When I first unboxed the DJI RS 4 Mini, I was eager to see how much it had evolved from the RS 3 Mini. Outwardly, the design seemed familiar—still compact, still lightweight, and still maintaining the solid build quality that DJI is known for. But once I started setting it up, the refinements became clear. DJI has focused on small but meaningful improvements that make a big difference in everyday use, and as someone who relies on stabilization gear for professional work, I was excited to put it through its paces.
One of the most immediately noticeable upgrades is the new auto-locking arms. In previous models, I had to manually unlock each axis before using the gimbal, which was a minor inconvenience but one that added up over time, especially when working on fast-paced shoots. With the RS 4 Mini, the arms unlock automatically when the gimbal is powered on and lock again when turned off. It might seem like a small change, but it streamlines the entire setup process, allowing me to get shooting faster without fiddling with switches.
Once I had the gimbal balanced with my Sony A7S III and 24-70mm f/2.8 lens, I could feel that the motors were slightly more powerful than those on the RS 3 Mini. DJI doesn’t specify a maximum payload, but in my testing, it handled this combination with ease. I even swapped in a slightly heavier 85mm f/1.4 lens, and while I had to fine-tune the balance, the gimbal still performed flawlessly. This added strength means it can accommodate a wider range of camera setups, which is crucial for filmmakers who frequently switch lenses or shoot with accessories like external monitors and microphones.
Stabilization is where the RS 4 Mini truly shines. DJI has implemented its third-generation stabilization algorithm, the same one found in the larger RS 4 Pro. Compared to its predecessor, I noticed smoother performance, especially during fast-paced movements. I tested the gimbal in various shooting conditions—walking, running, climbing stairs, and even filming from a moving vehicle. In every scenario, it delivered rock-solid footage with no jitter or unwanted vibrations. The improved stabilization makes it particularly useful for wedding videographers who need to capture dynamic shots without sacrificing smoothness, as well as for documentary filmmakers who often shoot handheld in unpredictable environments.
Another major upgrade is the redesigned vertical shooting mode. Previously, switching to portrait mode on the RS 3 Mini required removing the quick-release plate and reattaching the camera, which was time-consuming. The RS 4 Mini simplifies this process significantly—just loosen a knob, rotate the camera into position, and you’re ready to go. This is a game-changer for content creators who frequently switch between landscape and vertical formats for social media platforms like Instagram Reels and TikTok. The transition is seamless, making it easier than ever to adapt to different shooting needs on the fly.
One of the features that impressed me most is the new intelligent tracking module, included in the combo version of the gimbal. This magnetic attachment allows for subject tracking without needing a smartphone or external monitor. I tested this in a busy market, setting the gimbal to track a moving subject, and it performed exceptionally well. The tracking remained locked even as people moved between the camera and the subject, making it a valuable tool for solo filmmakers who need reliable autofocus without a dedicated camera operator. DJI has also added gesture controls, allowing users to start and stop tracking with simple hand movements, further enhancing usability.
Battery life is another strong point. DJI claims the RS 4 Mini can last up to ten hours on a single charge, and in my real-world testing, it easily lasted eight hours with moderate use. For longer shoots, the ability to charge via USB-C while filming is a lifesaver. I was able to plug it into a power bank and keep shooting without interruption, which is essential for wedding videographers or event filmmakers who need to capture extended coverage.
Another small but impactful improvement is the manual positioning feature. In previous models, if I wanted to adjust the camera angle manually, I had to power down the gimbal, reposition it, and restart. Now, I can simply move the camera by hand while the gimbal is powered on, and it will hold the new position. This makes quick adjustments far more intuitive and eliminates unnecessary downtime.
During my testing, I found the RS 4 Mini to be a fantastic tool across multiple shooting scenarios. It’s lightweight enough to carry for long hours, yet powerful enough to handle a variety of camera setups. I took it on a travel shoot, where I needed to move quickly and capture dynamic shots in crowded spaces, and it proved to be an invaluable companion. The stronger motors and improved stabilization ensured that my footage looked professional, even in challenging conditions.
For wedding videographers, the RS 4 Mini is a near-perfect choice. The auto-locking arms speed up setup time, the improved stabilization guarantees smooth shots during crucial moments like vows and first dances, and the ability to switch quickly to vertical mode means I can capture content for both cinematic wedding films and social media highlights effortlessly.
The only minor downsides I noticed are the lack of an official payload rating and the absence of an OLED screen. While the Ronin app provides plenty of customization options, an OLED display would make it easier to adjust settings directly on the gimbal. That said, these are minor inconveniences compared to the overall performance and usability improvements.
After extensive use, I can confidently say the DJI RS 4 Mini is the best compact gimbal DJI has released. It refines everything that worked well in the RS 3 Mini while adding thoughtful upgrades that make it even more user-friendly. The auto-locking arms, stronger motors, improved vertical shooting, and intelligent tracking module make it an excellent investment for filmmakers, content creators, and wedding videographers alike.
If you’re in the market for a lightweight yet powerful gimbal that delivers professional-grade stability without the bulk of a full-size stabilizer, the RS 4 Mini is an easy recommendation. DJI continues to push the boundaries of what compact gimbals can do, and this latest iteration proves that even small refinements can lead to a significantly better user experience. Whether you’re capturing weddings, travel films, or commercial content, this gimbal is a tool that will elevate your work.
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