The modular design of the MVG300XM presents a level of adaptability that you wouldn’t naturally associate with a gimbal, while its compatibility with the Manfrotto MOVE Quick Release system means you can connect the stabiliser to the Manfrotto GimBoom for a jib or a boom shot and then quickly switch back to the original handheld gimbal configuration.
The MOVE Quick release system is so effortless and intuitive, that it practically knows what shot you want before you do.
With its sleek, black metallic finish and weighing a hefty 2kg out of the box, the MVG300XM is frankly an intimidating sight.
Inside the carry case, you’ll find an instructional diagram showing how to correctly break down and fold the gimbal away after each shoot.
Sometimes finding the ‘closed’ position for a gimbal at the end of a shoot can often feel like you’re trying to crack the Enigma Code, so the addition of an assembly diagram for the MVG300XM is a very welcome sight.
While lighter (and cheaper) stabilisers can easily be operated with one hand the MVG300XM has a rear supporting arm, meaning you can operate the gimbal with two hands if need be, which is ideal if you’re shooting on a heavier camera body.
The stabiliser has a maximum payload of 3.4kg, meaning it is compatible with a wide range of cameras, including Mirrorless and DSLR bodies. The name of the game with the MVG300XM is modularity.
Thanks to this modular build you can easily integrate the existing kit into the assembly of the MVG300XM. For example, you can detach the remote control handle and attach it to the base of Manfrotto’s GimBoom, meaning you can extend the stabilised shooting radius to just over 2 meters while maintaining complete stabiliser functionality.
Equally, with the wireless technology in the stabiliser handle, the MVG300XM head can also be mounted on tripods and sliders to function as a fully remote shooting system via Manfrotto’s dedicated app.
The MVG300XM’s universal compatibility, dedicated gimbal and handle batteries, not to mention an impressive battery life (10 hours) sets the MVG300XM apart from similar gimbals like the Zhiyun Crane M3.
The two major features of the MVG300XM that enhance the user experience are the intuitive LCD touch screen and the multifunсtiоnal control knob.
The A and B buttons enable you to set up shooting points that can precisely replicate shots. The quick start manual shows you how to balance the roll, tilt, and pan each axis one by one so that the gimbal won’t struggle to keep the camera level when you’re operating it.
Each of the 3 axis arms has an adjustable red marker which helps you quickly mark (and find) the perfect balance when you reattach a particular camera as well. It’s this frictionless user experience that really sets the MVG300XM apart from its rivals.
As impressive as the Manfrotto MVG300XM is, it is not without its flaws. Despite the impressive build quality of the stabiliser, the arms don’t slide as easily as I had expected when setting up the gimbal.
I was using the MVG300XM outside on a shoot and had to step to one side in order to balance the gimbal as the initial setup left noticeable camera shake in certain key positions, which was incredibly frustrating, to put it mildly.
Thankfully the auto-tune mode remedied the issue very quickly. The obvious benefits of modularity notwithstanding the connectivity of the control handle can be temperamental depending on your surroundings and your configuration of the gimbal.
Verdict 4/5
The gimbal market is a very competitive field where the likes of Zhiyun and DJI are constantly vying for the attention of filmmakers, content creators, and budding influencers alike.
However, what sets the Manfrotto MVG300XM apart from its rivals is the innovative approach to modularity, not to mention the incorporation of multi-functionality, especially with the app.
I can certainly see other brands trying to imitate the MOVE quick release system as when it works well it is virtually seamless, especially if you’re looking to ‘gun and run’.
The addition of a GimBoom to the MVG300XM also gives you a much wider range of possibilities when you’re shooting. However, with its high price point, the MVG300XM is by no means an entry-level gimbal. This is a serious piece of kit for serious filmmakers.
The Manfrotto MVG300XM is available from www.wexphotovideo.com and www.manfrotto.co.uk starting at £549
