one of these gimbals with your great video. Nice job!
👍 I hope it works well for you!
@@curtisjudd Thank you!
Will use this gimbal for RUclips live streaming
Yes.
I just had a quick search of your back catalog. I couldn't find many reviews for action camera gimbal reviews. I found the GVB one but no others.
Hi Stuart, that's correct, I haven't reviewed any other action cam gimbals. Probably best to check channels like MicBergsma for action cam related reviews.
Thanks for the pointer.
Great review Curtis. The product was well explained, there's a few of those on RUclips already, but you included some awesome footage in your samples showing not only it's features but a glimpse at your great videographer skills. Subscribed, thank you
Thanks Anon.
I think the tracking feature is the most impressive thing about this - where it actually will follow your subject around, moving the gimbal for you, even if unattended on its tripod on a table or something. I wish larger gimbals could do that with regular cameras, but without a way to install an app on the camera, there's no way to tie into their object tracking. BUT, I've heard people are now installing the app on their phones, then mounting their phones to their camera via hot or cold shoe, and letting their larger Zhiyun Crane-class stabilizers use the phone/app combo to move the stabilizer around to let the big camera do its thing. For single operators, Zhiyun is really killing it, and they price their products very fairly, unlike a lot of the other gimbal makers. Even the big Crane Plus and Crane 2 are priced fairly for their class. Now we just need to see what Red's Hydrogen One can bring to the phone recording stable.
Thanks for your thoughts, genjii931. Interesting notes re: using the phone for tracking with a larger camera.
Didn't bother watching vid.All i wanted to know was is it later than the Q version.It is according to description.That's good enough for me & have used provided link to buy..cheers mate !
Thx
Thanks for this informative overview. Btw the crane shots looked awesome !
Thanks!
Curtis, I really like your style of tuition and look forward to more from you. I’ve just bought a Smooth 4. My iPhone 7’s battery doesn’t last more than 25 minuets! I’m not recording, just getting use to it around the house. Is there a setting I need to adjust in the phone to extend battery life? I’ve bought a special charging adapter which allows the phone to remain mounted to the gimble and a iPhone cable to plug in but there doesn’t seem to be a cable on the market to connect the two when mounted and on the go. Can you advise please. Thanks Peter
This is my concern, as I just purchased the Smooth 4. Waiting for it to be delivered, today. I found this cable on Amazon, hopefully it’ll help solve this problem www.amazon.com/DF-DIGITALFOTO-Charge-Samsung-Android/dp/B07FDXK5SD/ref=sr_1_3?ie=UTF8&qid=1531888056&sr=8-3&keywords=charge+cable+for+smooth+4
The cable I found here on RUclips ruclips.net/video/fvf2o7C5drw/видео.html
Thanks for that Nigel. Looks like a good solution!
Soon as I saw Curtis Judd next to the videos title, I knew it was going to be good. This is by far the best video on the Smooth 4. One thing I see in every video but yours however is how bad the Zhiyun app is and that the DJI app is better overall which is saying a lot since the DJI app is not very good. What’s your take on the app Curtis?
Hi Giulio, thanks! I haven’t used the DJI app so I don’t have that as a reference point. The app is ok. I like that it allows manual exposure control. I don’t like that it doesn’t use the image stabilizer of my iPhone 7. I am told they’re adding that “in a future update.” It isn’t perfect but also not the worst I’ve used.
I bought it and really like it. Great review Curtis.
Thanks Gary!
Great review. Did you find you were missing a joystick found on many other gimbals? I tend to use a joystick to make small adjustments while filming.
+Eli L hi Eli, thanks. I tend not to use the joystick while shooting on most gimbals because the start/stop motion is a bit robotic looking so not something I missed here. If it is something you use a lot, you may miss it.
Thank goodness I found your video Curtis! Like the one you did for the Zoom H2n (which I shall be coupling to this gimbal soon) you get to the point and dxplain things _so_ well!
Thanks Hugh!
Subscribed!! Best review I have seen (and I’ve watched many) on the Zhiyun Smooth 4.
Thanks Nigel!
Ha ha never knew such a pro audio guy did gimbal review...you are born for reviewing a product may be sir.. a bit funny portion reminded of Mr.Bean..when twice you walked back n forth ...though serious u walked the edit reminded me of that Lol...
