A Guide to Choosing the Best Smartphone Gimbals

Smartphones have made impressive strides in video stabilization, but for those serious about capturing smooth and professional-looking footage, a mobile gimbal remains unmatched. While handheld filming can result in unwanted shakes, jolts, and uneven movements, a gimbal provides the stability and control needed to produce steady, cinematic videos.

With numerous gimbals available on the market, finding the right one can be overwhelming. To help you make an informed decision, we’ve compiled a list of the top smartphone gimbals currently available, catering to various needs and budgets.

Quick Picks: The Best Smartphone Gimbals

Here’s a quick overview of our top picks for smartphone gimbals, followed by an in-depth look at each option.

• Hohem iSteady V3: Ideal for solo content creators, this gimbal features AI tracking, a magnetic remote, and more advanced functionalities. It’s a versatile choice for capturing dynamic shots effortlessly.
• ZHIYUN Smooth 5S: Although priced at $169, the ZHIYUN Smooth 5S offers exceptional stabilization and premium features, making it a top choice for serious videographers.
• Insta360 Flow Pro: If portability is your priority, the Insta360 Flow Pro is the best option. When folded, it easily fits into a pocket, making it perfect for travel.
• DJI Osmo Mobile 6: Our top recommendation for a folding gimbal, the DJI Osmo Mobile 6 is lightweight, powerful, and an excellent choice for videographers on the move.
• DJI Osmo Mobile SE: Offering nearly all the benefits of the Osmo Mobile 6 but at a lower price point, the Osmo Mobile SE is a fantastic budget-friendly alternative.
• ZHIYUN Smooth Q5: A foldable and robust gimbal, the Smooth Q5 is a great choice for mobile videographers, featuring a removable LED light for night shoots.
• ZHIYUN Smooth X2: While not as feature-rich as other models, the Smooth X2 stands out for its fun design and affordability, making it a great entry-level option.
• Hohem iSteady MT2: Perfect for those with multiple devices, this gimbal can stabilize not just smartphones but also GoPros and compact cameras like the Sony RX100.
• MOZA AirCross S: With a carrying capacity of 1.8kg, the MOZA AirCross S is ideal for larger smartphones and can also support regular cameras and action cams, making it a versatile choice for various filming setups.

Each of these gimbals brings something unique to the table, ensuring that whether you’re a casual shooter or a professional videographer, there’s a perfect stabilizer for your needs. Dive into the details below to find the best fit for your mobile filming adventures

Standout Features of the Hohem iSteady V3

The most impressive aspect of the iSteady V3 is its AI module, which can operate independently without requiring an app connection. This advanced AI tracking system allows the gimbal to automatically follow your movements, making it ideal for solo creators. With gesture controls, you can easily change the composition, enable AI tracking, and more, all without touching your phone.

Since the AI tracking operates autonomously, it works seamlessly with any app that uses your camera, whether you’re recording a video, on a video call, or using a live streaming platform. This versatility makes the iSteady V3 a powerful tool for content creators in various scenarios.

Beyond its AI capabilities, the iSteady V3 excels in several other areas. It features a removable remote control that can be used either attached to the gimbal or detached for greater flexibility. The AI module also includes a fill light, perfect for shooting in low-light conditions. Additionally, the gimbal’s extendable design allows it to double as a selfie stick, and it includes a built-in tripod with foldable legs for added convenience.

The overall user experience is enhanced by its compact and lightweight design, measuring just 3.85 x 1.73 x 6.32 inches and weighing only 420 grams. With a battery life of up to 13 hours (when not using the power-intensive fill light and AI tracking), the iSteady V3 is perfect for long shooting sessions.

Why the Hohem iSteady V3 Stands Out

The Hohem iSteady V3 is one of the best smartphone gimbals available today, offering a host of features at a very reasonable $129 price point. Many other gimbals on the market cost more while offering less functionality, making the iSteady V3 an exceptional value.

Sleek Design and Superior Build Quality

The design of the ZHIYUN Smooth 5S is a standout, featuring a clean and modern aesthetic. It comes primarily in white with black accents, though a gray variant is also available for those who prefer a more understated look. The build quality lives up to the high standards set by its predecessors in the Smooth series, with robust construction that ensures durability.

Advanced Stabilization and Lighting

The ZHIYUN Smooth 5S is equipped with 3-axis stabilization, providing smooth and steady footage even in challenging conditions. One of its unique features is the inclusion of both integrated and magnetic lights, enhancing your ability to shoot in low-light environments. These lights are a game-changer for mobile videographers who often find themselves shooting in varied lighting conditions.

Versatile Shooting Modes and Controls

The gimbal supports both portrait and horizontal shooting modes, making it versatile for different content formats, whether you’re filming for social media or more traditional video platforms. The Smooth 5S also boasts an impressive array of controls, including a knob for precise adjustments, allowing for a more tailored filming experience.

With a payload capacity of up to 300 grams, the Smooth 5S can handle most smartphones with ease. The unit measures 311 x 168 x 52mm, making it compact enough for easy transport while still offering powerful stabilization.

