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DJI RS 5 How The Camera Gimbal Compares

Getting smooth footage is still one of the biggest challenges in video, especially once you move from static shots to dynamic filming. Anyone who has spent time setting up a gimbal knows that simple and efficient balancing, adjustments, and repeatability can be just as important as the stabilisation itself. Small changes in camera weight or lens choice can quickly turn a simple setup into a frustrating time-consuming one.

DJI RS 5 How The Camera Gimbal Compares

In this guide we look at how the latest DJI camera gimbal aimed at mirrorless creators compares to earlier models. This generation brings changes to tracking, motor performance, handling, and power management, all of which affect how quickly you can switch from setting up to shooting.

Our deep dive into the RS 5 discovers specifications, features, and comparisons and we also explore pricing, how it differs from earlier RS models, and where this DJI gimbal fits within the current range. So without further ado let’s start off with pricing for the UK.

DJI RS 5 and RS 5 Combo price

One of the easiest ways to see where this release fits into DJI’s range of camera gimbals is pricing, which places it slightly above previous generation, somewhere in between Mini and Pro versions.

Current price:

Earlier models for comparison:

  • DJI RS 4 Gimbal £399.00
  • DJI RS 4 Gimbal Combo £529.00
  • DJI RS 4 £318.00

This reflects the features found in the current generation, which we investigate below.

Mounting the grip to the main body

What kind of gimbal is the RS 5?

The RS 5 is a mid-range gimbal with features such as tracking, native vertical shooting, and accurate balance controls. It weighs under 1.5 kg which makes it well suited to creators who use mirrorless cameras and need to juggle weight, capability and setup speed.

While it isn’t the smallest in the range, nor is it intended for cinema cameras. Instead it suits a lot of solo creators and smaller teams who shoot with mirrorless systems. The 3 kg payload allows this DJI camera gimbal to support many of the most popular mirrorless cameras used for content creation, which is something we look at more closely later.

Next, let’s explore what the newest and most notable features are.

Natro port and connectivity

What’s new in the DJI RS 5?

The RS 5 brings several bigger changes, which can have an impact on how efficient the filmmaking process is, which are joined by more minor quality of life upgrades. One of the most notable is to subject tracking, which is now handled better when using a new Enhanced Intelligent Tracking Module. This module is included with the RS 5 Combo, or you can add it optionally to the gimbal-only whenever needed.

With the Enhanced Intelligent Tracking Module attached, subject selection takes place from the gimbal’s touchscreen instead of from a separate monitor or device. Once you’ve framed your subject, the system tracks it reliably, whether it’s a person, vehicle, or pet. In some situations, it can even reacquire a tracked person if they leave the frame briefly, although that depends on movement, framing, and the environment you’re shooting in.

Stabilisation has been refined and peak motor torque increases by up to 50% compared with the previous generation. Motor torque is complemented by DJI’s fifth-generation RS stabilisation algorithm, which enables the gimbal to stay composed during faster movement, walking shots, and vertical shooting, while also balancing relatively heavy mirrorless setups.

Handling sees a series of small but useful updates such as to the fine-tuning knobs on each axis, which make it easier to set balance adjustments. A new Z-axis indicator provides real-time feedback while moving, which can help you to adjust your walking pace or gait in order to reduce distracting vertical bounce. Second-generation automated axis locks now engage when the gimbal powers off or enters sleep mode, which release on start-up, speeding up your transitions between shooting and idle.

Balanced gimbal setup from the side

Power and connectivity are also improved, and charging time drops to around an hour when using a compatible USB-C PD charger and battery grip. Standby time increases by roughly 15% too, which is pretty handy when considering it’s now around 14 hours when using the BG33 Battery Grip, or a whopping 30 hours with the RS BG70 High-Capacity Battery Grip.

Bluetooth shutter support now includes Panasonic and Fujifilm cameras, which will be a welcome addition for creators who want cable-free control of recording and zoom functionality.

Even with these changes, DJI has managed to keep the size compact and the gimbal weighs 1.46 kg with the grip and QR plates, while supporting payloads of up to 3 kg.

With all of these tweaks, it can be easier to see how everything looks in a comparison table, which is what we have for you next.

DJI RS 5 vs DJI RS 4 Specs comparison table

The table below compares the DJI RS 5 and the previous-generation RS 4 stabilisation performance, power, handling, and connectivity.

