Rating of the best video sliders and skaters for 2022

The best manufacturers try to please their fans in everything. They produce "smart" kitchen appliances, unique detergents, come up with all sorts of devices to make life easier for people. But do not forget about the pleasure. Now it is fashionable to lead an active lifestyle: visit exotic countries, conquer mountain peaks, ride skateboards, surf the seas and oceans. And why not share your experience with your friends? It is necessary to shoot everything and present it in the form of a photo report. Keeping a video camera in your hands is inconvenient and unsafe. Glide tracks will come to the rescue. The camera will move back and forth without your participation. And no shaking! When equipping the slider with an active head, you can shoot 360 degrees!

What modern devices for video filming are

Let's start with a device such as a slider. It can be purchased at specialized retail outlets, or ordered online in an online store. Refers to the optional video shooting accessories. Designed for smooth movement of the camera in space. Able to quickly and easily create the effect of camera movement, by analogy with the Dolly rail system. It will be an excellent replacement for the crane arrow. A frequent visitor to car dealerships. Present at the shooting of the interior of residential premises.

All popular models differ in characteristics, material of manufacture, functionality. What is the best product to buy depends on personal preferences. But in order to avoid mistakes when choosing, you need to understand for yourself what it actually is.

Glidetracks fall under the category of cinematic instruments. Used quite often. Irreplaceable assistants to the operator. Our viewing of amazing static footage is the result of their work.

Equipment sometimes replaces a rail system with a trolley.The rating of quality goods is headed by devices that allow to achieve the effect of smooth movement (sliding) of video equipment in space. Today, specialized outlets will present a choice of products of different sizes and configurations, for every taste and budget, for domestic use and industrial innovative designs. The popularity of universal models of both Chinese and Russian production is growing every year.

What to look for when choosing a product? on design features. This can significantly affect the operational life: if it gets into water or sand, the device will completely break down and will not be subject to restoration. The best devices, according to buyers, are those that are not afraid of adverse shooting conditions, withstand significant loads and at the same time give excellent results. Any videographer will confirm this.

Before becoming the owner of a miracle technique, you need to check with the sales manager or find out on your own which manufacturer has provided mounts for a tripod or stand. Do not lose sight of the possibility of mounting your chosen video head. The most convenient way is to use a tripod or stand to mount the slider. Then it will be easy and simple to operate. If the tripod is weak, the camera may tilt, which will adversely affect the quality of the pictures.

Scope of use

The most commonly used glide track is for horizontal panning. There is nothing difficult in this. It is enough to qualitatively set the level of the horizon. Be sure to leave a margin for overclocking. Then, with smooth movements, we “transport” the device to the side. In addition to the movement itself, you can install a head on the equipment to turn the camera.This will allow the filming device to rotate. And in any direction. If you do everything quickly and take intermittent movements, then a rolling shutter effect can occur. You won't be able to enjoy the picture.

Another area of ​​application is the departure or approach to the target. The technique is as follows: at first there is nothing in the picture, and suddenly the desired object appears instantly. The complexity of the process lies in the fact that in order to obtain a positive result, there is no need to open the diaphragms too much. It is best to first identify and remember the breakpoint.

There are times when it is necessary to remove oblique or vertical slides. Here it is necessary to qualitatively set the tripod so that it takes the necessary and only correct position. The difficulty lies in the fact that the camera is too heavy for smooth wiring.

If you have a camera with a slider, you can refocus the lens during the sliding period. Initially, a certain object is located in the defocus zone, and does not fall into the frame. As the equipment moves, the object begins to move and appears where it is allocated space. You have to do several simultaneous smooth movements for this, and this is quite difficult. As a rule, these manipulations are done by several operators: one rotates the focus, while the other moves the camera.

Sliders are of the following types:

• mechanical;
• with electric drive.

Which is better to buy depends on the application and experience with this type of photography equipment. For professionals, an electric slider is more suitable. For beginners, the best option is a glide track up to 1 meter long, in which the slider moves smoothly. The rails are made of aluminium.The maximum load indicator is one and a half kilograms. Which firm is better? Perhaps Rhino Slider.

It is worth noting that products can be purchased at company stores, ordered from China using Ali Express services, or made independently at home. For those who decide to make a device with their own hands, but do not thoroughly know how to do it, step-by-step instructions are posted on the Internet. It describes the necessary materials and components, as well as step-by-step actions. Everything is simple and clear. The opinion that home-made devices are inferior in quality to factory counterparts is erroneous.

