Ever wondered how professional videographers get those super smooth, precise focus pulls that just pop on screen? Often, it’s not just magic; it’s a dedicated piece of gear called a follow focus. When you’re using a gimbal, keeping your shots stable is one thing, but nailing your focus, especially while moving, is a whole other ball game. That’s where the best follow focus for gimbal comes into play. It gives you the control you need to create truly cinematic results, making sure your subject is always sharp, even in dynamic scenarios.
Whether you’re a seasoned pro or just diving into the world of serious videography, adding a reliable follow focus to your gimbal setup can dramatically upgrade your production value. Forget fumbling with your lens ring mid-shot; these devices give you fine-tuned, repeatable focus adjustments. We’ve rounded up some of the top contenders on the market to help you pick the perfect one for your rig.
Why You Need a Follow Focus for Your Gimbal
Using a gimbal means you’re often on the move, trying to get that perfect tracking shot or dynamic angle. Trying to manually adjust your lens’s focus ring directly on the camera can introduce shake, ruin your shot, and is generally a pain. A follow focus system, especially a motorized or wireless one, lets you pull focus smoothly and precisely without touching the camera itself. This means cleaner shots, less retakes, and more professional-looking content. It truly is one of the most essential gimbal accessories for serious filmmakers.
Ready to dive in? Let’s check out some of the top choices.
1. FeiyuTech Follow Focus Brushless Motor Kit
This FeiyuTech kit is a fantastic addition for owners of FeiyuTech Scorp series gimbals, seamlessly integrating to expand your control capabilities. It’s built with a lightweight metal construction, ensuring it won’t weigh down your setup, yet feels robust enough for serious use. What truly makes this stand out is its dedicated compatibility, allowing Scorp gimbal users to extend the functionality of their existing multi-functional dials for precise focus or focal length adjustments, giving you that professional edge.
- Professional follow focus module compatible with FeiyuTech Scorp series gimbals.
- Lightweight metal construction weighing 3.8oz / 108g.
- Allows you to manually change the focus or focal length of the lens.
- Extends the capabilities of the multifunctional dials on Scorp gimbals.
- Equipped with a brushless motor for smooth operation.
- Fast and convenient mounting process.
- Compatible with lenses with a maximum diameter of 10 cm.
- Multifunctional button and LED indicators for operation mode.
- Option for automatic or manual calibration.
- Possibility to change the direction of movement of the motor by clicking the button 3 times.
Pros:
– Super lightweight, ideal for maintaining gimbal balance.
– Seamless integration with FeiyuTech Scorp gimbals.
– Offers both automatic and manual calibration.
– Brushless motor ensures smooth and quiet operation.
Cons:
– Compatibility is limited to FeiyuTech Scorp series gimbals only.
– May not be ideal for users with other gimbal brands.
User Impressions: Users love how effortlessly this motor integrates with their FeiyuTech Scorp gimbals, praising its lightweight design and the added precision it brings to their focus pulls. Many found the calibration process straightforward and appreciated the ability to control focus via their gimbal’s existing dials.
2. SMALLRIG Handle with Follow Focus for DJI RS 2 / RS 3 Pro / RS 4 / RS 4 Pro
SmallRig consistently delivers on thoughtful camera accessories, and this handle with integrated follow focus is no exception. Designed specifically for DJI RS series gimbals (RS 2, RS 3 Pro, RS 4, RS 4 Pro – note, NOT for RS 3), it’s an all-in-one solution that adds a heap of control right at your fingertips. The standout here is the sheer range of functions built into the handgrip, from shutter control and recording to a responsive focus dial that allows for quick adjustments of the 3-axis system and camera parameters, all while maintaining excellent wireless performance.
- Specifically crafted for DJI RS 2, RS 3 Pro, RS 4, and RS 4 Pro (not for DJI RS 3).
- Enhanced control: shutter, recording, joystick, mode switching, centering/locking, power/sleep mode.
