DJI RS 4 Pro Combo Review: Is This the Ultimate Professional Gimbal for Filmmakers?

In the dynamic world of video production, smooth, stable footage isn’t just a luxury – it’s a necessity. Whether you’re a seasoned professional filmmaker, a busy commercial videographer, or a dedicated content creator, the pursuit of cinematic excellence often leads to the search for the perfect camera stabilizer. Enter the DJI RS 4 Pro Combo, a robust, feature-packed gimbal designed to take your productions to the next level.

We’ve put the DJI RS 4 Pro Combo through its paces, and in this detailed review, we’ll dive deep into its capabilities, highlight its most impressive features, weigh its pros and cons, and help you decide if this is the ultimate professional gimbal for your workflow.

First Impressions: Power and Precision in a Compact Package

Upon unboxing the DJI RS 4 Pro Combo, the immediate impression is one of quality and comprehensive design. The “Combo” really lives up to its name, including essential accessories like the Focus Motor (2nd Gen), a Phone Holder, a Briefcase Handle, and more, ensuring you’re ready to shoot right out of the box (after a quick setup, of course). The carbon fiber construction feels incredibly sturdy yet surprisingly lightweight for its power, hinting at the professional-grade stability it promises.

Key Features That Make the DJI RS 4 Pro Combo Stand Out

DJI has packed the RS 4 Pro Combo with innovations that genuinely enhance the filmmaking experience. Let’s look at what makes it a powerhouse:

Increased Payload Capacity & Extended Carbon Fiber Axis Arms: This is a game-changer for many. With a robust 4.5 kg (9.9 lbs) payload capacity and extended carbon fiber axis arms, the RS 4 Pro Combo easily accommodates larger camera setups, including professional mirrorless cameras and compact cinema cameras with substantial lenses and accessories. No more compromises on your lens choices!
Second-Generation Native Vertical Shooting: The demand for vertical content is soaring, and DJI has listened. The RS 4 Pro features a new horizontal plate that allows for native vertical shooting without needing additional accessories or complex rebalancing. Just release, re-orient, and lock – you’re ready for TikTok, Instagram Reels, and Shorts in seconds.
Advanced DJI RS Focus Motor (2nd Gen) with 2x Torque: Included in the combo, this upgraded focus motor delivers twice the torque of its predecessor while maintaining minimal gear backlash. This translates to incredibly smooth, precise, and responsive focus or zoom control, even with heavier cine lenses. Pairing it with the optional DJI Focus Pro LiDAR Autofocus System unlocks next-level intelligent autofocus.
Automated Axis Locks with Reduced Gaps: DJI’s signature automated axis locks are even better here. They lock and unlock the axes rapidly for quick setup and breakdown. The improved design reduces clearance gaps, further minimizing gimbal shake during transitions.
Bluetooth Shutter Control: Say goodbye to fiddly cables! The RS 4 Pro supports Bluetooth wireless shutter control, allowing you to start/stop recording and trigger photo capture directly from the gimbal with compatible cameras.
ActiveTrack Pro: Utilizing the RS Focus Motor (2nd Gen) and the LiDAR Focus system (sold separately), ActiveTrack Pro offers incredibly reliable and accurate subject tracking. It’s perfect for dynamic shots where you need the camera to follow a moving subject autonomously.
RSA Communication Port: This versatile port allows for a wide range of accessories, including the DJI RS SDK, expanding the gimbal’s functionality and opening doors for custom solutions and third-party integration.

User Experience and Performance: Smoothness Redefined

Using the DJI RS 4 Pro Combo is genuinely a pleasure once you’ve dialed in your setup.

Balancing: Thanks to the fine-tuning knob on the tilt axis, balancing is remarkably precise and quicker than previous generations. The automated axis locks also simplify the process of moving between axes.
Controls: The 1.8-inch OLED full-color touchscreen is bright and responsive, providing intuitive access to modes, settings, and gimbal status. Physical controls are well-placed, making on-the-fly adjustments natural.
Stabilization: This is where the RS 4 Pro truly shines. The fourth-generation stabilization algorithm provides an almost unbelievably smooth output, even when running or moving quickly. Footage appears buttery smooth, devoid of micro-jitters, making it ideal for professional-grade cinematic shots.
Battery Life: We found the battery to be excellent, easily lasting a full day of shooting under moderate use. Quick charging capabilities mean less downtime.
Build Quality: The materials and construction feel top-tier, instilling confidence that this gimbal can withstand the rigors of professional production environments.

Pros & Cons of the DJI RS 4 Pro Combo

Every powerful tool has its strengths and minor drawbacks. Here’s what we found:

Pros:

Exceptional Stabilization: Delivers incredibly smooth, cinematic footage, even in challenging conditions.
High Payload Capacity: Comfortably handles professional mirrorless and compact cinema camera setups.
Native Vertical Shooting: A huge time-saver for creators focusing on social media content.
Intuitive & Responsive Controls: The OLED touchscreen and ergonomic design make operation straightforward.
Robust Build Quality: Built to last, with durable carbon fiber construction.
Advanced Focus Motor (2nd Gen): Precise and powerful focus/zoom control included in the combo.
Comprehensive Combo Package: Comes with almost everything you need to get started.

Cons:

Price Point: As a professional-grade tool, the DJI RS 4 Pro Combo is a significant investment.
Weight (with large setups): While relatively lightweight for its capabilities, adding a heavy camera, lens, and accessories can make it challenging for prolonged handheld use without additional support.
Learning Curve for Advanced Features: While basic operation is easy, mastering all the intelligent features (like ActiveTrack Pro with LiDAR) takes some practice.