The essence of the slider

Depending on what task is to be solved with the help of special equipment, slides are produced:

View	Description
transitional	The result is a gluing of frames that were obtained during the smooth movement of the slider in one direction. In this case, the background remains identical, which makes it possible to get a seamless video. The main point is to ensure that the background of one frame does not differ from another.
For focus	The meaning is as follows: first, the object is out of focus. The slider continues moving until the subject is fully focused. Instead of changing the focus, the distance to the object changes. Dynamic and beautiful pictures are obtained.
Moving with an object	Used to capture the movements of an actor. The movement on the slider must be started in advance, even before the actor appears in the camera's field of view. Otherwise, there will be a discrepancy: at first there were no movements in the frame, and suddenly, out of nowhere, the main character of the picture appeared.
Road trip (regular slide)	Normal camera movement from left to right. In this case, the objects in the frame are kept permanently.
Down/up movement	They help to shoot the actors moving up the stairs, climbing mountains, descending from steep walls. Such shots can be taken in huge quantities.

Review of skaters

Today, the main condition for high-quality shooting is camera stabilization. This helps maintain clarity at a decent level. When taking a series of photographs, it is necessary to ensure smooth operation. In this case, devices such as cranes, carts, sliders and skaters help. Let's dwell on the last equipment in more detail.

A budget skater is a regular sports skate equipped with a balanced platform and reliable (stable) wheels. To increase the functionality and increase the comfort rate, instead of a platform, it is worth installing a frame on which to mount the tripod head.

In the manufacture of homemade skaters, plastic polypropylene water pipes and fittings, skate parts and center speakers with a tripod head are used. Experts recommend choosing 25 mm pipes and fittings so that they can be connected by welding. If the diameter is smaller, then their stiffness index will decrease. If you take thick pipes, the product will turn out to be too bulky. To create a full-fledged device for video filming at home, it is enough to have a pipe, tees in the amount of three pieces, corners of rotation at a right angle (2 pieces) and plugs (5 pieces). Where to buy wheels? At the sports store. They must necessarily be equipped with bearings.

Using a skateboard cart is not difficult. However, certain skills still need to be acquired. This will require training with experts in this field. First you need to correctly install the camera, choosing the best angle.After determining the line of movement of the equipment. This will be done due to the presence of mutual rotation of the sections. Then the trolley rolls and a cleanliness check takes place. It is advisable to practice first, set up the correct direction of movement, as well as turns, adapt to shooting, and only then turn on the recording mode.

The skater feels all the bumps, so it is not advisable to use it on asphalt. The camera will shake and the pictures will be blurry. The most suitable coating option is granite curbs, natural flat surfaces, parapets, wooden benches. Before installing a trolley on them, it is worth completely cleaning them from the smallest specks.

The ideal option is a flexible durable material. The cart should not be “drowned” in it. As a rule, it is rolled up into a roll, which is easy to put in a backpack or sports bag. There is also a cart. Fits on any surface.

Rating of inexpensive equipment for video filming

Skater Pico Dolly (Kamerar mini)

It is considered the most popular in the market of this category of products. Designed for DSLRs and camcorders with small dimensions and light weight. Able to create dynamic scenes. Acts as an addition to the slider. The movements in the pictures are smooth if the device is moving on a perfectly flat surface. In the manufacture of high-quality materials are used: anodized metal. Wheels with bearings. The dimensions allow the equipment to be operated when free space is too limited. Mounted in the middle with a ¼ inch screw.To install additional equipment (lights, monitors, and so on), the manufacturer provides two additional holes with a ¼ inch thread.

How much does the item cost? You can buy it at a price of 3440 rubles.

• compactness;
• ease of use;
• the strength of the materials used;
• long service life;
• practicality;
• functionality.

• magic arm mounts and camera are not included in the kit.

Kamerar Cinema Skater Dolly

Skater from America's leading leader. Despite the low price, the product has excellent quality and advanced functionality. It is very popular among both beginner videographers and professionals in their field. Irreplaceable working design. Designed for DSLR and all kinds of video cameras, regardless of the format. Equipped with three wheels. Has an original design. Moves smoothly and freely, helps to achieve maximum originality of the resulting images. The main structural elements are made of anodized aluminium. The quality of the wheels is top notch. Allows you to set any angle. Considered one of the best products on the market. 3/8 bolts are used as fastening.

The average price is 5760 rubles.

• reliability;
• ease of use;
• original design solution;
• increased opportunities;
• positive reviews;
• equipped with a case made of durable material;
• takes high-quality photos;
• value for money.

• not installed.