- Focus dial for quick 3-axis system adjustments, focus control, and camera parameters.
- Compatible with SmallRig wireless receiver motor (ID 4297).
- Wireless control range of up to 100 meters (328 feet) with minimal signal delay (<50ms).
- Up to 10 hours of battery life under normal working conditions.
- Multiple mounting points: 1/4″-20 locating holes, cold shoe mount, NATO clamp.
- Aluminum alloy receiver with anti-detachment mechanism.
- Ergonomic design with soft silicone construction and double-curve for comfortable grip.
- Max Payload of Handle with Follow Focus: 2.0kg / 4.4lb; Max Payload of Receiver: 4.0kg / 8.8lb.
Pros:
– Comprehensive control functions integrated into one handle.
– Excellent wireless range and minimal delay for responsive operation.
– Long battery life supports full-day shoots.
– Ergonomic design enhances comfort and grip.
– Robust mounting options for additional accessories.
Cons:
– Not compatible with DJI RS 3, which could be confusing for some users.
– Remote control contains a lithium battery and must be kept away from water.
User Impressions: Users rave about the convenience and versatility of this SmallRig handle. The integrated focus dial and extensive control options are frequently highlighted as game-changers for their DJI RS setups, making operations much smoother and more intuitive. The build quality and comfortable grip also receive high praise.
3. Zhiyun CMF-06 TransMount Servo Follow Focus/Zoom Controller 2.0
Zhiyun’s CMF-06 TransMount Servo Focus/Zoom Controller 2.0 is a prime example of high-precision control packed into a compact, lightweight body. This unit is designed to integrate seamlessly with Zhiyun stabilizers, offering a flexible and portable follow focus experience. Its standout feature is the all-function-switch lever, which lets you instantly switch between focus and zoom control with a single step. Coupled with ultra-low latency, this means incredibly precise control right from your stabilizer’s wheel, empowering you to hit those critical focus marks with total ease.
- Compact and lightweight body for portability.
- Easy installation: high-precision control system.
- All-function-switch lever for instant switch between focus and zoom control.
- Ultra-low latency of 100 milliseconds.
- Synchronously controlled via the stabilizer’s wheel for precise focus.
- Optimized gears with enhanced thickness and contact area for greater stability.
Pros:
– Extremely compact and easy to carry.
– Quick and intuitive switching between focus and zoom.
– Very low latency ensures real-time, precise control.
– Robust gear design for stable and secure operation.
Cons:
– Primarily designed for Zhiyun gimbals, limiting universal compatibility.
– May require a learning curve for new users to master the switch lever.
User Impressions: Filmmakers using Zhiyun gimbals consistently praise the CMF-06 for its compact form factor and responsive performance. The ability to switch between focus and zoom so quickly without fumbling is a huge plus, and its low latency is often highlighted as crucial for precise cinematic focus pulls.
4. SMALLRIG Handle with Follow Focus for DJI RS 2 / RS 3 Pro / RS 4 / RS 4 Pro (Second Listing)
Yes, you’re seeing this one again! It just goes to show how popular and well-regarded this particular SmallRig solution is. This handle is a versatile powerhouse for DJI RS series users (specifically RS 2, RS 3 Pro, RS 4, RS 4 Pro). Beyond its seamless integration and robust control features, what makes it truly shine is its ergonomic design coupled with extensive mounting options. The soft silicone and double-curve shape provide a supremely comfortable, slip-resistant grip, making long shooting days much more manageable, while the array of 1/4″-20 holes and cold shoe mounts ensure you can deck out your rig with all the necessary accessories.
- Specifically crafted for DJI RS 2, RS 3 Pro, RS 4, and RS 4 Pro (not for DJI RS 3).
- Enhanced control: shutter, recording, joystick, mode switching, centering/locking, power/sleep mode.
- Focus dial for quick 3-axis system adjustments, focus control, and camera parameters.
- Compatible with SmallRig wireless receiver motor (ID 4297).
