Introduction
If you’re searching for a gimbal camera with good optical zoom, you likely need high-quality, stable imaging for aerial surveillance, industrial inspections, cinematography, or security applications. Unlike digital zoom, which reduces image quality, optical zoom maintains clarity and sharpness, making it essential for long-range observations.
At Motionew, we specialize in cutting-edge drone gimbal cameras with advanced optical zoom capabilities that offer exceptional performance in demanding environments. In this guide, we’ll explore the best gimbal cameras with optical zoom and what to consider before making a purchase.
Why Optical Zoom Matters in Gimbal Cameras?
A gimbal camera with optical zoom provides clear, detailed images without pixelation, making it ideal for:
✔ Aerial inspections – Check power lines, wind turbines, and pipelines from a safe distance.
✔ Security & surveillance – Monitor borders, industrial sites, and critical infrastructure with precision.
✔ Search and rescue operations – Identify missing persons from the air, even in low-light conditions.
✔ Filmmaking & cinematography – Capture dynamic aerial shots with smooth zoom transitions.
By choosing a gimbal camera with high optical zoom, you enhance visibility, reduce operational risks, and improve overall efficiency.
Top Gimbal Cameras with Optical Zoom for Professional Use
Here are a few different available models at MotioNew to equip your fixed wing drone with gimbal camera:
🔹 Optical Zoom: 10x Zoom Gimbal Camera
🔹 Resolution: 1080p HD
🔹 Best for: Search & rescue, security, industrial inspections
🔹 Key Features: Small and lightweight, 2.48MP 1/3″ SENSOR CMOS module, 360° endless yaw rotation
🔹 Optical Zoom: 20x Zoom Gimbal Camera
🔹 Resolution: 4K Resolution
🔹 Best for: Search & rescue, Night Operations, Surveillance
🔹 Key Features: Triple Sensors, 8.51MP EO Sensor, 640×512 Thermal Sensor, AI-powered object tracking, 3000m Laser Range Finder (LRF)
🔹 Optical Zoom: 30x Zoom Gimbal Camera
🔹 Resolution: 1080p HD EO + 1080p HD Thermal
🔹 Best for: Long-range surveillance and inspections
🔹 Key Features: AI-powered object tracking, high-resolution imaging, and High Resolution Thermal (HRT) sensor for night operations.
🔹 Optical Zoom: 30x Zoom Gimbal Camera + 21mm Wide Angle Fixed EO
🔹 Resolution: 4K Zoom + 2K Wide Angle Fixed EO
🔹 Best for: Aerial photogrammetry, land surveying, and mapping
🔹 Key Features: 4 Sensors, Starlight night vision, 640×512 Thermal Sensor, AI-powered object tracking
🔹 Optical Zoom: 40x Zoom Gimbal Camera
🔹 Resolution: 1080p HD
🔹 Best for: law enforcement, fire-fighting, power tower and pipeline inspections, search and rescue missions
🔹 Key Features: AI-powered object tracking, high zoom capability, 5.13MP SONY 1/2.8″ CMOS.
How to Choose the Best Gimbal Camera with Optical Zoom?
When selecting a gimbal camera with optical zoom, consider the following:
✅ Optical Zoom Range
For long-distance applications, 10x to 40x optical zoom is ideal, ensuring clear images even at maximum zoom levels.
✅ Gimbal Stability
A 3-axis gimbal system prevents vibrations and stabilizes footage, especially in windy conditions or fast-moving drones.
✅ Low-Light Performance
Choose a camera with a high-quality sensor and infrared or thermal capabilities for night-time and low-light operations.
✅ Weather Protection (IP Rating)
For outdoor use, IP-rated gimbal cameras provide protection against rain, dust, and extreme temperatures.
✅ Multi-Sensor Capability
Some advanced cameras include thermal imaging, laser rangefinders, and AI tracking, enhancing operational versatility.
Conclusion
A gimbal camera with good optical zoom is a must-have for professionals in aerial surveillance, inspections, security, and filmmaking. Whether you need a 10x zoom for standard operations or a powerful 40x optical zoom for high-detail imaging, choosing the right gimbal camera ensures clear, stabilized, and high-resolution footage.
At Motionew, we provide the latest high-zoom gimbal cameras for UAVs and professional applications.
🔹 Browse our selection now and upgrade your aerial imaging capabilities