Zhiyun Smooth Q2 Launches on Kickstarter

Zhiyun Smooth Q2 Launches on Kickstarter

The Zhiyun Smooth 4 is probably the leading 3 axis gimbal for smartphones in terms of sales. The gimbal’s main advantages appear to be well-thought out features and FiLMiC Pro integration. This includes a “vertigo” effect, focus and zoom pulling, object tracking and time-lapse modes.

However, the gimbal is not without customer complaints. These are mainly over reliability and the Zhiyun app which allows remote control over your smartphone. It’s also worth noting that the gimbal has one of the lowest maximum payloads of the leading gimbals.

But, Zhiyun’s success with the Smooth 4 has inspired them to bring out a new smartphone gimbal: the Smooth Q2. But this time they are launching using Kickstarter. Well, I guess they’ve seen companies like Moment do so well with repeated Kickstarter campaigns they’re hoping to emulate their method.

Read more: Best Smartphone Gimbals 2019

Zhiyun Smooth Q2

So how will this gimbal differ from their previous gimbals? Well, the Smooth Q2 will be smaller and more compact, aiming at the travel vlogger and YouTube, casual videographer market.

Features

Here’s Zhiyun’s own description of the features coming with the new gimbal:

• Small size, peak performance
  Smooth-Q2 is the smallest mobile gimbal device produced by Zhiyun. Measuring only 204mm long, Smooth-Q2 is almost equivalent to an eyeglass case that you can throw to your handbag.
• Enhanced Motor Durability        
  Built from aluminum alloy material with precise CNC technology, Smooth-Q2 has greatly improved in its durability and reliability. On top of that, Smooth-Q2’s overall weight is reduced but with enhanced texture. Smooth-Q2 is designed as a compact device to withstand heavy load with higher stability and better performance. Maximum payload: 260g.
• Simple design, versatile modes 
  Smooth-Q2 integrates Vortex Mode which gives videomakers the freedom to create 360-degree barrel shots in all dimension. Newly added Full-Range POV Mode allows 360-degree synchronous movement on three axes, providing an immersive effect to the video. Smooth-Q2 has built-in professional filmmaking functions to make filmmaking easy for everyone. (i.e.time lapse, hyper lapse, vertigo shot, object tracking and panorama, etc.)
• Direct Control to Phone Cameras 

Smooth-Q2 supports direct control to iOS and Android phone cameras

• Easy setup on the go 
  The unique quick release latch design allows you to take off and put back the smartphone with the phone clamp without re-balancing.
• All day battery life
  Powered by a strong battery system, Zhiyun Smooth-Q2’s battery life is up to 17 hours. In addition, Smooth-Q2 has micro-USB port that allows it to work as power bank.
• User-friendliness
  Smooth-Q2 has a simple and convenient design incorporates a clear mode LED indicator for different modes. Smooth-Q2 also has a five-way control button that is intuitive and easy to use. The common ¼’’ screw thread fitting that makes Q2 compatible to most devices.

What do we get?

So, the main stand out differences to me are: increased payload compared to the Smooth 4 and Smooth Q (from 200/220 to 260); extra battery life (17 hours compared to 12).

Zhiyun claim the gimbal is about the size of a case for glasses. A quick check reveals to me my glasses cases are about 15 cm, while the Smooth Q2 is just over 20 cm. And a quick measure of my old Smooth Q reveals it to be 28.5 cm long…

So we can say it’s definitely smaller than most gimbals. Zhiyun say the gimbal will be the smallest ever made for smartphones.

Personally, I don’t know if I’d want my gimbal handle so short, as I often use the extra extension to get different types of shots. For me, the extra compactness isn’t worth it. But for folks shooting holiday videos, I can image this would appeal.

“Built from aluminum alloy material, SMOOTH-Q2‘s arm and motor have greatly improved in its durability and reliability, with enhanced texture.” Zhiyun

From this image released by Zhiyun below, we can also see the new object tracking feature at work. By using thousands of tiny propellers in the handle, the gimbal becomes like a gimbal-drone hybrid, able to fly after you on its own.

Or not.

Zhiyun launch their Kickstarter tomorrow (August 27th).

Update: the Kickstarter campaign is now live – find it here.

Check out our official Smartphone Filmmaking KIT LIST.

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