DJI’s RS 4 Mini camera stabilizer can now track moving people

DJI has announced a new version of the smallest camera stabilizer in its Ronin series. Like last year’s RS 3 Mini, the upgraded RS 4 Mini is a more compact, lighter, and cheaper alternative to DJI’s RS 4 and RS 4 Pro stabilizers, but designed for smaller mirrorless cameras and smartphones. Although it’s slightly heavier than its predecessor, the RS 4 Mini introduces subject tracking through an optional module, similar to what DJI recently launched with its Osmo Mobile 7 Pro.

The DJI RS 4 Mini is now available through the company’s online store in three versions. On its own, the gimbal sells for $369, but the $459 DJI RS 4 Mini Combo adds the new tracking module and a Mini Briefcase Handle accessory. There’s also the $478 DJI RS 4 Mini Creator Combo that includes the same accessories plus a smartphone holder for mobile creators looking to get more creative.

It’s a little heavier than its predecessor — 890 grams (a little under two pounds) up from 795 grams — but the RS 4 Mini offers the same capacity with support for cameras weighing up to 4.4 pounds. Battery life gets a boost from 10 hours to 13 now, while a 30-minute fast charge provides five hours of use.

Even with the extra weight the RS 4 Mini could be worth the upgrade thanks to DJI’s new RS Intelligent Tracking Module. It features its own camera and DJI’s tracking technology allowing the gimbal to autonomously follow and keep a moving human subject in frame from over 32 feet away without the need for DJI’s Ronin mobile app. Tracking can also be stopped and started remotely using an open palm hand gesture for creators working alone, while a new Responsive mode improves performance when capturing fast moving subjects.

Other upgrades include faster switching to vertical shooting mode, a new Teflon coating to further smooth out movements and balancing, and a smaller and lighter horizontal briefcase handle allowing shots to be more easily captured from lower angles.