8 Best Camera Rigs for DSLR and Camcorders in 2024

The best camera rigs with reliable mounts and advanced upgrade options.

If your goal is to improve the handling of a camera and expand its number of potential shooting styles, check out this variety of camera rigs. They represent handy equipment pieces that allow photographers and moviemakers to have more control over the camera’s functionality while mounting various lights, monitors, and flags to it.

Most photographers prefer shoulder and chest-mounted models. Such camera rigs are often compact, and lightweight and can fit into either your regular camera bag or special kit.

Moreover, you have to understand that the best camera rig can fulfill the same purpose as a gimbal, while also being suitable for connecting a broader selection of accessories including lights, mics, and monitors offering enough support for all the added weight.

You can get a solid camera rig for as low as $69 or invest as much as $995 if you want to get one of the high-end models. In this post, we’re going to go over different options that offer the most versatility for both videography and photography projects of all kinds.

Even though each camera cage rig is unique, all models listed below share some features while offering different levels of complexity. In its basic shape, a camera cage is designed to be wrapped around the device while offering various mounting options that can be used for handle grips, follow focus gear, cold shoe mounts, various thread mounts, ARRI-type attachment points, and NATO rails.

If you’re looking for the best camera rig for professional use and have a large enough budget, you can check out some chest or body-attached stabilization models that allow you to achieve brilliant results. However, they cost a lot more, are significantly bigger, and require quite a bit of skill and patience to be set up correctly.

Material: Aluminum | Dimensions: 19.2x11.5x7.5 cm | Weight: 300g | Compatibility: Blackmagic Pocket Cinema Camera 6K/4K | Camera Mounting Thread: 1/4"-20, 3/8"16 & ARRI Accessory Threads

The biggest advantage of the Tilta Full Camera Cage is its modular build. It allows you to start with a minimal set of gear and expand it with additional accessories as time goes on. Since the majority of rig builds employ identical fittings, you can freely combine parts made by different brands. Developed primarily for DSLR cameras, it provides access to the camera port, battery, SD-card, and heat dissipation holes, meaning you won’t need to take it apart if you run out of power or free memory.

You mount the camera with the help of top and bottom ¼”-20 screws while supporting it with locating pins and rubber. It’s also worth noting that the main parameters correspond with popular cameras, which makes this device incredibly universal. It’s supplied with NATO rails and ARRI locating holes for connecting different accessories. Currently, the price for this system stands at $99.

Material: High-grade plastic and aluminum | Dimensions: 13x13x6 inches | Weight: 4,5 kg | Compatibility: Universal | Camera Mounting Thread: ¼" – 20 Screw, baseplate and accessory mounting

The Filmcity DSLR Support Rig can offer an incredibly smooth shooting experience. I like that it provides several mounting points that allow you to set the height and angle of the camera to create the perfect conditions. I should also mention the straight bracket that can be paired with 15-mm rails, which will help you align the camera in the center to establish superior eye-line contact with the camera display.

This device is supplied with a lightweight 4 by 4 matte box that is a perfect fit for any camera with a regular or wide-angle lens up to 95mm in diameter. It serves as a lens hood that gets rid of all distracting lens glares. Another pleasant addition are the Knicker wraps around the barrel that can eliminate the light that falls onto the lenses entirely. This rig can support a weight of up to 5kg while being priced at $185.

Material: Aluminium | Dimensions: 149.5x111x65mm | Weight: 286g | Compatibility: Nikon Z7 II, Z6 II, Z7, Z6, and Z5 | Camera Mounting Thread: 1/4"-20 Screw, and multiple 1/4"-20, 3/8"-16, anti-twist 3/8"-16 threads

This camera cage rig was made exclusively for Nikon products, namely five models from the Z5 to the Z7 II, which is why it’s the optimal option for photographers who have multiple cameras from this series or want to upgrade their kit without buying a new cage. Since you get to decide when and how you're going to improve your device, the upgrading process becomes a lot more straightforward and cost-efficient since you'll be able to reuse older gear. This product also includes an FTZ lens adapter as well as support for two cable types – HDMI and USB.

The kit comes with a slotted screwdriver with an Allen key that is used for mounting the camera screw. Additionally, the rig offers a slit on both sides that can be used as a carrying strap. I also appreciate the built-in cold shoe mount for lights and other gear. You can get this product for as cheap as $69.

Material: Aluminum alloy, ABS | Dimensions: 15.35 x 6.69 x 3.94 inches | Weight: 1.33 kg | Compatibility: DSLR and small camcorder | Camera Mounting Thread: 1/4” and 3/8” screws

This shoulder camera rig offers an extremely comfortable shooting experience as well as an immense sense of stability, which is crucial if you’re organizing a multi-hour photoshoot or want to record clear footage. It can be used with the vast majority of popular cameras made by Nikon, Canon, and Fujifilm. Its 15-mm rods are used for supporting the camera while the 60-mm gauge rod rails let you tweak the placement of each unit.

The provided rods are composed of aluminum alloy that offers satisfying durability. The handgrips are pleasant to the touch and secure a tight grip when used in handheld mode. The quick-release plate is reinforced with rubber padding and ¼" and 3/8" screws that are used for tightly mounting the camera. You can buy this rig for just $79.

