Zhiyun Weebill S 3-Axis Gimbal Stabilizer for Mirrorless Cameras
The Zhiyun-Tech WEEBILL-S inherits the underslung mode design from its predecessor, the WEEBILL LAB, featuring a more compact form and additional enhancements.
The sling mode incorporates a rear handle for seamless switching to underslung mode and improved handling across various modes.
Notable upgrades include enhanced motors and stabilization algorithms, offering 300% more motor torque and 50% greater responsiveness.
This allows for optimal balancing of camera/lens combinations, such as the Canon 5D Mark IV with a 24-70mm zoom lens.
Launched alongside the WEEBILL-S is the optional TransMount Image Transmission Module, designed to neatly mount under the quick-release plate of the WEEBILL-S.
It facilitates wireless streaming of up to 1080p30 resolution over distances of up to 328′. Three devices, including phones, tablets, and select professional monitors, can be synchronized using corresponding receiver modules.
The companion Zhiyun-Tech ZY Play app, compatible with iOS and Android, has been upgraded to seamlessly integrate with the Image Transmission Module, enabling efficient gimbal control.
The app features SmartFollow 2.0, allowing precision object tracking directly from the app, and Sync Motion for real-time monitoring and synchronous motion control.
Standard features like ViaTouch 2.0 allow direct control of camera and gimbal functions from a smartphone screen, including zoom, focus, follow speed, ISO, aperture, and more.
Creative capture tools such as Panorama, Timelapse, Motionlapse, and Long Exposure Timelapse are also available in the ZY Play app.
The WEEBILL-S provides six operational modes, including Full-Range POV Mode for 360° synchronous movement and Vortex Mode for 360° barrel shots.
Intelligent Auto-Tune recognizes the camera weight for optimal power efficiency. The gimbal’s battery operating time has been extended to up to 14 hours.
Support for electronic focus control is offered, utilizing the integrated handwheel, while optional motors enable mechanical focus and zoom control.
The WEEBILL-S is compatible with TransMount motors and accessories, including the popular Quick Setup Adapter Set.
The package includes accessories like an Arca Swiss/Manfrotto dual-layer quick-release plate, a storage case, and a mini tripod that functions as a stand or extension handle, completing the gimbal for underslung and low-mode operation when attached to the rear handle.
- Rear Underslung Handle in Compact Design
- Highly Upgraded Motors and Algorithm
- Support for Optional Transmission Module
- Updated ZY Play App Features
- Six Modes of Operation
- Up to 14-Hour Battery Operating Time
- Electronic Focus Control Where Supported
- Optional Focus/Zoom Motors Supported
- Arca Swiss/Manfrotto Quick Release Plate
- Supports All TransMount Accessories
Key Features
Improved Design
The WEEBILL-S embraces the compact form and rear handle design from its predecessor, the WEEBILL LAB, incorporating highly upgraded motors and a refined stabilization algorithm.
TransMount Image Transmission Module
Supports the optional TransMount Image Transmission Module, enabling 1080p30 transmission up to 328′. This compact module attaches beneath the gimbal’s mounting plate, allowing simultaneous streaming to three devices, including smartphones, tablets, and select monitors.
Upgraded ZY Play App
The companion ZY Play iOS/Android app is enhanced for seamless collaboration with the TransMount Image Transmission Module, providing an improved workflow. Features like ViaTouch 2.0 have been upgraded to function independently of the Image Transmission Module.
Different gimbal modes
Pan Follow Mode (PF): The tilt and roll motors are secured, allowing the camera to rotate horizontally with the handle. Utilize the joystick for controlling the tilt (up and down) axis angle, and shift it to the left or right to manage the pan angle. This mode is effective in eliminating vertical movement.
Following Mode (F): The roll axis motor is immobilized, and the tilt and pan axis motors trail the handle’s rotation. Adjust the roll angle by pushing the joystick up or down.
Lock Mode (L): All three motor angles are locked, preventing the camera from moving with the handle’s rotation. Use the joystick to alter the tilt angle (up or down) and shift the camera’s horizontal orientation by moving it left or right.
Point of View Mode (POV): All three motors respond to the handle’s rotation, causing the camera to follow its movement.
Vortex Mode (V): The tilt axis motor rotates upward by 90°, and the tilt, roll, and pan motors track the handle’s rotation. Push the joystick left or right to control the pan axis rotation, creating spinning footage.
Go Mode (GO): The roll motor is fixed, and the tilt and pan motors swiftly mimic the handle’s rotation. This mode is beneficial for tracking rapid movements or crafting engaging transitions.
