To Gimbal or Not to Gimbal

[NorcoT]

Hey all, my quad recently has been going on a weight lost program, downsized the frame, got rid of a whole bundle of splitter wires and then I got to the Gimbal.. I have a cheap eBay job but it works very well and the videos look awesomely smooth.

Now the problem is the complete gimbal with controller weighs just under 200g. Thats 15% increase in weight which my quad can lift but pushes the motors to 65% throttle to hover and decreases battery life by about 2 or 3 minutes. I';ve even tried taking off on of the gimbal motor and having pitch only gimbal which saves 75g.

I';ve watched videos with Gimbals and they look cinematic and pro, then i';ve watched hard mounted FPV videos which look great as they give you that feeling of being onboard and flying.

I';m undecided still and I know its personal preference but im just wondering what the preferences are on here? Gimbal? or No Gimbal?

[Friskle]

I don';t know if you can answer that really, what you want from your video is down to personal choice and what the intention of the video is for.

Personally for gov, I prefer the stationary camera, the " in the cockpit view" so to speak, but for videoing something for prosperity, then its gimbal all the way.

[Sweet Pickle]

I think to convey speed and agility direct mount all the way. This is really noticable in adding to the feel of 250 frame size footage. The resulting video is sharp edgy and exciting. Larger units that don';t covey speed but rely on cinematics need a gimbal. Jerky footage from a slow moving multi from hundreds of feet up looks naff.
I guess it all depends on what you';re trying to achieve. Can';t quite speak from experience as my gimbal escapades are fast becoming a lengthy battle of dogged determination. Pretty much sums this entire hobby up at the minute if truth be told. 

[NorcoT]

Thanks for your replies,  gives me somw good food for thought. i did start off wanting to do smooth filming and footage but now ive started on the fpv route im thinking i want the agility factor in the viseos.

I don';t expect someone to be able to answer which I should go for, just seeing what everyone';s thoughts are on the subject.

I';ve got it direct mounted now to give it a go