The Zhiyun-Tech CRANE 3 LAB takes gimbal design in a different direction with the addition of a handle on top. With an included mini tripod attached on the bottom and this fixed, ergonomic handle on top, the CRANE 3 LAB can be used two-handed for optimal stability. Moreover, the handle enables you to seamlessly switch to underslung mode, whether with one or two hands, and achieve creative shots such as 360° roll shots as you move closer toward a subject. In addition to this innovative design, the CRANE 3 LAB also packs other advanced features, such as wireless video transmission, and provides the ability to stabilize up to 10 lb loads.

The CRANE 3 LAB supports two optional servos at the same time for focus and zoom control directly from the handwheel on the side. At the same time, all the other controls you need are provided at your fingertips at the top of the handle along with an OLED status screen. Additionally, the included ZY PLAY iOS/Android app (free download) provides many of the same control functions as well as special features such as panorama, focus time-lapse, motion time-lapse, long exposure time-lapse, camera settings, and more.

Wireless transmission is achieved via a Wi-Fi connection to an iOS/Android phone or tablet. The CRANE 3 LAB wirelessly transmits your video recording from your camera to your mobile device in real time in 1080p resolution. This feature is compatible with select cameras; please see the Zhiyun-Tech website for a full camera compatibility list.

Zhiyun’s LAB series was released along with an ecosystem of optional, dedicated TransMount accessories. One of these is the TransMount Phone Holder, which allows you to mount your phone on the side of the gimbal for monitoring your shot via the ZY PLAY app. Other accessories include a camera belt, specialized monopods that work together with the belt, and the TransMount Quick Setup Adapter, which lets you attach the included mini tripod by quick release functionality. This same adapter can also be used to attach monopods to the bottom of the gimbal for more stable jib-style shots. If you get two of these adapters, you can easily swap a monopod and a mini tripod on the spot as your needs require.

Another major feature of the gimbal is an axis latch lock system consisting of a separate latch lock on each axis. This feature allows you to lock the individual axes to remember your balance positions when powering the gimbal off. This way you won’t have to rebalance each time.