Zhiyun WEEBILL-S Specifications
| Grip Design | Single Handgrip |
| Load Capacity | 2.96 lb / 1.34 kg |
| Number of Axes | 3-Axis (Pitch (Tilt), Roll, Yaw (Pan)) |
| Mounting | 3 x 1/4″-20 Female |
| Weight | 2.04 lb / 0.926 kg |
| Load Capacity | 2.96 lb / 1.34 kg |
| Number of Axes | 3-Axis (Pitch (Tilt), Roll, Yaw (Pan)) |
| Rotation Range | Mechanical Range Yaw (Pan): 360° Pitch (Tilt): 314° (-132 to 182°) Roll: 314° (-67 to 247°) |
| Stabilization Accuracy | ±0.05 to 0.3° (Motion) ±0.01 to 0.04° (Motionless) |
| Battery Type | 2 x 18650 |
| Battery Capacity | 2600 mAh |
| Battery Runtime | 12 to 14 Hours |
| Battery Charging Time | 2.5 Hours |
| Operating Voltage | 6.8 to 8.4 VDC |
| Operating Temperature | 14 to 113°F / -10 to 45°C |
| Display Type | Fixed OLED |
| Mounting | 3 x 1/4″-20 Female |
| Dimensions | 11.81 x 7.48 x 5.51″ / 30 x 19 x 14 cm |
| Weight | 2.04 lb / 0.926 kg |
| Package Weight | 4.2 lb |
| Box Dimensions (LxWxH) | 13.78 x 11 x 4.12″ |
Build Quality
The Zhiyun Weebill S gimbal boasts impressive build quality, especially considering its affordable price.
Constructed with solid metal arms and motor surrounds, complemented by a robust plastic body, the overall design feels sturdy and well-crafted.
Although the axis locks may be a bit fiddly at times when locking or unlocking, the gimbal’s construction is commendable.
Its lightweight nature allows it to be easily packed into a compact rucksack when in its storage position, making it an ideal choice for on-the-go filming.
While calibrating a camera on the Zhiyun Weebill S might require a bit of practice, fine-tuning adjustments on the quick-release plate becomes intuitive after a few setup sessions.
The gimbal’s controls are responsive, featuring a monochrome display for various options and a scroll wheel that effectively manages focus and zoom.
Despite occasional challenges with the locks, the Zhiyun Weebill S stands out as a well-constructed gimbal suitable for confidently handling expensive mirrorless or DSLR cameras.
Performance
The primary objective for most individuals investing in a gimbal like the Zhiyun Weebill-S is to achieve consistently stable footage.
I’ve utilized the Weebill-S with various cameras, including the Nikon Z7II, Nikon Z6 II, and Sony A7R III paired with either 24-70mm f/4 or smaller lenses, and it has consistently delivered excellent performance.
Even when navigating uneven terrain or moving dynamically, the Weebill-S enhances rather than exposes your skills.
I frequently used it in scenarios where the ground was challenging, and despite a few slips and slides, the resulting footage remained impressive.
Mastering the use of a gimbal like the Weebill-S involves selecting the appropriate mode for the subject and the desired effect.
The default Pan Follow mode serves as a solid starting point, especially for walking with the Weebill-S.
All the gimbal modes, including Follow mode and Lock mode, complement Pan Follow effectively.
Point of View, Go, and Vortex modes open up creative possibilities, although caution is advised not to overuse Vortex mode unless aiming for a specific effect.
Zhiyun’s ZY Play app proves to be user-friendly and responsive. Upon activation, it swiftly connects with the gimbal, and the Weebill-S promptly responds to movements initiated through the app.
Additionally, the app notifies me of available firmware updates and offers a seamless installation process. Every time I’ve opted to update the firmware, the process has been swift and trouble-free.
Balance Adjustment of WEEBILL-S Gimbal
To simplify the adjustment process, we recommend following these steps for locking and balancing the three axes of the WEEBILL-S gimbal:
Locking the Axes:
- Lock all three axes of the WEEBILL-S, mimicking the camera-mounted state.
Balancing the Tilt Axis:
- Position the lens facing upward.
- Gently loosen the thumb screw on the tilt axis.
- Adjust the camera to move upward or downward until it remains stable with the lens facing up.
- Secure the position by tightening the thumb screw.
Balancing the Roll Axis:
- Unlock the roll axis and the roll axis latch under the quick release plate.
- Move the camera left or right until it stays steady and horizontal to the ground.
- Secure the position by tightening the Roll Axis Lock Latch.
Balancing the Tilt Axis (Forward/Backward):
- Unlock the tilt axis and Quick Release Plate Latch.
- Shift the camera forward or backward until it stays stable and nearly level with the lens facing front.
- Secure the position by tightening the Quick Release Plate Latch.
Balancing the Pan Axis:
- Unlock the pan axis.
- Slightly loosen the thumb screw on the pan axis.
- Adjust the pan axis until it remains steady and horizontal to the ground.
- Secure the position by tightening the thumb screw.
- Completing these steps ensures that each axis is appropriately balanced, enhancing the overall performance of the WEEBILL-S gimbal.