Material: anodized aluminum| Dimensions: 68.58 x 22.86 x 19.05 cm | Weight: 2.72 kg | Compatibility: DSLR and small camcorder | Camera Mounting Thread: 1/4"-20, 3/8"-16 & M4-7 Connection Points

This lightweight DLSR rig provides unmatched compatibility for DSLRs as well as compact camcorders. This shoulder model provides convenient camera positioning and simple adjustments at eye level. The set comes with foam grip handles that make it more convenient, movable arms for repositioning, a base plate, and an offset element that supports further eye-level positioning. One of the key parameters of this device are the 15-mm rods that are used for follow focus mechanisms and matte boxes.

This cage rig provides terrific balance while letting you effortlessly attach multiple accessories. Mounts are different in size and come with several attachments for rods and rails. A mount that comes with a quick-release plate also simplifies the process of switching between cameras when trying out different setups. The current price for this photography gadget stands at $399.

Material: Aluminum, stainless steel, foam rubber | Dimensions: 60 x 26 x 40 cm (Baseplate) | Weight: 3.4 kg | Compatibility: DSLR cameras and camcorders | Camera Mounting Thread: 1/4"-20 Screw

If you’re frequently dealing with bulky full frame cameras, then this is the option for you, as it offers superior stabilization and can remain perfectly balanced in challenging photoshoot or recording conditions. If needed, you can also add a counterweight by employing a pair of screw holes at the back.

It’s worth noting that this product offers terrific durability thanks to its metallic build and plastic doors. It’s supplied with a matte box and 15-mm rail rods. It also offers lined shoulder pads to ensure it’s more comfortable to use. You can pair this rig with 20 universal base mounts. You can get this product for $89.95.

Material: Aluminum and carbon fiber | Dimensions: 33x15.2x8.9 cm (Baseplate) | Weight: 1.3kg | Compatibility: Universal | Camera Mounting Thread: 1/4"-20 Screw, 3/8"-16 Screw

This system is perfect for professionals since it requires you to understand how to properly set up and operate it. It can be used with other products like the ES-T12 Sony PMW-F5/F55 Rig aScarlet Rig, allowing you to mix and match different parts as you see fit. This system is pleasantly customizable while still being reliable. It weighs about 3.98lb and is made of aluminum alloy and stainless steel.

The Tilta Universal Shoulder Rig is equipped with a 19-mm rail system. It also lets you adjust the center of the handle and has a shoulder pad that can be adjusted to your needs. You can further improve the performance of this rig with the help of the mounted follow focus, terrific handgrip, 3 support arms, and in-depth lens support. The rig ensures impeccable handling and offers a rolling case that lets you better arrange all available components. This device is priced at $989.

Material: Aluminium, carbon fiber | Dimensions: 64.8x90.2cm | Weight: 4.4kg | Compatibility: Universal | Camera Mounting Thread: 3/8-16” via AERO sled base plate

This universal system is built for long carrying and can support a camera that is up to 4.5kg in weight. It’s a great option for professionals who often deal with long video recording sessions. It’s also perfect for ads and clips since it offers 2 stabilization options. It’s equipped with an A-15 vest that is used for connecting the arm, which makes it simpler to operate and support. The rig provides a broad vertical motion range along with a “low mode”.

The system is made of aluminum and carbon fiber, which makes it more lightweight. The rig also has a telescopic carbon fiber post and a quick release plate that ensures making adjustments is simple and intuitive. The entire set will send you back $995.

When you’re picking your first rig, you can feel tempted to acquire a colossus of scaffolding and wires. However, your choice of rig should be determined by how, what, and where you're typically organizing your photoshoots.

Location. If you often take photos from your skateboard, you’ll need to use сompact cameras that don’t limit your movement freedom. That said, if you’re mostly working in a studio and using a tripod, then you can get as complex of a rig as you want.

Rig design. When picking the best camera rig for your needs, think about the body's joints and the ways they impact camera movement and user fatigue. Ordinarily, the shake that appears in handheld camera photos is caused by your wrists. The rig handles need to help you ensure both elbows are touching your torso, as such a stance will allow you to get rid of any camera movement.

Weight. If you have experience using a big camera in handheld mode, you probably know that the increased weight helps you take steadier photos. Bigger shoulder-mounted cameras are developed to ensure their gravity center is placed over the shoulder. The key here is to check if the rig is properly balanced.

Compatibility with other gear. Before you pick your first DLSR rig, memorize your camera’s dimensions and weight, and study the support gear that you’re using currently. Remember that the rig will add more weight to your setup so you have to determine whether your tripod or other support can manage it before committing to a choice. If you like to take photos on the go, give preference to basic rig models. On the other hand, if you’re mostly doing pre-planned shoots, the additional support and accessories provided by more complex models is the way to go.

Cage features. Other than offering a mount for the camera, the cage serves to protect its body. It also offers mounting points for accessories. Additionally, a lot of models are equipped with cable clamps that help secure different cables in place. Keep in mind that multi-hour photoshoots with DSLR cameras may require multiple battery swaps. When picking a rig, ensure it allows you to access the battery compartment at any time.

Rods and rails. These elements are used for linearly connecting accessories to the rig. Rods typically follow the 15-mm standard for lightweight equipment and 19-mm for bulkier gear. The most popular rail types are ARRI and NATO. You can employ them for connecting a broad selection of components like top handles, monitor arms, cable clamps, etc.

Rosettes. Rosettes let you mount gear at various angles. They’re particularly efficient at connecting handles. Rosettes are available in different sizes, with the ARRI type being the most popular standard.

Handles. Attaching a top handle will allow you to record smoother footage when doing low-level shots. It also makes transportation more convenient. That said, be wary of attaching the top handle to the cold or hot shoe of your DSLR since they aren't typically built to be weight-bearing.