- HanJin
The DJI Ronin-SC and Zhiyun Weebill S are highly debated topics in the filmmaking world. For a long time, many filmmakers have taken aside. Recently, a new contender has arisen and the two for this field are about to collide once more! In 2018, DJI announced their newest line of cinema drones, the Ronin-SC.
A little further down the line, Zhiyun launched their most advanced 3-axis gimbal to date, the Weebill S. This new model is expected to be a huge contender for the DJI Ronin-SC. So how do these two compare? Let’s find out!
DJI Ronin-SC Vs Zhiyun Weebill S
DJI Ronin-SC
Pros
- Active Track (without accessories)
- Force Mobile (without accessories)
- Motion Time-lapse Mode
- Optional Follow Focus
Cons
- Batteries included in the grip
Zhiyun Weebill-S
Pros
- Off-the-shelf, exchangeable batteries
- Motion Time-lapse Mode
- Optional Video Transmission
- Optional Camera Control via phone
- Optional Follow Focus
Cons
- Only Active Track with optional accessories
Design
The smaller DJI Ronin SC is similar to Ronin S. It has a portable, detachable design. To make it easy to fit into any backpack, the grip that holds the gimbal’s batteries can be removed. The storage position for DJI Ronin SC is 220x200x75mm, while the operating position is 370x165x150mm. A new feature is that the axes can also be locked for transport.
Zhiyun still relies upon their unique design to keep the gimbal smaller than an A4 sheet of paper. It measures 298x190x140mm. Zhiyun’s 18650 Li-ion battery is a great feature. You can buy cheap spare batteries in case you run low during your shoot. Like its predecessor, the Zhiyun also has lockable axes that can be transported so that the gimbal can be securely stored in your backpack.
Concerning tripod mounts: DJI Ronin SC is compatible with Acra Swiss mount, while Zhiyun Youbill-S has a dual plate that can be used for either Manfrotto system or Acra Swiss system.
Payload
DJI Ronin SC is for mirrorless cameras that can carry up to 2kg.
Zhiyun WeebillS states that a maximum. Zhiyun WeebillS states a maximum payload of 3kg. This is the same as Weebill Lab, but Zhiyun claims a 300% increase in motor torque. They didn’t increase the payload with the new version, but the gimbal should be able to lift the load easily.
Intelligent Features
Both gimbals have some amazing, intelligent features.
Timelapse and Motionlapse
Both motion lapse and timelapse can be recorded online with both gimbals. To fine-tune the way your camera is moving during time-lapse recordings, you can set start-, stop-, and/or waypoints.
DJI RoninSC (included) and Zhiyun WeebillS (with optional accessories).
Active Track
Ronin-SC is Ronin’s first product to support DJI ActiveTrack 3.0 technology.
The RoninSC Phone Holder allows you to attach your smartphone to the camera. Ronin App and the Gimbal accurately track the subject. SmartTrack 2.0 was introduced by Zhiyun with Weebill-S. This does not require you to mount your smartphone onto the camera. However, you will need the TransMount Image Transmission module. The concept is similar. You frame an object in your app, and the gimbal will track it.
Force Mobile / Synch motion
Force Mobile, a new DJI mode, allows you to move your smartphone and control the gimbal. The movement of your smartphone is what controls the gimbal. Zhiyun has now added a similar mode, Synch Motion. However, the TransMount Image Transmission module is still required. Zhyiun allows you to view the live image on your phone even while you are moving!
Zhiyun Weebill S only (with optional accessories).
Video Transmission: Zhiyun weebill LAB already has video transmission to your smartphone. Although many users were critical of the slow transmission, they actually liked it. Zhiyun improved this feature. With Weebill S, you can stream video footage to up to 3 devices (smartphones or tablets) in 1080p resolution. The streaming distance is up to 100m. It is not possible to stream video footage via the gimbal, as it is with Weebill LAB. You will need the TransMount Image Transmission module.
ViaTouch 2.0
ViaTouch 2.0 allows you to connect your smartphone, camera, and gimbal at 1080p. You can adjust various camera settings on your gimbal or camera in real-time, including ISO, Shutter Speed, Follow Speed, Aperture and ISO.
Summary
Similarities
Although they may look very different, these two offerings are much closer than you might think. Both offer subject tracking, motion timelapse, and selfie mode. They also have identical battery lives (if they are used only to power the gimbal) and a companion app that can be used on both iOS and Android.
Differences
Best Of The Ronin SC
The DJI Active Tracking 3.0 has great features. The smart features such as tracking, timelapse, and motion tracking outperform the rest and are a significant improvement over previous DJI gimbals.
The Ronin-S’s build quality is excellent, with great ergonomics and zero lag on the software side.
The Best Of The WEEBILL S
Overall, the WEEBILLS construction feels more sophisticated. Because of the position and motors that are more powerful, the gimbal can mount heavier and larger rigs. The camera is able to roll back without touching the gimbal.
The WEEBILLS-S also offers the option to charge your camera directly from the gimbal. Although you will lose some battery life, the power units can be easily swapped, and the screw mount point can be used to attach accessories to the fly.
Zhiyun also has two additional cool features: image transmission, and customization. Finally, the image transmission system moved from the USB interface into a separate HDMI port that can be used separately.
The other setup is superior It uses the handle from Small Rig, which also makes a great mount for an external monitor such as my SmallHD monitor (5”). You can frame and compose photos with ease if you use a longer cable.
Finally, the WEEBILLS’s ability to customize the device’s menu directly without having to use the app is remarkable. This contrasts with DJI’s decision to keep most configuration settings in the app.
That’s all of the comparisons of RoninSC and Weebill-S. If you want to know more about another comparison, then check here:
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FAQs
