This is our second gimbal, but our first from the upper category. The build quality of the Crane 2 is exquisite, it being mostly made out of aluminum alloy. The Crane 2 is a relatively light gimbal that can be mounted to an included tripod. As such, there is no need to purchase such an extra accessory for longer filming sessions. The ZHIYUN Crane 2 has a lot more going for it than just being a camera gimbal. It is a professional stabilizer that can hold a camera with a weight of 500 g (1.10 lb) to 3.2 kg (7.054 lb). As such, most DSLRs and mirrorless cameras, along with their corresponding lenses, are supported by the Crane; however, not all camera models are compatible with all of its features. Actually, only the Canon 5D line looks to be fully compatible with the Crane 2's features, while only a small part of those features are supported with other camera brands/models. This is a big disadvantage, and we did at the very least expect such top video-shooting cameras as the Sony A6500 and Panasonic GH5 to be fully supported by the Crane 2. Another feature of the Crane 2 that might actually cause some headaches is the fact that it is able to charge connected Sony cameras. Should you plan on using a Sony camera with the cable in order to utilize some of the gimbal's features, do keep in mind that the Crane's battery life will be depleted sooner since the camera will also be charged as it is being used. Zhiyun should find a way to make this function optional.

One of the main characteristics Zhiyun is proud of is its embedded follow-focus controller, which allows the camera's focus to be adjusted without touching the camera. This is done through software, so the camera has to be connected to the Crane 2 through a cable, and not by using a dedicated motor/dial that touches the focus wheel, though such a solution would be preferred since it would enhance compatibility. Currently, only the Canon 5D models support the Crane's follow-focus feature. Another strong asset is the OLED screen that - in combination with the buttons and jog dial on the gimbal's body - can be used to set various parameters while also providing a highly valuable way of keeping track of how much life the batteries have left.

The Zhiyun Play application Zhiyun offers with the Crane 2 is feature-rich and compatible with both Android and iOS operating systems, allowing for the adjustment of a large number of parameters in photo and video-shooting mode. It is, however, not as straightforward an application to use, so you will have to get accustomed to it before you can utilize it to its fullest. A six-sided calibration is also available for optimally setting up the gimbal, but it is really tough to follow Zhiyun's instructions for it because they are not clear enough. Zhiyun Assistant is less complex since it doesn't offer as many features; however, it faces the same problem as the other app. The gimbal at times also just refused to connect to our iPhones (6 Plus and 6s).

If you cannot afford the Crane 2 and don't need all of its features, including the high payload it supports, you could go with the Crane V2, which is notably cheaper, or its substitute, the Crane Plus. On the other hand, if you want one of the best gimbals money can buy today, the Crane 2 should be at the top of your list. Its build quality is astonishing, it will help you produce much better videos, and you won't have worry about the weight of your camera since it can hold one of up to 3.2 kg (7.054 lb). After all, a combination of the Panasonic GH5 with a Sigma Art 18-35 mm f/1.8 lens and the corresponding speedbooster adapter is quite front heavy; gimbals that lack strong motors will have a hard time controlling such a combination.

Besides the Crane 2, Zhiyun's portfolio offers a variety of stabilizer gimbal models which are classified into three separate categories; the first is for DSLR and mirrorless cameras, the second for action cameras, and the third for smartphones. We might in the future take a look at some of Zhiyun's other gimbal offerings.