- Wireless control range of up to 100 meters (328 feet) with minimal signal delay (<50ms).
- Up to 10 hours of battery life under normal working conditions.
- Multiple mounting points: 1/4″-20 locating holes, cold shoe mount, NATO clamp.
- Aluminum alloy receiver with anti-detachment mechanism for stability.
- Ergonomic design: soft silicone construction and double-curve for comfortable, slip-resistant grip.
- Max Payload of Handle with Follow Focus: 2.0kg / 4.4lb; Max Payload of Receiver: 4.0kg / 8.8lb.
Pros:
– Exceptional ergonomics for comfortable, extended use.
– Ample mounting points for monitors, microphones, and more.
– Reliable wireless performance and impressive battery life.
– Comprehensive camera and gimbal control.
Cons:
– As noted, not compatible with DJI RS 3.
– Investing in the wireless receiver motor (ID 4297) is necessary for full wireless focus control.
User Impressions: Repeat users and new buyers alike frequently laud this handle for its excellent build quality and intuitive controls. The comfortable grip is a common highlight, making it a joy to use on demanding shoots. Its ability to consolidate multiple functions into one streamlined unit is highly valued by professional videographers.
5. Tilta Pocket Follow Focus | Precise Focus Ring with A/B Stops
Tilta is a name synonymous with professional camera accessories, and their Pocket Follow Focus brings that legacy of precision to a compact form factor. This isn’t just any focus puller; its standout feature is the newly designed quick-release hard stop system for setting and quickly engaging A/B marks. This means you can swiftly transition between pre-determined focus points with incredible accuracy, which is a lifesaver for interviews, product shots, or any scene requiring repeatable focus pulls. Plus, its tactile focus ring with simulated lens damping gives you that “feel” of turning a high-end cinema lens.
- Upgraded design featuring new composite material construction.
- A/B Marks can be set and quickly engaged via new Quick Release Hard Stop System.
- Interchangeable gears accommodate lenses with various gear ring sizes.
- Tactile Focus via simulated lens damping and non-slip grip.
- Compatible with most systems via a single 15mm Rod.
Pros:
– Precise A/B hard stops for repeatable focus pulls.
– Simulated lens damping provides a premium, responsive feel.
– Interchangeable gears ensure wide lens compatibility.
– Compact and robust new composite material design.
Cons:
– Requires a 15mm rod system, which may be an additional purchase for some.
– It’s a mechanical system, so no remote wireless control.
User Impressions: Tilta users praise the Pocket Follow Focus for its exceptional build quality and the satisfying tactile feel of its focus wheel. The quick-release A/B stops are particularly popular for demanding scenarios where precise and repeatable focus is paramount. It’s often recommended as a robust and reliable mechanical follow focus solution.
6. SmallRig Wireless Follow Focus Kit (Lite) with Handwheel
For those seeking wireless freedom and unparalleled precision, the SmallRig Wireless Follow Focus Kit (Lite) is a game-changer. What sets this kit apart is its remarkable versatility and power. Not only is it compatible with a wide array of cinema and zoom lenses, but its receiver motor boasts a peak torque of 4.3 kgf.cm – that’s more than double the previous generation, easily driving even high-damping cinema lenses. Add to that an impressive 21-hour battery life on the handwheel and smart sleep tech, and you’ve got a reliable companion for even the longest shoots. This wireless lens control system delivers on all fronts.
- Widely compatible with various cinema and zoom lenses (e.g., ZEISS, DZOFilm, Canon, Sony).
- Peak Torque of 4.3 kgf.cm (over 2x increase), capable of driving high-damping zoom lenses.
- Handwheel with built-in 1400mAh battery for up to 21 hours of battery life via smart sleep tech.
- Receiver Motor supports 5V-18V wide voltage input, compatible with PD and QC fast charging.
- User-friendly design with light colors (red/blue) for connection status and channel indication.
- One-Click Lens Calibration for A/B dotting.
