DJI occasionally surprises us with innovative innovations for the the Ronin 4D, but it’s usually just about refining existing products to stay ahead of the competition. This applies to the new RS4 and RS4 Pro gimbals, which have numerous improvements compared to the previous RS3 models, particularly in the size and capacity of the cameras supported, but no new standout features.
However, the company also introduced the Focus Pro, a new version of its LiDAR focus system that works either standalone or with the RS4 Pro. This product is more on the cutting edge and adds a variety of new features to the company’s gimbal and camera systems.
DJI RS4
The mainstream RS4 gimbal is largely the same as the last model, with a 6.6 pound (3 kg) load capacity that can accommodate most mirrorless cameras and a ton of accessories. However, the tilt axis has been extended by 8.5 mm compared to the RS 3, giving you more compensation space for longer lenses or front-heavy additional devices such as ND filters. It also uses DJI’s latest 4th generation stabilization algorithm for improved smoothness and control.
The RS4 can be paired with the new Focus Pro Motor (more on that in a second), enabling smooth focus and lens zoom adjustments at a speed 30 percent faster than the original DJI Focus Motor. As before, it uses dual-mode Bluetooth technology so you can pair and control multiple cameras.
Another new feature is improved stability when shooting vertically, stabilizing impacts for the influencer crowd even while walking or running. The redesigned horizontal gimbals allow for “seamless transitions to vertical shots,” according to the company, allowing for more efficient video creation (so you can quickly create an Insta story while filming, for example).
As before, it features automatic gimbal locking and unlocking for easy operation, as well as Teflon coatings on all three axes for smooth operation. A new joystick mode switch lets you switch from zoom to gimbal control, and the customizable trigger lets you quickly turn on FPV mode.
The RS4 supports multiple accessories via the RSA communications port, including DJI’s RS Tethered Control Handle and third-party options (DJI has an SDK protocol for the RS family). IT also supports the new BG70 high-performance battery grip, which extends runtime to 29.5 hours on a 2.5-hour charge time (compared to ) while supporting power for camera and USB-C accessories.
Finally, the RS4 supports DJI’s Ronin Image Transmitter, which provides high-resolution live-action feeds to other crew members and enables remote control functions (focus, etc.).
DJI RS4 Pro
The RS4 Pro increases the load capacity to 10 pounds (4.5 kg) as before and features side handles and additional attachment points for accessories. It adds a 20 percent increase in motor torque to all axles (compared to the RS 3 Pro) to enable more responsive tracking even with heavy cameras and accessories.
DJI also introduced an auto mount mode that optimizes the stabilizer for vehicle shots while updating vertical shooting capability and improving axis locks. Like the RS4, it features DJI’s latest 4th generation stabilization algorithm, which is particularly helpful in fast-moving scenes when carrying a heavy camera.
The most important new feature is functionality with the Focus Pro LiDAR and the Focus Pro motor system, giving camera operators the ability to autofocus even with manual focus lenses. It also supports remote control and image transmission, “enabling remote gimbal operation and intelligent focus assistance,” according to the company.
“For collaborative team shooting, the gimbal operator can control the RS 4 Pro gimbal via devices such as the DJI Master Wheels, DJI Ronin 4D handgrips and the DJI High-Bright Remote Monitor. Meanwhile, the Focus Puller can activate the LiDAR waveform on the “High-Bright Remote Monitor for intelligent focus assistance, precise control of focus with the Focus Pro handheld unit,” says DJI.
DJI Focus Pro
For creatives and cameramen, the Focus Pro is the most fascinating product of this version. It is a LiDAR focus system consisting of the Focus Pro LiDAR unit, the Focus Pro Grip, the Focus Pro Motor and the FIZ hand unit. It gives the operator the ability to autofocus even with manual lenses, or allows them to manually focus via a real-time view from the LiDAR perspective.
The handle features a full-color touchscreen, 2.5-hour power supply, intuitive visual controls, automatic calibration and data storage for 15 lenses, and Bluetooth capability for easy start/stop recording. The LiDAR, on the other hand, supports focusing up to 20 meters (three times more than before) and has an ultra-wide 70-degree view for focusing. IT features 76,800 distance points and a 30Hz refresh rate to minimize focusing and ensure reliable focusing.
Autofocus includes AF subject detection and tracking, adjustable focus speed, and selectable focus area modes, similar to a regular mirrorless AF system. The AMF (Auto-Manual Focus) mode, on the other hand, allows you to instantly switch between manual and automatic focus for difficult shooting scenarios. It also helps camera or focus operators by displaying the LiDAR waveform. I tried something similar with the Ronin 4D, and while it takes a while to get used to, it’s very effective.
The FIZ handheld unit allows focus pullers full remote control of focus, iris and zoom. It uses continuous real-time damping for smooth control while allowing the focus puller to be removed from up to 160 meters away. Other features include faster motor speeds, 10ms latency and intuitive dial operation.
Price and availability
The DJI RS 4 is now available for purchase starting at $549 and includes a gimbal, BG21 battery grip, USB-C charging cable, lens mount bracket, extended handle/tripod (plastic), quick release plate and a Multi-camera control cable and screw set. You can also buy it for $719 bundled with a briefcase handle, Focus Pro motor, Focus Pro motor rod mount kit, Focus Gear bar, second multi-camera control cable, and carrying case. The RS 4 Pro, on the other hand, starts at $869 or $1,099 with the high-capacity battery grip and the same range of accessories, respectively.
The Focus Pro Creator combo (DJI Focus Pro LiDAR, DJI Focus Pro Grip, DJI Focus Pro Motor and DJI Focus Pro Carrying Case) costs $999, or you can purchase the all-in-one combo (also with the FIZ handheld unit ). for $1,899. The RS BG70 heavy-duty battery grip costs $149 alone.