DJI Ronin RS2

The DJI Ronin RS2 is a handheld stabilizer designed for professional filmmakers and videographers who need to capture smooth and stable footage. This new model is an upgrade from the previous version, the DJI Ronin-S, and boasts several new features, including increased payload capacity, improved stabilization, and new design elements that make it easier to use and more ergonomic. NOTE: The DJI Ronin RS3 is available now too, but I’ll be sticking with my RS2 for a while.

In this review, we will take a closer look at the DJI Ronin RS2, examining its key features, advantages, and limitations. We will also compare it to other stabilizers on the market to see how it stacks up.

Key Features

The DJI Ronin RS2 is packed with features that make it an impressive piece of equipment for filmmakers and videographers. Here are some of the most important features:

1. Payload Capacity: One of the most significant improvements in the DJI Ronin RS2 is its increased payload capacity. It can now handle up to 10 pounds, which means it can support a wide range of cameras, including cinema cameras like the RED Komodo and Blackmagic Pocket Cinema Camera.
2. Stabilization: The DJI Ronin RS2 uses a new stabilization algorithm called SuperSmooth that provides better stabilization than the previous version. It also has a new motor that is stronger and more responsive, which helps to eliminate vibrations and jitters.
3. Battery Life: The DJI Ronin RS2 has a battery life of up to 12 hours, which is impressive and allows you to shoot all day without worrying about running out of power. Additionally, the battery is interchangeable, which means you can swap out the battery if you need to shoot for longer periods.
4. Design: The DJI Ronin RS2 has a new design that makes it more ergonomic and easier to use. The handle has been redesigned, and it now has a grip that is more comfortable to hold, even for extended periods. Additionally, the DJI Ronin RS2 has a folding design that makes it easier to transport and store.
5. Connectivity: The DJI Ronin RS2 has a range of connectivity options, including Bluetooth, USB-C, and CAN bus. This makes it easy to connect to a range of devices, including cameras, smartphones, and tablets.

Advantages

The DJI Ronin RS2 has several advantages that make it a compelling option for filmmakers and videographers. Here are some of the most significant advantages:

1. Increased Payload Capacity: As mentioned earlier, the DJI Ronin RS2 can handle up to 10 pounds, which means it can support a wide range of cameras. This is a significant advantage over other stabilizers on the market that have lower payload capacities.
2. Improved Stabilization: The DJI Ronin RS2’s SuperSmooth stabilization algorithm and stronger motors provide better stabilization than the previous version. This means you can capture smooth and stable footage, even when moving quickly or in challenging conditions.
3. Battery Life: The DJI Ronin RS2’s battery life of up to 12 hours is impressive and allows you to shoot all day without worrying about running out of power. Additionally, the interchangeable battery means you can swap out the battery if you need to shoot for longer periods.
4. Ergonomic Design: The DJI Ronin RS2’s new design is more ergonomic and comfortable to use, even for extended periods. This is a significant advantage over other stabilizers on the market that can cause fatigue and discomfort when used for long periods.
5. Connectivity: The DJI Ronin RS2’s range of connectivity options makes it easy to connect to a range of devices, including cameras, smartphones, and tablets. This is a significant advantage for filmmakers and videographers who need to transfer footage quickly and easily.

Limitations

While the DJI Ronin RS2 has many advantages, there are also some limitations to be aware of. Here are some of the most significant limitations:

1. Weight: While the DJI Ronin RS2 is designed to be ergonomic and comfortable to use, it is still a relatively heavy piece of equipment. This may be a limiting factor for some users who need to shoot for extended periods or who are working in challenging conditions.
2. Learning Curve: The DJI Ronin RS2 has a range of advanced features, which may require some time to learn and master. This may be a limiting factor for some users who need to use the stabilizer right out of the box.
3. Compatibility: While the DJI Ronin RS2 is compatible with a wide range of cameras, some users may find that it is not compatible with their specific camera model. This may be a limiting factor for some users who need to use a specific camera for their work.

Comparison with Other Stabilizers

To truly understand the DJI Ronin RS2, it’s important to compare it to other stabilizers on the market. Here are some of the most significant comparisons:

1. DJI Ronin-S: The DJI Ronin-S is the previous model of the DJI Ronin RS2, and while it has many similarities, there are also some significant differences. The DJI Ronin RS2 has an increased payload capacity, improved stabilization, and a more ergonomic design. It also has a longer battery life and more connectivity options.
2. Zhiyun Crane 3S: The Zhiyun Crane 3S is a stabilizer that is comparable to the DJI Ronin RS2 in terms of payload capacity and stabilization. However, it has a shorter battery life and fewer connectivity options. Additionally, some users may find the Zhiyun Crane 3S to be less ergonomic and comfortable to use.
3. Moza Air 2: The Moza Air 2 is another stabilizer that is comparable to the DJI Ronin RS2 in terms of payload capacity and stabilization. However, it has a shorter battery life and fewer connectivity options. Additionally, some users may find the Moza Air 2 to be less ergonomic and comfortable to use.

Conclusion

The DJI Ronin RS2 is an impressive piece of equipment that offers many advantages to filmmakers and videographers. Its increased payload capacity, improved stabilization, longer battery life, ergonomic design, and range of connectivity options make it a compelling option for those who need to capture smooth and stable footage.

While there are some limitations to be aware of, such as the price, weight, learning curve, and compatibility issues, the DJI Ronin RS2 is still a top-of-the-line stabilizer that is worth considering for professional filmmakers and videographers.