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Zhiyun CRANE 2S Handheld Gimbal Stabilizer

BH #ZHCRANE2S • MFR #C020113INT
 32 reviews
Zhiyun
Zhiyun CRANE 2S Handheld Gimbal Stabilizer
Key Features
  • 9th Instune High Axis Response Algorithm
  • Large Camera Support: BMPCC 6K, S1H, 1DX
  • Dedicated TransMount Transmitter Mounts
  • Standard & Vertical Camera Mounts
A follow-up to the Crane-2, the Zhiyun-Tech CRANE 2S has been highly upgraded to better suit the needs of filmmakers. Featuring a new-generation 9th Instune Algorithm that improves the responsiveness of each axis, the CRANE 2S is capable of stabilizing large cameras such as the Blackmagic Pocket 6K, Panasonic S1H, and Canon EOS 1DX Mark II along with accessories.
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Model
CRANE-2S
CRANE-2S Pro
Configuration
Handheld Gimbal Stabilizer
Combo Kit
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Zhiyun Crane-2S Overview

By B&H Photo's

A follow-up to the Crane-2, the Zhiyun-Tech CRANE 2S has been highly upgraded to better suit the needs of filmmakers. Featuring a new-generation 9th Instune Algorithm that improves the responsiveness of each axis, the CRANE 2S is capable of stabilizing large cameras such as the Blackmagic Pocket 6K, Panasonic S1H, and Canon EOS 1DX Mark II along with accessories.

To support a collaborative process, the CRANE 2S offers dedicated mounting points for attaching an optional Zhiyun-Tech TransMount transmitter. Another new feature, integrated to support the growing demand for social media content, is a vertical quick release mount that enables you to set your camera up vertically. Besides this, a new FlexMount system is used for mounting your camera the standard way. This technology simplifies the mounting and setup process while securing your camera with a double-safety mechanism. The axis-locking mechanism for balancing a camera has also been improved with a two-phase locking design. The axis-locking mechanism additionally ensures that there's no movement of the gimbal components during travel or storage.

The grip handle of the gimbal is made out of carbon fiber so the gimbal feels lighter in your hand. The built-in handwheel on the side of the handle has been upgraded to allow for very low delay when controlling an add-on lens motor, sold separately, so you can make adjustments with more precision. (When using both a focus and zoom motor, you can set the handwheel to control your choice of one or the other.) On the bottom of the handle is a 1/4"-20 thread that allows you to attach the included mini tripod to be used as a stand or as an extension that can be held with the other hand for more control.

Using the companion iOS/Android mobile app, advanced cinematic functions such as panorama, time-lapse, motion-lapse, and long exposure time-lapse can be performed with the gimbal to achieve creative results. Many of the gimbal's parameters can be adjusted via this app, while many key modes and parameters can be accessed directly from the 0.96" OLED screen right above the handle.

The CRANE 2S also supports a variety of dedicated Zhiyun-Tech TransMount accessories, which include servo motors. The quick release plate included with the gimbal is compatible with many common tripod heads so you can efficiently move your camera between the gimbal and tripods, sliders, and other camera supports. Also included are a lens control and multiple camera control cables to allow for a comprehensive workflow. The CRANE 2S runs for up to 12 hours on three included batteries, which are rechargeable using a supplied triple charger.

Compatibility
For a full list of compatible cameras, please see the most current compatibility information on the Zhiyun-Tech website or in PDF format.
Key Features
  • 9th Instune Algorithm with high axis responsiveness
  • Support for large cameras such as the Blackmagic Pocket 6K, Panasonic S1H, and Canon EOS 1DX Mark II
  • Six modes: pan follow, lock, follow, full-range POV, vortex, and Go modes
  • Dedicated mounting points for attaching an optional Zhiyun-Tech TransMount transmitter
  • FlexMount camera mounting system with a double safety mechanism
  • Vertical quick release camera mount
  • Quick release plate compatible with many tripod heads and sliders
  • Two-phase axis locking mechanism for balancing a camera and for storage/travel
  • Carbon fiber handle
  • Low-delay handwheel performance when used with optional lens motors
  • Up to 12-hour runtime on three included removable batteries
  • 360° pan motion
  • 0.96" OLED screen
  • Panorama, time-lapse, motion-lapse, and long exposure time-lapse via the companion iOS/Android app
  • 1/4"-20 thread on the bottom
UPC: 191493001831

