The popularity of action cameras is hard to overestimate. Their sales are breaking records year after year, and it will take more than one thousand years to watch all the videos uploaded to YouTube. Matrix megapixels are growing, new processing algorithms and exotic mounts for shooting from unusual angles are appearing, but the problem of picture shaking when recording in motion remains unresolved. Fortunately, not so long ago, the developers of quadrocopters created such a useful device as an electronic image stabilizer, which copies the principle of operation of professional steadicams, but is implemented in a compact package. Drone-mounted gimbals and hand-held devices combined with monopods have appeared. But handheld shooting is not always appropriate, and the main feature of GoPro is the abundance of various mounts that allow you to install the camera anywhere.

That is why another, so far quite small, class of electronic stabilizers was created, designed to place an action camera on various objects. They are compatible with branded GoPro mounts, have wireless control, and in general, open up wide opportunities for operators to realize creative ideas. Unfortunately, there are still very few such devices on the market, so we decided to include in our review very interesting hybrids, which are hand-held models, but with removable stabilization modules, again, allowing you to shoot from anywhere. You can learn more about the principle of operation of such devices in one of our previous articles "", and we turn to the consideration of proposals available on the market.

Feiyu Tech WG

The Chinese manufacturer Feiyu Tech specializes in stabilization systems, autopilots for copters and UAVs. The company's product range includes a large number of models of professional steadicams and handheld stabilizers for both action cameras and smartphones, but today we are interested in compact devices with the ability to mount on various objects. Feiyu Tech produces as many as four such devices, but the best of them is, of course, WG and its version for GoPro HERO 4 Session, dubbed WGS.

By the way, WG is nothing more than an abbreviation for Wearable Gimbal, a phrase that fully reflects the purpose of the device, but so far does not have an adequate analogue in the Russian language. Literally, it can be translated as a wearable stabilizer, which, in general, is quite true. The WG is compatible with GoPro HERO 3 and 4, as well as similarly sized models like SJCAM or Xiaomi. To fix the camera, a convenient screw mount is provided, and only one button is used to control it, which activates the self-calibration system.

The stabilizer is able to work equally effectively both in the normal position and upside down. The weight of the device together with the battery is only 188 grams. Battery life is about 4 hours. An optional wired remote control is available, with which you can change the shooting angle, turn on the WG and start the calibration. But the main thing is that the device is compatible with all GoPro mounts and has a 1/4" thread, allowing you to install an action camera on any objects. The price for Feiyu Tech WG in Russia starts from 18,500 rubles.

Zhiyun Tech Rider M

Rider M is a more advanced model, featuring a built-in Bluetooth module for remote control of camera movements directly on the smartphone screen. Optionally, the use of a wireless remote control is also available, if mobile phone uncomfortable for some reason. In addition, the stabilizer has a wider working stroke, which is ±320 degrees on each of the axes. For comparison, the Feiyu Tech WG has ±160 degrees on the tilt and roll axes and only ±50 on the roll axis.

Additionally, the device is equipped with an AV output for connecting an external screen designed to act as a viewfinder. But with wireless control, using a wired display is definitely not the best solution. It is better to use an action camera application for this purpose. There is a button responsible for turning on and calibrating, as well as choosing one of three operating modes: full stabilization, tracking horizontal movement with stabilization of the tilt and rotation axes, or tracking horizontal and rotation with stabilization of the tilt axis.

Screw clamps are used to install GoPro or cameras similar to it in size, and 1/4 "thread is used to fix it on various objects, which does not interfere with placing the device on GoPro mounts using the appropriate adapter. Russian market the cost of the stabilizer is 21 - 25,000 rubles.

KumbaCam Mounted GoPro Stabilizer

KumbaCam doesn't bother coming up with original names for its products, simply dividing them into Handheld and Mounted. Meanwhile, the stabilizer does its job perfectly and is not inferior in its capabilities to Zhiyun Tech. Here you'll find smartphone remote control, four modes of operation (one of which is a 180-degree rear turn and the rest match Rider M), as well as ±300-degree tilt and swivel, combined with a ±90-degree rotation.

