The videographer or camera fanatic will hustle to buy any equipment that makes production smoother, more portable, and affordable. Our top 10 Best Camera Cranes are all top Amazon.com sellers and receive rave reviews from customers. Based on customer input and product descriptions, we have compiled our top 10 list for your shopping pleasure.
Contents
- 1 10. Pro Series Professional Video Stabilizing Handle
- 2 9. ProAm USA Orion Jr DVC50 4 ft Compact Camera Crane / Jib
- 3 8. ProAm USA Orion DVC200 8 ft Camera Jib Crane
- 4 7. 8 ft. Camera Crane Jib with Stand by Advanced Digital
- 5 6. ProAm USA 360
- 6 5. Turn-key ProAm USA 8 ft to 12 ft DVC200 Camera Crane Production Package
- 7 4. ProAm USA Orion DVC210 8 ft DSLR Camera Jib Crane
- 8 3. Indy Jib 4′ Camera Crane
- 9 2. Kessler KC-Lite 8.0 Camera Crane
- 10 1. ProAm USA DVC200 Camera Jib Crane with 4 ft Extension (12 ft Total Length)
10. Pro Series Professional Video Stabilizing Handle
PROS
• Perfect for staying free to move with the shot
• Can be attached to a tripod for ground stability
• Can double with a video camera below and a GoPro on top
• Better than a traditional hand strap
CONS
• Not the traditional metal construction
• Does not include traditional hand strap
• Relies on hand stability rather than ground
Despite the competition from its metal counterparts, this plastic crane gets great reviews for its versatility and good construction. It is the best buy for the price, without sacrificing quality.
9. ProAm USA Orion Jr DVC50 4 ft Compact Camera Crane / Jib
PROS
• Works smoothly and effortlessly to capture action videos
• Lightweight and sturdy
• Good for indoor or small spaces
• Mounting bracket is perfect for wider DSLRs, or even your small handheld P&S
CONS
• Does not include tripod, stand, head or weights
• Takes some practice to get smooth movements
• Does not have tilt control like the 8’ model
• Must use a heavyweight tripod
This best-selling camera crane by ProAm USA certainly takes the prize for versatility. Whether on a tripod or gripped by hand, it really captures the best video with smooth, effortless motions. This crane is a great starting point that adds professionalism to your production.
8. ProAm USA Orion DVC200 8 ft Camera Jib Crane
PROS
• Able to obtain smooth motion on 3 axis
• Optional 4’ extender available
• Flexible tilting features allow independent or auto tilt
• Versatile and portable enough to do hand held shots
• Simple to assemble without the use of additional tools
CONS
• Does not include stand or weights
• Can flex when mounted on non-manufacturer stand
• Does not attach to a TV monitor for composing shots
With the DVC200, you get what you pay for – meaning more angles, more flexibility and greater distances than its #9 counterpart. Don’t let the simple construction fool you, because this gear is likely to send your production into professional mode.
7. 8 ft. Camera Crane Jib with Stand by Advanced Digital
PROS
• Easily breaks into (2) 4’ sections
• Can manually or automatically tilt camera
• Better customer service than expected
CONS
• Needs a tripod with a very sturdy, fluid head
• Limited on compatibility with camera models
• Several customer reviews state faulty equipment common
• Does not come with a case
• Better at fixed shots; lacks smooth stabilization
Without the big brand name to back it up, this crane deserves the honorable mention as #7 on our top 10 list because reviews confirm that it is worth the price. If you seek professional production equipment without paying for the logo, then this crane is right for you.
6. ProAm USA 360
PROS
• Easy to lube for smooth panning
• Can mount on almost any platform (stand or tripod)
• Quiet, sensitive, non-motorized planning mechanism
• Easy to set up
CONS
• Open top may leak oil or take in dirt/sand
• Top of market price range for similar items
• Needs a cover for outdoor shooting
To some professionals, the price of the ProAm 360 seems a bit high. But, for the additional production capabilities it is a worthy purchase and addition to any studio.
5. Turn-key ProAm USA 8 ft to 12 ft DVC200 Camera Crane Production Package
PROS
• Looks professional in front of clients
• No wiggle, flex or slop
• Extra-large carrying case for additional gear
• No need for a ladder to get high-angle shots
• Has a 10” screen for composing shots
• Only requires a one man crew
CONS
• Monitor is non-HDMI
• Does not include weights
• Need an Allen key to fasten the joiners
• Makes noise if in cold weather
With all you need in one package, there’s not better product to put your passion into action. And considering the pros outweigh the cons, this reliable brand product will certainly fit the bill.
4. ProAm USA Orion DVC210 8 ft DSLR Camera Jib Crane
3. Indy Jib 4′ Camera Crane
PROS
• Can capture floating, cinematic movements
• Offers smooth panning and fluid movement
• Easy to carry for on the go professionals
CONS
• Slower setup than other cranes
• Slightly heavier than similar models
• Must purchase additional mount to achieve tilting
There’s no doubt that ProAm captures our market, but Indy just outshines in price and durable construction and, therefore, makes it near the top of our list.
2. Kessler KC-Lite 8.0 Camera Crane
PROS
• 100 percent tool-less setup
• 360 degree rotation
• Constructed of high grade 6061 aluminium
• Side mounting eliminates need for tilt mechanism
CONS
• Can only hold up to 10 pound cameras
• Beam is thinner than high-end cranes
• Side mounting may cause it to leanUnlike most entry-level cranes, this packs a punch with full rotation capabilities – something often purchased separately from high-end cranes that professionals use. You’d be surprised at the quality, durability and affordability when compared to other models.
1. ProAm USA DVC200 Camera Jib Crane with 4 ft Extension (12 ft Total Length)
PROS
• Independent and Auto-Tilt feature integrated
• Three axis movement possible
• Optional 4’ extension available
• Quickly mounts to standard tripods
• Designed and priced for low to no-budget cinema
CONS
• Tripod and weights not included
• Takes ample time to set up at first
When choosing a camera crane, it is important to know exactly what your needs are. Fortunately, at the reasonable price, the DVC200 can meet just about any budget and production requirement you can think of. It is the worthiest competitor in an otherwise flooded market.