the Canon G7X Mark III and the Sony RX100 VII have been dominating the market as top choices for point and shoot cameras, especially popular among vloggers and travel videographers. As a result, many users, whether they are purchasing the latest models or older variants, have been curious about the best camera accessories to enhance their shooting experience.
One particular accessory that has caught the attention of the vlogging and travel videography community is the handheld gimbal stabilizer. Among the various options available, the Feiyutech G6 Plus and the Zhiyun Crane M2 stand out as excellent choices for point-and-shoot cameras. In this comprehensive comparison, we will explore both gimbals, highlighting their key features and benefits to help you make an informed decision.
Comparison Table
| Feature | Feiyutech G6 Plus | Zhiyun Crane M2 |
|---|---|---|
| Load Capacity | 1.76 Pounds | 1.58 Pounds |
| Battery Life | 8-12 Hours | 7 Hours |
| Charging Time | 3 Hours | 3 Hours |
| Dimensions | 14.1 x 7.6 x 2.9 Inches | 10.5 x 2.7 x 5.4 Inches |
| Gimbal Weight | 1.48 pounds | 1.1 pounds |
Feiyutech G6 Plus: Powerful and Versatile
The Feiyutech G6 Plus is a robust 3-axis handheld gimbal stabilizer designed to support a wide range of mirrorless and DSLR cameras, including Sony a9, a7, A6300, A6400, Canon EOS R, M50, 80D, Panasonic GH4, GH5, Nikon Z7, and FUJIFILM XT4/XT3. With a maximum load capacity of 1.76 pounds, it can easily handle heavier camera setups, making it an ideal choice for videographers who require more advanced configurations.
Battery life is an important consideration for extended shooting sessions, and the Feiyutech G6 Plus does not disappoint in this aspect. It offers an impressive battery life of 8 to 12 hours, depending on your usage, ensuring you have ample power to capture your creative moments without interruption.
Furthermore, the Feiyutech G6 Plus features a quick charge functionality, allowing you to recharge it in just 3 hours, minimizing downtime and maximizing productivity. Its dimensions of 14.1 x 7.6 x 2.9 inches strike a good balance between portability and stability, making it a practical companion for on-the-go videographers.
The gimbal comes with a user-friendly smartphone app that enables seamless control and quick customization of settings. While the Feiyutech app may have experienced some issues in the past, it has improved over time, offering a range of features to enhance your shooting experience. Overall, the Feiyutech G6 Plus earns a solid reputation among videographers and vloggers due to its excellent performance, reliability, and competitive pricing.
Zhiyun Crane M2: Compact and Technologically Advanced
On the other hand, the Zhiyun Crane M2 is a highly compact 3-axis handheld gimbal stabilizer designed for lightweight camera setups. Weighing just 1.1 pounds, it is an excellent choice for travel vloggers who prioritize portability and minimal baggage weight.
The Zhiyun Crane M2 boasts modern gimbal motors and sensors, providing a snappy response to movement and ensuring smooth, stable footage. Its maximum load capacity of 1.58 pounds may be slightly lower than the Feiyutech G6 Plus, but it is more than sufficient for most point and shoot camera setups.
Battery life is essential, especially for long shooting sessions. The Crane M2 offers a respectable 7 hours of battery life, which should be enough for most users. However, if you need extended shooting capabilities, you may consider carrying additional batteries or a portable power bank.
The Zhiyun smartphone app is user-friendly and efficient, allowing quick access to various settings and modes. This app integration enhances the gimbal’s usability and customization options, providing additional convenience during your videography sessions.
Despite its smaller size, the Zhiyun Crane M2 maintains excellent build quality, making it durable and reliable for frequent use. Its sleek design and lightweight nature make it a popular choice among content creators who need to move around constantly.
Performance and Functionality Comparison
Both gimbals deliver exceptional image stabilization, significantly improving the quality of your video footage. However, the Feiyutech G6 Plus edges slightly ahead due to its higher load capacity, making it more suitable for videographers using heavier camera setups. If you require a gimbal to support additional accessories, the G6 Plus offers more flexibility.
On the other hand, the Zhiyun Crane M2’s compact size and lightweight design are ideal for one-bag travelers or those who prioritize minimalism. Its modern gimbal motors and sensors provide precise stabilization, making it a top choice for users who value quick and responsive performance.
User Interface and Control System
Both gimbals feature a user-friendly control system with an LCD panel, buttons, and a joystick for easy navigation and customization. The Feiyutech G6 Plus and the Zhiyun Crane M2 excel in this aspect, offering a seamless user experience for beginners and advanced videographers alike.
The joystick on both gimbals allows for manual panning, enabling smooth and natural-looking camera movements. Navigating through the menus and settings is straightforward, allowing users to quickly access specific functions.
Conclusion
In conclusion, both the Feiyutech G6 Plus and the Zhiyun Crane M2 are excellent handheld gimbal stabilizers with unique strengths. If you need a versatile gimbal to support heavier camera rigs and require extended battery life, the Feiyutech G6 Plus is the better option. However, if portability and lightweight design are paramount, the Zhiyun Crane M2 is the perfect companion for your travel videography.
Remember that choosing the right gimbal depends on your specific needs and shooting preferences. Both of these gimbals have earned a solid reputation among videographers and vloggers, making them valuable additions to any camera accessory collection.
FAQs
1. Can I use the Feiyutech G6 Plus with a mirrorless camera?
Yes, the Feiyutech G6 Plus is compatible with a wide range of mirrorless and DSLR cameras, including popular models like Sony a9, a7, A6300, A6400, Canon EOS R, M50, 80D, Panasonic GH4, GH5, Nikon Z7, and FUJIFILM XT4/XT3.
2. Does the Zhiyun Crane M2 come with a smartphone app?
Yes, the Zhiyun Crane M2 comes with a smartphone app that allows for seamless control and quick customization of settings, enhancing your shooting experience.
3. Can the Zhiyun Crane M2 handle heavier camera setups?
The Zhiyun Crane M2 has a maximum load capacity of 1.58 pounds, making it suitable for most point and shoot camera setups. However, if you use heavier camera accessories, the Feiyutech G6 Plus with its 1.76-pound load capacity may be a better choice.
4. How long does the Feiyutech G6 Plus battery last on a single charge?
The Feiyutech G6 Plus offers an impressive battery life of 8 to 12 hours, depending on your usage, ensuring you have ample power for extended shooting sessions.
5. Which gimbal is better for travel vlogging?
For travel vlogging and minimal baggage weight, the Zhiyun Crane M2 is the ideal choice due to its compact size and lightweight design.