The GoPro is mounted with a special plate with screws. Four accumulators provide 4 hours of work, at the same time it is possible to charge the action camera right during the shooting. There is an AV output. To install the stabilizer on various objects, there is a 1/4" thread or an adapter for GoPro mounts, which is included in the kit. The price of the gadget is official store KumbaCam - $329.99

Big Balance DEER MULE DM Dual

Next in line is a curious device from the Hong Kong company Big Balance. The device is a hybrid of a hand-held stabilizer and a stabilizer installed on objects, and the handle can be attached to the main unit both from below and from the side. Distinctive feature DM Dual model is the ability to install not only various models of action cameras, but also smartphones. For those looking to shoot exclusively with a GoPro, the DEER MULE DM version can be purchased.

There are three modes of operation that can be selected with a small switch on the case. Vertical and horizontal orientation of the camera is allowed, as well as shooting upside down. The capacity of one set of batteries is enough for 3 hours of operation. The main unit with the camera can be fixed on various objects using a 1/4" thread or an adapter for GoPro mounts. The cost of the stabilizer is $280.

Glide Gear Scopio

Scopio is a product of the German company Glide Gear, which is a handheld gimbal with a removable main module. The device is designed to be paired with GoPro HERO 3 and 4 or action cameras that match them in size. On the handle there is a key for selecting one of the three modes and buttons for controlling the rotation of the lens. A 142 cm long cable is used to connect to the stabilizer module.

The device is compatible with GoPro mounts, which allows you to install the camera on any object, but, unfortunately, there is no detachment of the handle, which creates some inconvenience. The operating range is ±150 degrees pan, ±180 degrees tilt, and -45 to +35 degrees pan. The kit includes a pair of batteries that provide 3 hours of continuous shooting, a charger and two GoPro mounts: a clip for mounting the camera on the steering wheel and a head strap. You can buy the Glide Gear Scopio for $229.

Pilotfly FunnyGO 2

Our review is completed by the FunnyGO 2 model manufactured by Pilotfly. It has a design similar to Scopio, but more advanced specifications. Three batteries are placed inside the handle at once, providing as much as 9 hours of operation, which, given the possibility of recharging the action camera from the stabilizer, is a very useful thing. For control, a joystick is used, which is responsible for rotating the lens, and a mode selection button, of which there are also three. The limits of changing the camera position are limited to ±300 degrees along the pan axis, +220 and -100 degrees along the tilt axis, and from -45 to + 87 degrees along the rotation axis.

In addition, there is a wireless module that allows you to control the stabilizer using a special application. The detachable main module, which is wired to the handle, has a 1/4" thread for fixing on various objects. The device is designed for installation GoPro action cameras HERO 3 and 4 or similar. Comes with a convenient carrying case. The price of the stabilizer is already more substantial $379.

When it's 2017, action cameras no longer look like a curiosity. They have firmly entered our world and began to be used not only in sports, but also in Everyday life. Moreover, some YouTube bloggers shoot exclusively with such cameras, as you can see for yourself. Already with the advent of the first generation of action cameras, our requirements for filming equipment have changed radically. Then, back in 2008, everyone just appreciated the advantages of such a device and began to stand in line to purchase it. From that moment on, a technology race began: cameras were made lighter, stronger, more convenient, more powerful ... GoPro specialists were the first to prove to the general public that high-quality video recording of dynamic scenes does not necessarily imply the use of a heavy camera with a lens. And what did SJCAM do? - they were the first to prove that an action camera for the people can be several times more affordable than GoPro and at the same time not inferior in quality. Now even middle-class people have the opportunity to record the best moments of life and share them with friends and family, while conveying the whole atmosphere of events.

But wherever progress goes, there are always technical difficulties that cannot be overcome. This applies to image stabilization when shooting. Often, when shooting with such a camera, hand trembling fails, which cannot be fully compensated by the internal stabilization algorithm. It can be caused by a banal small tilt of the arm, vibration when walking, pushing, etc. No matter how cat-like you are, no matter how smoothly you move your hand, shaking will be an obvious phenomenon, due to the lack of three points of support. But there is a way out of this situation. Achieve worthy, close to professional result stabilizers designed specifically for action cameras will help you. These models are quite light, it is convenient to hold them with one hand, they are powered by popular battery models or work without them at all, and after shooting they are easily folded into a case. For your information: even the cheapest stub, with the right settings, greatly improves the picture. What kind of stabilizer to choose? We have prepared for you a short tour of the ten most effective models. Let's take a look at the first part today.

