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Most of the gimbals I have reviewed are quite small and are designed specifically for your phone. They work well, but recording video on your phone can be quite limiting. Camera focussed gimbals tend to be much larger and expensive which limits their appeal somewhat.
The new ZHIYUN CRANE-M2S is designed to be the perfect middle ground. Weighing just 549g it is around the same weight as the mobile focussed SMOOTH 5 while still being able to hold cameras up to the Sony A7SIII with small prime lenses. It is also designed to work with phones and action cameras, this provides you with much more flexibility.
Pricing is attractive too, again sitting in the middle between smartphone gimbals and full-sized camera options, this is launching for £259.
Preview | Product | Rating | Price | |
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![]() | ZHIYUN Crane M2S [Official] Handheld 3-Axis Stabilizer,... | Buy on Amazon |





Full Press Release

ZHIYUN has launched its CRANE-M2S, its small, super-light gimbal, yet strong enough to hold various cameras, including smartphones, action-cams and mirrorless cameras.
Small Yet Strong
At just 549g, the CRANE-M2S is highly portable, just like a phone gimbal, but with the capacity to hold cameras up to the Sony A7SIII with small prime lenses. The super lightweight body is combined with stronger motors and extended axes compared to the standard CRANE-M2 series, making it a must-have for high velocity, run-and-gun filmmakers.
Intuitive & Ergonomic Design
Designed to feel completely natural in the hand during use, the CRANE-M2S features a built-in 0.66-inch display that offers real-time status and operating parameters of the camera and gimbal, giving users a convenient at-a-glance view while they shoot. Various operating modes are available in the CRANE-M2S, including Pan Follow, Follow, Lock, POV, Vortex, Go and more.
Ultra-bright Light Built -in
An ultra-bright light is built into the CRANE-M2S. Using Lumen Amplifier technology it can produce over 1000 lumens brightness within 2.8 cubic meters, ideal for capturing subjects directly in shot. With five levels of adjustability and four colour filters, it gives users more creative potential and control.
Flagship-grade Quick Release Technology
Featuring ZHIYUN’s latest quick release technology previously only used in its flagship gimbals, the V-shape design provides better working efficiency, while dual safety locks ensure the equipment always remains attached when you need it to.
Fast Charging and Camera Battery Boosting
Supporting USB PD fast charging up to 12W via its USB-C connector, a full charge time can be achieved in just 100 mins, allowing the CRANE-M2S will run for up to 10 hours*. For compatible devices, cameras can be directly connected via USB-C cable to engage direct shutter control and supply up to 5V/1A of power directly to the camera, extending its battery life.
More Cost-Effective Alternative to the CRANE-M3
The CRANE-M2S offers a more cost-effective alternative to the CRANE-M3 for those that need a lighter, more agile device and use smaller cameras and lenses, while still offering better features than the standard CRANE-M2, including a considerably longer battery life, faster charging time, ability to charge while operating while also charge cameras attached, an integrated fill light, and ZHIYUN’s Quick Release 4.0 technology.
Bag Your Gear and Go!
Available with the Combo package, ZHIYUN provides a customized bag with dedicated spaces for the CRANE-M2S to be stored and transported safely. High quality and with a spill-resistant coating, it’s an ideal partner to get you and your gear on-site, anywhere.
Pricing and Availability: The ZHIYUN CRANE-M2S is now available at £259/USD$269, while the CRANE-M2S Combo is available for £329/USD$349 at ZHIYUN Store and Amazon.

I am James, a UK-based tech enthusiast and the Editor and Owner of Mighty Gadget, which I’ve proudly run since 2007. Passionate about all things technology, my expertise spans from computers and networking to mobile, wearables, and smart home devices.
As a fitness fanatic who loves running and cycling, I also have a keen interest in fitness-related technology, and I take every opportunity to cover this niche on my blog. My diverse interests allow me to bring a unique perspective to tech blogging, merging lifestyle, fitness, and the latest tech trends.
In my academic pursuits, I earned a BSc in Information Systems Design from UCLAN, before advancing my learning with a Master’s Degree in Computing. This advanced study also included Cisco CCNA accreditation, further demonstrating my commitment to understanding and staying ahead of the technology curve.
I’m proud to share that Vuelio has consistently ranked Mighty Gadget as one of the top technology blogs in the UK. With my dedication to technology and drive to share my insights, I aim to continue providing my readers with engaging and informative content.
Last update on 2025-04-22 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API