1. Product Overview
The Benro 3XS is a compact and versatile 3-axis handheld gimbal stabilizer designed for smartphones. It features a unique foldable arm for easy portability and supports wireless charging for compatible devices. This manual provides essential information for setting up, operating, maintaining, and troubleshooting your Benro 3XS gimbal.
Figure 1: Benro 3XS Handheld Gimbal with a smartphone attached, showing its compact design and control panel.
2. What's in the Box
- Benro 3XS Handheld Gimbal
- USB-C Charging Cable
- Smartphone Connection Cables (e.g., USB-C to USB-C, USB-C to Lightning, 3.5mm audio cable)
- User Manual (this document)
Figure 2: Included connection cables for various smartphone types, ensuring compatibility and charging capabilities.
3. Setup Guide
3.1 Charging the Gimbal
- Connect the provided USB-C cable to the charging port on the gimbal handle.
- Connect the other end of the cable to a USB power adapter (not included) or a computer USB port.
- The indicator light will show charging status. A full charge provides approximately 24 hours of operation.
Figure 3: The USB-C charging port located at the base of the gimbal handle for power input.
3.2 Mounting and Balancing Your Smartphone
- Unfold the gimbal arm.
- Place your smartphone securely into the phone clamp. Ensure the phone is centered and snug.
- Adjust the phone's position within the clamp to achieve balance. The phone should remain level when the gimbal is powered off.
- Connect the appropriate smartphone connection cable from the gimbal to your phone for wireless charging (if supported) and app control.
Figure 4: Top view of the smartphone clamp, highlighting the USB-C and 3.5mm audio ports for connecting to your device.
Figure 5: A smartphone securely mounted in the Benro 3XS gimbal, demonstrating the proper placement for balancing.
3.3 Powering On/Off
- To power on: Press and hold the power button until the indicator light illuminates.
- To power off: Press and hold the power button until the indicator light turns off.
4. Operating Instructions
4.1 Control Panel Overview
Figure 6: Detailed view of the gimbal's control panel, featuring the joystick, mode buttons, and record button.
- Joystick: Controls pan and tilt movements of the smartphone.
- Mode Button (M): Cycles through different operating modes (e.g., Pan Follow, Lock Mode, POV).
- Record Button: Starts and stops video recording or takes photos when connected to the smartphone app.
- Zoom Slider: Controls the digital zoom of the smartphone camera (requires app connection).
- Trigger Button (Rear): Press and hold for quick lock mode, double-press to re-center the gimbal.
Figure 7: The trigger button located on the back of the gimbal handle, used for quick mode changes and re-centering.
4.2 Operating Modes
- Pan Follow (PF): The camera pans left and right following the gimbal's horizontal movement, while tilt and roll axes are locked.
- Lock Mode (L): All three axes (pan, tilt, roll) are locked, keeping the camera pointing in a fixed direction.
- POV Mode: All three axes follow the gimbal's movement, providing a first-person perspective.
- Automatic Orientation Change: The 3XS can switch between horizontal and vertical shooting orientations with a single button press, without needing rebalancing.
4.3 Smartphone App Integration
For full functionality, download the official Benro 3XS smartphone application from your device's app store. The app enables advanced features such as:
- Firmware updates
- Calibration
- Parameter settings
- Advanced shooting modes (e.g., time-lapse, motion-lapse, object tracking)
- Remote control of gimbal movements
The gimbal can also be used for basic stabilization without the app after initial activation.
5. Maintenance and Care
- Keep the gimbal clean and free from dust and debris. Use a soft, dry cloth for cleaning.
- Avoid exposing the gimbal to extreme temperatures or moisture.
- Store the gimbal in its folded position in a protective case when not in use to prevent damage.
- Regularly check for firmware updates via the smartphone app to ensure optimal performance.
- Do not attempt to disassemble the gimbal, as this will void the warranty.
6. Troubleshooting
| Problem | Possible Cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| Gimbal not powering on | Low battery; Power button not held long enough | Charge the gimbal fully; Press and hold the power button for 3 seconds. |
| Gimbal vibrates or shakes | Improperly balanced smartphone; Gimbal placed on an unstable surface | Re-balance the smartphone carefully; Use on a stable surface. |
| Cannot connect to smartphone app | Bluetooth not enabled; App not updated; Gimbal not activated | Ensure Bluetooth is on; Update the app; Activate the gimbal as per initial setup instructions. |
| Wireless charging not working | Smartphone not compatible; Phone not positioned correctly; Cable not connected | Verify smartphone supports wireless charging; Adjust phone position; Ensure connection cable is used if needed. |
7. Specifications
| Feature | Detail |
|---|---|
| Model Number | 3XS |
| Product Dimensions | 10.1 x 5.4 x 2.6 inches |
| Folded Size | 2.76 inches (l) x 6.89 inches (w) x 11.81 inches (h) |
| Item Weight | 15.5 ounces (0.44 Kilograms) |
| Battery Type | Lithium Ion |
| Battery Life | Up to 24 hours |
| Compatible Devices | Smartphones |
| Color | Black |
| Wireless Charging | Supported for compatible smartphones |
8. Warranty Information
Benro products are covered by a limited warranty. For specific warranty terms and conditions, please refer to the warranty card included with your product or visit the official Benro website. Keep your purchase receipt as proof of purchase for warranty claims.
9. Customer Support
For technical assistance, troubleshooting, or service inquiries, please contact Benro customer support. You can find contact information on the official Benro website or through the Benro 3XS smartphone application.
Visit the official Benro Store: Benro Store on Amazon
