DJI sometimes turns us sideways with its cutting-edge innovations à la the Ronin 4D, but it usually improves existing products to outpace its competitors. This applies to the new RS4 and RS4 Pro gimbals, which boast many improvements earlier RS3 modelsespecially in terms of the size and capacity of the cameras they can support, but no new standout features.
However, the company has introduced the Focus Pro, a new version of its LiDAR focus system that works both standalone and with the RS4 Pro. This product is on the more advanced side and adds a number of new capabilities to the company’s gimbal and camera systems.
DJI RS4
The basic RS4 gimbal is largely the same as the last model, with a 6.6lb (3kg) carrying capacity that accommodates most mirrorless cameras and a good load of accessories. However, the tilt axis has been extended by 8.5mm compared to the RS 3, giving you more balancing room for longer lenses or front-heavy attachments like ND filters. It also uses DJI’s latest 4th generation stabilization algorithm for improved smoothness and control.
The RS4 can be paired with the new Focus Pro Motor, which allows for 30 percent faster focus and lens zoom adjustments than the original DJI Focus Motor (more on that in a second). As before, it uses dual-mode Bluetooth technology so you can pair and control multiple cameras.
Another new feature is improved stability in vertical shooting, stabilizing shocks for mass impact even when walking or running. Redesigned gimbal horizontal plates allow for “seamless transitions to vertical shots,” the company says, allowing for greater efficiency in video creation (for example, allowing you to quickly exit an Insta Story while shooting).
As before, it comes with Teflon coatings on all three axes for smooth operation, as well as automatic gimbal lock and unlock for ease of use. A new joystick mode switch lets you switch from zoom to gimbal control, and a customizable trigger can quickly launch FPV mode.
The RS4 supports many accessories via the RSA communication port, including DJI’s RS Unified Control Support and third-party options (DJI has an SDK protocol for the RS family). IT also supports the new BG70 High-Capacity Battery Grip, which extends runtime up to 29.5 hours with a 2.5-hour charge time (supports power transfer to camera and USB-C accessories vs.
Finally, the RS4 supports DJI’s Ronin Image Transmitter, delivering live-action high-definition feeds to other crew members and enabling remote control (focus, etc.) capabilities.
DJI RS4 Pro
The RS4 Pro increases the carrying capacity to 10 pounds (4.5 kg) as before, while adding additional mounting points for side handles and accessories. It adds 20 percent more motor torque to all axes (compared to the RS 3 Pro) to allow for more responsive tracking, even with heavy cameras and accessories.
DJI also introduced a vehicle mount mode that optimizes the stabilizer for vehicle shots, updating the vertical shooting capability and improving axis locks. Like the RS4, it features DJI’s latest 4th generation stabilization algorithm, which is especially useful for fast-moving scenes when carrying a heavy camera.
A key new feature is functionality with the Focus Pro LiDAR and Focus Pro Motor system, giving cinematographers autofocus capability even with manual focus lenses. According to the company, it also supports remote control and image transmission, which “enables remote gimbal operation and intelligent focus assist.”
“In a collaborative team shot, the gimbal operator can control the RS 4 Pro gimbal through devices such as DJI Master Wheels, DJI Ronin 4D Hand Grips and DJI High-Bright Remote Monitor. Meanwhile, the focus puller can activate the LiDAR waveform. Using the Focus Pro Hand Unit High Brightness Remote Monitor for intelligent focus assistance that precisely controls focus,” says DJI.
DJI Focus Pro
For creators and cinematographers, Focus Pro is the most exciting product in this release. This is a LiDAR focus system consisting of Focus Pro LiDAR unit, Focus Pro Grip, Focus Pro Motor and FIZ Hand Unit. It allows the operator to autofocus even with manual lenses, or allows manual focusing via a real-time view from the LiDAR perspective.
The grip features a full-color touchscreen, 2.5-hour power supply, intuitive visual operation, automatic calibration and data storage for 15 lenses, plus Bluetooth capability for easy start/stop. LiDAR, on the other hand, supports focusing up to 20 meters (three times longer than before) and has an ultra-wide 70-degree field of view for focusing. IT has 76,800 range points and a 30Hz refresh rate to minimize focus hunting and ensure reliable focus.
Autofocus includes AF subject recognition and tracking, adjustable focus speed, and selectable focus area modes, just like a conventional mirrorless AF system. And AMF (auto manual focus) mode allows you to instantly switch between manual and autofocus for difficult shooting scenarios. It also assists camera or focus operators by displaying the LiDAR waveform. I tried something similar with the Ronin 4D and while it took some getting used to, it was very effective.
The FIZ Handheld Unit allows full remote control over focus, iris and zoom for focus pullers. It uses stepless real-time damping for smooth control, while allowing the focus hammer to be as far away as 160 meters. Other features including faster motor speed, 10ms delay and intuitive dialing operation.
Price and availability
DJI RS4 is already available For purchase starting at $549 and includes a Gimbal, BG21 Battery Case, USB-C Charging Cable, Lens Mount Bracket, Extended Grip/Tripod (Plastic), Quick Release Plate, Multi-Camera Control Cable and Screw Kit. You can also buy it bundled with a briefcase holder, a Focus Pro Motor, a Focus Pro Motor Rod Mount kit, a Focus Gear Strip, a second Multi-Camera Control Cable, and a Carrying Case for $719. The RS 4 Pro, meanwhile, starts at $869 or $1,099 with a high-capacity battery holder, with the same range of accessories for each.
The Focus Pro creative combo (DJI Focus Pro LiDAR, DJI Focus Pro Grip, DJI Focus Pro Motor, and DJI Focus Pro carrying case) is $999, or you can buy the All-in-One combo (also with FIZ Hand Unit). For $1,899. The RS BG70 high-capacity battery holder retails for $149 on its own.
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