• Compatible with small rectangular cameras like GoPro Hero 4, 3, 3+, 2, and 1.
• Wide angles of rotation - working angle of inclination 270°, roll angle 90°.
• Powerful brushless motor with high torque and improved position sensor for smoother shooting.
• The ability to charge the camera from the gimbal via usb cable.
• Three operating modes to choose from.
• Turns on in 2 seconds.

Flaws:

• After a few minutes of operation, blockages to the sides are possible.
• Noisy motors, which can ruin the sound on the microphone.
• Complicated calibration process.

The cause of stabilizer skidding can be calibration problems that are difficult to avoid even with instructions. As for the engine noise, you can remove it in the Adobe Audition program or add background music to the editing instead of the desired track. It's still a bit of a shame to waste extra time.

And so, in general, Zhiyun Z1-Pround is a suitable stabilizer for a very reasonable price. By the way, many youtube bloggers use this particular model, because. She has a large margin of battery life.

Advantages:

• It is equipped with high-speed engines of the increased power. Able to quickly respond to a control signal.
• 4 dynamic shooting modes are immediately available: heading follow mode, heading lock mode, heading/pitch follow mode and inverted mode.
• Provided official guarantee for 1 year.

Flaws:

• The kit does not include a case for transport and storage.
• For use with GoPro Hero 5 and 6, you need to purchase an adapter.
• High price.

The EVO GP-Pro does its job well. main task. It already has protection settings for each of the GoPro Hero cameras. At the time of the release of the stabilizer, only Hero 4 was available, so for subsequent models it is necessary to use an adapter (adjusts the center of gravity). Otherwise, unpleasant sounds from the voltage in the motors may occur.

This stabilizer can be operated manually or with a remote control. The remote control has a cable 1.5 meters long and a joystick with five buttons. With this it is convenient to control the camera on the hood of the car, while being in the cabin. It is also convenient to use this camera in tandem with a long monopod to get the effect of a quadrocopter flight.

Advantages:

• Pre-programmed firmware allows you to work immediately after unpacking.
• Comfortable rubberized handle.
• Storage case included.

Flaws:

• Does not provide 360° rotation. After reaching the end point of rotation, vibration begins.
• Weakly damped vibrations after turning to the side.
• Slow battery charging and short run time. If you plan to shoot for a long time, make sure to stock up on spare batteries. The maximum operating time on a single charge is no more than 3 hours.

The next model is a good combination of price and quality. This model is intended primarily for experienced users, because balance adjustment requires some patience. The stabilizer works on the principle of balanced weights, where a weight on the bottom of the bracket acts as a counterweight.

Advantages:

• Hinged suspension design.
• Bubble level for fine balance adjustment.
• The kit includes adapters for various action cameras and small smartphones.
• Low cost.
• Works without batteries.

Flaws:

• Weight restrictions (no more than 1.5 kg). In other words, not every camera can be installed on this stabilizer.
• It is difficult to change the direction where the camera is pointing. Works best with a second hand.
• Not very effective against vibration.

If you're in a car or on any moving surface that causes camera vibration, don't rely too much on the Movo Photo VS01-SP. Be that as it may, the main task of this stabilization system is to provide maximum stability when shooting handheld, and it copes with it “well”. When walking, it provides stabilization close to the work of a three-axis suspension.

Feiyu G3 Ultra is a compact handheld three-axis gimbal designed for GoPro Hero 4, 3+ and 3. Although the gadget is Chinese, it is well-assembled, the materials are of high quality, the software fulfills its task quickly and accurately.

Advantages:

• Ranges of working angles - forward-backward tilt 300°, left-right tilt 90°.
• Very convenient control modes (modes with and without tracking).
• Easy installation process.
• Quality build.

Flaws:

• Not compatible with GoPro Hero 4+ or 5.
• Need to upgrade after purchase software, which is quite difficult (there is no Russian version). In addition, this is only possible for owners of Windows PC.
• It comes with 4 batteries but the charger only holds 3.

