As more 3-axis brushless gimbals become available, it’s important to know which models are a good fit for the Panasonic GH4.

3-Axis brushless gimbals can greatly increase your production value, but not just any gimbal will do.

While you definitely want to make sure that the gimbal can handle the GH4 and the lenses you want to use, it’s also important that you don’t get a gimbal that’s overkill either. Gimbals that support large cameras are often heavier and more expensive, both of which are needless costs if you shoot primarily with a compact camera like the GH4.

Smaller and lighter gimbals that are appropriate for the GH4 will be easier on your arms and shoulders, allowing you to shoot longer with less fatigue. Gimbals designed to handle smaller cameras are also generally less expensive, so you don’t have to break the bank to capture smooth footage with the GH4.

Different gimbals have different features, so we’ve narrowed the list down to the 5 top gimbals for the Panasonic GH4 to help you choose the one that best fits your needs.

Why Should I Use a Gimbal?

The 3-axis brushless gimbal is a new stabilization option for shooters. It uses a variety of electronic components, such as motion sensors and brushless motors to keep the camera steady.

Here are some of the types of camera movements that a gimbal can be used for:

• Dolly — Move the camera closer or further away from the subject.
• Truck — Move the camera left/right across the subject.
• Pedestal — Raise or lower the camera in relation to the subject. You can also move diagonally by tilting the tripod head that the slider is mounted on.
• Walking & Running — Move freely around the environment.
• Follow — Follow a moving subject.
• Dynamic — The camera can be moved and oriented in virtually any direction (high, low, side to side, tilted up/down, etc.).

Now let’s take a look at the top gimbals for the GH4.

Varavon Birdycam 2

Varavon’s Birdycam 2 is a well-rounded gimbal for the GH4. It has a thoughtful design with a variety of features, an ample weight capacity, and an affordable price.

Despite the competitive pricing, the Birdycam 2 does not skimp on features. It includes everything you need to get up and running quickly, including a stand for balancing, a pan/tilt joystick to control the gimbal, and a quick-release camera plate.

Another notable feature of the Birdycam 2 is that it has a built-in stand that allows you to set the gimbal down on any flat surface. Seriously, all gimbals should have this.

Here’s a nice video of the Birdycam 2 in use by Makai Creative:

Letus Helix Jr.

Letus’ Helix Jr. is designed from the ground-up for comfort while shooting.

Whereas most handheld gimbals are basically aerial rigs hanging from handlebars, the Helix Jr.’s inverted design positions the handlebars below the camera sled, bringing the camera up to eye-level. This design also reduces shoulder strain by allowing you to keep your arms low and close to your body when shooting with the Helix Jr..

Another benefit of the Helix Jr.’s design is that it has a flat base, so it can stand on it’s own and does not require a separate stand.

Letus is just beginning to ship the Helix Jr. to customers, so here’s a video by Jacob Scoville that was shot with the Helix (the Helix Jr.’s big brother):

Defy G2x

If a compact and portable gimbal is what you need, then Defy’s G2x is right up your alley. It is one of the smallest gimbals available, designed to fit in a backpack or a carry-on bag, so you can take it with you wherever you go.

Though small, the G2x can still handle camera/lens setups as heavy as 3.5lbs, giving you a good amount of flexibility when shooting with the GH4, especially if you use native MFT lenses.

Like Letus’ Helix Jr., Defy’s G2x gimbal adopts an inverted configuration by default to make it easier to bring the camera to eye-level and reduce fatigue. When in this mode, the G2x can also be set down on a flat surface without needing a separate stand.

Additionally, the G2x can also be used in the more common handheld mode and includes a top handle so that you can shoot with the camera low to the ground.

Here’s Defy’s overview of the G2x:

Turbo Ace AllSteady 6Pro

Turbo Ace’s AllSteady 6Pro gimbal is a budget-friendly option for GH4 shooters.

That said, the AllSteady 6Pro does not skimp on functionality. It has a 8lb weight capacity, a joystick, and can be used in variety of configurations (handheld, inverted, briefcase, etc.).

However, Turbo Ace’s short 30 day warranty (1 year on parts) may be an issue for some customers who desire a longer support window for their gimbal.

Here’s Turbo Ace’s overview of the AllSteady 6Pro:

Filmpower Nebula 4000

Filmpower’s Nebula 4000 gimbal is making waves among GH4 shooters thanks to its unique pistol grip form-factor that allows you to shoot smooth footage without getting weighed down.

Most 3-axis gimbals have handlebars on either side of the camera that result in a fairly wide footprint. With the Nebula 4000, the whole setup is barely wider than the camera itself, so it’s easier to remain inconspicuous while capturing smooth footage.

Despite it’s diminutive size and relatively low 2.2lb weight capacity, the Nebula 4000 seems to be capable of good results, though a good deal of software tuning appears to be required. Plan on spending some quality time with the software to get the gimbal tuned properly.

That said, while stabilization can be good, it may not match the performance of more robust gimbals due to it’s smaller size and shorter range of motion. As such, the Nebula 4000’s main benefit is that it allows for smoother footage compared to shooting handheld without any stabilization at all.

It may not be a dolly in your pocket, but it is better than nothing.

As compact cameras like the Panasonic GH4 and the Sony a7S continue to increase in popularity among shooters, you can expect to see more compact gimbals like the Nebula 4000 very soon.

Here’s a great example by Tillard Georges that shows what the Nebula 4000 is capable of:

Which Gimbal Should I Choose?

As you can see, all of these gimbals can deliver good results in the right hands. The right gimbal depends on your specific needs.

For example, if you’re looking for a gimbal that’s ready to go out of the box, Varavon’s Birdycam 2 may be the best option.

However, if you need a gimbal that can handle heavier setups, then Letus’ Helix Jr. or Turbo Ace’s AllSteady 6Pro may fit the bill.

On the other hand, if you’re looking for a compact gimbal that travels well, Defy’s G2x could be just what the doctor ordered.

In-depth reviews for each of these gimbals are on the way to show you how they perform in the field. Sign up below to be notified automatically when the reviews are available.

Stabilizing the Panasonic GH4

• Stabilization Options: Introduction & Overview

3-Axis Gimbals

• 3-Axis Brushless Gimbals: The Definitive Guide
• Five 3-Axis Brushless Gimbals for the Panasonic GH4
• Review: Varavon Birdycam 2
  • Part 1: Features & Functionality
  • Part 2: Setup & Performance

Sliders

• Stay on Track: Using Sliders with the Panasonic GH4
• 10 Things You Should Know Before Buying a Slider for the Panasonic GH4
• 6 Purpose-Built Sliders for the Panasonic GH4
• Cinevate Duzi Slider Review: Solid, Compact, Smooth

More Panasonic GH4 Guides

• Why You Should Be Excited About the Panasonic GH4
• Lenses for the Panasonic GH4 — Awesome glass for an awesome camera.
• Memory Cards for the Panasonic GH4 — Get the right memory cards for HD and 4K.
• Configuring the Panasonic GH4 for Video Production — Set the GH4 up for filmmaking.
• Rigging the Panasonic GH4 — Cages, Rigs, Components, Gear, and Reviews.
• Stabilizing the Panasonic GH4 — Tripods, Monopods, Sliders, 3-Axis Gimbals, etc.
• Maximizing the Panasonic GH4’s Audio Performance — Sound matters.
• Powering the Panasonic GH4 — Keep the GH4 shooting all day.
• Should you buy the YAGH for the Panasonic GH4?
• 6 Reasons Why DSLR Shooters Love the Panasonic GH4