Oh wow, I forgot about this. I haven't reviewed gimbals recently and glad that it reminded you of Mr. Bean. 👍
Great review. Thanks! Question... what’s the difference between OIS and EIS in the settings?
Thanks Tony. OIS = optical image stabilization and EIS = electronic image stabilization. OIS is hardware on your phone, EIS is software. Usually OIS is better but give each a try and see what kinds of results you get with each. Good luck!
Great video. Just subscribed. Really like your no “BS” review. My gimbal will be delivered tomorrow so I can’t wait to do some filming.
Thanks Ken - I hope it helps you get some great clips!
Dear Curtis, Thank you so much for a wonderful video. Can you help us with one feature which we cannot find. How to turn off sound while taking a picture or video in a silent event?
Regards,
ChessBase India
Hi, you’ll want to contact the manufacturer of your phone for details on how to do that. Best wishes!
I have a different brand gimbal and I use that monopod trick too. Cheap litle way to get a nice crane shot :)
👍
Yeah, I know you're tall, Curtis, but seeing your footage I was surprised anyway. I felt kind of dwarfish even though I'm 6 feet. Nice trick.
Lau: instagram.com/p/Bhc7oIJn1pN/?taken-by=basicfilmmaker
Since I do not really play basketball, I do crane shots. ;-)
GREAT VIDEO, I PURCHASED ONE OF THOSE COUPLE OF DAYS AGO, HAVE NOT RECEIVED YET, BUT THANK YOU FOR DESCRIPTION, GREAT JOB ON THE VIDEO AND EXPLAINING
Thanks Robert.
Curtis...Thank you for this Zhiyun Smooth 4 info video! You are my go to for any camera, video, lighting and audio. Ordered one yesterday on Amazon Prime...only $100. I will be using a Samsung Galaxy S7 of which they say should be fine. Software app...your thoughts on FilMic Pro vs ZY ZY Play? Thanks again Curtis!
Thanks! I'd go with Filmic Pro.
Great video Curtis. My questions are: 1. Does it work with Filmic Pro, and 2. How would you compare this gimbal to the Osmo 2? Thanks for your answer, and I’m a new subscriber!!
Hi Paindoctor, 1) there is no special integration with Filmic pro to control the app via the gimbal's physical controls but of course you could use Filmic Pro to record while using the gimbal. 2) Unfortunately I haven't used the Osmo 2 so I'm not sure how it compares. Best wishes and happy recording!
thank you!
Very professional and helpful video, thank you:)
👍
Nice review and nice piece of tech I wish I needed one.
Thanks!
Curtis, should talk with others that use this gimbal. Specifically ones that aren't pawns of the company. I had a different experience with the Zhiyum Smooth 4. It never worked
and support would allow me to return/replace. It sets in the local land fill now for it's constant software/firmware errors. I bought a FreeFly Movi two weeks ago and have experienced a
gimbal now that WORKS so I can add specifically that this gimbal is loaded but problems are too pervasive to make it one that you' d be able to use. It works as a gyroscope, but you don't buy it for that, you buy it to link with the phone via bluetooth. This is a poorly executed gimbal. I am far from the only person with problems.
I can only speak to my experience. I am sorry that your experience was not so good. :(
I've recently ordered this gimbal and then watched your nice review.
Liked it and subscribed.
I have an idea. What if you add the window (with previously recorded on the phone for example) on the video where you show the device while it's recording?
Like on the 00:22 seconds the video begins showing your phone and in my mind I was imagining how the video was recorded (if it was recorded at that time).
I hope I could express myself so you could understand.
Thanks in advance.
Thanks for the feedback.
Will attach gimbal to tripod?
Yes.
I would love to see your take on the freefly movi cinema robot woth iphone as well as comparing the experience with an android phone.
Me too! I can’t promise the Android part, but trying to get the Movi.
👍🏼😄
Thank you for the concise review Curtis!
👍
Love your reviews, so pro! 👌
Thanks Stewart!
With a 6 foot monopod it will be Epic, just ordered on. Thanks for the review.
Epic indeed! I hope it works well for you!
Excellent review always Curtis, Thank You!!
👍
Thanks for your very helpful reviews!
Can you please comment whether one could manage to plug a wired lavalier microphone into an iPhone while using this?
