Comodo Orbit is a New Hand-held Camera Stabilization Rig Featuring Dual Mechanical Gimbals

The Comodo Orbit is another fresh take in the camera stabilization market. For many years, Steadicam and Glidecam models have remained mostly static in the fundamental ways they are constructed and operated. Now, the Comodo Orbit rig has come along and shaken up the basic single-gimbal designs we are accustomed with a new two gimbal design.

Check out the video below to get a sense of how the Orbit is operated and the performance of the dual gimbal.

The footage has a Steadicam look to it; however, the operator seems to be less involved with the gimbal performance compared to a Steadicam or Glidecam. Tthe operator is using two hands to hold and move the Comodo Orbit. Those who have used a Steadicam or Glidecam before know that it is a two-handed operation as (one hand holds the camera while the other hand “feathers” the gimbal axis).

When balanced, the Orbit looks to be a superior gimbal for most movements. There’s no more tendency to drift like a traditional gimbal on a Steadicam or Glidecam. Additionally, the user learning curve appears to be not near as steep as that of a Steadicam or Glidecam. It looks like you will be able to use your thumbs to control tilt on the Orbit, but otherwise the user’s input on gimbal performance seems very minimal.

The Comodo Orbit is rated to carry an 11 pounds load, which seems quite heavy for a handheld device. For loads that large, I would think some kind of brace like the Glidecam forearm brace would serve Orbit users well. If there’s enough demand for such an accessory, I suspect that we will see Comodo develop something to work with the Orbit.

For a handheld rig, at $1500 the Comodo outprices the comparable Steadicam and Glidecam options.That said, I suspect it will attract plenty of buyers in the indie video realm and possibly establishes itself as a poor man’s M?VI. Check out the Comodo Orbit here at B&H Photo.