Compact gimbals are becoming the go-to for travel filmmakers, vloggers, and social-first creators. But with so many options on the market, how does the DJI RS 4 Mini compare to its competition? Let’s break down what makes it unique.
RS 4 Mini at a Glance
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Payload: Up to 2 kg — perfect for mirrorless cameras with small primes or compact zooms.
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Weight: Around 900 g, lightweight but sturdy for professional use.
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Battery: Up to 13 hours, with fast USB-C charging (30 minutes gives ~5 hours).
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Features: Auto-axis locks, native vertical shooting, customizable SmoothTrack, optional AI tracking module.
👉 Best for creators who want pro stabilization without the bulk of a full-sized gimbal.
Competitor Breakdown
1. Zhiyun Weebill / Crane Mini Series
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Strengths: Compact and affordable.
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Limitations: Stability can suffer under heavier payloads, and workflow feels less polished.
2. Hohem iSteady Series (Smartphone Gimbals)
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Strengths: Excellent for mobile creators, often with built-in tracking and lights.
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Limitations: Not designed for mirrorless cameras — limited payload and cinematic flexibility.
3. DJI RS 3 Mini (Predecessor)
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Strengths: Lightweight and reliable with similar payload.
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Limitations: No auto-axis locks, fewer refinements, less efficient battery compared to RS 4 Mini.
RS 4 Mini vs. Others: Key Advantages
| Feature | RS 4 Mini | Typical Competitors |
|---|---|---|
| Payload Capacity | Up to 2 kg | 1.5–2 kg (varies) |
| Vertical Shooting | Native, instant switch | Often requires accessories |
| Axis Locks | Auto-axis locks | Manual or none |
| Battery Life | Up to 13 hours, fast charging | 7–10 hours average |
| Build & Portability | Lightweight yet pro-grade | Lightweight, sometimes less robust |
Who Should Choose the RS 4 Mini?
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Travel Filmmakers → Lightweight enough for long days, yet strong enough for pro cameras.
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Social Media Creators → Vertical mode makes it perfect for TikTok, Reels, and Shorts.
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Wedding & Event Videographers → Compact but reliable for dynamic, fast-paced shooting.
Final Verdict
While many compact gimbals focus on being small, the DJI RS 4 Mini strikes the right balance between portability and professional features. Its auto-axis locks, long battery life, and native vertical shooting put it ahead of the competition. For creators who need a lightweight yet powerful stabilizer, the RS 4 Mini is the standout choice.
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