Comprehensive Review of the Zhiyun Smooth 4: The Ultimate Smartphone Gimbal

The Zhiyun Smooth 4 has carved its niche in the world of smartphone videography. Aimed at both amateur and professional content creators, this device promises precise stabilization, user-friendly interfaces, and a wealth of features that can elevate your smartphone filming to new heights. In this article, we delve into the Smooth 4's specifications, test its performance in real-world scenarios, and explore whether it truly lives up to its reputation.

Design and Build Quality

When you first hold the Zhiyun Smooth 4, its sturdy construction is immediately noticeable. Crafted with high-quality materials, this gimbal not only feels robust but is also designed ergonomically to ensure that you can shoot for extended periods without fatigue. Weighing approximately 450 grams, it's lightweight enough to be portable without sacrificing durability. The following aspects highlight its design:

• Compact Size: The gimbal's folding design allows for easy transportation, making it an excellent choice for travel vlogging.
• Intuitive Control Panel: Unlike many gimbals that rely heavily on mobile app functionality, the Smooth 4 features a well-laid-out control panel. This allows you to adjust settings quickly without fumbling through apps.
• Material: The rubberized handle offers a comfortable grip, ensuring stability when shooting on the go.

Key Features

The Zhiyun Smooth 4 is loaded with features that are tailored for content creators. Here are some of the standout functionalities:

• Focus Pull and Zoom Control: The dedicated zoom and focus wheel allows for smooth transitions, which are essential for cinematic filming.
• Multiple Shooting Modes: The gimbal supports a variety of shooting modes like ‘Follow Mode’, ‘Lock Mode’, and ‘FPV Mode’, providing you with creative freedom.
• Long Battery Life: With up to 12 hours of battery life, the Smooth 4 ensures that you can film longer without frequent recharging interruptions.
• Object Tracking: The built-in object tracking feature helps you keep your subject in focus, a vital aspect when filming dynamic scenes.

Setting Up the Zhiyun Smooth 4

Getting started with the Smooth 4 is straightforward. After downloading the ZY Play app available on both iOS and Android, you can quickly connect your smartphone to the gimbal via Bluetooth. The app not only helps in controlling the gimbal but also offers additional creative settings such as time-lapse and slow-motion functionalities.

One of the first steps in using the gimbal is balancing your smartphone. This is crucial for achieving optimal stabilization during filming. Here’s a quick guide on balancing your smartphone:

1. Attach your smartphone into the gimbal's mount.
2. Adjust the gimbal’s arms until the phone is level, ensuring it does not tip forward or backward.
3. Once balanced, secure the phone and power up the gimbal.

Performance Testing

After spending a significant time with the Zhiyun Smooth 4, I put it to the test under various filming conditions. From busy city streets to serene nature shots, the gimbal performed beyond expectations.

In bright sunlight, the stabilization was particularly impressive. Walking briskly through a crowded market while shooting on the move, I noticed minimal shake, and the footage looked smooth and professional. The focus pull and zoom control proved to be a game-changer, allowing for immediate adjustments without distracting from the subject matter.

In low-light conditions, the gimbal still managed to deliver satisfactory performance. Although some minor handling shake was noticeable, the embedded features helped compensate, making it ideal for indoor shoots. Here are the results of specific tests:

Walking Test

I filmed a sequence while walking briskly, focusing on both static and dynamic subjects. The Smooth 4's stabilization kept the footage smooth, eliminating the impact of my walking motion.

Panning Shots

Using the panning functionality, I shot panoramic views of picturesque landscapes. The transitions were seamless, capturing expansive views without compromising quality.

Time-Lapse Functionality

The time-lapse feature allowed me to compress time effectively in scenes with moving clouds. The gimbal’s ability to maintain focus on the subject was impeccable, resulting in stunning final footage.

Compatibility and App Functionality

Compatibility is another hallmark of the Zhiyun Smooth 4. It supports a wide range of smartphones, ensuring that most users can utilize its features seamlessly. However, it’s recommended to check the compatibility list on the official website for specifics.

The ZY Play app enhances the overall functionality of the gimbal, offering advanced features that refine video capture. The app includes tutorials for beginners, remote control features, and various editing options. Users can even create slow-motion videos directly from the interface, simplifying the production process significantly.

Price and Value

The Zhiyun Smooth 4 is positioned at a mid-range price point, especially considering the features it offers. For aspiring filmmakers and seasoned content creators alike, the investment can result in significant embellishment of their craft. When compared to higher-end models, it targets those who need excellent stabilization without excessively advanced features that may go unused.

Moreover, the durability and battery performance amplify its value, as the gimbal can withstand rigorous filming schedules, making it a dependable partner for any project.

Final Thoughts

The Zhiyun Smooth 4 stands out in the crowded market of smartphone gimbals, combining advanced features with robust performance. Ideal for both novice and professional videographers, it enhances the filmmaking process by providing precise stabilization, powerful functionality, and ease-of-use. As smartphone videography continues to rise in popularity, having a reliable tool like the Zhiyun Smooth 4 can be the difference between average footage and cinematic quality.