AI Shooting Templates and App Integration

Through the accompanying app, users can access AI-powered shooting templates, which simplify the process of creating professional-quality videos. These templates are particularly useful for beginners or those looking to streamline their workflow.

Compact Design with Big Capabilities

The Insta360 Flow Pro impresses with its compact design, folding down to the size of a large smartphone—albeit much thicker. This makes it one of the most portable gimbals on the market, easily fitting into a pants pocket or small bag, which is a key selling point for those on the move.

Despite its small size, the Flow Pro doesn’t skimp on features. It includes a magnetic mounting system for quick setup, a built-in extender rod that doubles as a selfie stick, and a convenient trigger for easy control. One of its most unique features is the built-in tripod. The three tripod feet pull out from the bottom of the gimbal, allowing you to set it up almost anywhere without needing an additional accessory. For those who prefer using a traditional tripod, the Flow Pro also includes a standard tripod mount.

High-Tech Features for Modern Creators

The Insta360 Flow Pro is packed with modern features that cater to tech-savvy users. It supports tap-to-connect functionality, allowing for quick and easy pairing with your smartphone via NFC. The gimbal offers 360-degree infinite pan tracking, ensuring that your subject remains in the frame no matter how much they move. This is complemented by Insta360’s Deep Track 3.0 AI-powered object tracking, which enhances the gimbal’s ability to follow subjects smoothly and accurately.

Additionally, the Flow Pro includes a tracking ring light, providing optimal lighting for your shots even in low-light conditions. This feature is particularly useful for vloggers and social media creators who need consistent lighting on the go.

Compact Design and Portability

One of the standout features of the DJI Osmo Mobile 6 is its folding design, which makes it exceptionally portable. When fully unfolded, it measures 276 x 111.5 x 99mm and weighs just 309 grams, making it easy to carry around in a bag or even a large pocket. The gimbal also includes a built-in extension rod, which can transform it into a selfie stick, adding versatility for different shooting scenarios.

Functional Features and Build Quality

The Osmo Mobile 6 is designed with both portability and functionality in mind. It features a clamp that can securely hold devices as heavy as 290 grams and as wide as 84mm, accommodating a wide range of smartphones. The 1,000mAh battery may not be the most powerful, offering about six hours and 24 minutes of usage, but it should suffice for most short to medium-length shoots.

DJI has also introduced a new display panel on the Osmo Mobile 6, which provides useful information at a glance, such as battery life and gimbal mode. Another new addition is the side wheel, which allows for more precise control over zoom and focus, giving users more creative control over their shots.

Professional Features and Limitations

The DJI Osmo Mobile 6 continues to build on the success of its predecessors by offering more advanced features that appeal to professional users. However, it is important to note that some of these features are optimized for iPhone users, which may limit the gimbal’s full potential for Android users.

While the OM 6 is slightly larger and heavier than the previous version, these changes are relatively minor and do not significantly impact its portability. The added functionality and improved design features more than make up for the slight increase in size.

Key Features and Design

The DJI Osmo Mobile SE shares several standout features with the Osmo Mobile 6, including 3-axis stabilization, a portable and foldable design, and a magnetic mounting system. This means you still get smooth and stable footage, whether you’re filming on the go or setting up for a more controlled shot. The gimbal also sports a similar control interface, making it easy to use for those familiar with DJI’s products.

One area where the Osmo Mobile SE may even surpass the Osmo Mobile 6 is in battery life. With up to 8 hours of usage, the SE offers a significant improvement over the 6 hours and 24 minutes provided by the Osmo Mobile 6. This extended battery life allows for longer filming sessions without worrying about recharging.

The SE also boasts an improved mechanical range, particularly in pan and tilt movements, offering more flexibility in capturing dynamic shots.

Trade-Offs for Affordability

As with any budget-friendly option, there are a few trade-offs. The DJI Osmo Mobile SE is slightly larger and heavier than the Osmo Mobile 6, weighing in at 352 grams. While this difference is minimal, it may be noticeable if you’re looking for the lightest and most compact option.

Additionally, the Osmo Mobile SE does not include a selfie stick extender, which might be a downside for those who frequently use this feature. The side wheel found on the Osmo Mobile 6 is replaced by a rocker, which might be less precise but still functional for most users.

Key Features and Benefits

• Affordable Price: At $99, it’s a budget-friendly alternative to the Osmo Mobile 6, making high-quality stabilization more accessible.
• Longer Battery Life: With up to 8 hours of usage, you can film longer without needing to recharge.
• Portable and Foldable: Retains the compact and foldable design that makes DJI gimbals easy to carry and use on the go.
• Improved Mechanical Range: Offers better pan and tilt movements for more dynamic shooting.

Considerations

• Slightly Larger and Heavier: While the size and weight increase are minimal, they might be noticeable for some users.
• Lacks Selfie Stick Extender: Missing a feature that might be important for some creators.
• Rocker Instead of Side Wheel: The control interface is slightly less advanced, but still user-friendly.