As you can see, all the main cons are associated with instructions and software installation. You may need to take some time to understand the manual.

Technique for shooting photo and video materials has long been accompanying users in the most unexpected places, capturing interesting moments outside of studios and home interiors. Action cameras, which have become popular, completely complement the equipment of extreme sports enthusiasts. But this format of using the device rarely gives high-quality materials without distortion. To cope with the negative factors of filming in motion, as such, a stabilizer for the camera helps, which softens the vibrations affecting the equipment. Even in a simple design, such a device provides invaluable assistance, simultaneously acting as a retainer and a damping accessory.

General information about the stabilizer

The stabilizing device may have different embodiments. Such devices include modules built into camera matrices, tripods, and more technological steadicams, which are used in combination with GoPro models. In the latest version, the stabilizer for the camera can be considered as the best option specifically for video. Such accessories are somewhat autonomous and at the same time are manual.

The user controls the movement of the camera during operation, and the "smart" filling of the device softens the vibrations, reacting to them through special sensors. This is already for the camera, which is the most effective solution for active shooting. As for built-in stabilizing models, their use justifies itself rather in photographic equipment, which does not involve sudden movements during the shooting process.

Types of stabilizers

Three categories of such devices have already been identified, among which the steadicam stood out. But this segment also has its own signs of separation of devices. The main one on this moment development of stabilizing technology is the number of axles. The simplest models work with one or two axes. This means that camera rotations will be controlled in a maximum of two directions - and the rest of the actions should be avoided by the user himself. In turn, the three-axis makes it possible to smooth movements in three directions. This decision greatly facilitated the process of active shooting, although a significant improvement in eliminating sharp fluctuations moved to focus should not be expected.

Pros and cons of hand stabilizers

Simple models, as a rule, have a mechanical stabilization principle and their design is based on it. This solution has its advantages and disadvantages. As for the pluses, they are expressed in the strength, clarity and overall durability of the device. On the other hand, the handling of some models is complicated by the presence of many control elements. Even an experienced user in the conditions of rapid preparation for shooting can delay the process just because of the mechanical adjustments to achieve the initial balance. The disadvantages of many include weight. Especially the stabilizer for the action camera is felt in the hand by almost every gram. In general, such a device can add a weight of about 1 kg to the camera. It is clear that with prolonged use of speech about comfort can not be carried out.

How to choose the best stabilizer?

You should start from the way you use the camera. If shooting is planned indoors, then you can completely limit yourself to a tripod that dampens small vibrations. For the active mode of operation, it is best to refer to electronic models with three axes of motion control. But here it is important to take into account the aspect of universality. There are models designed specifically for the GoPro segment, and you can also find a multifunctional handheld stabilizer for a camera weighing up to 4 kg. Another selection criterion involves the features of the design. Usually, the smaller the device, the more functional and expensive it is. Massive models are not so technologically advanced and heavier, but handling them in some conditions can be more comfortable due to understandable physical ergonomics.

Stabilizer manufacturers

There are no obvious segment leaders, and in different categories there is a fierce struggle between manufacturers of different levels. For example, if fundamentally different types are offered by Nikon and Canon, then in the field of hand-held models, the Chinese company ZhiYun can compete with its budget development Z-ONE and Raylab, which represents an entry-level modification of the Kino SC-01. But here it is important to note that each version has a lot of external differences that make the models unique. A quality camera stabilizer can also be found in the Poise, Feiyu-Tech and Golle Micro lines. The devices of these brands differ not only in their technological implementation in the form of the same three-axis mechanics, but also in the basic strength of the element platform.

A question of price

The simplest models, resembling shortened tripods with handles, can be purchased for 1.5-2 thousand rubles. These are completely mechanical devices, devoid of modern options in terms of ergonomic convenience. The average level is represented by the same three-axis modifications - the cost of such products is 3-5 thousand. This is the widest and most popular class of this equipment. A high-tech stabilizer for action cameras is also on the market, supplemented by a set of auxiliary mounting and holding accessories. Moreover, some elements in premium versions of this type are made of carbon fiber. Such a stabilizer costs about 7-9 thousand. Its advantages include the possibility of being involved in active shooting and the benefit of stationary indoor use. True, you should not count on a high working effect of vibration suppression in both cases, at least highly specialized devices cope with similar functions better.

