If you want to do stable and smooth motion with your camera, you are possibly looking for a gimbal. 

And we have one for you. 

The Beholder DS1 is one of the most popular handheld gimbals available and the winner in our comparison of the 10 best DSLR camera stabilizers and gimbals in 2018.

Why is this gimbal our number one pick?

Learn more in this Beholder DS1 review.

Beholder DS1 Review

The Ikan Beholder DS1 is an awesome stabilizer suited for cameras in the 0.75-1.75kg load range (3.7 pounds). We are speaking about popular cameras like Canon 7D / 5D, NEX Series, Sony A7 series, Nikon D800 and D810 and DMC Series.

DS1 comes with a 3 axis stabilization, fast response, dual sensors, support for any angle boot, and external remote control. This lightweight device brings fantastic accuracy and stability to the world of amateur filmmakers. It is a great stabilizer for all levels of video makers who need to create highly professional looking videos.

What Is in the box

The gimbal comes with a decent looking compact portable case lined with a foam layer inside for better protection. In the carry case you will find:

• Manual 
• Standard micro USB power socket charger 
• Rechargeable batteries
• Quick-release plate
• Extra balance plate (to add more weight to the camera)

Design

The full aluminum body feels very solid and robust but still remains lightweight with only 2.4 pounds (1 kg) without the attached camera. You can feel the high-quality of the gimbal on the first touch, it´s really no put together, no flimsy. What we mean, the model feels like an actual piece of professional production equipment.

How To Use Beholder DS1

Balancing the DS1 should take about 30-45 minutes for an experienced filmmaker – stabilizing all 3 axis can be an issue here for beginners. As we wrote before, the Beholder DS1 works on a 3 axis system with brushless gimbal motors that create smooth and stable footage. 

The gimbal has 4 modes: follow, lock, inverted, and briefcase. 

• Follow mode – as you move the gimbal move your camera to pan and tilt. 
• Lock mode – it keeps the camera still. 
• Inverted mode – this mode allows you to take low shots. 
• Briefcase mode – use it when you have a two-handed grip.

Using the stabilizer is very easy. Just select the mode and the DS1 will adjust to it automatically. Or you can use the built-in joystick in the handgrip to pan and tilt. Another option is the use of the 3/8” thread hole to mount a monopod and create a jib. 

Features

• Works with DSLR’s and mirrorless cameras between 1.5 to 3.7lbs
• 3 axis gyro stabilized brushless motors s
• Lithium battery powered
• Illuminated ON-OFF switch/battery indicator
• 3/8″-16 tripod mount socket
• Range: roll up to 45 degrees and tilt up to 90 degrees
• 1-year warranty

Pros

• Extremely quickly camera removing
• High-quality aluminium construction
• 360 degree product views
• 4 modes for the shots
• Smooth, stable video 
• Lightweight and portable

Cons

• Only 3 hours of battery life 
• Difficult to balanced for the first time
• Difficult to switch modes while in operation

Beholder DS1 Review – Conclusion

The DS1 is fantastic gimbal with high professional built quality that will help you shoot smooth and stable videos like a pro. What´s more, the 3 rechargeable batteries gives the gimbal up to 3 hours of operating time (depending on the conditions), and the USB port allows you to attach a cable to run a light or even charge your phone or camera.

To be honest, Beholder DS1 isn´t exactly a cheap handheld stabilizer. So, if you are on the budget, this may not be the solution for you. Try Neewer 24″/60cm or SUTEFOTO S40 instead. However, if you are interested to own a high-quality handheld gimbal, the Beholder DS1 is one of the best devices you can buy. The ease of use, portability, and video stability make from it a go-to tool for any filmmaker. 

➤ Beholder DS1

View on Amazon

Sources

Beholder DS1 Camera Stabilizer How to Balance, Function Overview – OwlDolly, YouTube

Ikan Beholder DS1 Balancing Tutorial – AF Marcotec, YouTube

Sony a6300 with kit lens and beholder DS1 Gimbal – Ovaflo, YouTube

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