- Memory storage function eliminates the need for recalibration of lens travel and AB points.
Pros:
– Exceptional torque for smooth operation with heavy lenses.
– Impressive 21-hour battery life for the handwheel.
– Broad lens compatibility, including cinema lenses.
– Convenient one-click lens calibration and memory function.
– Fast charging support for quick power-ups.
Cons:
– Requires separate power for the receiver motor, though it supports wide voltage.
– Initial setup and pairing might take a moment for beginners.
User Impressions: Videographers are highly impressed with the torque and responsiveness of this SmallRig wireless system. The long battery life is a huge plus, preventing mid-shoot power worries. Users also appreciate the intuitive controls and the memory function, which saves valuable setup time on set.
7. SmallRig Mini Follow Focus with A/B Stops & 15mm Rod
If portability and simplicity are key, the SmallRig Mini Follow Focus is definitely worth a look. Weighing in at a mere 204g (7.2oz), this compact unit is designed for easy and quick focus control for DSLR and mirrorless cameras, making it a dream for run-and-gun filmmakers. Its easily adjustable A/B hard stops are fantastic for setting precise focus limits, letting you switch between 360° unlimited zoom and defined A/B focal lengths with a simple lock switch. The “sports car hub” inspired design isn’t just for looks; it offers an anti-slip, anti-sweat grip with excellent damping, ensuring a comfortable and accurate camera focus experience.
- Compact and portable design, weighing only 204g/7.2oz.
- Compatible with most DSLRs and mirrorless cameras.
- Easily adjustable A/B hard stops for precise focal length control.
- Switch between 360° unlimited zoom and A/B focal length with a lock.
- Anti-slip & anti-sweat design with excellent damping and ergonomic grip.
- Modular design for rapid and easy assembling/disassembling on left and upper sides.
- Includes 15mm Rod 1050 and Rod Clamp (with NATO rail) 3011 for expanded accessory mounting.
- Supports handheld, tripod-mounted, and other shooting scenarios.
- Snap-on gear ring belt and interchangeable M0.8 gears for wide lens compatibility.
- Comes with a compact storage box for easy transport.
Pros:
– Extremely lightweight and compact, perfect for mobile setups.
– Intuitive A/B hard stop system for repeatable focus.
– Ergonomic and tactile design provides comfortable, precise control.
– Modular design allows flexible mounting.
– Comes with essential accessories like a 15mm rod and storage box.
Cons:
– Not a motorized or wireless system, requires direct manual operation.
– Requires attaching gear rings to lenses if they don’t have built-in gears.
User Impressions: Users love the SmallRig Mini Follow Focus for its tiny footprint and robust build. The tactile feedback of the wheel and the easy-to-use A/B stops are frequently praised. It’s often cited as an excellent, affordable option for independent filmmakers and vloggers who need reliable manual focus control without the bulk.
8. AOCHUAN Gimbal Stabilizer for Smartphone, iPhone Gimbal with Focus Wheel
Hold on, this one’s a bit different! While not a separate follow focus unit, the AOCHUAN Gimbal Stabilizer for Smartphone is a fantastic solution for mobile filmmakers who want integrated focus control. This isn’t just a gimbal; it’s an entire stabilization and control hub for your phone. What makes it stand out in our list of the best follow focus for gimbal is its built-in professional focus wheel and zoom slider. This feature allows for real-time and accurate focus and zoom adjustments directly on the gimbal handle, transforming your smartphone videography into a pro-level experience, complete with smart tracking and advanced anti-shake technology.
- Wide compatibility: supports all iPhone and Android phones under 7 inches.
- Smart 8.0 Anti-Shake technology for professional stabilization.
- Equipped with a professional focus wheel and zoom slider for real-time adjustment.
- Supports one-click switching for professional portrait and landscape videos.
- Smart Tracking 6.0: Face, body, object tracking, and third-party live tracking.
- Gesture control function for effortless shooting.