Thanks Diane, It looks like you'd need an adapter because the lightning port on iPhone is pressed up against the gimbal harness when operating it. An adapter like this should do the job: amzn.to/2RKOxU6
It looks very slick and the servos look very smooth. Does the standby lock let you go from upright to inverted without turning on and off ? Nice review .
Will check as soon as I get back to the “studio”.
It got confused when I tried this. Looks like a software limitation that hopefully, Zhiyun could address in a firmware update. When I put it into standby and inverted and then took it back out of standby, it evidently expects to still be in upright position as the arm kept trying to turn the camera "upright."
Thanks for giving it a go, yes it is a bit limiting especially if the desire to film wildlife for example nesting birds that would involve quick angle changes from land to sky or anything that changes on the vertical, so much is taken for granted that life lives on the horizontal .... but it doesn't .
Hi, great video, I’ve just bought the smooth 4 and so far I’m very impressed - but do you know if it can do a fully automated normal video pan? E.g. using the tripod legs - start recording video at exact point and pan for 10 seconds and finish at another exact point. I can do a motion time lapse at 1/30 frame rate which gives me great video but because it’s time lapse it doesn’t record any sound.
Hi Martin, I'm not certain. I'll give it a try next time I'm using the Smooth 4.
Wow thanks for sharing, wish one day i able to have one :) have a great day!
Thanks Lara.
Very good Idea 👍👍👍👍👍👍😀
👍🏻
Thank you, this was incredibly helpful.
Thanks!
Nice video and review, I need to know if this will handle a Samsung galaxy S9 + weight and size???
Hi Oscar, it should support the S9 but I am told by other Android users that the Android app is not very good.
Thank you very much
Beautiful video bro I am Indian
Thanks bro!
Thanks, good review. One question, how to make a firmware update? Is there a video available?
I just followed the directions at the Zhiyun-Tech website.
Great overview, thanks Curtis! I have a Pocophone F1 so I presume the Smooth 4 zoom function is not going to work for me? The only thing holding me back from buying is the issue of the batteries not being replaceable. Are yours still charging? Have you heard of this aspect bring a problem?
Hi Liam, that was what I heard - Android app did not support the zoom function. I gave mine to my brother and he still has it. He doesn't use it a lot, but still working.
Well, here in Europe it's more like $175. In Denmark it's about $200. Buy the way, what size is the tripod thread? Nice review as always, thank you.
Hi Lau, the tap is 1/4-20.
Thank you, then my cheap Camlink monopod should fit.
Nice review, almost buying this gimbal on Amazon but when i saw so many negative review about Zhiyun app, not sure if I getting this anymore. What a shame gimbal look very promising but what the point using it when it don't work well with app!!
Hi ty101. Were most of the issues on the Android version of the app or the iOS version? The iOS version worked pretty well for me.
Curtis Judd I own the Note 8 and yes most of them are on Android and very sluggish, i really like this gimbal a lot more than Dji Osmo mobile 2 but heard about the problem with Android and mostly on the Note 8. I was so disappointed, guess i have to wait for a while see if there any update or anybody having luck get it to work well like ios, then I'll buy it!!
Makes sense, good call to wait. Best wishes!
Great video! 👏
Thanks
There's a lot to comment on this video, but I will choose to keep it relatively short. I'll start with price since that's typically one of the first things I look at next to features. This is the same price as the smooth Q when it was first launched and now the smooth Q can be had for about $80. The added features don't justify (almost) doubled price and I'm not about to start becoming a stabilizer hoarder and buy every new iteration. I will probably end up just getting the crane Plus or the next version of the crane Plus which was the updated version of the crane V2. So maybe they'll call it the crane plus plus 😂? I'm just glad I've did my research and have kept up with the naming road map. The way zhiyun is naming their gear is really confusing if you're new. One of the main problems with this stabilizer is that they forgot to include or think about things such as external mics and lights. I know there are there party adapters and I'm sure this might have been on purpose for them to sell additional accessories but I find this to be a horrible model. I had to use my manfrotto mini Pixi legs for the bottom of my smooth Q so it could stand. I just can't believe that it was an afterthought and then they put it into the smooth 4. The weight limit also is a problem and the size of the phone mount. As you noted this doesn't like Big Apple phones and also big phones without the case. I don't want to have to constantly take out my phone in order to use it with the smooth for. I also would like to use my external mic like the videomic me. It also boggles the mind how zhiyun thought about only the phone but didn't leave enough weight capacity to attach a moment lens or similar cheap lens or a tiny mic. With all these issues a person should just get the crane M or crane plus.
