When it was announced a few months ago, the Zhiyun-Tech WEEBILL LAB seemed to be a great, compact stabilizer option for mirrorless cameras. We gave it a favorable review based on our time with an early unit. The company has recently released an upgraded version that squashes some bugs and adds to an ever-growing compatibility list. If you have been holding off because you weren’t sure the WEEBILL LAB would work with your system, now is the time to take another look. This is especially true if you are attending WPPI and want to see it in person at the Sunpak booth.
Looking back, the essential specs are that the WEEBILL LAB can support up to 6.6 lb for compatible camera combos and has batteries rated to last for up to 10 hours on a single charge. It can also connect directly to cameras and provide control over select functions. And, there is a ZY PLAY mobile app for remote control and monitoring. We took another look at this new version and were pleased with performance. While we didn’t have any issues initially, we have confirmed smooth operation of the latest version. If you want to know more, please check out our initial review.
This updated model should have fixes for any lingering bugs or errors found in previous models. It also brings updated compatibility—most notably, it now works with Nikon’s Z Series via a direct USB connection. This provides the ability to take photos, start/stop recording, use the follow focus control, adjust aperture, shutter speed, and ISO. The app supports taking photos, start/stop recording, and adjustment of aperture shutter speed, ISO, and white balance, as well as image transmission. The compatibility does include similar functionality with the Sony a7 series and a6000 series, and the Panasonic GH5 and GH5S—though make sure to double check exact functions at Zhiyun-Tech’s website. Considering the popularity of all these models for video, this makes the WEEBILL LAB an excellent option for compact, lightweight recording kits.
Having the opportunity to visit Zhiyun-Tech at WPPI, we wanted to see its other gimbal stabilizer options, with the CRANE 3 LAB being a standout. This is effectively the big sibling of the WEEBILL because it can hold up to 10 lb, and has an innovative top handle design. This feature makes it easy to switch between modes, underslung mode for example, and has built-in controls for working with compatible camera systems. It also permits more comfortable double-handed use. Another benefit is support for the ZY PLAY mobile app for even more control via your mobile device.
If you have any more questions or want to report on your experiences with the WEEBILL LAB or the CRANE 3 LAB, please feel free to leave a comment below! We really do love hearing from our readers.
13 Comments
Hi.i've got problem with weebill lab.
Suddenly shows X mark on the vision and cant connect to it. Please help me. Tanx
Is there any place to see what exactly this "update" addresses? I realize it's firmware only but the lack of documentation makes it hard to know if the "bugs" on the first version that we experienced are fixed or not. Is there, for example, a fix for the wireless transmission delay/lag that (in our experience) made that features more gimmicky and frustrating, than useful?
For assistance with this question feel free to email us directly at [email protected]. We should be able to better assist you from there.
Thanks!
so are you guys going to recall or change the "old" weebill or something?
Hi Joel,
When we were informed about the updated versions we stopped sales of the older models and created a new item on our site to avoid any mixing of stock. Since this update we have only been carrying the newer version. If you have an original version and have issues with it please feel free to contact our customer service department for assistance.
What exactly is this new and approved weebil lab and how is it different from the original one I bought?
The updated version has not changed physically, just via software. However, this is not an update the end user can install. It simply was meant to ensure consistent performance via a firmware tweak.
Shawn, I think this assertion requires elaboration - Zhiyun technical support insists that the only thing changed, is what's commonly delivered (nearly automatically, upon allowing it) via firmware update. No one ever creates a brand new product listing, calling the older one outdated, after a mere firmware update with tweaks. Meantime, there is chatter on the web that Zhiyun delivered a "silent update" of actual hardware changes to the motors, etc. -- and I note that the boxes are getting a sticker at the upper-right corner saying "updated version" which is not, again, something you put on a box to describe a mere firmware update. This all causes distrust in consumers and it would be great for B&H to shed light; thanks!
Just to confirm, the updated model is not only the app version and actually the gimbal?
Hi Sebastian,
You are correct. While the actual gimbal may not look different from the older model, it has changed in ways beyond just the app.
How to know exactly version when buying?
Hi! Great question. All of our stock is now the updated version, so if you are buying from us you will definitely be getting the proper model. You can follow the links above to see it.
Hi Shawn,
I bought this product on February 27, 2019.
This is the new version correct?