Conclusion

Modern video cameras are complemented by a variety of auxiliary devices. Some of them exist as nothing more than a marketing product with no practical interest. Can this be said about the function that the stabilizer provides for the camera? Rather not, since the same GoPro models are subjected to high-amplitude vibrations during use, and the effect of the steadicam, which is expressed in minimizing vibration, is clear and obvious. Another thing is that not in every case the camera will experience strong shaking, and the stabilizer will not always save you from vibrations. Unless universal models of electronic devices can be suitable in any case of using a video camera, although they also have their limitations.

A steadicam, or stabilizer for video shooting, compensates for defects that occur due to hand shaking, strong winds, shaking while walking or running. This is an indispensable device for video shooting in difficult conditions: without a stabilization system, the video will turn into a set of incomprehensible, blurry “jumping” frames, and the horizon line will constantly “fill up”.

The stabilizer for GoPro is one of the must-have accessories. It allows you to shoot ski and bike races, races and snowboarding in high quality. This device will also smooth out the image on turns and turns.

Through our catalog you can buy stabilizers for action cameras in a wide range. On sale there are several types of these accessories, indispensable for any extreme sportsman: manual (mechanical) and electronic.

Benefits of hand stabilizers

Possibility of application in any weather.

Simple and reliable mechanism.

Unlimited running time.

Low price.

Autonomy.

Handheld stabilizers and steadicams use a weight system to stabilize the camcorder. Their principle of operation resembles mechanical scales, and this makes them insensitive to weather conditions. This device does not need to be recharged, so it is suitable for shooting outdoors. But sometimes mechanical models miss defects in photos and videos, and it’s difficult to set them up. You will have to understand the procedure and spend at least half an hour or even an hour setting it up.

Advantages of electronic models

Quick and easy setup.

High quality shooting.

This category of equipment uses motors that are connected to sensors for stabilization. When the sensors signal that the camera has moved, the motors correct its position and stop along the axes. Electrical devices are two- or three-axis: they correct the image in two or three planes. Three-axis models provide maximum quality. It is easy to set up the equipment - automation will do everything for you, moreover, the setup procedure will take no more than a couple of minutes.

However, most electronic devices cannot be used in the rain. There are exceptions to this rule, but if there is no special marking on the Steadicam packaging, do not turn it on outdoors in the presence of abundant moisture. In addition, the equipment is tied to the battery charge, which can sit down at the wrong time. The battery life of the device is limited. Finally, electronic models are more expensive than hand-held accessories, so they cannot be considered universal.

Checkout

We accept orders for monopod stabilizers and other devices not only from Moscow, but also from the regions. Delivery times vary depending on the address and the selected postal service. Delivery in Moscow 1-2 days, on a separate request - on the day of the application, then delivery to the regions will take longer.

To buy a stabilizer for your GoPro camera, place an order online! We will call you back and agree on the delivery time.

Vlogging is becoming more and more popular. People talk to the camera about what is happening in their lives, and periodically upload videos to video hosting sites. Becoming a blogger is easy - just buy an action camera, a memory card and a simple monopod. However, the work of novice videographers can be noticed immediately - the picture in the videos shakes and twitches.

The fact is that many inexpensive action cameras, including most GoPro models, lack video stabilization. Electronic stabilizers (steadicams) come to the rescue. For action cameras, the most popular format is in the form of a monopod. Even if the camera has built-in stabilization, the steadicam will help to avoid not only shaking, but also sharp turns, and the picture will not “float”.

Until recently, for use with GoPro, there were no alternatives to devices from Feiyu with a cost of about 13000 rubles. Today I have a three-axis electronic stabilizer from DEXP - EGS-1, which has been produced since autumn 2017. The price of the device is only 8500 rubles at the time of the review. There is a slightly more expensive EGS-2 model, but this is not an updated version, but a steadicam for smartphones.