 

DJI RS 5 (new)

DJI RS 4

Tested payload capacity

Up to 3 kg

Up to 3 kg

Weight (ready to shoot, incl. grip and plates)

Approx. 1.46 kg (battery grip and quick-release plates installed)

Approx. 1.55 kg total (gimbal, grip, extended grip/tripod, upper and lower plates)

Stabilisation algorithm

5th-generation RS stabilisation algorithm

4th-generation RS stabilisation algorithm

Peak motor torque

Up to 50% higher

Lower peak torque

Subject tracking

Touchscreen subject selection with Enhanced Intelligent Tracking Module

Tracking supported, without touchscreen tracking view

Supported tracking subjects

Person, vehicle, or pet (conditions apply)

Human subject only

Tracking view on gimbal screen

Yes (with Enhanced Intelligent Tracking Module)

No

Native vertical shooting

Supported

Supported

Automated axis locks

2nd-generation automated axis locks

Automated axis locks

Z-axis indicator

Included

Not included

Battery type

Detachable BG33 Battery Grip

Detachable battery grip

Battery capacity

2150 mAh

2970 mAh

Runtime

Approx. 14 hours (balanced, stationary, BG33)

Approx. 12 hours (balanced, stationary, BG21)

Charging time

Approx. 1 hour 42 mins with supported USB-C PD charger and BG33

Approx. 2.5 hours (using the standard grip)

Bluetooth camera control

Selected Sony, Canon, Nikon, Panasonic and Fujifilm

Selected Sony, Canon, Nikon

Connectivity and ports

USB-C, RSA port, accessory expansion

USB-C, RSA port, accessory expansion

Closeup of the bright control screen

Tracking and subject control on DJI gimbals

In this section we look closely at RS 5 subject tracking capability, as tracking is a popular feature that a lot of solo creators use when making content. Before diving into a Q&A it’s worth noting that when tracking is active, composition does not have to remain fixed and can be fluid.

Framing can be adjusted using the gimbal interface, joystick, or gestures, then locked once the composition is set.

How many subjects can the RS 5 track at once?

When used with the Enhanced Intelligent Tracking Module, the RS 5 supports one tracked subject at a time, whether that is a person, vehicle, or pet.

Which gimbal modes support tracking?

On the RS 5, intelligent tracking is supported in pan follow (PF) and pan and tilt follow (PTF) modes. Tracking is not available in FPV mode.

What happens if a tracked subject leaves the frame?

When tracking a person, the RS 5 can reacquire the subject if they briefly leave the frame, provided scene conditions allow. This behaviour does not apply to vehicle or pet tracking.

How is tracking controlled?

With the Enhanced Intelligent Tracking Module attached, subjects can be selected and adjusted directly from the RS 5 touchscreen. Gesture-based control is also supported in compatible setups.

What affects tracking performance?

Tracking performance on the RS 5 depends on subject movement speed, lighting conditions, occlusion, and scene complexity. Single-subject scenes with clear separation provide the most consistent results.

Are tracking modules compatible with all DJI gimbals?

DJI tracking modules support different gimbal models depending on version. The Enhanced Intelligent Tracking Module attaches directly to the RS 5 and RS 4 Mini, while RS 4 and RS 4 Pro require an adapter. Feature availability, including touchscreen tracking view, varies by gimbal model.

Front view of a balanced camera setup

Controls

The graphic below lists all of the controls found on the gimbal.

Graphic showing gimbal controls

  1. Touchscreen
  2. M Button
  3. Joystick
  4. Camera Control Button
  5. Gimbal Mode Switch
  6. NATO Port
  7. Power Button
  8. Multifunctional Port
  9. Camera Control Port (USB-C)
  1. Tilt Axis
  2. Roll Axis
  3. Ronin Series Accessories (RSA) and NATO Ports
  4. Front Dial
  5. Trigger
  6. Pan Axis
  7. Joystick Mode Switch
  8. Battery Level Button

What’s included in the DJI RS 5 vs RS 5 Combo?

The DJI RS 5 and RS 5 Combo both come with the fifth-gen. stabiliser, but the Combo adds accessories that enhance control and subject tracking, which will suit certain users. The table below compares what’s included in the box for each.