- Fast charging (3.5 hours for 10+ hours battery life with 2600mAh Li-Ion battery).
- Portable and foldable design (0.77 pounds, 0.55 pounds payload).
- Includes tripod, USB-C charging cable, user manual.
Pros:
– Integrated focus wheel and zoom slider for smartphone filming.
– Excellent anti-shake performance for super smooth mobile video.
– Advanced smart tracking modes for dynamic shots.
– Long battery life and fast charging.
– Extremely portable and foldable design.
Cons:
– Only for smartphones, not compatible with DSLR/mirrorless cameras.
– Focus control is digital, reliant on the phone’s camera app.
User Impressions: Smartphone filmmakers are highly impressed with the AOCHUAN gimbal’s stabilization and the convenience of its integrated focus wheel. Users love the ability to make precise focus adjustments without touching their phone screen, drastically improving the quality of their mobile videos. The smart tracking features also receive high praise.
9. AOCHUAN Smartphone Gimbal Stabilizer for iPhone 15 Pro Max Android Phones with Extension Rod (SmartXE Combo1)
Another stellar entry from AOCHUAN, the SmartXE Combo1 is designed for serious smartphone videographers looking for an all-in-one solution that includes robust focus control. This 3-axis phone gimbal is not just incredibly compact and lightweight, weighing only 0.55 pounds, but it also features an innovative focus wheel and zoom slide. This empowers you to stabilize your footage and create smooth, steady video shots with precise focus and zoom adjustments, making it perfect for vlogging, live-streaming, and cinematic mobile productions. The included extension rod and RGB LED light further enhance its versatility.
- 3-Axis Phone Gimbal Stabilizer with Follow Focus for Vlogging.
- Portable Foldable Design: palm-size, compact, and lightweight (0.55 lbs, 250g payload).
- Innovative focus wheel and zoom slide for stabilization and smooth video shots.
- AI Face Track 4.0 and Smart Gestural Control via the Intuitive AOCHUAN APP.
- Versatile shooting modes: panorama, wide-angle, cinematic, live-streaming, time-lapse, motion-lapse.
- 2600mAh battery for up to 10 hours of continuous video creation.
- One-click video button for effortless switching between horizontal and vertical portrait mode.
- Equipped with SMART 7.0 anti-shake algorithm and three powerful brushless motors.
- Package includes extension rod, tripod, RGB LED light, USB-C cable, and manual.
- Suitable for various scenarios: vlogging, live-streaming, selfie, hiking, sports.
Pros:
– Highly portable and lightweight for smartphone users.
– Dedicated focus wheel and zoom slide for precise mobile control.
– Comprehensive stabilization with AI tracking.
– Long battery life and versatile shooting modes.
– Comes as a combo kit with useful accessories like an extension rod and RGB light.
Cons:
– Exclusively for smartphones, not traditional cameras.
– Relies on the AOCHUAN app for full functionality.
User Impressions: Mobile content creators find the AOCHUAN SmartXE Combo1 to be an exceptional tool for elevating their smartphone videos. The integrated focus wheel is a standout feature, allowing for professional-grade focus pulls. The gimbal’s robust stabilization and the convenience of the included accessories are also highly valued.
10. Ronin 3D Follow Focus System for DJI RS 2, DJI RS 3, DJI RS 3 Pro
For DJI Ronin RS series users who want to push the boundaries of their focusing capabilities, the Ronin 3D Follow Focus System is a revelation. This unique system works in conjunction with your DJI Ronin follow focus motor to enable center point autofocus for manual focus lenses. That’s right – it helps bridge the gap between manual and autofocus on certain lenses, allowing you to easily switch between the two. This empowers your camera to achieve a higher level of focus accuracy, especially beneficial in dynamic shooting environments where precise, automated focus can be a challenge with traditional manual lenses. It’s an innovative solution to elevate your cinematic shots.
- Used in conjunction with the DJI Ronin follow focus motor (sold separately) to assist manual focus lenses in achieving center point autofocus.