DEXP- trademark one of the largest manufacturers in Russia computer science. The main office is located in Vladivostok. The name is formed by the abbreviation of two words: Digital Experience. The company was founded in 1998, initially as a manufacturer of system units. Now the range of DEXP is wide - TVs, laptops, smartphones, computers and peripherals, auto products, Appliances, photo-video equipment, audio equipment and even toys and electric vehicles.

SPECIFICATIONS

PACKAGING AND COMPLETE SET

EGS-1 is in a black cardboard box. Additionally, the packaging is protected by mica.

The manufacturer used a classic trick to make the packaging look “richer”. The box is completely black, matte, and all the inscriptions and geometric pattern on the lid of the box are made in black gloss.

The gimbal itself is also glossy, with a camera of an indefinite model installed in it, in which GoPro is easily guessed.

On the bottom of the package, you can read the device specification in Russian, find out the address of the manufacturer and importer. Manufactured by EGS-1 in China. All inscriptions are made in gray, which also looks very good. A sticker with a serial number allows you to find out the date of manufacture of the steadicam, the warranty period is 12 months, and the service life is 24 months.

I must say that the "black on black" technique works, the packaging really looks very elegant, a good option for a gift.

To open the box - you need to get rid of the protective seal. If the sticker is damaged, it is recommended to check the package contents of the device.

The box is very durable, additionally the stabilizer and the delivery set are protected from mechanical influences by white soft but dense foam material.

The EGS-1 itself and everything you need for its operation are in their cells.

DEXP lithium batteries, the model is the same as the stabilizer model. Capacity 850mAh, voltage 3.7V, standard size - 18350. The fact that the manufacturer decided to use standard batteries, I like it, there will be no problems with replacement at the end of their service life. Yes, this is not a “finger” or “little finger” format, but finding 18350 will not be a problem. Some manufacturers like to come up with their own battery, while also making it non-removable.

Charger - also labeled as EGS-1. Both batteries can be charged at once. Input - 5V, output - 4.2V, 1.2A x 2. The negative terminals are spring-loaded, the batteries hold tight, there are no problems with charging, just plug the supplied cable into the microUSB connector located at the end of the memory. There are indicators next to the positive connectors - they glow bright red during charging. As soon as the battery is fully charged, the indicator opposite it will glow green, also quite bright. The power plug is not included, but it can be charged from any USB port.

Complete cable - standard USB - microUSB black, of sufficient thickness. Cable length - 80cm.

The warranty card is standard for DEXP, common for all products, in Russian. The user manual is also in Russian, there are explanatory pictures.

The manufacturer did not provide any bag or case for taking the stabilizer with you, because it is not protected from impacts, and it is undesirable to drop it. I think it will be possible to pick up and buy ready-made for other models, but there is an easier way out. You can use your own box, and put the camera and accessories in place of the charger and batteries.

APPEARANCE

The DEXP EGS-1 electronic stabilizer consists of two parts - a handle with a battery compartment and a housing.

The instructions have a section on assembling and dismantling the steadicam.

There is a release button on the case, a padlock icon indicates that you need to pull the button down to unlock. Then it is enough to turn the case counterclockwise - and the device will be disassembled. Assembly in reverse order.

There is no need to disassemble the EGS-1 yet, there are no interchangeable handles or any platforms for replacing the handle on sale.

The handle of the stabilizer is made of good quality textured plastic, in the place of the grip there is an additional layer of soft non-slip rubber.

The rubber pad can be easily removed, under it there is a part of the bolts connecting the two parts of the handle.

At the bottom of the handle there is a hole closed with a threaded lid - the battery compartment.

The cover is made of aluminum, in the center there is a plastic button for turning on the stabilizer. The button is recessed below the edges, besides it is very “elastic”, you won’t be able to press it accidentally. For ease of installation and removal, there is a swivel aluminum handle on the lid. It will not interfere with the use of the steadicam, the handle is fixed very tightly.

To prevent the user from confusing the polarity of the batteries, the manufacturer attached an explanatory label to the handle of the battery cover yellow color. However, it is understood that this label must be removed. In this case, you can forget the polarity of the installation, because neither on the cover, nor on the case, nor in the battery compartment there are corresponding drawings and inscriptions. You will have to look at the instructions if in doubt.

