DJI RS4 vs DJIRS3: Full DJI Gimbal Comparison and Which Stabilizer Is Worth the Upgrade in 2026

The DJI RS4 vs RS3 debate is growing among filmmakers who want the best blend of power, stabilization, and creative flexibility. With 20% stronger motors, a redesigned 4th-gen stabilization algorithm, and better handling for heavier setups, the RS4 pushes the boundaries of what a handheld gimbal can support. These upgrades translate into smoother low-mode shots, enhanced tracking performance, and more confident stabilization when using bulkier lenses or cinema-grade rigs. For creators who regularly push their gear to its limits, the RS4 marks a noticeable improvement in stability and workflow.

This stabilizer upgrade guide also highlights how DJI has shifted its focus toward modern content workflows—especially vertical video production. The DJI gimbal comparison reveals that the RS4's native portrait mode removes the need for the RS3's $100 mirror adapter, giving creators instant social-ready orientation. While the RS3 remains a reliable and affordable option, the RS4 introduces upgrades that matter for professionals managing heavier gear or hybrid shooting environments.

DJI RS4 vs RS3: Motor Power, Battery Life, and Interface Upgrades

DJI RS4 vs RS3 highlights significant improvements in stabilization strength, payload control, and motion smoothness. The RS4's upgraded motors and 4th-gen algorithm offer more precision, making it a better option for creators handling heavier setups or fast-action shoots. These upgrades extend to user experience as well, with longer battery life and notably faster charging that help reduce downtime on set. The improved OLED touchscreen also makes adjustments quicker and more intuitive, especially during high-pressure filming situations.

• RS4 motors output 4.5Nm torque vs 3Nm on the RS3, giving 20% more power for heavier cinema rigs.
• Stronger motors improve low-mode tracking, reducing micro-shake when filming close to the ground.
• Able to stabilize RED Komodo, FX3, and Blackmagic 6K setups with mid-zoom lenses without drift.
• Battery life improved to 13 hours on the RS4 vs 12 hours on the RS3, better for long-day shoots.
• 46W PD fast charging cuts downtime nearly in half, essential for event and wedding filmmakers.
• RS4's OLED touchscreen is 30% more responsive, making menu navigation smoother during run-and-gun filming.
• The new UI adds quicker access to modes like 3D Roll 360, ActiveTrack Pro, and Timelapse presets.
• RS4 offers better thermal management, reducing overheating during long takes.
• The new stabilization algorithm handles faster directional changes with fewer jitters.

DJI gimbal comparison: Axis Locks, Vertical Shooting, and LiDAR Autofocus

DJI gimbal comparison shows that the RS4 is engineered for creators who prioritize speed and flexibility in their workflow. The magnetic quick-release axis locks streamline setup time, making it easy to switch between scenes and transport the gimbal without rebalancing. Another standout upgrade is its native vertical shooting system, which removes the need for extra adapters required by the RS3. Pair this with expanded LiDAR autofocus capabilities, and the RS4 becomes a more advanced tool for content creators working across different formats.

• RS4's magnetic quick-release axis locks are twice as fast as RS3's friction locks when packing or repositioning.
• Switching between tripod, handheld, and sling modes is faster thanks to improved lock alignment.
• Native 90° vertical shooting mode eliminates the need for a $100 tilt adapter on the RS3.
• RS4 avoids the hassle of rebalancing that RS3 encounters when switching to vertical mode.
• Built-in LiDAR autofocus supports ActiveTrack Pro, which tracks faces and objects with higher stability.
• RS4 integrates RavenEye 2.0 (in combo kits), providing sharper wireless monitoring with less latency.
• Better low-light focusing thanks to LiDAR subject mapping up to 20 meters.
• Ideal for creators producing Reels, TikToks, YouTube Shorts, and vertical ads without additional gear.
• The RS4's stronger roll axis improves walking shots and parallax movement compared to the RS3.

Stabilizer upgrade guide: Payload Behavior, Pricing, and Compatibility

Stabilizer upgrade guide comparisons show that while both models share a 3kg payload rating, the RS4 handles heavier builds more gracefully thanks to its redesigned motors. This means fewer counterweights, easier balancing, and better stability with cinema lenses. Pricing is also a major factor in buyers' decisions between the two models. The RS4 is more expensive, but it offers better long-term value—especially since it retains full compatibility with RS3 accessories, reducing upgrade costs.

• Both RS4 and RS3 carry 3kg payloads, but RS4 motors allow balancing 15% heavier camera-lens combos.
• RS4 supports more demanding builds, such as FX6 lightweight rigs with fewer counterweights.
• Better weight distribution reduces the need for fine-tune plate adjustments during lens changes.
• Pricing difference: RS4 $549, RS3 $389, giving RS3 excellent value for beginners.
• RS4 Combo adds RavenEye 2.0, LiDAR compatibility, and focus motor upgrades, worth $200+.
• RS3 accessories — plates, handles, grips, and tripods — are fully backward-compatible with the RS4.
• RS4 provides a better upgrade path for filmmakers planning to move into cinema cameras later.
• Long-term support favors RS4 with a better firmware roadmap and upcoming AI-tracking features.
• RS3 remains the best budget gimbal for traditional horizontal filmmaking under 2kg setups.

Conclusion

The DJI RS4 vs RS3 comparison shows clear distinctions that matter depending on your shooting style and equipment needs. With stronger 4.5Nm motors, native vertical shooting, improved axis locks, and LiDAR autofocus support, the RS4 introduces substantial workflow upgrades for modern creators. Its enhancements make the gimbal better suited for heavier cinema rigs, hybrid vertical/horizontal content, and professional-grade tracking scenarios. For those who demand maximum stabilization and creative flexibility, the RS4 stands out as a worthy next-generation tool.

On the other hand, the RS3's lower price point and reliable performance still make it one of the best stabilizers for mirrorless under-2kg setups. It remains the ideal choice for beginners, hobbyists, and budget-conscious filmmakers who primarily shoot horizontal content. Ultimately, your choice comes down to whether you prioritize cutting-edge features or practical affordability.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. DJI RS4 vs RS3 motor strength?

The RS4 features 4.5Nm torque motors that are roughly 20% stronger than those on the RS3. This added strength supports heavier camera bodies and lenses with reduced vibration. It also performs more consistently in low-mode and high-motion shots. For demanding setups, the RS4's motor upgrade provides a noticeable improvement.

2. Stabilizer upgrade guide vertical shooting?

Vertical shooting is where the RS4 shines, thanks to its native 90° rotation bracket. The RS3 requires a $100 mirror adapter and extra setup steps, which can slow down production. If you frequently create vertical content, the RS4 drastically simplifies your workflow. This makes it the better option for social-media-focused filmmakers.

3. Battery life DJI gimbal comparison?

Battery life between the two gimbals is very close, with the RS4 lasting about 13 hours and the RS3 about 12. The real advantage is the RS4's fast charging, which allows creators to recharge significantly faster. This reduces downtime during shoots and allows better scheduling flexibility. For long productions, fast charging can be a significant time-saver.

4. Do RS3 accessories work with RS4?

Yes, the RS4 maintains full backward compatibility with most RS3 accessories. This includes focus motors, plates, extended grips, and specific monitoring modules. Filmmakers upgrading from the RS3 won't need to repurchase essential parts. This compatibility reduces upgrade costs and preserves your existing setup.