Zhiyun Crane-2S Specs

Key Specs
Grip Design
Single Handgrip
Number of Axes
3-Axis (Pitch (Tilt), Roll, Yaw (Pan))
Wireless Frequency
2.4 GHz
Wireless Protocol
Bluetooth 5.0
Mounting
3 x 1/4"-20 Female
1 x 3/8"-16 Female
Weight
4.14 lb / 1.88 kg (without Battery)
Gimbal
Number of Axes
3-Axis (Pitch (Tilt), Roll, Yaw (Pan))
Rotation Range
Controllable Range
Yaw (Pan): 360° (-180 to 180°) 
Roll: 70° (-35 to 35°) 
Pitch (Tilt): 215° (-80 to 135°) 
Mechanical Range
Yaw (Pan): 360° 
Roll: 295° (-57.5 to 237.5°) 
Pitch (Tilt): 246° (-91 to 155°) 
Compatibility
Camera Control
On Compatible Models (See Full Compatibility List)
Camera Mounting Screw
1 x 1/4"-20 Male
Connectivity
Inputs/Outputs
1 x USB-C (Control)
1 x USB-C (Firmware Updates)
Wireless Frequency
2.4 GHz
Wireless Protocol
Bluetooth 5.0
Battery
Battery Type
3 x 18650
Battery Capacity
2600 mAh
Battery Runtime
12 Hours
Battery Charging Time
4 Hours
Battery Chemistry
Lithium-Ion
Voltage
3.7 VDC
Power
Operating Voltage
9.8 to 12.6 VDC
Operating Current
160 to 6000 mA
Environmental
Operating Temperature
14 to 113°F / -10 to 45°C
General
Display Type
Fixed OLED
Mounting
3 x 1/4"-20 Female
1 x 3/8"-16 Female
Weight
4.14 lb / 1.88 kg (without Battery)
Packaging Info
Package Weight
7.09 lb
Box Dimensions (LxWxH)
19.9 x 13.2 x 4.4"

Zhiyun Crane-2S Reviews

Decent, but some issues

By Yasha
Rated 3 out of 5
Date: 2023-08-19

I purchased the Zhiyun Crane 2S BH #ZHCRANE2SK on BH Deal of the Day. I primarily am a wildlife and scenic still photographer. However, with the Nikon Z9 and Z8 that both are excellent hybrid video cameras producing video images of broadcast and in some cases cinema quality, I have expanded into videography for clients that want/need such. I already invested in a fluid head with bowl and a cage for my Z9 that I mount on my regular photographic tripods (all of which are stable and can handle the load). However, for portable work, one needs either a Steadicam (e.g., B&H # STAHDNP15) or a video powered gimbal (different from a photographic gimbal, such as a Wimberley BH #WITHQRQ). I am attempting to use this Crane 2S for that purpose. I will add to this review once I have production use; this review refers to initial fitment and adjustment. My planned use is with a Nikon Z8, FTZII, and Sigma 24-70 2.8 Art lens. For longer heavier lenses I will use my fluid head setup, mostly with a Nikon Z9. As all of my lenses and bodies are equipped to use the generic arca-swiss (AS) system (with clamps and plates from Wimberley, Kirk, Really Right Stuff, ProMediaGear, Acratech, and others), I need to adapt from the Manfrotto-style video plate and clamp (MV) to AS. I found for camera bodies with the fluid head and also the cage, that the ProMediaGear PM501 works fine and is secured by the Crane 2S lever-activated MV clamp. However, the PM501 is too short to allow front-back balance. I tried the PM501L -- this adapter works in every other MV clamp I have as these are all clamping screw tightening. It does not work in Crane 2S MV clamp that is lever type as it will not fully tighten and then slips. I found that a Smallrig 3061 BH #SM3061 does work with the Crane 2S MV clamp if one removes the plastic underside filler strip from the 3061. I also tried mounting a Wimberley AS clamp to the MV plate supplied in the Crane 2S kit, but the result was too cumbersome and thus I looked for an integrated AS clamp on MV plate. Obviously, I need to attach and balance the camera/lens on the Crane 2S to be able to test it, let alone use it. Note that on my Nikon Z8 I use the ProMediaGear PX3 AS plate BH #PRPX3 to which I attach a Cotton hub B&H # CO300CIK as I use the Cotton Carrier system. All of this worked. Achieving front/back balance was easy. However, with the Crane 2S achieving side-to-side balance is not. The slotted cross arm for side-to-side balance, when the relevant clamp and motor lock are released does not slide under load. I had to remove the camera (body plus lens), slide the cross arm, lock the cross arm, reinstall the camera (using the AS clamp on the MV to AS adapter) and repeat until side to side balance was achieved. What I do not like is that the Crane 2S uses a lever, not screw tightening, MV clamp. Once balanced, and the Crane 2S activated by the Zhiyun app on my mobile, it does hold the camera steady. My next issue will be mounting my Nikon MC-N10 Remote Grip B&H # NIMCN10 to the rosette on the Crane 2S (the MC-N10 uses a standard ARRI rosette that is not on the Crane 2S) as I will use the MC-N10 for camera control on both the Z8 and Z9.

Perfect for the Nikon z5

By Laurie
Rated 5 out of 5
Date: 2023-02-05

My only con was that activating the gimbal was a bit difficult to do with little help from the manual instructions or Zhiyun tutorial videos. Same thing when getting the gimbal to work the camera controls. After figuring everything out it's been great.

