Best Handle Grip for DJI RS 3 Pro
The DJI RS 3 Pro is a beast of a gimbal, capable of carrying heavy cinema rigs, but holding that weight for a 10-hour shoot can wreck your forearms. Finding the right handle grip isn’t just about comfort; it’s about unlocking new camera angles and mounting essential monitors. After testing various setups on long wedding days and indie sets, Iβve found that the SmallRig Dual Handgrip is the gold standard for stability, though several specialized options might better suit your specific shooting style.
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Best Handle Grip for DJI RS 3 Pro: Detailed Reviews
SmallRig Dual Handgrip 3027B View on Amazon
When you’re balancing a fully rigged Sony FX6 or a RED Komodo on the RS 3 Pro, a single-handed grip just won’t cut it. The SmallRig 3027B is my go-to because it distributes the weight across both arms, significantly reducing fatigue. It attaches via the gimbal’s NATO rails, meaning you can slide it on and off in seconds without fumbling with screws. The modularity is the real winner here; you can use it as a full dual-grip system or detach one side for a single handgrip setup. It features plenty of 1/4″-20 and ARRI 3/8″-16 locating holes, which I find essential for mounting a heavy 7-inch monitor and a wireless receiver. The only downside is the added bulk in your gear bag, but for the stability it provides during complex tracking shots, itβs a trade-off Iβm always willing to make.
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SmallRig Sling Handle 3028B View on Amazon
The SmallRig 3028B is perhaps the most practical accessory for the RS 3 Pro. If you find yourself shooting “briefcase mode” (low to the ground) frequently, this handle is a revelation. Unlike the standard DJI briefcase handle, this one features a more ergonomic silicone grip and an adjustable rosette joint that allows for 180 degrees of movement. I often tilt it back slightly to act as a secondary stabilizer for high-angle shots as well. Itβs incredibly lightweight and includes two cold shoe mountsβperfect for a microphone and a small LED light. Iβve noticed that the locking lever is much sturdier than cheaper alternatives, ensuring the handle doesn’t slip when you’re moving fast. While it doesn’t offer the two-handed control of a dual grip, for the price and versatility, itβs the best value upgrade you can buy for your gimbal kit.
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Neewer Foldable Sling Grip View on Amazon
If you’ve already spent a fortune on the RS 3 Pro and a new lens, the Neewer Foldable Sling Grip is a fantastic way to save a few bucks without sacrificing build quality. Itβs made of CNC-machined aluminum and feels surprisingly premium for the price. The standout feature is its ability to fold down flat, making it much easier to pack into a standard camera backpack compared to the more rigid SmallRig options. It connects via the NATO port and offers a comfortable non-slip grip. While the adjustment mechanism isn’t quite as smooth as a high-end rosette joint, it holds its position firmly once tightened. You might miss some of the extra mounting points found on more expensive models, but for basic briefcase-style shooting and weight relief, itβs an absolute steal that performs way above its weight class.
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SmallRig Wireless Control Handgrip 3919 View on Amazon
For those who want total control without ever touching the gimbal body, the SmallRig 3919 is a game-changer. This isn’t just a piece of metal; itβs a high-tech interface. It features a magnetic wireless remote controller that allows you to trigger video recording, control the joystick, and switch between gimbal modes directly from the handle. Iβve found this incredibly useful when the RS 3 Pro is mounted on a jib or a car rig, as the remote can be detached and used from up to 100 meters away. The build is exceptionally rugged, designed to handle the high torque of the RS 3 Proβs motors. Itβs significantly more expensive than a standard grip, and the need to keep the remote charged is an extra step in your workflow, but for high-end productions where precision is paramount, it is worth every penny.
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DJI RS Briefcase Handle View on Amazon
Sometimes, staying within the manufacturer’s ecosystem is the safest bet. The official DJI Briefcase Handle is designed specifically for the RS series and fits like a glove. Itβs incredibly low-profile and doesn’t require any NATO rail adapters if you’re using the RS 3 Proβs built-in ports. I like it for minimalist travel kits where I don’t want the extra bulk of third-party cages. It features a built-in cold shoe and a 1/4″-20 mounting hole for a monitor. However, compared to the SmallRig 3028B, it lacks the same range of adjustability and the grip isn’t quite as comfortable for long periods. Itβs a solid, dependable tool that gets the job done without any fuss. If you want a “buy it and forget it” accessory that matches your gimbalβs aesthetics perfectly, this is the one.
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Buying Guide: How to Choose a Handle Grip for DJI RS 3 Pro
Comparison Table
| Product | Best For | Rating | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| SmallRig 3027B | Heavy Cinema Rigs | β β β β β | Check |
| SmallRig 3028B | Briefcase Mode | β β β β β | Check |
| Neewer Foldable | Travel & Budget | β β β β β | Check |
| SmallRig 3919 | Wireless Control | β β β β β | Check |
| DJI Briefcase | Minimalist Native | β β β β β | Check |
Frequently Asked Questions
Will these handles fit the RS 2 or RS 3 standard?
Yes, most handles designed for the RS 3 Pro are backward compatible with the DJI RS 2 and forward compatible with the RS 3 and RS 4 series. This is because they use the standardized NATO rail mounts located on the sides of the gimbal. However, always double-check the specific model number, as some very early RS models used different mounting patterns. The SmallRig 3027B and 3028B are specifically verified to fit the entire modern RS ecosystem.
Do I need a dual handle or a single sling handle?
It depends on your camera’s weight. If you’re shooting with a mirrorless camera like an A7S III or R5, a single sling handle is often enough to provide relief and low-angle versatility. However, if you’re using a cinema camera with a heavy lens and V-mount battery, a dual handle is essential. It allows you to use your back and shoulders to support the weight rather than just your wrists, leading to much smoother footage.
What is ‘Briefcase Mode’ and why does the handle matter?
Briefcase mode is when you flip the gimbal upside down or hold it by a top handle to get shots very close to the ground. Without a proper handle, this puts immense strain on your hand as you try to grip the narrow gimbal battery. A dedicated sling handle provides an ergonomic grip point above the center of gravity, making these dramatic low-angle tracking shots significantly easier to execute and much more stable.
Can I mount a monitor on these handles?
Absolutely. In fact, that’s one of the main reasons to buy them. Most professional handles include 1/4″-20 threaded holes or cold shoe mounts specifically for this purpose. Using an articulating monitor arm attached to your handle allows you to position the screen exactly where you need it, which is vital when the gimbal’s built-in screen is obscured by the camera body or when you’re shooting at awkward angles.
Is the wireless control handle worth the extra money?
For solo operators, the SmallRig 3919 wireless handle is a massive upgrade. It allows you to change settings and start/stop recording without reaching for the camera or the gimbal’s main body, which can often cause unwanted micro-jitters in your footage. Itβs also invaluable if you ever mount your gimbal on a car or a tripod-mounted jib, giving you full remote control over the gimbalβs movement from a distance of up to 100 meters.
Final Verdict
If you are a professional filmmaker working with heavy cinema cameras, the SmallRig Dual Handgrip 3027B is a non-negotiable addition to your RS 3 Pro. For the average run-and-gun creator, the SmallRig 3028B Sling Handle offers the best balance of ergonomics and price. If youβre just starting out or need something for travel, the Neewer Foldable Grip provides excellent relief for your wrists without taking up much room in your bag.