E-Image EI-A 23

Skater with adjustable rotation of each wheel. Withstands a maximum load of 15 kg.¼" and 3/8" screws are used to mount the head. There are additional ¼" and 3/8" threaded holes for attaching the necessary filming equipment. Allows you to take unique shots. Purchased by both amateurs and professionals.

The purchase price is 3500 rubles.

• ease of operation;
• the quality of the materials used;
• assembly strength;
• withstand significant loads;
• functionality;
• manufacturer's warranty.

• missing.

Konova Skate Dolly

Users note that the skater leads the market for high-quality and inexpensive goods in this category. The workmanship is top notch. The South Korean company controls the quality at every stage of production, which minimizes the possibility of defects entering the store shelves. Appearance is distinguished by respectability. The size and design of the equipment makes it possible to hold the heads of the Manfrotto 701/500 or Manfrotto 501, as well as many others. Will handle any combination of lens and camera. Works with RED and BMCC cameras. You can optionally install a microphone, light, monitor and more. The axles are equipped with a convenient "ratchet". The angle of rotation is marked. All this helps to qualitatively set up the skater in the right way. The distance between the wheels is 26 cm, the length is 300 mm.

You can buy products at a price of 9060 rubles.

• value for money;
• in a state of "excellent" to complete the tasks;
• universality;
• functionality;
• reliability;
• long service life;
• practicality;
• comfort in use.

• not identified.

Commlite CS-BSL 80 II (32")

The product belongs to rail systems. Designed for video shooting. Length - 800 mm, width - 500 mm. Suitable for both slow motion and cinema. Allows the operator to pan at different tilt angles. Mainly used to create promotional videos or presentation products. Withstands a load of 8 kg. All structural elements are made of aluminium. The system contains high-quality bearings, which allows the carriage to move quite smoothly. There is the possibility of installation on removable supports or tripods. Guide rail with 3/8" and ¼" threaded holes.

The purchase price is 5800 rubles.

• practicality;
• universality;
• functionality;
• the quality of the materials used;
• durability;
• acceptable price;
• smooth running.

• not installed.

Commlite CS-WSL60

The quality slider is made of durable aircraft-grade aluminum. High-precision equipment and innovative technologies are used in the manufacture. The manufacturer has provided 3/8 and ¼ inch threaded holes on the bottom and sides. The device can be operated in conjunction with tripods and equipment of any configuration and parameters.

The average cost is 5500 rubles.

• inexpensive goods;
• practicality;
• ease of use;
• compactness;
• positive user reviews;
• versatility.

• missing.

YuEr Slidecam

It is a rail system for video filming. Length - 800 mm. Used for shooting from a moving point. The operator is able to make excellent panning at various inclinations.Thanks to the device, high-quality presentation films and promotional products are obtained. The maximum allowable load is 10 kg.

The average price is 5900 rubles.

• functionality;
• performance;
• filming quality;
• strength;
• durability;
• versatility.

• not identified.

Commlite CS-R 700 (70 cm) Edelkrone Wing

23 cm slider, however, the design is made in such a way that the device is able to move 70 centimeters. An indispensable assistant to operators who are able to create masterpieces. It is easy to use, but beginners will have to practice a bit. You can buy equipment both at a specialized outlet and order online in an online store.

The average price is 9980 rubles.

• value for money;
• universality;
• the quality of the materials used;
• assembly strength;
• unique design solution;
• manufacturer's warranty;
• marriage does not go to store shelves;
• long service life.

• not installed.

Equipment of the middle price segment

Zeapon Micro-2

The product belongs to the category of ultra-compact. The manufacturer provides a low-profile Easylock2 mount. There is also a ball head. An ideal assistant for those who specialize in close-up photography. We also get unique time-lapses. Thanks to the smoothness and ease of movement of the camera, the result is stunning. The unit is equipped with ¼" and 3/8" mounting screws. Suitable for mounting any type of tripod. Both horizontal and vertical mounting is provided. Supports a maximum weight of 8 kg.Professionals and amateurs take the device on hikes and travels, walks and outdoor shooting.

In the manufacture of goods used high-strength aluminum. In the area of ​​​​the slider there are dust guards that will not allow dirt and dust to get on the bearings. Work in the field withstands "with a bang." Includes screwdriver, adapter and hard case. Product length - 330 mm, width - 69 mm. Power reserve - 533 mm. Bearings 36 pieces. Total weight - 1.1 kg.

The average price is 13990 rubles.

• functionality;
• compactness;
• light weight;
• ergonomics;
• long service life;
• ease of use;
• versatility.

