The Letus Helix PRO is built for RED, ARRI Alexa Mini and cine cameras up to 18lbs. Most mirrorless and DSLR shooters do not need that — or its price. The Helix Jr. is the same optically-centred design scaled to a mirrorless camera, and it comes in two very different forms: a full 3-axis handheld gimbal, and a 1-axis horizon stabiliser for Steadicam-style rigs.
The two Helix Jr. models
| Helix Jr. (3-axis, encoded) | Helix Jr. 1-Axis | |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $1,599 | $999 |
| Stabilises | Roll, tilt and pan | Roll (horizon) only |
| Used | Handheld, eye-level | On a lightweight Steadicam-type sled |
| Payload | Up to 8lbs (12lbs if the setup is under 8" long) | DSLR/mirrorless; mid-size cameras with a plate upgrade |
| Weight | 5.75lb aluminum / 4.75lb magnesium, with battery | 2.75lbs with battery |
| Battery | 2,600mAh 14.8V, charger included | 2,600mAh battery and charger included |
| Control | WiFi and Bluetooth, optional RC 2nd-operator mode | Dutch moves via optional remote or joystick |
Helix Jr. 3-axis: a handheld gimbal designed for cinematography
Most handheld gimbals put a handle on top of a drone gimbal. The Helix Jr. was designed the other way round, and it shows in the handling:
- Optically centred — the camera rotates around the lens, which minimises sensor movement and avoids the robotic look.
- Eye-level filming — your hands are at lens height, not a foot above it, which is far less tiring over a day.
- Axis-by-axis balancing — easier than balancing three axes at once, and a lens change usually needs only one axis adjusted.
- Right handle as tilt control and a flat bottom so you can set it down between takes.
- Absolute encoders — the motors keep their position when bumped, and you can set a Dutch angle by holding the camera there.
Letus Helix Jr. - with encoders — $1,599
Encoded 3-axis Helix for mirrorless, DSLR and compact cine setups up to 8lbs.
See the Letus Helix Jr. →Helix Jr. 1-Axis: horizon control for a Steadicam
The Helix Jr. 1-Axis is not a handheld gimbal. It sits on a lightweight stabiliser — the store listing names the Steadicam Scout and Glidecam HD4000 — and keeps the horizon level while the operator keeps control of pan and tilt. It also makes the rig more flexible: switch from high mode to low mode in seconds, or turn the sled sideways for mid-height shots.
If you already fly a Steadicam with a heavier camera, the full-size Helix 1-Axis PRO ($3,999) is the step up. Our Helix buying guide explains why one axis is often all an experienced operator wants.
3-axis if you hold the camera in your hands. 1-axis if a sled already carries it.
Rent it for a week first
Letus runs a try-before-you-buy programme. The Helix Jr. rental is $185 for one week and includes the gimbal (aluminum or magnesium, depending on availability), two 2,600mAh batteries, a charger and a monitor mount. Buy a Helix within 30 days of the rental and the rental fee is applied to your purchase. Insurance for loss or damage is not included in the rental price.
Accessories worth adding
| Accessory | Price | Why |
|---|---|---|
| Helix Jr. Juice Box | $150 | Spare 2,600mAh battery with a charge-level LED |
| Carrying Case for Helix Jr. | $300 | Pelican 1550 with custom-cut foam |
| Helix Standard Camera plate | $150 | Needed for a C100- or C300-size camera on a Jr. |
| 4th axis bracket for Helix Jr. | $500 | Hang the Jr. from an EasyRig |
| Helix Hooks | $150 | Attach to ReadyRig, exoskeletons and similar supports |
| Helix Fly Kit | $300 | Mount the gimbal on a copter (12mm rods) |
For long days, pair the gimbal with a support vest — see camera support vest or shoulder pad. Own an older Helix Jr. without encoders? The encoder upgrade ($1,000) adds them, and the listing says battery life can be up to five times longer.
Quick decision
- Mirrorless or DSLR, handheld, moving shots: Helix Jr. 3-axis.
- You already fly a Scout or Glidecam: Helix Jr. 1-Axis.
- RED, Alexa Mini or anything over 8lbs: Letus Helix PRO — see the Helix buying guide.
- Not sure yet: rent the Helix Jr. for a week; the fee comes off the purchase.
Buying from Letus35. Every order ships from Portland, Oregon — no state sales tax, so the price you see is the price you pay. Tell us what you shoot and what you already own, and we will confirm the right configuration before you order: WhatsApp or contact form.