Wireless follow-focus system by DJI for precise focus pulls — compatible with DJI gimbals and third-party rigs.
Technical Details
The system consists of the DJI Focus Handwheel (controller) and the Focus Motor. The brushless motor delivers a torque of 1 Nm with a weight of 265 grams. The wireless range is a maximum of 100 meters, with latency under 10 milliseconds. The controller features a 1000-line encoder wheel with tactile feedback and a 2.4-inch LCD display. Battery life is 16 hours for the controller and 6 hours for the motor. The system supports A/B points for repeatable focus pulls and works with lenses from 15mm to 300mm focus ring diameter.
History & Development
DJI introduced the Focus system in April 2016, initially conceived as an accessory for the Ronin gimbal series. In 2018, the DJI Focus Command Unit followed as an advanced control unit for up to three motors simultaneously. With the acquisition of Hasselblad in 2017, DJI increasingly integrated the system into professional camera workflows. The DJI Force Pro, introduced in 2019, expanded the concept with force feedback technology.
Practical Use in Film
The DJI Focus was used in productions like "Blade Runner 2049" (2017) for complex gimbal shots where traditional follow-focus systems would have been too heavy. Typical workflow: The focus puller operates the handwheel off-camera while the camera operator concentrates on movement and framing. Particularly advantageous for drone shots, Steadicam shots, and tight shooting locations. Disadvantage: The wireless connection can become unstable in electromagnetically disturbed environments (radio masts, LED panels).
Comparison & Alternatives
The DJI Focus competes with the Tilta Nucleus-M (lighter at 200g motor, but shorter range) and the Teradek RT MK3.1 (professional standard with higher torque). While the DJI system impresses with its price-performance ratio, Teradek systems offer redundant radio channels and timecode synchronization. For low-budget productions, the DJI Focus has established itself as a standard, while high-end productions continue to rely on Preston or Arri WCU-4 systems with mechanical coupling as a backup.