DJI Ronin 4D 8K Rental | Stabilized Cinema Camera at Expressway

 Why Filmmakers Fell in Love with “The Chicken Cam”

Since its introduction in 2021, the DJI Ronin 4D has been a breath of fresh air for filmmakers seeking cinematic quality in a compact package. The 8K version, released at the end of 2023, adds a full-frame Zenmuse X9-8K sensor, and by mid-2025, it has become a benchmark thanks to its integrated design, four-axis stabilization and LiDAR focusing system. Frequently referred to as “The Chicken Cam,” the 4D combines camera, gimbal, monitor, recorder and focus control in a single unit — while also happening to resemble a chicken. 

 

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Key technical specifications

• Sensor and resolution: Firstly, it captures up to 8K at 60 fps in DCI or 75 fps in a 2.39:1 aspect ratio, and 4K at 120 fps — recording in ProRes RAW, ProRes 422 HQ and H.264. Furthermore, its fast readout supports controlled motion without rolling-shutter artifacts.
• Dynamic range & dual ISO: Meanwhile, DJI claims the sensor offers up to 14.7 stops of dynamic range with dual ISO 320/1600 (or 800/4000 expanded). As a result, highlights and shadows keep more detail in tough lighting.
• Four-axis stabilization: The Z-axis reduces vertical steps and vibrations while walking. Moreover, ActiveTrack and LiDAR focusing project 43,000 points at 10 m to keep manual focus sharp.
• Integrated ND filters: These provide 1/2 to 1/512 coverage for professional exposure consistency.
• Modular design: In addition, mounts include DL, E, L, M, PL with recording to CFexpress, PROSSD 1 TB or external SSDs.
• Weight & battery: Approx. 4.67 kg fully built; 150 minutes of runtime on TB50 batteries under optimal conditions. However, real-world times decrease at higher resolutions.

 

Use cases & advantages

The Ronin 4D adapts to a wide range of production needs. Its compact, all-in-one form enables fast setups and dynamic shots that typically require larger crews and rigs.

For example, from single-take sequences to fast-paced shoots or live events, the Ronin 4D can adapt to almost anything:

• Handheld (Solo operator)

• Handheld with Remote Operator

— DJI HighBrite Motor with hand grip controls (included in our rental kit)
— Remote wheels (like our Alpha Nodo Wheels)
— Joystick

• Jib or Dolly Mounted

• Tethered via the Flex Extension Unit

• Hardmounted with Remote Operator

 

Expressway’s 4D Package

Expressway’s 4D Package comes fully loaded and ready to roll. This all-in-one kit includes the Ronin 4D camera body paired with the X9-8K sensor, the 4D TX2 video transmitter for seamless wireless monitoring, the 4D Expansion Plate (adding SDI output, XLR audio input, and timecode sync), DL and E lens mounts, and the DJI 17–28mm T3 PZ ASPH lens.

Beyond the essentials, Expressway’s 4D Package also includes key add-ons that enhance flexibility for every type of shoot.

 

On top of that, you can expand your 4D setup with any of these must-have add-ons (because who doesn’t love more gear?):

• DJI High-Bright Remote Monitor
• DJI Transmission Wireless Video Receivers
• DJI Focus Pro
• Cooke SP3 Lenses
• Nodo Inertia Wheels

 

Notable productions

• Civil War (2024, Alex Garland) — used for dynamic tracking and action inserts supporting Sony VENICE 2.
• Meanwhile, Adolescence (2025, Netflix) — employed a one-take approach using Z-axis + LiDAR for navigation in tight interiors.
• Lastly, F1 (2025, Joseph Kosinski) — featured Claudio Miranda operating the Ronin 4D handheld inside Formula 1 vehicles, while VENICE 2 remained the A-camera.

 

Where it fits in the workflow

For instance, the Ronin 4D is best compared as a streamlined alternative to:

• Sony FX3 + DJI gimbal
• Sony Burano + handheld rig

✅ Stabilization
✅ Monitoring
✅ Wireless
✅ Focus
✅ Recording media

→ All in one, reducing build complexity and speeding up production.

As such, it is a perfect complement to larger-format cinema systems.

 

 

Other recent milestones

• To start, the Flex Tether Kit support for separating the camera head in tight spaces
• Additionally, firmware updates enable continuous AF with E-mount lenses.
  
• Finally, price reductions in 2025 improved accessibility. 

 

Built for Real-World Production, Not Lab Demos

The DJI Ronin 4D 8K merges cinema-quality imaging with extreme mobility. Its dynamic range and ~5 kg weight are trade-offs to consider for long handheld days. Also, 8K demands robust storage solutions.

However:
• ProRes RAW internal
• ACES-ready workflow
• 4-axis stability
• Rental-ready kits at Expressway

→ Make the 4D a go-to tool for documentaries, commercials, and ambitious one-shot sequences. And hey, if a camera keeps your shot level like a bird and looks vaguely like one too… 🐔🎥 …it’s probably the Ronin 4D.

In short, if your production needs cinematic quality with fast deployment — the Ronin 4D 8K at Expressway is ready to roll.