It's good, but it acts up sometimes

By Nyki
Rated 3 out of 5
Date: 2022-10-15

First off, I don't like that you need to install an app on your phone to use this gimbal. I would prefer something that works out of the box without the need for an app. Second, it glitches out occasionally. The camera mount and camera will start vibrating rapidly, even with calibration. I've had to reset it a couple times.

Best quality

By Euclides
Rated 5 out of 5
Date: 2022-07-21

First I purchased DJI RSC 2 Gimbal Stabilizer to use with my bmpcc 4k. It couldn't hold, but this beast does, so I trade for this! And B&H made that very easy, thank you!!

Like one other reviewer said - get a glidecam.....

By John
Rated 1 out of 5
Date: 2022-06-29

I was excited to get this and use it. I use a glide-cam all the time so I figured this should be better....... Set up and balance are a snap. The use..... not so much much. Maybe I have a deflective one but it will not go into follow mode (even if I go into the menus), unless I hold the follow button which is not how it is supposed to work, but it starts to drift as if with a mind of its own. I have reset, rebalanced, recalibrated....... Hate to say it but it is going back to B&H. AND..... you have to register it with an app...... I HATE that. That alone put a bad taste in my mouth for this product. And as one other reviewer also said.... it block most of the screen so unless you are using and external monitor...

I liked it

By Ilham
Rated 5 out of 5
Date: 2022-06-24

But a little heavy

Xcelente

By Carlos
Rated 5 out of 5
Date: 2023-08-14

excelente producto para aprender a usar estabilizador de camara a pesar de tener 3 ejes da una estabilizacion brutal quiero tener el segundo estabilizador para trabajar juntos Excelente producto, calidad y precio

Good Gimbal for the Price

By William
Rated 5 out of 5
Date: 2023-05-23

Overall good gimbal for the price. I was debating on buying this or the 3S and while some find the 3S's handle convenient I just felt it was too bulky for my taste. With this kit I am able to remove the handle as needed and not have anything come out of the rod, extra batteries are a plus, and powerful enough to handle my BMPCC6K.

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YOUR RECENTLY VIEWED ITEMS

Does it have a portrait mode?

Does it have a portrait mode?
Asked by: george
You can mount many cameras in portrait orientation on the Zhiyun-Tech CRANE 2S Handheld Gimbal Stabilizer (B&H# ZHCRANE2S).
Answered by: Yoni
Date published: 2022-02-15

Will this work for a Nikon d3500?

Will this work for a Nikon d3500?
Asked by: Tevin
Although the Nikon D3500 can balance on the Zhiyun-Tech Crane 2S, unfortunately there is no control of the camera through the gimbal.
Answered by: Richard
Date published: 2021-12-17

Will this work with the Nikon Z9?

Will this work with the Nikon Z9?
Asked by: Jeffrey
Yes, The Nikon Z9 is supported and compatible for control with the Zhiyun-Tech CRANE 2S Handheld Gimbal Stabilizer.
Answered by: Joseph
Date published: 2022-02-06

Will this work with a Canon XA50?

Will this work with a Canon XA50?
Asked by: Mike
The Zhiyun 2S has not been tested with camcorders. However, with that said you should be able to balance the Canon XA50, without the XLR handle attached. We also recommend the DJI RS3 Pro as a camcorder gimbal. The DJI RS3 Pro can handle larger cameras like the Zhiyun Crane 2S. DJI RS 3 Pro Gimbal Stabilizer BH #DJRS3P
Answered by: Chris H
Date published: 2023-06-29

Will this work with the Canon 60D?

Will this work with the Canon 60D?
Asked by: Madsincinema
Zhiyun's does not current list compatibility with the 60D, but they are usually only referring to compatibility in regards to when the camera is plugged in via USB. However, with regard to balancing, it should be no problem with small/medium-sized lenses. Therefore you should still be able to use the gimbal as long as you aren't looking for control over the camera's settings/focus. Please see Zhiyun's chart here: https://bit.ly/38tOQ1z or visit their website for the most up-to-date list.
Answered by: Jeremy
Date published: 2020-11-08

Can this be mounted upside down for use with a ...

Can this be mounted upside down for use with a job?
Asked by: Chris
Yes, the gimbal can be in an underslung mode with a jib.
Answered by: Nicholas
Date published: 2023-08-07

If any of you who has used the DJI RSC 2, which ...

If any of you who has used the DJI RSC 2, which one is better? Thank you.
Asked by: George
RS2 for sure
Answered by: Dakota
Date published: 2021-03-02

What is the payload capacity of this gimbal?

What is the payload capacity of this gimbal?
Asked by: Brandon
Much like the Weebill-S before it, this gimbal does not list a specific capacity. However Zhiyun rates it to to work with cameras as small as the A6400 up to smaller cinema camera options like the Pocket Cinema Camera 6K and Z Cam E2 with mid range zoom lenses.
Answered by: Joseph
Date published: 2021-03-13
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