Why the Best Gimbals for Smartphones Are My Go-To After Ditching Selfie Sticks

This article will take you through some of the best gimbals for smartphones, explaining why they stand out and how to choose the right one for your needs.

Best Gimbals for Smartphones
This is an image of the best gimbals for smartphones

In recent years, smartphone cameras have become so advanced that many people now use them professionally and casually for photography and videography. However, shaky hands can ruin a great shot no matter how good a smartphone camera is.

This is where gimbals come into play. A gimbal helps to stabilize your phone, allowing for smooth and professional-looking videos, even when you’re on the move.

Investing in a good gimbal is essential if you’re serious about getting smooth, cinematic shots with your smartphone.

Best Gimbals for Smartphones

Here’s a list of the best smartphone gimbals in the market right now:

DJI OM 5

Best Gimbals for Smartphones
DJI OM 5

Click Here to Buy Now at Amazon

The DJI OM 5 is arguably one of the best gimbals for smartphones right now. It’s compact, foldable, and comes packed with features that will make your videography look professional.

Key Features:

  • Lightweight and Portable: Weighing just 292g, it’s easy to carry around.
  • Magnetic Clamp: It comes with a magnetic clamp that quickly attaches and detaches your phone from the gimbal.
  • Extension Rod: A built-in extension rod makes it great for selfies or wider-angle shots.
  • ActiveTrack 4.0: This feature locks onto subjects and keeps them in frame, even if they move around a lot.
  • 3-Axis Stabilization: Ensures smooth and steady footage.

The DJI OM 5 is ideal for beginners and professionals alike. The magnetic clamp makes attaching your phone a breeze, and the built-in selfie stick is a handy bonus. Click here to buy this product. Expect to pay around $159.

Zhiyun Smooth 5Zhiyun Smooth 5

Click Here to Buy Now at Amazon

Zhiyun has made a name for itself in the gimbal market, and the Zhiyun Smooth 5 is one of the best options available for smartphone users.

Key Features:

  • Powerful Motor: Capable of supporting larger phones and external lenses.
  • Rotatable Arm: Allows for landscape and portrait orientation, making it perfect for Instagram and TikTok videos.
  • Versatile Controls: Provides a joystick, zoom control, and other advanced controls right at your fingertips.
  • 6-Hour Battery Life: Supports long shoots without needing to recharge.

This gimbal is perfect for vloggers or mobile filmmakers who need more control over their shots. Its robust motor allows for smoother operation, even when using accessories like microphones or lenses. Priced at around $169, it’s slightly more expensive but worth it for those looking for extra features and performance.

Hohem iSteady Mobile Plus

Best Gimbals for Smartphones
Hohem iSteady Mobile Plus

Click Here to Buy Now at Amazon

If you’re looking for a budget-friendly option that doesn’t skimp on features, the Hohem iSteady Mobile Plus is an excellent choice.

Key Features:

  • Affordable: One of the most budget-friendly options available.
  • 360° Inception Mode: Creates unique, rotating shots with ease.
  • 12-Hour Battery Life: Impressive battery life for all-day shooting.
  • 3-Axis Stabilization: Ensures steady and smooth footage even in dynamic situations.

Despite its low price, the Hohem iSteady Mobile Plus offers features you typically only find in higher-end gimbals, such as Inception Mode and long battery life. It’s a great entry-level gimbal for those just getting started. Click here to shop for this product. Expect to pay around $99, making it one of the best value-for-money gimbals on the market.

FeiyuTech VLOG Pocket 2

Best Gimbals for Smartphones
FeiyuTech VLOG Pocket 2

Click Here to Buy Now at Amazon

The FeiyuTech VLOG Pocket 2 is a great option for vloggers and those who need a lightweight, compact gimbal that can fit in their pocket.

Key Features:

  • Foldable Design: Compact and lightweight, making it very portable.
  • Smart Object Tracking: Automatically follows your subject as it moves.
  • One-Touch Switch: Quickly switch between portrait and landscape modes.
  • Gesture Control: Start recording or taking photos with simple hand gestures.

Its foldable design makes it extremely portable, and the smart tracking feature is perfect for solo vloggers who need the camera to follow them without help. Click here to shop now. The FeiyuTech VLOG Pocket 2 costs around $89, making it an affordable, compact option for on-the-go videographers.

Moza Mini-MI

Moza Mini-MI
Moza Mini-MI

Click Here to Buy Now at Amazon

The Moza Mini-MI offers wireless charging, a feature not commonly found in other gimbals, which makes it stand out from the competition.

Key Features:

  • Wireless Charging: Charge your phone while you shoot, eliminating battery anxiety.
  • 8 Follow Modes: Provides more control and flexibility for different shooting scenarios.
  • 360° Rotation: Offers full rotational control for creative shots.
  • Phone Mount: Adjustable phone mount fits a variety of smartphone sizes.

This gimbal is perfect for long shoots, thanks to its wireless charging capability. You can keep filming without worrying about your phone’s battery dying. Click here to shop now.  At $109, it’s a solid mid-range option with unique features like wireless charging.

What Is a Gimbal and How Does It Work?

Now that we’ve mentioned the best gimbals for smartphones, it’s important to understand what a gimbal is and how it works. A gimbal is a device that stabilizes your camera (or smartphone in this case) by counteracting unwanted movement. This makes it ideal for recording videos while walking, running, or even on rough terrain.

Gimbals have motors that allow them to sense movement in different directions and adjust to keep your phone steady. They come in various sizes and have different features, including pan, tilt, and roll stabilization, which keeps your shots stable and smooth.

Why You Need a Gimbal for Your Smartphone

While some smartphones have built-in stabilization, it’s not always enough to get that perfect smoothness, especially if you’re filming in motion. A gimbal helps eliminate shakes, providing buttery-smooth footage that can make even the most basic shots look professional.

Whether you’re a vlogger, a filmmaker, or just someone who loves taking smooth videos of travel adventures, a gimbal will take your work to the next level.

How to Choose the Best Gimbal for Your Smartphone

Choosing the right gimbal depends on your needs and preferences. Here are some factors to consider:

Budget

Prices can range from $80 to $200 or more. Decide how much you’re willing to spend and look for a gimbal within your budget.

Portability

If you travel a lot or need something compact, go for a foldable and lightweight gimbal like the DJI OM 5 or FeiyuTech VLOG Pocket 2.

Battery Life

For extended shoots, battery life is crucial. Some gimbals offer up to 12 hours of battery life, while others may offer less. Consider your shooting needs and go for one with enough battery power.

Features

Do you need advanced features like face tracking, object tracking, or wireless charging? Consider what extra features will be useful for your shooting style.

Stabilization

Ensure the gimbal provides smooth 3-axis stabilization for maximum steadiness. Some gimbals offer additional features like pan and tilt controls for more creative shooting.

App Compatibility

Many gimbals come with dedicated apps that provide extra shooting modes and controls. Make sure the gimbal you choose works well with your smartphone and its accompanying app.

Conclusion

A good gimbal can elevate your smartphone videography, allowing you to capture smooth, professional-quality videos effortlessly. From the feature-packed DJI OM 5 to the budget-friendly Hohem iSteady Mobile Plus, there’s a gimbal for every need and budget.

When choosing the Best Gimbals for Smartphones, consider your budget, portability needs, and the specific features that will enhance your video-making experience. Whether you’re a vlogger, filmmaker, or casual user, a quality gimbal can make all the difference in your content.

CHECK THESE OUT: