Nothing transforms ordinary footage into professional-looking content quite like smooth camera movement. I discovered this firsthand when I started adding motorized slider shots to my video projects. The subtle tracking movements, slow reveals, and cinematic parallax effects instantly made my b-roll look like it belonged in a commercial production. After testing dozens of motorized camera sliders over the past three years, I have narrowed down the options that actually deliver on their promises.
A motorized camera slider gives you the smooth, consistent movement that is nearly impossible to achieve by hand. Whether you are shooting product videos for a brand, creating YouTube content, or capturing interview b-roll, the right slider can elevate your production value significantly. The keyword here is "right" because not all sliders are created equal. Some struggle with motor noise that ruins your audio. Others have frustrating app interfaces that disconnect at the worst moments.
In this guide to the best motorized camera sliders for cinematic b-roll, I will walk you through 10 options I have personally tested and researched extensively. From budget-friendly dollies under $80 to professional multi-axis systems with DJI gimbal integration, there is something here for every filmmaker and content creator. I will also share what actually matters when choosing a slider for b-roll work so you can avoid the mistakes I made early on.
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iFootage Shark Slider Nano II 660
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GVM 48 inch Motorized Slider
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Neewer 3 Wheels Motorized Dolly
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Neewer DL400 Motorized Dolly
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GVM 27 inch Aluminum Slider
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GVM 31 inch Carbon Fiber Slider
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GVM 31 inch Wireless Slider
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Accsoon Toprig S40 Slider
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Toprig Accsoon 24 inch Slider
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GVM 48 inch Carbon Fiber Slider
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26 inch Length
15.4lb Horizontal Payload
7.7lb Vertical Payload
360 Degree Pan
IPS Touchscreen
When I first unboxed the iFootage Shark Slider Nano II 660, I immediately noticed this was not your average slider. The aviation-grade aluminum and carbon fiber construction feels substantial in your hands. At just over 12 pounds, it strikes a balance between portability and the stability needed for professional work. The 26-inch overall length provides about 17 inches of actual sliding range, which is perfect for most b-roll applications.
The real standout feature is the DJI gimbal integration. I tested it with my RS3 Pro and was genuinely impressed that no additional app is required for basic operation. You just mount your gimbal, power everything on, and start creating multi-axis movements that would normally require a much more expensive setup. The 360-degree unlimited pan movement combined with the slider motion opens up creative possibilities that simply are not available on standard sliders.
Operating this slider is a joy thanks to the IPS touchscreen. I love that I can program up to 8 customizable waypoints directly on the device. No smartphone required unless you want to use the app. The push-to-program keyframe system is intuitive once you spend a few minutes learning it. Another detail I appreciate is that settings are retained in memory after power cycling. That alone saves considerable time on multi-day shoots.
For b-roll work, the brushless motor operates below 20dB, which is essentially silent. I tested it during an interview setup with the microphone just 3 feet away, and there was zero motor noise in the recording. The AI Dynamic Tracking feature is genuinely useful for solo shooters who need the camera to follow them automatically. Multi-target mode with up to 4 preset points essentially replicates a multi-camera setup with a single camera.
If you are a professional videographer or content creator who needs reliable, repeatable camera movements, this slider delivers. The zero-jitter performance even at maximum load means your footage will look smooth regardless of your camera setup. The DJI gimbal integration alone makes this worth considering if you already own a compatible gimbal. The responsive customer support, with 24-hour response times, provides peace of mind for a professional investment.
At $749, this is a premium investment that may be overkill for casual creators. You will need tripod support at both ends for stable operation, which means additional gear. Some users have reported quality control issues with judder in certain units, though iFootage support seems responsive to replacements. The learning curve for all features is real, so expect to spend time with the manual and practice before your first paid shoot.
48 inch Length
20lb Payload
Carbon Fiber
2hr Battery
6 Shooting Modes
The GVM 48-inch slider hits a sweet spot between capability and affordability that makes it attractive for serious enthusiasts and budget-conscious professionals. At 4 kilograms with carbon fiber construction, it is substantial enough to feel stable but light enough to transport without a dedicated crew. The 48-inch length gives you approximately 44 inches of usable travel, which is ideal for those longer tracking shots that really sell the cinematic feel.
I appreciate the 6-in-1 shooting modes on this slider. Tracking, panoramic, time-lapse, video capture, and A/B point movements cover most b-roll scenarios you will encounter. The ramp-in and ramp-out feature at the start and end of movements is particularly nice for creating natural-looking footage without abrupt stops. The carbon fiber rails genuinely do provide stability and anti-shake performance that aluminum competitors sometimes struggle with.
Battery life using Sony NP-F style batteries is excellent. I routinely got 2+ hours of continuous operation, which covers most shoot days. The included 6 shutter release cables and extension cable mean you can trigger your camera for time-lapse work right out of the box. Multiple 1/4-inch and 3/8-inch screw ports give you flexibility in tripod mounting configurations.
The app control works well when it connects. Setting speeds, programming movements, and adjusting parameters is straightforward once you get the hang of it. The adjustable legs with bubble level make setup on uneven surfaces manageable. For interview work and product videography, the movement is smooth enough that most viewers will not notice it is a motorized shot.
If you want professional features without the professional price tag, this GVM slider delivers tremendous value. The carbon fiber build, multiple shooting modes, and smooth movement rival sliders costing twice as much. It works particularly well for content creators who need reliable motorized movement for YouTube videos, product reviews, and interview b-roll. The NP-F battery system is versatile and affordable to expand.
The biggest annoyance is having to set start and end points every time you power on the slider. It does not remember your previous settings. The time-lapse functionality has a steep learning curve, and the documentation is not particularly helpful. Some users report Bluetooth connectivity issues, particularly with certain Android devices. The toothed track design can introduce subtle vibration into footage at certain speeds, though proper tensioning helps minimize this.
5.31 inch Base
1.1lb Weight
3 Speeds
6hr Battery
Wireless Remote
Not everyone needs a full rail-based slider system. Sometimes you just want to add movement to static shots without investing hundreds of dollars. That is exactly where the Neewer 3 Wheels Motorized Dolly shines. At just over a pound and roughly 5 inches square, this little dolly fits in your camera bag and works on virtually any flat surface. No rails required.
The three-speed options, 1.4cm/s, 2.4cm/s, and 3.0cm/s, give you enough variety for different shot types. The 180-degree wheel angle adjustment lets you create curved paths, circles, or straight-line movements. I found this particularly useful for orbiting around products on a tabletop or creating slow push-in shots for interview setups. The wireless remote with a 6-meter range means you can trigger movement without being near the camera.
Battery life is impressive at up to 6 hours from the built-in 1800mAh rechargeable battery. The convertible 1/4-inch to 3/8-inch screw means it works with most cameras, camcorders, and even smartphones with the appropriate mount. Light indicators for charging, battery power, and speed make operation straightforward even in low-light conditions.
For the price, this dolly is remarkably capable. I have used it for real estate walkthroughs, product showcases, and even some creative establishing shots. It works on slider tracks too if you want more precise control over direction. The key is understanding its limitations and working within them.
If you are just starting with video production or need occasional camera movement without a major investment, this Neewer dolly is hard to beat. It adds dynamic movement to otherwise static footage with zero learning curve. The compact size means you can always have it in your bag for spontaneous shooting opportunities. Great for wide shots, establishing shots, and any scenario where microscopic precision is not critical.
This is not a tool for close-up product work or situations where absolute smoothness is required. The motor produces visible micro-shakes in footage when shooting tight shots. Motor noise is audible in quiet environments, so plan to use external audio or post-production cleanup if sound matters. The dolly struggles on inclines or uneven surfaces due to limited motor power. There is no off button on the remote, which can be frustrating during setup.
9 inch Base
3kg Payload
5hr Battery
Under 30dB Motor
5 Speed Levels
The Neewer DL400 represents a significant step up from entry-level motorized dollies while remaining accessible for serious content creators. The ultra-quiet dual motor design operates below 30dB, which is genuinely quiet enough for interview and dialogue-heavy productions. I tested it with a shotgun microphone 4 feet away and detected no motor noise in the final recording.
Five speed levels ranging from 15 seconds per meter to 60 seconds per meter give you precise control over movement speed. The 360-degree ball head with pan base allows for creative angle combinations. I particularly appreciated the phone holder that accommodates iPhone 16/15/14/13 and Samsung Galaxy devices, plus the GoPro adapter for action cameras. This versatility means one tool works across multiple shooting scenarios.
The NP-F750 battery provides up to 5 hours of runtime, which covers full-day shoots with power to spare. The app control for iOS and Android offers manual, live video, and time-lapse modes. Setting up A/B point movements and adjusting wheel angle, plus or minus 30 degrees, is straightforward through the interface.
Build quality feels substantial at 60 ounces. The nonslip rubber wheels provide good traction on smooth surfaces. For solo content creators who need reliable, quiet camera movement without managing rails and tripods, the DL400 strikes an excellent balance between capability and convenience.
If you produce YouTube videos, online courses, or social media content by yourself, this dolly eliminates the need for a camera operator for movement shots. The quiet motor means you can record voiceover while the camera moves. The app control lets you trigger movement from in front of the camera. The 5-hour battery life handles full production days without worry.
There is a noticeable 1-second motor jitter when movement starts, which can be visible in footage if you are shooting tight. The single wheel drive design can slip on carpet or textured concrete. No physical remote is included, so you must use the app for all control. The dolly only works on flat surfaces, limiting creative angles. Some users report the knobby wheels cause stutter on certain surfaces, though rubber band modifications can help.
27 inch Length
2.5kg Payload
Aluminum Alloy
Time-Lapse Mode
Wired Controller
Sometimes you need a traditional rail slider without the premium carbon fiber price tag. The GVM 27-inch aluminum alloy slider delivers motorized movement at a price point that makes sense for growing production companies. The all-metal construction feels sturdy and professional, even if it lacks the weight savings of carbon fiber alternatives.
Multi-angle shooting capability sets this slider apart. You can shoot horizontal, vertical, or at 45-degree angles with the adjustable legs. The 70-degree slope climbing capability means you can set up on inclined surfaces and still get smooth movement. Multiple 1/4-inch and 3/8-inch screw holes give you flexibility in tripod configuration.
The time-lapse, video shooting, and auto round-trip modes cover the essential motorized slider functions. The adjustable non-slip feet with bubble level make setup straightforward even on challenging surfaces. At 2.36 kilograms, it is portable enough for location work while substantial enough to feel stable during operation.
For interview b-roll and product videography, the movement is smooth enough for professional results. The wired controller keeps operation simple without connectivity issues that plague some wireless alternatives. When paired with a gimbal, you can achieve impressive product arc shots that would otherwise require much more expensive equipment.
If your primary use case is interview setups and product showcase videos, this slider delivers excellent value. The all-metal construction will withstand daily use. The multiple shooting angles give you creative flexibility. GVM customer service has a reputation for responding within 48 hours and providing replacement units when needed, which provides peace of mind.
The motor is noticeably loud, making this unsuitable for shoots where you need clean audio during camera movement. The slowest speed setting is still faster than ideal for some applications. The time-lapse interface is confusing and requires patience to learn. The remote controller feels cheap and fragile. Some users report quality control issues with belt deformation and carriage play in certain units.
31 inch Length
20lb Payload
Carbon Fiber
8hr Battery
3 Shooting Modes
The GVM 31-inch carbon fiber slider with remote control is built for videographers who need reliability in demanding conditions. The carbon fiber construction provides the ideal combination of strength and weight savings. At 10 pounds with a 20-pound payload capacity, this slider handles professional camera setups without breaking a sweat.
Three shooting modes, horizontal, tracking, and 120-degree panoramic, give you creative flexibility for different b-roll scenarios. The video capture mode with uniform motion speed and time-lapse mode for up to 1000 photos cover most production needs. Four roller bearings provide extra balance and anti-shake performance that shows in the final footage.
Battery performance is where this slider really shines. Using an NP-F970 battery, I routinely achieved 8+ hours of operation. The NP-F system is versatile because you can carry multiple batteries and swap them quickly. This is crucial for location work where charging options are limited. The silent stepper motor driver produces smooth, consistent movement.
Durability is a standout feature according to long-term users. Reports indicate this slider withstands harsh conditions including outdoor shoots in challenging weather. The multiple 1/4-inch and 3/8-inch screw ports for tripod installation provide mounting flexibility. For filmmakers who prioritize reliability over cutting-edge features, this is a solid choice.
If you frequently shoot all-day productions or work in locations where power is limited, the exceptional battery life of this slider is a major advantage. The carbon fiber build handles professional payloads while remaining portable enough for location work. The durable construction means this slider will be in your kit for years.
The remote controller menu navigation is counter-intuitive and takes time to master. The slider does not remember start/stop points when powered off, requiring setup every session. Achieving correct parallax shots requires practice and proper setup time, typically 15+ minutes for complex configurations. The controller itself feels like a cheap plastic toy compared to the quality of the slider itself.
31 inch Length
App Control
Carbon Fiber
6 Shooting Modes
Includes Carry Bag
For videographers who prefer wireless control over wired remotes, the GVM 31-inch wireless slider offers app-based operation from your smartphone. The carbon fiber construction keeps weight manageable at just under 10 pounds while providing the stability needed for professional footage. The 31-inch travel length gives you approximately 27 inches of usable sliding range.
The 6-in-1 shooting modes include tracking, panoramic, time-lapse, video capture, and A/B point setting. This versatility covers most b-roll scenarios from product reveals to interview tracking shots. The included carrying case is surprisingly nice, making transport and storage convenient. For architectural and real estate videography, the smooth motion produces professional results.
Setup is straightforward with adjustable legs for height and angle leveling. The included 6 shutter release cables and extension cable mean you can trigger your camera for time-lapse work immediately. Multiple 1/4-inch and 3/8-inch screw ports provide tripod compatibility with various mounting configurations.
When the app works properly, wireless control is genuinely convenient. Being able to adjust speed, set A/B points, and trigger movement from your phone eliminates cable management during shoots. For solo operators, this freedom is valuable.
If you are comfortable with app-based control and want the convenience of wireless operation, this slider delivers. The carbon fiber build is stable and professional. The smooth motion works well for architectural, real estate, and product videography. The carrying case makes this a practical choice for location work.
App installation issues have been reported on some Samsung and Android devices, particularly related to Bluetooth permissions. There is a slight shake at the end of travel before the slider reverses direction, which can be visible in footage. Motor noise, described as a ticking sound, can be audible with sensitive microphones. Some users have received DOA or damaged units, suggesting quality control inconsistencies.
16 inch Overall
8.85 inch Travel
8.81lb Horizontal Payload
Under 30dB
60hr Battery
The Accsoon Toprig S40 is designed for videographers who prioritize silent operation and portability. At just 3.3 pounds with a 16-inch overall length, this compact slider fits in smaller camera bags while still delivering professional features. The ultra-silent brushless motor operates below 30dB, making it genuinely suitable for interview and dialogue-heavy productions.
Dual control options set this slider apart. You can use the manual button panel with speed knob, 0.1 to 5 cm/s, or control everything wirelessly through the smartphone app via Bluetooth. This flexibility means you are not dependent on app connectivity for basic operation, a significant advantage when wireless interference is a concern.
Battery life is exceptional. Using an NP-F550 battery, you can expect 60+ hours of operation. That is not a typo. This slider sips power, making it practical for extended production schedules without battery anxiety. The aluminum alloy construction provides good durability while keeping weight low.
Load capacity of 8.81 pounds horizontal and 5.51 pounds vertical handles most mirrorless and DSLR setups. The smooth operation and speed ramping capability produce professional-looking footage. For product videography and compact setups, this slider punches above its weight class.
If your primary work involves product videos, tabletop shots, or other compact setups, this slider is an excellent choice. The near-silent operation means you can record ambient sound without motor noise interference. The 60+ hour battery life eliminates power concerns during long product shoots. The compact size makes it practical for studio work with limited space.
