DJI 3-axis motorized gimbal stabilizer for cameras weighing 1.8–13.6 kg, offering ±0.02° stabilization accuracy and 2.5-hour battery runtime.
Technical Details
The Ronin 2 weighs 4.5 kg and supports cameras from 1.8 to 13.6 kg. Its three brushless motors (Tilt: 22 Nm, Roll: 22 Nm, Pan: 30 Nm torque) operate with 32-bit ARM processors, achieving a stabilization accuracy of ±0.02°. The system features dual IMU redundancy and an internal battery with a 2.5-hour runtime and 98 Wh capacity. A GPS module and built-in SSD recorder (1.8" SATA) for proxies complete the features. Data transmission is via CAN bus protocol with latency under 10 ms.
History & Development
DJI developed the Ronin 2 as the successor to the original Ronin from 2014, which was considered the first affordable professional gimbal. The second generation, introduced in 2017, addressed the predecessor's criticisms: higher payload, better motor performance, and a more robust construction. In 2019, the Ronin 2S followed with improved battery technology. The system definitively established DJI in the Hollywood segment, after the company was primarily known for consumer drones.
Practical Use in Film
Marvel Productions used the Ronin 2 for chase scenes in "Black Panther" (2018) to achieve fluid handheld shots without post-stabilization. In "1917" (2019), the system enabled the seemingly endless Steadicam-like tracking shots through the trenches. The gimbal operates in three modes: Standard (full stabilization), Sport (reduced damping), and FPV (First Person View with roll movements). A typical workflow includes calibration, weight balancing, and fine-tuning motor strength via the DJI Assistant software.
Comparison & Alternatives
Main competitors include the MōVI Pro (Freefly Systems) with a 6.8 kg payload and the Steadicam Volt with mechanical-electronic hybrid stabilization. The newer DJI RS 3 Pro (2022) offers similar performance at a lower weight (1.8 kg), but with only a 4.5 kg payload. For ultra-heavy setups over 15 kg, productions opt for the MōVI XL or mechanical Steadicam systems. The Ronin 2 remains standard for Red Epic, Alexa Mini, and Sony FX configurations in the mid-weight range.