At the top of the stabilizer handle there are controls - in the back there is a plastic joystick, in the front there is also a plastic function button.

The joystick is similar to the analog sticks used to control game consoles, it can move in any of the directions, and there is also a button function. I can immediately say that the button function in the control is not involved, and the joystick has four directions for movement.

Below the joystick is a charge indicator, it is yellow-green when the level is sufficient, red when the batteries are low.

There is also a microUSB connector on the handle - it is intended only for updating the firmware of the stabilizer.

On the opposite side - screw fastening. The thread is like on modern cameras and cameras, which allows you to additionally mount the stabilizer on any tripod.

The body of the stabilizer - its main part, consists of two parts (rods) that can rotate, thereby stabilizing the camera. The camera holder is attached to them. All parts are aluminum, high-quality coated with matte black paint. Additionally, the rods are glued with soft material.

In total, the stabilizer has three axes - the axis of rotation, the axis of rotation and the axis of inclination.

The axis of rotation is parallel to the handle and is responsible for turning the camera in a horizontal plane.

On the rod that rotates the camera, there is a sticker with the model and serial number, it also has a motor responsible for rotation - the axis of rotation. Additionally, the axis is covered with a black sticker with the manufacturer's logo.

There is no such sticker on the tilt axis.

A camera holder is attached to the tilt axis, consisting of an aluminum platform, two screws, one of which is spring-loaded, and a bar that tightens the camera. A soft material is glued on the platform to prevent scratches on the action camera.

On the axes of tilt and rotation are indicators of the status of the system - green LEDs. On the tilt axis, it is brighter, as it is not covered by a sticker.

IN USE

It is not difficult to prepare the DEXP EGS-1 stabilizer for operation - just install the supplied batteries in the battery compartment, fix the camera and press the power button.

The manufacturer recommends fully charging the batteries first, but the charge from the factory is enough to understand how the stabilizer works and try to shoot with it in various modes. It is forbidden to turn on the stabilizer without a camera.

To install the action camera, you can unscrew one of the bolts, fold out the fixing bar, then press it against the camera and tighten both bolts. In the future, it is easier to loosen the upper bolt, and just pull out the camera, the lens is located outside the holder and will not interfere.

All this is true for cameras from GoPro 3, 3+, 4 and older. In general, the user manual indicates that this is a handheld three-axis gimbal for GoPro. Somewhere, including on the official website, you can find information about the versatility of the steadicam.

It would seem that any camera made in the GoPro format should be suitable, but this is not so. My Ezviz S5 didn't fit into the stock mount - the thing is that the height of the GoPro 3, 3+ and 4 is 41mm, and my camera is 45mm.

As a result, I fixed my camera with the plastic strap that came with the camera. But not everything is good here either - firstly, the camera corners rested on the metal parts of the holder, and secondly, the power button turned out to be blocked, which on Ezviz is on the side, and on GoPro it is in front.

Despite the difficulties with the installation, the steadicam worked as it should with the Ezviz S5, and turning on the camera can be assigned to the record button thanks to the “quick shooting” function.

As a result, the DEXP EGS-1 stabilizer can mount up to 4 GoPro cameras (except Session), as well as GoPro cameras up to 41 mm with front controls, for example, SJCAM SJ7 Star. GoPro 5 and 6 because of the moisture protection above 41mm, it will not work to fix them. Naturally, any cameras must be installed without protective boxes.

If you turn on the stabilizer and hold it still, the status indicators will blink several times, then light up steadily, at this time a forced calibration is performed. After that, they will start flashing again. If you move the steadicam when turned on, there will be no calibration. The turn-on time is about 2 seconds without calibration, with it - about 5 seconds, which is quite fast. During operation, the indicators flash quite often (twice per second), which is not always appropriate, besides, the indicator on the axis of rotation is not protected by a sticker and shines very brightly.

If the balance is broken, you can calibrate manually, but this is not so easy to do. You need to press the power button, put the stabilizer on a flat surface and remove your hands. Complicating this procedure is that the power button is at the bottom, and the bottom of the handle is not quite even. There are no other ways - just physically turning the camera with the steadicam turned on will not work.

