The Zhiyun WEEBILL 3E gimbal represents a significant evolution in the WEEBILL series, offering advanced features and performance tailored to meet the needs of professional videographers and filmmakers at the right price. Having used this now for the last number of weeks, I want to share my thoughts through this review that will examine the design, functionality, performance, and overall value of the WEEBILL 3E, providing an in-depth understanding of why it might become a favored choice in the gimbal market.
Design and Build Quality
The maintains the compact and lightweight design philosophy of its predecessors, the 3s. The gimbal features an ergonomic design that allows for comfortable handheld shooting, and with the addition of the sling grip (sold separately), it will allow you to shoot for even longer.
The build quality is good, with a combination of metal and high-grade plastic materials. The gimbal's buttons and controls are strategically placed for intuitive access, facilitating seamless operation even in dynamic shooting environments. It has the same layout as its predecessor; the only main difference is the color is not the sleek black but more of a neutral grey, and it also doesn't have the integrated 1000-lumen light that the 3s had.
The OLED display is clear, providing real-time feedback on settings, battery life, and connection status.
The entire package also comes with a foam case to help you easily transport it and keep it safe while doing so.
Performance and Stability
Performance-wise, the WEEBILL 3E provides superior stabilization and handling of heavier payloads. It supports a maximum payload of 3.5 kilograms, accommodating a wide range of professional camera and lens setups. This makes it ideal for both lightweight mirrorless cameras and heavier DSLR rigs.
The gimbal is equipped with Zhiyun's proven algorithm, which offers precise motor control and advanced stabilization. This technology ensures smooth and jitter-free footage, even in challenging shooting conditions. Whether you're capturing fast-moving action scenes or slow cinematic pans, the WEEBILL 3E delivers consistent and reliable performance.
The gimbal features multiple shooting modes, including Pan Follow, Lock, Follow, POV, Vortex, and Go modes. These modes cater to different creative needs, allowing users to achieve a variety of cinematic effects. The Vortex mode, for instance, enables 360-degree barrel shots, adding a unique dynamic to your footage.
It doesn't have a lock at any degree either, so it allows for full 360 motion, unlike other gimbals.
User-Friendly Features
The WEEBILL 3E is designed with user convenience in mind. The gimbal includes a quick-release system with dual quick-release plates (Arca-Swiss compatible) that streamline the setup and balancing process. This feature is particularly useful for any shoots where time is of the essence.
The gimbal's OLED screen and control panel are intuitive, providing easy access to essential settings and adjustments. The joystick, trigger buttons, and control wheel are also ergonomically placed, allowing for efficient single-handed operation. Additionally, the gimbal supports Bluetooth and Wi-Fi connectivity, enabling remote control and firmware updates via the Zhiyun app.
The Zhiyun app enhances the gimbal's functionality by offering advanced control features. These features expand the creative possibilities and allow for more complex and engaging shots.
Battery Life
The WEEBILL 3E boasts impressive battery life, thanks to its high-capacity built-in battery. It can run for up to 16 hours on a single charge, making it one of the most enduring gimbals in its class, and at a great price point. This extended battery life ensures that you can rely on the gimbal for all-day shoots without the need for frequent recharging; your hand and arms will get tired before the battery.
Charging the gimbal is also simple via USB-C, and it can also be used while it's charging if you are in a pinch.
Compatibility and Versatility
This will work with many industry cameras and lens combos, and in addition to its camera compatibility, the WEEBILL 3E offers mounting options. It can allow you to switch from horizontal to vertical with ease. The quick-release plate also facilitates easy transitions between different tripod systems, making it an all-in-one solution for videographers.
Being able to control your camera directly on the gimbal has great advantages for your creativity, plus certain cameras will allow charging directly from the gimbal via the USB-C connectivity port.
The Zhiyun app (ZY Play) further extends the gimbal's capabilities with intelligent shooting modes and remote control options.
Value for Money
In terms of value for money, the Zhiyun WEEBILL 3E is competitively priced considering its advanced features and performance capabilities. It offers a comprehensive set of tools that cater to both amateur and professional videographers, providing excellent value for its price point.
The gimbal's robust build quality, superior stabilization, and extensive battery life justify the investment.
My Summary
The Zhiyun WEEBILL 3E gimbal is a highly capable and versatile tool that meets the demands of modern videography. Its compact and ergonomic design, combined with advanced stabilization technology, makes it an excellent choice for capturing professional-quality footage. The gimbal's extensive battery life, user-friendly features, and wide compatibility further enhance its appeal.
The WEEBILL 3E offers exceptional value for its price. It is a reliable and versatile gimbal, making it a worthy investment for both amateur and professional videographers.
Pros and Cons of the Zhiyun WEEBILL 3E Gimbal
Design
- Compact and Lightweight Design
- Portability: Easy to carry for long shoots and travel. A4 Size.
Excellent Stabilization
- Advanced Algorithms: Provides superior stabilization for smooth footage.
- Versatile Operation Modes: Multiple shooting modes for creative flexibility.
User-Friendly Features
- Quick Setup: Balancing the gimbal is very straightforward.
- Intuitive Controls: OLED display and control panel.
- App Integration: Advanced features via the Zhiyun app.
Long Battery Life
- Extended Use: Up to 16 hours of battery life.
Compatibility
- Camera Support: Handles a range of cameras and lenses.
- Mounting Options: Multiple mounting options for versatility.
Value for Money
- Affordable Pricing: Competitive price for advanced features.
Cons
Learning Curve
- Initial Setup: Beginners might face a learning curve with advanced features.
Accessory Dependence
- Optional Add-ons: Additional accessories are needed for full functionality, which are sold separately and not currently available as a bundle deal. For prolonged usage, these may be the game changer for many as not only do they add some extra creative options but also save your arms and wrists from fatigue.
Overall, the Zhiyun WEEBILL 3E gimbal is a robust and versatile tool that offers excellent performance and value for money. Its advanced features, user-friendly design, and extensive compatibility will make it a favored choice among videographers, providing reliable and professional results. You can see some sample footage in the video at the top of this article.
Will this work with a Canon R3?
Yes, Id imagine it can, but the weight of your lens will be more of a factor
How accurate is the maximum weight capacity? Can it work with a 70-200/2.8 or is that too much to ask from it? My setup is well below the weight limit but I've tried it with other gimbals that claimed to take the weight but failed in the end.
You’ll need some creativity and additional extension to balance any long lens on any gimbal.
100% Agree with this answer, thanks Alexander
I'm interested to hear if the company improved the way the arms slide for balancing the camera. I purchased a Crane M3S last month to use with a Sony a6500, total weight with lens and filter of 1lb 8 oz. With the camera mounted, I was unable to slide the camera forward and backward to balance it. The slide arm was completely frozen. When I reached out to the company, I was sent a video showing that in order for that arm to slide you have to push up from beneath the camera to take the weight off the arm so it could slide. Not really a solution that works when you are trying to work on location, and certainly doesn't inspire confidence in the build overall.