Top 10 Best Lenses for Gimbal Use in 2024
Choosing the right lens for your gimbal setup is crucial for achieving smooth, cinematic shots. Whether you’re shooting video for a wedding, a short film, or YouTube content, the lens you select can significantly impact your results. In this article, we will review the top 10 lenses that work exceptionally well with gimbals, considering factors such as weight, focal length, and overall performance.
1. Canon EF 24-70mm f/2.8L II USM
- Focal Length: 24-70mm
- Aperture: f/2.8
- Weight: 1.5 lbs (0.68 kg)
- Type: Zoom Lens
Pros: Excellent image quality, fast autofocus, versatile focal range.
Cons: Expensive, relatively heavy for handheld use.
Price: $1,269.99
2. Sony FE 24-70mm f/2.8 GM
- Focal Length: 24-70mm
- Aperture: f/2.8
- Weight: 1.6 lbs (0.73 kg)
- Type: Zoom Lens
Pros: Superb sharpness, excellent bokeh, robust build quality.
Cons: Pricey, some distortion at 24mm.
Price: $1,474.95
3. Nikon AF-S NIKKOR 24-70mm f/2.8E ED VR
- Focal Length: 24-70mm
- Aperture: f/2.8
- Weight: 1.5 lbs (0.68 kg)
- Type: Zoom Lens
Pros: Great image stabilization, weather-sealed, sharp images.
Cons: Heavier than some competitors, expensive.
Price: $1,364.95
4. Sigma 18-50mm f/2.8 DC DN
- Focal Length: 18-50mm
- Aperture: f/2.8
- Weight: 0.93 lbs (0.42 kg)
- Type: Wide Zoom Lens
Pros: Compact and lightweight, good for vlogging, fast autofocus.
Cons: Limited focal range, not as sharp as premium lenses.
Price: $544.00
5. Tamron 28-75mm f/2.8 Di III RXD
- Focal Length: 28-75mm
- Aperture: f/2.8
- Weight: 1.25 lbs (0.57 kg)
- Type: Zoom Lens
Pros: Affordable, lightweight, great image stabilization.
Cons: Slightly slower autofocus, not as weather-sealed.
Price: $699.00
6. Fujifilm XF 16-55mm f/2.8 R LM WR
- Focal Length: 16-55mm
- Aperture: f/2.8
- Weight: 1.5 lbs (0.68 kg)
- Type: Zoom Lens
Pros: Weather-sealed, excellent sharpness, fast autofocus.
Cons: No optical stabilization, heavy for a mirrorless lens.
Price: $1,199.00
7. Panasonic Lumix 12-35mm f/2.8 II
- Focal Length: 12-35mm
- Aperture: f/2.8
- Weight: 0.77 lbs (0.35 kg)
- Type: Zoom Lens
Pros: Lightweight, good image stabilization, versatile range.
Cons: Limited to Micro Four Thirds, not the sharpest lens.
Price: $499.99
8. Sigma 50mm f/1.4 DG HSM Art
- Focal Length: 50mm
- Aperture: f/1.4
- Weight: 1.5 lbs (0.66 kg)
- Type: Prime Lens
Pros: Exceptional sharpness, beautiful bokeh, durable construction.
Cons: Heavy, no zoom capability.
Price: $964.95
9. Canon RF 15-35mm f/2.8L IS USM
- Focal Length: 15-35mm
- Aperture: f/2.8
- Weight: 1.48 lbs (0.67 kg)
- Type: Zoom Lens
Pros: Excellent stabilization, sharp images, weather-sealed.
Cons: Expensive, heavier than some other options.
Price: $1,869.95
10. Olympus M.Zuiko 12mm f/2.0
- Focal Length: 12mm
- Aperture: f/2.0
- Weight: 0.5 lbs (0.23 kg)
- Type: Prime Lens
Pros: Lightweight and compact, excellent image quality, fast aperture.
Cons: Limited focal length, not versatile for all shooting scenarios.
Price: $389.99
Conclusion
When selecting the best lens for gimbal use, it’s essential to consider the weight, focal length, and specific shooting requirements. This list features a mix of zoom and prime lenses catering to various needs and budgets. Remember that a good lens can enhance your videography significantly, so choose one that fits your style and setup.