• not identified.

Zeapon Micro-2 M-800

An improved model of the well-known device from Zeapon. It features an improved design and enhanced functionality. The technology used in the manufacture of double distance. This made it possible to significantly lengthen the stroke of the carriage, regardless of the dimensions of the glide track itself. Small equipment. The smoothness is impressive. Videos are unique in their beauty and perfection. The movement is quiet and gentle.

Thanks to the mounting screws, various types of tripods can be used for installation. You can choose one of the positions: either horizontal or vertical. Ready to withstand a load of 8 kg. Works with almost all cameras and rig systems. Ribbon 500 mm, length - 53 cm, power reserve - 94 cm. Weight about 3 kg. In the manufacture of durable materials such as ABS - plastic, aluminum, carbon and stainless steel. In addition to the slider, the kit includes a set of fasteners, a hex wrench and a carrying case.

Sellers are asking for 28,500 rubles for the products.

• the quality of the materials used;
• excellent technical characteristics;
• advanced functionality;
• application of innovative technologies;
• practicality;
• durability;
• excellent work result.

• missing.

GreenBean Glide Track 100 Production

The product can be safely attributed to the professional level. Promotes the most accurate and smooth movement of video equipment. Withstand weight up to 20 kg. Ready for significant constant loads, showing reliability and durability. The guides have a length of 985 mm. They are made from extruded aluminum alloy. Weight and strength at height, which is confirmed by many users. There are no complaints about the build quality. There is no play in the carriage.

The carriage moves thanks to eight rollers on the inside of the guide. The manufacturer equipped his offspring with steel precision bearings. A huge number of seats on the carriage allows you to install both cameras and additional equipment. Thanks to the presence of a two-way parking brake, the carriage is securely fixed and will not fall, despite the slope of the rail and the weight of the equipment present.

Glidetracks are suitable for any support, including tripods. The set includes comfortable rubberized legs for installation on a flat surface and brackets, in which the swivel legs are unscrewed.

The purchase price is 19240 rubles.

• professional fixture;
• structural strength;
• high service life;
• practicality;
• functional.

• not identified.

TOP of the best expensive professional-level devices

Konova K7 120 cm

An excellent device from an eminent South Korean brand, the characteristic features of which include the presence of a massive rail and high-strength bearings. This allowed the manufacturer to achieve better glide and increased stability of operation even with a large camera. The design is able to withstand electronics weighing 3-35 kg, which is considered an excellent indicator. Allows simultaneous installation on two tripods in the presence of appropriate holes for 3/8 or ¼. They should be in the middle or on the edges of the device. It is also possible to carry out a vertical installation. The corresponding holes are located on the end of the slider.

Cost - 43180 rubles.

• professional tool;
• increased ease of use;
• permissible load 35 kg;
• design features.

• Chinese production.

Lanparte ESV-01 E-Slider

A unique product that will allow you to record not only long time-lapses, but also high-speed videos. The working length reaches the mark of a meter. Permissible travel speed 3.5 sec/m, minimum coefficient 22 h/m. When using manual settings, this figure will be 4.5 sec / m. Allowed 4 kg vertical and 22 kg horizontal load.

Cost - 95,000 rubles.

• motorized fixture;
• increased stability;
• several sliding options;
• autonomy;
• branded case included.

• the weight.

Dolly video trolley

The device belongs to the category of professional camera trolleys, which are used in combination with massive video and photo tripods. The design is equipped with a protected cable, brake clamps and large wheels with a diameter of 12.7 cm. If necessary, the model folds, which will allow you to move it to any distance. It is used to work with massive video tripods.

Cost - 49280 rubles.

• spiked legs;
• ease of transportation;
• legs are folded;
• cable protection;
• brakes.

• not identified.

Conclusion

The year 2010 was a turning point, as the quality of video recording has increased significantly with the advent of new technologies. In the same year, the first models of sliders, not only Chinese, but also Russian, were released, which made it possible to achieve maximum smoothness when working with sensitive equipment. Motorized devices made it possible to eliminate the risk of jerks in the process of moving the camera in space. Camera movements have become as smooth and easy as possible. Such functions made the picture comfortable for perception.

The criteria for choosing such a device will be individual for each specific case. It should be noted that many popular novelties are equipped not only with a gate control cable, but also with rail systems. Crane arrows are less convenient and practical. Sliders consist of a plate and a guide. Depending on the type of mechanism used, versatile sliding of the carriage is allowed. There are a number of devices on the market that will allow ceiling mounting. A glide track will help to achieve really unusual and unique shots.