There are so many Gimbal Heads available and not a lot of data on what's different about them. Some things are obvious but there is no data to help you make an informed decision. The one big thing that is obvious is cost and maybe some functional characteristics. I have listed some things I think about when looking at a Gimbal Head.
I think it's also important to understand why you want a Gimbal how you plan to use it. I plan to use a Gimbal on a tripod for when I am on location for many hours shooting action (i.e. BIF or air shows, etc.) with heavy equipment. For me I mount my Pro Series Canon bodies and 400 to 600mm lens combo on our gimbal setups.
Things to consider:
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Really Right Stuff PG-02 Pano-Gimbal Head |
I highly recommend these models for the ultimate in build quality and overall performance:
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Wimberly WH-200 Gimbal Head |
I do a lot of purchasing from B&H Photo and Adoroma and generally have a certain level of confidence in products they sell vs an internet special of a no-name brand.
So many seem to be knock-off copies of each other
(even low cost copy of Wimberley - so do you pay the high price or take a chance). What do you think?
Some other models to consider (no particular order):
(Just remember... you typically get what you pay for so be sure to read their reviews)
We leave you to do some more of your own research. The one thing to keep in mind is what are you willing to skimp and save on and what are you willing to spend to protect your large investment that is attached to it? I think of both the tripod and gimbal head as my base that supports ALL of my investment.