The motor is not strong enough for downward angled shots with heavier cameras. Batteries and DC cables are not included, adding to the initial investment. The 16-inch overall length with 8.85-inch travel is limiting for longer tracking shots. There is no 1/4-inch mounting point on the bottom for support arms, which affects mounting flexibility.
24 inch Length
4kg Horizontal Payload
2.5kg Vertical Payload
Under 30dB
60hr Battery
The 24-inch Toprig Accsoon slider expands on the compact model with more travel distance while maintaining the silent operation and dual-control features. The aluminum alloy construction keeps weight at just 3.3 pounds despite the larger size. For travel filmmakers who need more range than compact sliders provide, this strikes a practical balance.
What sets this slider apart is that full-button panel control means you do not need the app for any functions. Speed control from 0.1 to 5 cm/s, shooting mode selection, and A/B point programming all happen on the device. This independence from smartphone connectivity is valuable for professionals who cannot afford connection issues during paid shoots.
The parallax track with alignment markers enables the classic cinematic reveal shot where the camera moves while maintaining focus on a central subject. Speed ramping capability allows acceleration and deceleration within movements for more natural-looking footage. The 12-second auto-calibration on startup means minimal delay between setup and shooting.
Battery life matches the smaller model at up to 60 hours with an NP-F550 battery. The 4kg horizontal and 2.5kg vertical payload capacity handles most mirrorless setups with standard lenses. For the price, this slider offers tremendous value compared to premium brands while delivering genuinely professional features.
If you produce content while traveling or need equipment that packs efficiently, this slider delivers professional features in a portable package. The lightweight aluminum construction does not sacrifice durability. The on-device controls mean no smartphone dependency. The parallax tracking and speed ramping provide creative options that elevate travel b-roll.
The 4kg horizontal and 2.5kg vertical payload capacity is limiting for heavier professional setups with large lenses or cinema cameras. Batteries and DC cable are not included in the package. Some users report jitteriness with setups approaching the maximum payload. The parallax bar has play and slack in the mechanism that affects precision in some configurations.
48 inch Length
Tracking Mode
Panoramic Mode
Carbon Fiber
Includes 6 Shutter Cables
When you need maximum travel distance for sweeping cinematic shots, the GVM 48-inch motorized slider delivers. The 48-inch carbon fiber rail provides approximately 44 inches of usable travel, making it ideal for those dramatic tracking shots that really sell production value. At nearly 12 pounds, it is substantial but the carbon fiber construction keeps weight manageable for its size.
Three motion settings, tracking, panoramic, and center focus, cover different creative scenarios. The near-silent motor operation is genuinely quiet, producing smooth motion from zero to maximum speed without audible motor noise. This makes the slider suitable for interview work and other productions where audio quality matters.
The motorized features include programmable start and end points, adjustable motor torque, and speed control from 1 to 100 percent. Time-lapse parameters include slip interval from 0.1 to 999.9, stop time from 0.1 to 999.9, and photo number from 1 to 1000 with auto loop capability. The included 6 shutter cables and extension cable mean comprehensive camera compatibility.
For vertical jib shots and creative angles, this slider handles multi-position setups. The adjustable foot design enables horizontal leveling on uneven surfaces. Running on battery or mains electricity gives you flexibility for location and studio work.
If your work involves dramatic tracking movements, product reveals, or any scenario where longer travel distance matters, this 48-inch slider provides the range you need. The near-silent operation and smooth motion produce professional-looking footage. The carbon fiber build handles professional payloads while remaining portable enough for location work.
The panning system with knobs at each end makes achieving simple straight-line tracking surprisingly difficult. There is no proper default straight lock mode, so you must carefully adjust for linear movements. The remote programming has a specific order that must be followed, which adds complexity to operation. Some users report reliability issues with units stopping after 6 months of use, and customer service can be difficult to reach.
Selecting the right motorized slider for your b-roll work involves balancing several factors. After testing numerous sliders and speaking with other videographers, here are the key considerations that actually matter in real-world production.
Longer rails provide more creative options but add weight and setup complexity. For most b-roll applications, 24 to 31 inches of travel is sufficient for tracking shots, reveals, and product movements. The 48-inch options are ideal when you need dramatic sweeps or work in larger spaces. Consider where you typically shoot and what shot types you use most frequently.