After seeing you at NAB (video). I knew you would eventually get around to reviewing the smooth 4. Your fellow "RUclipsrs" like kitty from atola visuals and James Matthews (who by the way don't even know what NAB stands for,) already released their videos a few weeks ago but as always I was somewhat disappointed in their presentation and review. I tend to take in the entire landscape even if I don't like some of the people in it just to stay current on who's who and who sponsors like.
The younger tech RUclipsrs always try to be "creative" with their product reviews but tend to leave out the important details of the actual products. They are more interested in making the viewer click their affiliate link.
While I don't think I'll buy the smooth 4, at least until it gets to the $80 level which will take another 6-8 months. I'm always interested in knowing the new features. That way I don't have to do research when it comes time for me to buy.
Even though I already knew the features of this stabilizer, I much prefer giving you my AdSense time.
Thanks for the thoughts! I didn't have high expectations, but was pleasantly surprised and had fun shooting with the Smooth 4. Is it a critical, must-add-to-the-kit piece of gear? Definitely stick with your instincts, That'll differ from person to person. Happy shooting!
very nice video.watching from Philippines
Thanks.
Quality insightful
Thanks Keegan.
Thanks Curtis ,
Do you plan to review MōVI cinema robot?
Hi, I hadn't heard about it until you asked. I'll have to look into it! Thanks!
Another awesome video. Thanks for the informative videos.
Thanks Vivek!
I'm very excited to see an overview of this gambling also with the Samsung Galaxy S8 / S8 + or S9 / S9 +. At least once. I'm tired of this IPhones. Why? Because the camera is a bit closer to the middle of the phone, and often the rear gimbal engine enters the image, and quite a lot.
Thanks Enzzo, wish I could help but all I have is an iPhone.
Don't bother!
İts wery good but I cant use wireless microphone with İphone 8 plas :(
😕
Hello dear, may you please advise me, which is better as response of gimbals, Hohem iSteady or this one
Zhiyun Smooth 4 smartphone Gimbal Stabilizer?
And how much do you think that the microphone type FM1 (shown in video) enhance the voice comparing to without it?
thanks
Hi Elias, unfortunately I haven’t used the Hohem so I’m not sure. Best wishes!
beautiful review !!
Thanks
Great video. Literally just click the purchase button for the gimbal, and you'rs in the first video on RUclips that search threw at me. I'm going to be using the gimbal for internal videos, promotional for spaces... maybe you could do a "How I would shoot" series. Practical series showing how you would do different setups depending on what you were going to shoot, such as; Real Estate, Large venues, small apartments, city tours, etc... would be a great help to me, and I am sure to many others here. It's my first gimbal purchase, but I have many many years of editing videos done by others... but still have a mountain to learn.
Thanks Paul. Good idea! I'll need to get some people with expertise to help out.
Curtis Judd Even better. A collab with others who specialize/work in each area. Sounds like a winner to me. Hope it pans out.
Curtis - any idea how well this might work with an aftermarket clip-on lens on a smart phone like the 7+ or 6+? Do you think you'll have balance problems?
Hi Pat, I didn't try that as I don't have any clip-on lenses, unfortunately. I think that'd work fine with smaller cameras but might push the weight too far for the larger phones like the 6+ and 7+. I'll let you know if I get a chance to try.
Excellent video - helped me decide to purchase it, which I did. Thanks very much.
Thanks Rory. I hope it works well for you!
Hi sir. Is Zhiyun Smooth 4 compatible with Oppo F9? I really need answers because if its compatible with my oppo f9, i have a plan to purchase one for myself. Thank you sir and God bless!
I don’t have an Oppo F9 to test that but Zhiyun support should be able to confirm. Beat wishes!
@@curtisjudd thanks for the quick response sir! I really hope it's compatible with oppo f9.. "sigh"... :(
Outstanding review! Thanks.
Thanks Otto!
nice job! what monopod do you use?
Thanks Brian, that's just a simple Manfrotto: amzn.to/2tAqBZo
Fantastic video brother. Thank you. I aspire to know half of what you know my friend.
Thanks UncleMoishe.
Dual Ports Adapter for iPhone X splitter gives you that extra real estate to charge your phone and use audio mics. Invest in it guys!
