A follow focus system is a tool that lets camera operators or assistants adjust lens focus with precision while recording video. By moving your grip from the lens ring to a geared unit, it provides smoother control, repeatable marks, and less camera shake. Mechanical designs use gears and marking discs; electronic designs add motors, wireless hand units, and programmable limits for complex shots. Whether you shoot documentaries, narrative films, or commercials, the goal is consistent, accurate focus pulls. Here we introduce the Top 10 Follow Focus System Brands in the World so learners at every level can understand strengths, typical uses, and buying considerations.
ARRI
ARRI is a benchmark for precision follow focus gear on set. The FF-5 and FF-4 provide smooth, low backlash mechanics, multiple gear ratios, and clear marking discs for repeatable pulls. Pairing with cforce motors and LBUS accessories enables hybrid rigs that combine mechanical handwheels with electronic lens control. Build quality, tactile feedback, and after sales support make ARRI a long term investment for rental houses and demanding crews. While pricing is premium, compatibility with industry standard 15 mm and 19 mm rods, left or right drive options, and hard stop capability keep ARRI systems practical for daily work.
Preston Cinema Systems
Preston Cinema Systems is a gold standard in wireless lens control for high end productions. The HU3 and HU4 hand units, MDR receivers, and digital motors deliver reliable, low latency focus, iris, and zoom control. Lens mapping, vibration feedback, and advanced radio options give focus pullers confidence on long takes, steadicam, cranes, and car rigs. Preston gear is known for rock solid build, long battery life, and deep ecosystem support. It excels when you need flawless performance across complex sets and demanding moves. The ecosystem scales from single operator to multicamera, and worldwide service keeps kits working.
cmotion
cmotion from Vienna builds modular electronic follow focus systems used worldwide. The cPRO hand unit, cPRO motor, and cPRO receiver integrate cleanly with ARRI LBUS and many third party cameras. Features like lens data integration, focus scales on the display, user definable limits, and intuitive menu logic help assistants work fast. Ergonomics are a highlight, with balanced weight and grippy controls that reduce fatigue. cmotion kits scale from single motor independent setups to full FIZ control, so they fit commercials, drama, and documentary work equally well. Power and mounting options let you attach to mirrorless builds or full cinema rigs without compromise.
Heden
Heden from Sweden specializes in compact, quiet, and powerful lens motors paired with dependable controllers. The M26T and M21VE motors are respected for torque and minimal cogging, which keeps pulls smooth at micro adjustments. The YMER system offers robust wireless operation, a bright display, and straightforward pairing. Mechanical follow focus units and gear rings are also part of the catalog, letting crews build hybrid rigs. Heden is a smart choice when you need strong motors for stiff cinema glass or stills lenses adapted to cinema rigs without adding unwanted weight. Assistants also value clean cabling, sensible mounting hardware, and menus that speed up daily setups.
Chrosziel
Chrosziel combines German engineering with thoughtful ergonomics. The compact Follow Focus Cine and Studio units deliver precise drive with minimal play, swappable gear modules, and generous clearance around matte boxes. Their electronic CDM motors integrate with popular cameras, providing direct control and metadata pass through when supported. Chrosziel is appreciated for durable housings, weather resistance, and a parts supply that keeps kits serviceable for years. For crews that mix cinema and broadcast work, the balance of weight, smoothness, and accessory options makes Chrosziel a dependable everyday choice. Accessory bridges, speed cranks, and flexible plates help quick switches between handheld and tripod modes.
Tilta
Tilta has become a favorite for flexible, value driven electronic follow focus kits. The Nucleus-M offers strong motors, dual channels, and a robust hand unit for multicrew operation. The Nucleus Nano and Nano II target lightweight mirrorless and gimbal rigs with compact motors and intuitive wheels. Tilta focuses on fast rigging, smart power options, and broad compatibility with cages and rod systems. For owner operators building a kit that must handle narrative, weddings, or corporate shoots, Tilta provides excellent performance per dollar without sacrificing essential reliability. Accessories like handle grips, focus wheels, and wireless run stop suit solo work or a classic focus puller workflow.
DJI
DJI extends its camera stabilization expertise into lens control with integrated follow focus options. Focus control on Ronin gimbals and the separate Focus Pro ecosystem enable precise pulls while moving. Motor calibration, autofocus to manual handoff, and subject tracking on supported camera bodies help small crews execute sophisticated shots. The hand unit and handle wheel options keep operators connected to focus while balancing the gimbal. For creators who already rely on Ronin systems, DJI follow focus solutions reduce setup complexity and deliver repeatable results on high energy shoots. Integration with camera control on supported models reduces the need for separate accessories in the field.
Bright Tangerine
Bright Tangerine is known for robust mechanical design and smart usability. The Revolvr and Revolvr Atom follow focus units use a conical gearbox with adjustable drag, delivering exceptionally smooth operation and near zero play. Tool less gear swaps, a hard stop module, and a low profile body keep the unit clear of wide matte boxes. Attention to materials and serviceability means the system survives heavy rental cycles. For focus pullers who prefer the feel and simplicity of a mechanical unit, Bright Tangerine offers a refined, dependable solution. The etched marking disc and generous knob diameter give readable marks for critical pulls on longer lenses.
PDMovie
PDMovie delivers lightweight and affordable wireless follow focus systems that are popular with owner operators. The Remote Air and Live Air series pair compact motors with a clean, responsive hand wheel. Newer kits include multi channel control for iris and zoom, rail clamp power solutions, and improved Bluetooth links for configuration. PDMovie strikes a balance between portability and precision that works well on gimbals, sliders, and handheld rigs. It is an attractive path for shooters stepping into wireless control without the cost of high end cinema ecosystems. Helpful app support and incremental firmware updates have steadily improved response and stability across generations of the product.
SmallRig
SmallRig brings an accessible entry point with the MagicFIZ electronic follow focus and thoughtful rigging accessories. The system offers a responsive handgrip, compact motors, and straightforward pairing, all designed to integrate with SmallRig cages and rods. Swappable batteries, clear OLED status, and A to B limits help newer users learn proper focus pulling technique. While not built for extreme environments, the value is excellent for corporate, event, and content work. SmallRig makes it easy to assemble a complete, tidy setup that grows with your camera package over time. Community support and spare part availability make maintenance straightforward for frequent use.
