Zhiyun is considered to be an expert when it comes to gimbals, regardless of whether we are talking about mounting smartphones or action, DSLR, and mirrorless cameras. The Crane 3 LAB is the first professional gimbal I got to review, and its capabilities are impressive. With the ability to handle up to 4.5 kg, it addresses consumers looking to mount heavy rigs. However, before you decide to go for such a heavy setup, consider that longer shooting sessions are out of the question because of the weight, which is where the optional monopod included in the Creator's package becomes useful. One should also consider that the heavier the equipment, the faster the gimbal's batteries are depleted.

Combined with the ZY Play app, its software, this gimbal offers a variety of capabilities that will satisfy professional users and definitely amaze amateur filmmakers and photographers. Plenty of shooting modes are available, while both the gimbal's and the camera's parameters can be adjusted on the fly from the mounted smartphone or another device used as either a second monitor or remote controller.

Numerous available holding positions make for plenty of different shooting angles, and if we add the monopod, which is an essential extra accessory, low and high-angle shots are child's play. Additionally, due to the latches on each axis, the gimbal becomes a camera stand, which is a huge time saver when it comes to stowing everything away properly before the next shooting session (if you are using a studio). Moreover, the multifunction belt notably increases the gimbal's usability, especially if you plan on shooting out in nature since all filming gear and more can be attached.

Camera and gimbal did occasionally disconnect, but not frequently enough for it to be considered a major issue. Also, image transmissions from the camera to a mounted smartphone or remote device are delayed by a second. Finally, there is a three seconds delay before the camera stops recording once you hit that stop button.

All in all, even if someone is not a professional filmmaker, but wishes to achieve pro-like result, the Zhiyun Crane 3 with its accessories is the right tool for the task. We have yet to see more professional gimbals from Zhiyun or other companies, but as of now, this specific gimbal is of good build quality and without any major issues—it is definitely worth its asking price.