This? amzn.to/2DdiVna
Looks like it would work for the non-plus or max phones but would move the larger phones too far off axis to balance the phone.
How to slove redlight indicator on gimbal
I’m sorry, I don’t understand.
Thanks so much for your detailed review, Curtis. Do you know if I can make FACEBOOK LIVE VIDEOS with this gimbal?
Thanks Lucas, yes, if your phone and app can do that, then you'll just put it in the gimbal for the live video. The gimbal's controls will not control the facebook app, but once you get the live video going, there usually isn't a need to change anything.
Thanks, Curtis. Just got a Smooth 4 and it'll be delivered today by 9PM. Cheers!
Congrats! Happy shooting!
I really hope Filmic can work with ZhiYun for the software support.
Me too. 😀
Curtis, have you heard of any complaints with the Smooth 4 with Android phones (maybe more specifically Samsung Note 5) where the dial's actions are not smooth at all? I find it very jerky and unreliable with respect to that.
Yes, lots of people in the comments here say that the Zhiyun app doesn't work well on their Android phones.
So I recently got my smooth 4 and it's amazing your tips really help but one thing I have noticed is that a pinkish purple ish light appears after awhile and the stabilizer turns itself. The smooth 4 is still connected to my phone through Bluetooth but the stabilizer is off completely any idea on how to fix that?
Hi Carlos, sounds like it is slipping into standby mode. I haven't run into that issue. Might be best to contact Zhiyun support. Best wishes!
Andrew Reyes are you using a 8plus? I’m running into the same issue after about 5 minutes
Hello, not knowing much about media selfie sticks. Is a microphone or/& light a must have to be as professional as the next guy?
Depends on what you're trying to accomplish and where you're shooting - If you're not in good ambient light and the subject will be a little farther from the camera, then yes, a light and microphone will help. Sadly, with iPhones, the lightning port is blocked when in the gimbal so there isn't an easy way to add a microphone.
Curtis, what would be a better gimbal for the prosumer?
Hi Wayne, I’ve stepped away from gimbals. I might suggest you check Brandon Li’s RUclips channel. He has great coverage of gimbals.
@@curtisjudd Thanks so much will do. :)
Is there a good way to mount an external mic on this thing? ...something like the Eachshot Q ring for the Smooth Q version?
I would attach it to the 1/4” tap on the bottom of the handle, of course first removing the tripod.
Im pretty late for this but may i know how much it costs in US dollar?
Currently $120. Links in the description.
is it possible to tilt the camera slightly sideways? - not left or right but left side of the phone goes down and right side of the phone goes up?
Not that I saw.
Lock v PF - this is the main question I have for this. I film walks in London on my Samsung 6 using either the DJI Osmo 2 or the Zhiyun Smooth 4; this is for upload to my RUclips channel as a hobby. I find pan focus to just whizz wildly from one side to the other as I turn slightly while walking along the street on the Zhiyun, but the lock mode seems a little heavy on the footsteps. For just filming a walk through city streets I still don't know the best setting. The DJI does not force me to make this choice, but again is very whizzy the minute I start moving the gimbal. and footage suffers as I turn However I use the DJI much less these days even though it is lighter and has the pan function, as the app/phone and gimbal do not seem to communicate so it's as if there is no gimbal at all and I might as well just walk along without it. On both gimbals the edge of the gimbal appears on one side of the footage wherever I position the phone and I am now trying to edit this out in Sony Vegas. I struggle with both gimbals but in particular wonder if it's PF or lock for my kind of usage on the Zhiyun.
You might try holding the handle vertically if you're not already?
Thank you for replying:) I have just spent an hour with both gimbals just recording around the house and it seems pan focus is the correct one to use after all on the Zhiyun. The only problem seems to be that it doesn't always do anything when I press the record button and it can take a bit of on and off to get it started. The DJI just refuses to have my phone straight, it is just constantly on a tilt and - to get back to your answer - I find I am having to hold the handle at multiple odd angles to keep it straight. A shame because the DJI is so much lighter! So yes, holding it vertically does indeed work fine:)
Good to hear. thanks!
Thanks for the summary.
👍
nice.
can i use to andriod???
Yes, sort of. Some of the controls don't work back when I made this review. Maybe that has changed. Best to contact Zhiyun support to confirm.
Thanks for your share. I going to buy it
👍
Do suggest to buy this or osmo mobile?