The DJI Osmo Mobile SE is an excellent choice for those who want a high-quality gimbal without breaking the bank. While it does make a few compromises compared to the more expensive Osmo Mobile 6, it still offers robust stabilization, extended battery life, and a portable design at a much lower price. If you’re looking for a reliable gimbal that won’t strain your budget, the DJI Osmo Mobile SE is a solid option.

Advanced Features and Controls

The Hohem iSteady MT2 is packed with advanced technology, including AI-driven features that enhance your filming capabilities. The gimbal includes a magnetic fill light, which is great for shooting in low-light conditions, and an array of manual controls that give you precise command over your shots. These features make it suitable for both amateur and professional videographers who need high-level functionality.

Impressive Build and Performance

Weighing just 653 grams, the iSteady MT2 is relatively lightweight for a gimbal that can carry up to 2 pounds (approximately 907 grams). It offers a wide range of movement, with 360-degree panning, 290-degree tilting, and 200-degree rolling, providing ample flexibility for capturing dynamic shots from various angles.

Battery life is another area where the iSteady MT2 excels. On a full charge, it can last up to 17 hours, which is exceptional for a gimbal of this caliber. However, using AI features and the magnetic fill light will reduce battery life to about 6-8 hours, which is still respectable given the power demands of these advanced functions.

Considerations and Pricing

While the Hohem iSteady MT2 offers a lot in terms of features and versatility, it comes with a hefty price tag of $349. This makes it one of the most expensive gimbals on the market, particularly among those designed for both smartphones and other cameras. The price reflects its high-end features and build quality, but it might be a significant investment for those on a budget.

Another potential downside is the accompanying app, which has been described as underwhelming. While the hardware of the iSteady MT2 is top-notch, the software experience might not be as polished, which could affect the overall usability for some users.

Key Features and Benefits

• Multi-Device Compatibility: Supports smartphones, action cameras, and regular cameras, making it extremely versatile.
• Advanced Controls and AI Features: Offers a range of manual controls and AI-driven functionalities for enhanced filming.
• Impressive Battery Life: Up to 17 hours of usage, though it decreases to 6-8 hours with intensive features active.
• High Weight Capacity: Can carry up to 2 pounds, accommodating a wide range of devices.

Considerations

• High Price: At $349, it’s one of the more expensive gimbals available, reflecting its advanced features and build quality.
• App Limitations: The accompanying app may not offer the best user experience, which could be a drawback for some users.

The Hohem iSteady MT2 is a powerful and versatile gimbal that caters to creators who need a single tool for multiple devices. Its advanced features, strong build quality, and impressive battery life make it a top choice for serious videographers. However, its high price and less-than-stellar app experience might be considerations for those on a tighter budget. If you’re looking for a high-end gimbal that can handle various cameras and deliver professional results, the Hohem iSteady MT2 is definitely worth the investment.

The MOZA AirCross S is a beast of a gimbal. It is built amazingly and looks very nice, but it stands out because it’s one gimbal to rule them all. You can use it with smartphones, traditional cameras, and more. Thanks to its 1.8 kg payload capacity, you can also use multiple shooting devices with it.

The MOZA AirCross S is not cheap at $259, but it comes with all the bells and whistles. You get 3-axis 360-degree stabilization, as well as an excellent ergonomic design and hand position. The 10-hour battery life is also very nice, considering the gimbal’s capacity.

Buying the Right Phone Gimbal for Your Needs

When selecting a phone gimbal, several key factors should be taken into account to ensure you choose the right one for your specific needs. While price, size, weight, battery life, and build quality are the most obvious considerations, there are other important features that can significantly impact your gimbal’s performance and suitability for your projects.

Stabilization Technology: 2-Axis vs. 3-Axis

One of the most critical aspects to consider is the type of stabilization technology the gimbal uses. Phone gimbals typically come with either 2-axis or 3-axis stabilization.

• 2-Axis Stabilizers: These gimbals smooth out tilt and roll, which helps reduce movements in the up/down or side-to-side directions. However, they do not stabilize panning movements, which can result in less smooth footage when you’re moving horizontally.
• 3-Axis Stabilizers: These gimbals provide comprehensive stabilization by controlling tilt, roll, and pan movements. This ensures smoother, more professional-looking footage but often at the cost of increased size and weight. If you want the best stabilization possible, we recommend opting for a 3-axis stabilizer, though be prepared for a slightly bulkier device.

Device Compatibility

Compatibility is another essential factor. The gimbal must physically accommodate your phone’s size and weight. Before purchasing, check the gimbal’s specifications to ensure it can handle your device. Incompatibility can result in poor performance or even damage to your phone or the gimbal itself.

Software and App Features

The software that accompanies your gimbal can greatly enhance or detract from your overall experience. Many gimbals come with companion apps that offer various features like object tracking, time-lapse modes, and advanced shooting modes. When evaluating a gimbal, be sure to investigate the app’s functionality and ease of use. A well-designed app with a robust feature set can expand your creative possibilities and make using the gimbal much more intuitive and enjoyable.

Final Thoughts

When choosing a phone gimbal, it’s important to balance your needs with the gimbal’s features and specifications. Whether you prioritize portability, advanced stabilization, or software functionality, considering these factors will help you make an informed decision that best suits your filming style and requirements.