However, there are no problems with balancing, it rarely happens that when you turn on the camera, it stands at a slight inclination. You can either calibrate or select one of the modes where you can change the position of the axis with the joystick. In this stabilizer, when turned on, it happens that the right corner of the camera is slightly higher, however, this will not be noticeable on the video, since the deviation angle is very small. You can slightly rotate the camera in the mount if the calibration does not help.

The modes are changed using the button located in front of the handle. There are four in total, suitable for various shooting scenarios. There is a sign in the instructions, but it is not entirely fair for this firmware version, so I will briefly talk about all modes with the handle vertically oriented.

When the stabilizer is turned on, or when pressed once, the first mode starts.

The camera does not change its position relative to the ground, the pan axis smoothly follows the handle, the joystick can control the tilt axis. The mode is suitable, for example, for shooting in front of you - on the move, the most versatile mode.

In the second mode, the camera tilts following the movement of the stabilizer handle, the axis of rotation smoothly follows the rotation of the handle, the joystick can control the axis of rotation. The mode is useful for shooting blogs - it is most similar to the usual use of a camera with a monopod.

In the third mode, the camera does not change its position in space at all. Regardless of the movement of the handle and the stabilizer, the camera will look in one direction. The joystick can be controlled by pan and tilt. The mode is convenient for shooting with a tripod, as it provides manual control.

I did not quite understand the fourth mode - it does not differ from the third, only when it is turned on, the camera turns and looks down. Apparently a firmware error. If I am available a new version firmware - in the comments to the article I will write where to download it, and what has changed.

If you press the mode button five times, all axes will return to their original position, while the selected mode will remain. A mode where any of the axes is completely blocked, or everything is not provided.

The first use of the stabilizer caused inexpressible emotions in me, despite the fact that I imagined the principle of operation. It is surprising that the camera maintains its position in space, it looks like some kind of trick! At the same time, there are no vibrations and sounds, the motors are absolutely silent. The squeak will start if you hit the maximum rotation angles or touch the camera. It is convenient to hold the gimbal and press the buttons and joystick both directly and vice versa, with the camera towards you to shoot video, even if the hand is relatively large. The stabilizer is assembled with high quality, from good materials, there have never been any “glitches”, jamming and freezing during operation.

Without the camera and batteries, the EGS-1 weighs 380g, which is about 0.5kg fully equipped. And although the weight is placed comfortably and evenly, it will not be so easy for girls to shoot for a long time.

No less surprising is the smooth video from the camera without stabilization. In my case it is GoPro HERO3+ Silver. The effect is especially noticeable while running. You can see this in the video below. On the left - shooting with a rigid monopod, on the right - with EGS-1.

Discharging the stabilizer is not easy - it took me a little more than 5 hours at a temperature of about +20 (40 minutes of them outside at a temperature of about 0). In this case, the stabilizer was constantly in motion. After 4 and a half hours, a drop in the speed of rotation of the axes is noticeable, the angles of rotation also decreased. The batteries are charged for a little more than 2 hours from the USB3.0 port (5V 0.8A).

CONCLUSIONS

If you have an action camera and want the video you shoot to be smooth and stutter-free, the DEXP EGS-1 3-Axis Electronic Stabilizer is perfect. For a small cost, you can really improve the quality of your videos. It is easy to operate the stabilizer, you do not need to constantly look at the instructions, and several operating modes are suitable for various shooting scenarios. In spite of low price, EGS-1 is assembled with high quality and works without failures. A battery life of 5-6 hours is enough to drain more than one battery in the camera. In addition, you can buy another set of standard 18350 batteries. Turning on the steadicam takes a few seconds, which means that important points will not be missed, the camera turns on longer. The sound in the video will not be spoiled - the stabilizer is silent in operation. Of the minuses, only incomplete compatibility can be noted - a GoPro HERO 3, 3+, 4 or similar camera is required, not higher than 41 mm.

PROS

Quality materials and assembly

Price (8490r at the time of writing the review)

Quick turn on

Quiet and stable operation

Various Modes

Ease of preparation and use

Standard batteries and long runtime

MINUSES

Not complete universality in choosing a compatible camera

No hard protective case

Bright and fast flashing status lights

No battery polarity markings