Hi Mohammed, I haven't used the Osmo Mobile so I can't say for sure. Sorry about that.
thank you for this!
You are welcome!
Excellent. Thanks!
👍
Was this review made with an iPhone or Android phone (which?)?
I've read horrible reviews about the Android app having limited and terrible functionality.
Any opinions about this?
This was all with iPhone 7+. I have heard that the Android app is not so great.
Feel cell phone charge wire is not good to use, the operation is also laborious, a key operation method still has to improve.
Fair points.
Curtis, thanks for the great info, and for being so generous with your advice and replies!
I just purchased a ZS4 from B&H (not through your link, sorry, didn't know about it - next time, I promise!), and was dismayed to learn about the conflict involving iPhones and the ability to power them from the gimbal unit itself -- seems like a rather major oversight to put on the "con" side of the list. I'm shooting an event this weekend that last about three hours (SF Carnaval Parade), and can't afford to run out of juice (or storage space for that matter!),
From your experience, how long can one reasonably expect to shoot video on a fully charged iPhone 7+ or 8?
Will using the gimbal and the app drain more power from the camera than normal?
Also, do you know how much storage space is required per 1 hour of 1080 HD/60fps on the above mentioned phones?
And finally, is there a viewer hood that you could recommend for using these phones in bright daylight conditions?
Many thanks in advance.
Hi janosanfran, I get about 4 hours recording time on my 7+. It doesn’t appear to drain the phone faster than just using the camera app without the gimbal. I don’t know the amount of space required off the top of my head but I would record 1 minute of rapidly moving the camera (this results in the worst case file size as movement potentially increases file size) and use that to estimate hourly usage. I haven’t come across or used any hoods so I don’t have a specific recommendation, unfortunately.
Regarding the inability to charge or power the phone while on the gimbal, we’ll need a radically different gimbal design for that to be possible. It seems the design used by all of the gimbal designers suffer from the same issue unless shooting in vertical mode. There a market opportunity there for a creative designer.
Can I place the camera then set it to cord me doing a exercise class?
On iPhone, yes. Not sure about Android.
So is it only the 4k? Does 1080 work? Any other features that does not work? Thanks for replying by the way.
Hi Floyd, I'm sorry, I don't have an Android phone to tell. Might be best to find a review somebody did with an Android phone and this gimbal. Best wishes!
Is it worth buying a second-hand?
If it is working.
Sir I have smooth 4 gimbal but it can't work when the on gimbal it's show redlight on grip
Probably best to contact Zhiyun support. Best wishes!
Curtis, do you plan on reviewing the new Deity Smic 2 microphone when it hits the market?
Hi Insanejughead, yes, definitely!
Curtis Judd Sweet! I was so impressed with your previous review that I have made the decision to get the next model, regardless.
Hi
Thanks for your effort
I bought smooth 4
How can i make it stable before i turn it on
Is there an automatic installation (stabilization)in zy application as is available in the application of osmo mobile?
Thank
Hi Ahmad, do you mean calibrate the gimbal? I believe that there is a separate app called ZhiyunAssistant you can use to do the calibration.
Curtis Judd Thank you for your interest and respond quickly
Curtis Judd i searched for it and did not find it can u give me the url for this app
Hi Ahmad, I'm afraid I cannot, I don't have access to the Play store on my iPhone. Probably best to contact Zhiyun support. They should be able to guide you in the right direction. Best wishes!
Wonderful review, Thanks!!
Thanks!
Been looking at this for doing some filming of RC cars. But I've heard and read that the app is not the greatest specially on android. I have a Samsung s9 anyone tested it and what are you thoughts. And also are you able to use the gimbal with out all the special functions like tapping the phones screen to start shooting etc
Hi Jeremy, Chris Pitt left some comments here suggesting that it does not work well with S9.
Hi Curtis, Can I use this gimbal for my old Gopro 4+ Thanks
I think you'd need some sort of 3rd party harness to make that work. Or 3D print one yourself.
Is it compatible with all smartphones?
Most. Contact Zhiyun support if you want to confirm your particular phone.
no integration with manual adjusting app like filmicPro?
Correct, no integration with filmic pro. There are manual exposure capabilities in the ZY Play app and manual focus with the focus/zoom knob.
Does the zoom nob work smoothly on android because I saw a video saying that it works smooth only in iphones and it is jerky on android.
Not sure, I tested with iPhone 7+