- Easily switch between autofocus and manual focus.
- Designed to enhance camera focus to a higher level for perfect photos.
- Packing List: 3D Follow Focus System × 1; 1/4”-20 Threaded to cold shoe adapter × 1; Camera control cable (USB-C, 30 cm) x 2.
- Specially designed for DJI RS 2, DJI RS 3, DJI RS 3 Pro.
Pros:
– Enables center point autofocus for manual focus lenses when paired with DJI Ronin motors.
– Seamless switching between AF and MF modes.
– Significantly enhances focus accuracy for professional results.
– Specific compatibility with popular DJI RS gimbals.
Cons:
– Requires a separate DJI Ronin follow focus motor to function.
– Primarily beneficial for users with manual focus lenses.
User Impressions: Users of DJI RS gimbals who have manual focus lenses find this 3D Follow Focus System incredibly useful. The ability to achieve assisted autofocus on lenses not designed for it is a major advantage, saving time and ensuring sharp focus, especially when working solo. It’s considered a smart investment for expanding lens compatibility.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: What is a follow focus and why do I need one for my gimbal?
A: A follow focus is a mechanism used in filmmaking and videography to achieve precise and smooth focus adjustments on camera lenses. For gimbal users, it’s crucial because it allows you to pull focus without touching the lens directly, preventing camera shake and ensuring your subject stays sharp, even while you’re moving.
Q2: How do wireless follow focus systems work?
A: Wireless follow focus systems typically consist of a motor that attaches to your lens (usually via a gear ring) and a separate hand unit (often a handwheel or control handle). The hand unit sends signals wirelessly to the motor, which then rotates your lens’s focus ring. This allows a camera operator or a dedicated focus puller to adjust focus from a distance, without interfering with the gimbal’s movement.
Q3: Can I use a follow focus with any lens?
A: Most follow focus systems are designed to be highly compatible. Mechanical systems usually come with a gear ring belt that can be attached to almost any lens’s focus ring. Motorized systems also use these gear rings or sometimes attach directly to lenses with built-in gears. It’s always best to check the product specifications for lens diameter compatibility.
Q4: What’s the difference between a mechanical and motorized follow focus?
A: A mechanical follow focus is a manual system where you physically turn a wheel that’s geared to your lens. It’s simple, reliable, and generally more affordable. A motorized (or servo) follow focus uses an electronic motor to turn the lens, often controlled wirelessly or via a gimbal’s built-in controls. Motorized systems offer greater precision, remote operation, and can sometimes be programmed for automated focus pulls.
Q5: How do I install a follow focus on my gimbal setup?
A: Most follow focus units mount to a 15mm rod system that sits parallel to your lens. This rod system is usually attached to your gimbal or camera cage. Once the motor/unit is on the rod, you attach the gear (either directly or via a gear ring belt) to your lens’s focus ring. Wireless systems also require pairing the hand unit with the motor.
Q6: What are A/B stops on a follow focus?
A: A/B stops (or hard stops) are physical or digital markers on a follow focus that allow you to set specific start and end points for your focus pull. This is incredibly useful for repetitive shots where you need to precisely pull focus between two subjects or distances, ensuring you don’t overshoot your mark.
Q7: Is a built-in focus wheel on a smartphone gimbal good enough?
A: For smartphone videography, a built-in focus wheel on a gimbal (like the AOCHUAN models reviewed) can be incredibly effective. It offers direct, tactile control over your phone’s digital focus, which is a massive upgrade from tapping the screen. While not the same as controlling a physical lens on a cinema camera, it provides significant creative control and convenience for mobile filmmakers.
Q8: How much should I expect to pay for a good follow focus?
A: The price can vary widely. Basic mechanical follow focus units can start from under $100. More advanced motorized or wireless systems, especially those from reputable brands, can range from $200 to $800 or more, depending on features, build quality, and system compatibility. Consider your budget and specific filmmaking needs when making a choice.
