It seems like it’s been ages since filmed anything on my GoPro camera. I love the tiny camera because of its portability and near indestructibility. However, I don’t love how shaky the footage can get. Hopefully that will all change very soon. I came across the Feiyu Tech G4 3-Axis Handheld Gimbal, which is a steady cam that specifically fits the GoPro Hero 3/3+/4. The camera slides into position and gets secured in with help from thumb screws.
What’s in the Box?
- Feiyu Tech G4 3-Axis Handheld Gimbal
- USB Connector
- USB Cable
- Extension Screws
- Power Adaptor
- Recharge Batteries (4x)
- European Standard Connector
- Charger
- Camera Charging Cable
- Video Out Cable
These cables allow the mounted GoPro to draw power from the batteries in the Feiyu’s handle.
Included are a pair of extra long thumb screws. These will allow you to mount a GoPro with an attached BacPac or LCD Screen.
First Impressions:
So far I’m loving my fancy, new selfie stick! I could try to lie, but in all honesty 90% of the I will probably be using this steady cam to film myself while traveling. The device is constructed with aluminum and has optional carbon fiber extension poles you could pick up to make an extra long gimbal selfie stick.
Unlike traditional steady cams like the Steadicam Merlin 2, the Feiyu G4 is ready to go once you take it out of the box. You won’t need to spend a painstaking amount of time trying to figure out the counter balance for the camera. Compared to the Merlin the Feiyu G4 is also significantly lighter! Therefore I feel it’s more accommodating for traveling.
How it Works:
There are 2 button you’ll need to know with this steady cam. The first one is located underneath the handle. That’s your on and off button.
The second is a white button on the handle. Press it to cycle through the different follow modes. The white button will flash a blue light that correlates with whichever mode you’re in.
1 Click – Heading Follow Mode – Gimball follows hand smoothly, angle doesn’t change
2 Clicks – Heading And Pitch Follow Mode – Gimball follows hand smoothing, angle can freely change
3 Clicks – Inversion Mode – Gimball flips the GoPro upside down
Holding Down – Heading Lock Mode – Gimball and camera will be locked in its current position
4 Clicks – Reset
As someone who isn’t used to running around for film, getting used to the Feiyu’s modes is going to take practice. When you’re in the midst of filming I can imagine fumbling over remembering which mode you’re in or how many times you’ve clicked the button.
Additionally as much as I am enjoying fiddling and chasing my roommate’s dog around with this gimbal I’m a little concern with durability and transporting it around. Although its construction feel pretty solid the portion that holds the GoPro seems a bit delicate –Delicate in the sense that it wouldn’t be wise to toss it into a backpack.
Hey,
Nice article !
Have you tried the new G5 ?
Thanks! No, not yet have you?
Hello and thank you for your precise review for this gimbal that, despite its age, is still quite interesting I think.
As MG said, the Feiyu might, I think, be better, though…