Display
The presence
of a display in the stabiliser design makes the operation of the device more comfortable and visual. Depending on the specific modification of the stabiliser, the screen can perform many functions. Usually, the display shows basic information about the operating modes used, the date and time, as well as the battery level. The most advanced stabilisers can display the image from the camera, which allows you to use it as a viewfinder with LiveView mode. At the same time, the screen size on professional steadicams can reach 3″ or more, but the vast majority of models are still equipped with a 0.5″ screen.
Max. load
The maximum weight that the stabiliser is designed to carry.
This is the maximum weight of the camera with all accessories allowed for this model.
Tilt angle
The range of forward-backwards tilt angles relative to the vertical position supported by the stabiliser.
It can be written in different ways.
The simplest option is when one angle value is indicated in the characteristics. This may mean that the camera can deviate from the neutral position in both directions by the same angle, which is half the range.
Another option is used when the angles of tilt forward and backward are not the same. In such cases, the horizontal position of the camera on a vertical steadicam is taken as zero, the “-” sign indicates the maximum angle of camera deflection back, lens up, and the “+” sign — forward, lens down.
Bank angle
The range of roll angles (to the side) supported by the stabiliser.
Can be recorded in two ways (See "Tilt angle")
Battery model
Model of the battery used in the stabiliser. This information is not very important when choosing: if you wish, knowing the battery model, you can find detailed information about it. However, the key characteristics of the battery are usually given in general information about the stabiliser. Nevertheless, model information can be useful if you plan to purchase an additional battery, or if you already have a battery and you need to evaluate its compatibility with the device.
Capacity
The capacity of the battery used in the stabiliser.
In theory, a higher capacity allows you to work longer without recharging, but the battery life of the stabiliser also depends on its power consumption. So, only models with similar performance characteristics can be compared with each other according to this indicator; and when choosing, it is better to focus not on the capacity, but on the directly claimed battery life.
Battery life
The maximum length of time the device will work before it needs its battery to be recharged. It is worth considering that the manufacturer indicates the maximum time, which does not correspond to real indicators due to the conditions and intensity of use.
Folding
Foldable stabilisers can be neatly folded to a compact size, which is very convenient for storage and safe transportation. Both the handle and the mount of the stabiliser itself can be folded. But it is worth paying attention to the fact that such a design solution makes the stabiliser more vulnerable to mechanical impacts because over time the telescopic mechanism and swivel joints will begin to wear out.
Mechanical axis lock
The ability to mechanically lock each axis of the stabiliser using clamps, and latches.
Mechanical locking of the axes allows you to better balance the devices for specific tasks and is also useful for transportation.