Always verify payload capacity for both horizontal and vertical orientations. A slider rated for 15 pounds horizontal may only handle 7 pounds vertical. Factor in your camera body, heaviest lens, and any accessories like monitors or microphones. It is wise to stay at least 20 percent below the maximum rating for smooth operation.
If you record audio during camera movement, motor noise is critical. Look for sliders with brushless motors rated below 30dB for interview and dialogue work. Belt-driven sliders tend to be quieter than leadscrew designs but may sacrifice some precision. Always test with your microphone setup before relying on a slider for sound-sensitive productions.
App control offers convenience and advanced features but introduces dependency on Bluetooth connectivity and smartphone battery life. Physical controllers are more reliable but may lack advanced programming options. The best sliders offer both, letting you choose based on the situation. For professional work, having on-device controls as backup is valuable insurance.
NP-F style batteries are the industry standard for good reason. They are affordable, widely available, and provide excellent runtime. Look for sliders that achieve at least 4 hours of operation on standard batteries. For extended shoots, the ability to run on external power or DC input is valuable. Avoid proprietary battery systems that limit your flexibility.
Carbon fiber provides the best strength-to-weight ratio and absorbs vibration better than aluminum. For travel and location work, the weight savings matter. Aluminum is more affordable and still durable enough for studio use. If budget allows, carbon fiber is worth the investment for the improved stability and portability.
Sliders and gimbals serve different purposes in video production. Sliders excel at precise, repeatable linear movements, parallax reveals, and controlled tracking shots. Gimbals provide handheld freedom and stabilization for walking shots and dynamic movements. For b-roll work, a slider often produces more cinematic results because the movement is controlled and precise. Many professionals use both: sliders for setup shots and gimbals for dynamic sequences.
Yes, a motorized camera slider is worth the investment if you produce video content regularly. The smooth, consistent movement adds professional production value that handheld or manual sliding cannot achieve. For content creators, real estate videographers, and commercial producers, a quality slider pays for itself by elevating the look of your footage and saving time on complex shot setups. Budget options under $200 make entry accessible, while premium sliders provide long-term reliability for professionals.
Manual sliders require you to push the camera carriage by hand, which can introduce inconsistencies in speed and smoothness. Motorized sliders use an electric motor to move the carriage at precise, programmable speeds. Motorized sliders excel at time-lapse photography, very slow movements, and repeatable shots for multiple takes. Manual sliders are simpler, lighter, and less expensive but lack the precision needed for professional time-lapse and complex programmed movements.
A slider provides controlled linear movement along a fixed track, producing smooth tracking shots, reveals, and parallax effects with mechanical precision. A gimbal stabilizes handheld camera movement in any direction, ideal for walking shots and dynamic scenes. Sliders work best for controlled environments and studio work where you want precise, repeatable movements. Gimbals excel for documentary work, events, and situations requiring mobility. Many videographers use both tools for different shooting scenarios.
The best camera slider depends on your specific needs and budget. For professionals, the iFootage Shark Slider Nano II offers DJI gimbal integration and zero-jitter performance. For value, the GVM 48-inch motorized slider provides excellent features at a mid-range price. For budget-conscious creators, the Neewer 3 Wheels dolly under $80 adds movement to static shots without a major investment. Consider your payload requirements, travel distance needs, and whether silent operation matters for your productions.
Finding the best motorized camera sliders for cinematic b-roll comes down to matching features to your specific production needs. The iFootage Shark Slider Nano II stands out for professionals who need DJI gimbal integration and zero-jitter performance. The GVM 48-inch carbon fiber slider delivers tremendous value for serious content creators. For those just starting or working with limited budgets, the Neewer motorized dollies prove that compelling camera movement does not require a major investment.
Consider what matters most for your work. If silent operation is critical, prioritize brushless motors rated under 30dB. If you shoot all-day productions, battery life should drive your decision. If travel is part of your workflow, carbon fiber construction and compact size matter. Whatever your choice, adding a motorized slider to your kit will immediately elevate the production value of your b-roll footage and open creative possibilities that simply are not achievable with handheld shooting alone.