Who is the DJI RS 4 Pro Combo Best For?

The DJI RS 4 Pro Combo is an invaluable asset for:

Professional Filmmakers: Looking for a reliable, high-performance gimbal to stabilize high-end mirrorless or cinema cameras.
Commercial Videographers: Needing versatile stabilization for a wide range of projects, from corporate videos to commercials.
Dedicated Content Creators: Especially those producing high-quality YouTube videos, short films, or dynamic social media content where smooth motion is crucial.
Run-and-Gun Shooters: Its quick setup and robust performance make it ideal for fast-paced environments.
Anyone serious about elevating their video production quality with industry-leading stabilization technology.

Final Verdict: A Masterclass in Gimbal Technology

The DJI RS 4 Pro Combo isn’t just an incremental update; it’s a refined, powerful, and incredibly versatile tool that solidifies DJI’s position at the forefront of gimbal technology. From its impressive payload capacity and groundbreaking native vertical shooting to the precise focus control and buttery-smooth stabilization, this gimbal empowers creators to capture cinematic shots with unprecedented ease and confidence.

While it represents a significant investment, the features, performance, and robust build quality of the DJI RS 4 Pro Combo justify its price for professionals and serious enthusiasts who demand the very best. If you’re looking to elevate your filmmaking and secure incredibly stable, professional-looking footage with a wide range of cameras, this gimbal is an absolute powerhouse.

Ready to transform your video production? Don’t let shaky footage hold you back. Click here to get your DJI RS 4 Pro Combo and start creating cinematic masterpieces today!

FAQ

Q. What is the maximum payload capacity of the DJI RS 4 Pro, and what kind of cameras can it support?
A. The DJI RS 4 Pro boasts an impressive payload capacity of 10 lbs (4.5 kg), making it capable of supporting a wide range of professional cinema cameras, mirrorless cameras, and DSLR setups, even with heavier lenses and accessories. This includes popular models like the Sony FX6, Canon C70, Blackmagic Pocket Cinema Cameras, and various full-frame mirrorless cameras from Sony, Canon, Nikon, and Panasonic.

Q. What are the key new features or improvements of the DJI RS 4 Pro compared to its predecessors?
A. The DJI RS 4 Pro introduces several significant improvements. It features 2nd-Gen Native Vertical Shooting for faster switching between horizontal and vertical orientations, enhanced motor torque for more stable performance with heavier setups, and optimized gimbal stabilization algorithms. It also includes an improved ActiveTrack Pro with LiDAR Focus, a new joystick mode switch for zoom/gimbal control, and upgraded automated axis locks for smoother, faster deployment.

Q. What is included in the DJI RS 4 Pro Combo package, and how does it differ from the standard version?
A. The DJI RS 4 Pro Combo includes the standard gimbal unit along with several essential accessories that significantly enhance its versatility and functionality. This typically includes the DJI RS Focus Motor (2022) with gear strips, Ronin Image Transmitter (RavenEye), a new BG70 High-Capacity Battery Grip for extended runtime, an extended lower quick release plate, a briefcas handle, and a robust carrying case, among other smaller components like multi-camera control cables. The standard version usually just includes the gimbal, BG30 grip, and basic cables.

Q. How does the new LiDAR focusing system work with the DJI RS 4 Pro, and what cameras is it compatible with?
A. The DJI RS 4 Pro’s LiDAR focusing system, powered by the DJI Focus Pro LiDAR, uses 76,800 ranging points within a 20-meter detection area to achieve highly accurate and intelligent autofocus, especially for manual lenses. This system integrates with ActiveTrack Pro for superior subject tracking of moving subjects. While it can physically mount on many cameras, its full autofocus capabilities with manual lenses depend on specific camera compatibility and control protocols, which DJI regularly updates. It’s primarily designed to work seamlessly with DJI’s focus motor and various cinema/mirrorless camera systems via control cables.

Q. What is the battery life of the DJI RS 4 Pro, and how can it be extended?
A. The DJI RS 4 Pro, when using the standard BG30 Battery Grip (often included in the basic package), typically offers a runtime of up to 12 hours. However, the RS 4 Pro Combo includes the new BG70 High-Capacity Battery Grip, which significantly extends the operational time to approximately 29 hours on a single charge. This enhanced grip also supports faster charging via USB-C. For even longer shoots, spare BG70 grips can be purchased, or the gimbal can be powered by compatible external power sources via the USB-C port.

Q. Is the DJI RS 4 Pro suitable for professional filmmaking, and what kind of projects is it best for?
A. Absolutely. The DJI RS 4 Pro is engineered specifically for professional filmmakers and demanding productions. Its robust payload, advanced stabilization algorithms, precise control over focus (especially with LiDAR and the focus motor), and extended battery life make it ideal for feature films, documentaries, commercials, music videos, and high-end corporate projects. Its ability to handle heavier camera setups with cinema lenses, combined with features like ActiveTrack Pro and 2nd-Gen native vertical shooting, offers unparalleled versatility on set.

Q. How easy is it to balance and set up the DJI RS 4 Pro with different camera configurations?
A. The DJI RS 4 Pro features an optimized balancing experience designed for efficiency. It includes fine-tuning knobs on the tilt axis for precise, micro-level adjustments, Teflon™-coated axes for reduced friction, and an upgraded second-generation native vertical plate, making balancing quicker and smoother. The automated axis locks ensure that once balanced, the setup remains secure and unfolds instantly. The convenience of these features makes setting up various camera configurations surprisingly straightforward, even for users new to professional gimbals.