Included item

DJI RS 5

DJI RS 5 Combo

Gimbal

Quick-Open Tripod

Carrying Case

DJI Logo Sticker

Lens-Fastening Support

Screw Kit

L-Shaped USB-C Cable (13 cm)

Multi-Camera Control Cable (USB-C, 30 cm)

RS 5 Upper Quick-Release Plate

RS 5 Lower Quick-Release Plate

BG33 Battery Grip

RS Enhanced Intelligent Tracking Module

Electronic Briefcase Handle

How about accessory compatibility, which is important for existing ecosystem users?

Which accessories are compatible with DJI RS 5 and 4 gimbals?

If you’re an RS 4 gimbal owner there are quite a few accessories that will be compatible as many accessories released over the past few years will work with both models. The table below highlights those which are compatible with the RS 5 and RS 4.

Accessory

DJI RS 5 (new)

DJI RS 4

RS BG70 High-Capacity Battery Grip

Compatible

Compatible

BG33 Battery Grip

Compatible

Compatible

RS BG30 Battery Grip

Compatible

Compatible

RS 5 Upper Quick-Release Plate

Compatible

Compatible

RS Upper Quick-Release Plate (2024)

Compatible

Limited compatibility

RS 5 Lower Quick-Release Plate

Compatible

Compatible

RS Lower Quick-Release Plate (2024)

Compatible

Limited compatibility

RS Electronic Briefcase Handle

Compatible

Not compatible

RS Standard Briefcase Handle

Compatible

Compatible

RS Tethered Control Handle

Compatible

Compatible

RS Focus Motor (2022)

Compatible

Compatible

RS Enhanced Intelligent Tracking Module

Compatible

Compatible (adapter required)

RS Intelligent Tracking Module

Compatible

Compatible (adapter required)

DJI SDR / Video Transmission

Compatible

Compatible

Ronin Image Transmitter

Not compatible

Compatible

Who is the DJI RS 5 for?

The DJI RS 5 is a great choice for users who need smooth stabilisation without the size and weight of larger devices, and includes:

  • Solo creators
  • Small crews and production teams
  • Hybrid shooters

With such good tracking options, native vertical shooting, and intuitive handling, the RS 5 works for interviews, walk-and-talk shots, short-form content, as well as content where time or space are at a premium.

Upgraded motor torque

If your workflow involves a mirrorless camera with a prime lens or standard zoom the RS 5 fits the bill with its combination of portability and capability.

Irrespective of whether you wonder is a gimbal is worth it and when to use one, which we explore in another article, the RS 5 is a worthy upgrade to DJI’s popular RS line. It refines aspects which are arguably most important for everyday use, including significant improvements to motor performance, refined control over balancing, power, and touchscreen-based tracking, which all lead towards faster setup and better stabilisation.

The payload supports common full-frame and APS-C setups weighing up to 3 kg, such as Sony Alpha cameras with a 24–70mm f/2.8, or similar kits from Canon, Nikon, Panasonic, and Fujifilm. Users also gain access to useful features for everyday content creation, like native vertical shooting, as well as broad compatibility with DJI’s new and existing RS accessories.

Considerations include the need for the Enhanced Intelligent Tracking Module to make the most of improvements to tracking, with only one subject tracked at a time. Likewise, the payload hasn’t increased, which leaves some users waiting for the Pro version. There’s also a learning curve for newcomers, who should expect to put aside some time to learn how to set up and balance the gimbal.

This may be where the Combo makes sense, by adding value for creators who plan to use tracking and low-angle shots regularly from the outset, providing two solid options based on your specific needs.

If you’re still deciding between the RS 5 and RS 5 Combo, you can explore both products to see which best suits your shooting style and workflow. And don’t forget that you can trade in your unwanted gear and use the cash you make to offset against an upgrade.

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By Nick Dautlich on 29/01/2026

Nick Dautlich

Nick Dautlich

Senior Content Writer and Product Reviewer

Nick Dautlich is the Senior Content Writer and Product Reviewer at Park Cameras, with over 15 years of photography experience. A Sony Imaging Professional and expert reviewer, Nick has worked with major brands such as Canon, Sony and Nikon. His work is also featured on Vanguard World UK’s website, Capture Landscapes, and Shutter Evolve. Nick’s photography includes National Trust projects and magazine covers and he is passionate about landscapes and storytelling. Nick also enjoys hiking and teaching his children about nature. Learn more on his profile page.

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