Zhiyun Weebill Lab Worth It In 2023? Gimbal Review

by | Reviews, Stabilization

The Zhiyun Weebill Lab is a compact and lightweight gimbal stabilizer that was released in 2018 and quickly gained popularity among photographers and videographers.

But with the constantly evolving world of camera technology, it’s natural to wonder whether the Weebill Lab is still worth it in 2023.

In short, the Zhiyun Weebill Lab is still a great gimbal with excellent functionality and impressive features, considering its affordability and small size.

Keep reading as we take a closer look at the Zhiyun Weebill S and compare it to other models on the market to help you decide if it is the right gimbal for you.

The Zhiyun Weebill Lab At A Glance

  • Easy to use
  • Great for beginners
  • Approximately 10-hour battery life
  • Payload capacity of 6.6 lb
  • Cinematic shooting modes, such as timelapse, motionlapse, and panoramic
The Zhiyun Weebill Lab

Is The Zhiyun Weebill Lab Worth Still Worth It In 2023?

One of the biggest selling points of the Weebill Lab is its compact size and lightweight design. At just 1.1 pounds, it is one of the smallest and lightest gimbal stabilizers on the market, making it easy to take with you on the go.

This lightweight design is still a highly desirable feature in 2023, as many videographers prefer for gear that is portable and easy to transport.

In terms of performance, the Weebill Lab delivers smooth and stable footage thanks to its three-axis motorized gimbal.

It uses advanced algorithms to detect and correct for movements and vibrations, ensuring that your footage is always crisp and steady.

Overall, the Zhiyun Weebill Lab is still a solid choice for videographers in 2023 — especially now that it can be found on the used market at very reasonable prices.

Its compact size, lightweight design, and reliable performance make it a versatile tool for capturing smooth and stable footage. While it may not have all the advanced features of newer gimbal models, it is still worth considering if you are in the market for a gimbal stabilizer.

Weebill Lab Vs. Weebill S & Weebill 2

If you’re in the market for a gimbal stabilizer, you may be wondering how the older Zhiyun Weebill Lab compares to the newer models, the Zhiyun Weebill S and Zhiyun Weebill 2.

Here’s a comparison of the three gimbals to help you make an informed decision.

One of the main differences between the three gimbals is their size and weight.

The Weebill Lab is the smallest and lightest of the three, weighing just 1.1 pounds. The Weebill S is slightly larger and heavier, weighing 1.4 pounds, while the Weebill 2 is the largest and heaviest of the three, weighing 1.8 pounds.

If portability is a top priority for you, the Weebill Lab may be the best choice.

Both the Zhiyun Weebill S and Zhiyun Weebill 2 have stronger motors, more adjustable parameters, and a larger payload capacity compared to the normal Weebill Lab. They also have better motor locks and levers for securing the camera to the gimbal.

In terms of performance, all three gimbals use advanced algorithms to detect and correct for movements and vibrations, ensuring that your footage is always smooth and stable.

The Weebill S and Weebill 2 offer additional performance features, such as a higher follow speed and a wider range of motion, which may be beneficial for certain types of shots.

The only advantage of the Weebill Lab is its built-in image transmitter, but it is not highly regarded. The Weebill S also has the added feature of motion control using a phone.

Overall, all three gimbals offer reliable performance and are suitable for capturing smooth and stable footage.

The choice between the Weebill Lab, Weebill S, and Weebill 2 will ultimately depend on your specific needs and preferences — as well as your budget.

The Weebill Lab is an affordable, compact, and lightweight option with a solid set of features, while the Weebill S and Weebill 2 offer additional advanced features and a wider range of compatibility at higher prices.

All three Zhiyun gimbals offer reliable performance and are suitable for capturing smooth and stable footage

Zhiyun Weebill Lab Stabilization Modes

The Zhiyun Weebill Lab offers six modes of operation. These are largely the same modes offered by both the newer Zhiyun Weebill 2 and most other Zhiyun gimbals on the market today.

POV Mode

POV Mode allows 360-degree movement on all three axes. It also lets you use “Vortex Mode,” which allows you to achieve 360-degree spinning barrel shots.

Go Mode

Go Mode lets you operate your gimbal at n increased speed to capture extreme sports or other fast-paced events.

PF Mode

PF Mode lets the camera pan as you turn the gimbal left and right. This feature is useful for capturing hyper-lapse footage.

F Mode

F Mode allows your camera to follow the movement of the gimbal handle.

L Mode

L Mode lets you keep a subject in focus while allowing you to mimic jib and dolly movements.

Read More: Gimbal Modes Explained: How To Pick The Right One

Zhiyun Weebill Lab Advanced Features

ViaTouch Control System

The Zhiyun Weebill lab boasts a “ViaTouch Control System” that allows users to easily control every aspect of the gimbal and camera using a single phone screen.

This system enables you to make various gimbal movements and camera adjustments while framing shots, making it just as simple to film on a camera as it is on a phone.

Wireless Image Transmission

The Zhiyun Weebill Lab’s wireless image transmission allows for real-time monitoring, framing, and parameter control of your camera.

Its compatibility with smartphones and tablets means that you can use most digital devices as a monitor.

With live preview and the ability to adjust parameters in real-time, you have the flexibility to frame and capture shots from any angle or perspective.

Zhiyun Weebill Lab Key Specs

Battery Life

The Zhiyun Weebill Lab has a built-in battery that will last around 6-10 hours on a single charge.

This battery life is acceptable, though many newer gimbals do offer significantly more battery life than this.

Payload

In terms of payload, or the gimbal’s maximum weight capacity, the Zhiyun Weebill Lab is able to support up to 6.6 lb.

This should be more than enough for most average-sized cameras on the market today.

Read More: Gimbal Payloads: Ultimate Weight Limit Comparison

Camera Compatibility

The Zhiyun Weebill Lab has wide camera compatibility, working with almost any brand of camera.

Where To Buy The Zhiyun Weebill Lab in 2023

The Zhiyun Weebill Lab is no longer available on the Zhiyun Website.

However, the gimbal is widely available on the used market, just be sure to do your due diligence when purchasing a used gimbal.

Read More: Buying A Used Gimbal: The Pros, Cons, and Potential Risks

Bottom Line

The Zhiyun Weebill Lab is still a great gimbal to purchase.

While the upgraded Zhiyun Weebill S and Zhiyun Weebill 2 may offer higher payloads, longer battery life and more features, the Zhiyun Weebill Lab will still function perfectly well at a lower price.

So, if you’re looking for a new gimbal, the Zhiyun Weebill Lab is still worth considering in 2023.

Happy shooting!

New To Gimbals?

With so much to learn, mastering your new gimbal can be hard. Get started with our in-depth beginner guide to gimbal filmmaking.