I use a gimbal for the panoramas and alignment of the axis is an imperative. Must be able to adjust the horizontal and vertical axis w/ the centers and nodal points of the lens/camera combo. That is the only reason why I returned the cheaper gimbals that I ordered and tried. IF IF you are not likely to use the gimbal for lots of panos then some of the less expensive gimbals will work just fine.

Using a gimbal with a big lens is a joy compared to a ball head - soooooo much easier. Yea they are heavy but oh so much worth it.