The Ultimate Guide to Mobile Gimbals: Everything You Need to Know

Mobile gimbals are the perfect smartphone videography tools that let you capture smooth shake-free footage on the go.

Gimbals included in this article:

If you want to capture a video of a vibrant market scene in festive seasons or local food or as a hiker you want to capture the natural landscape on your phone, get one of these mobile gimbals.

Nowadays taking photos and making videos has become very easy. You can take photos or videos while walking or doing some work. That’s because you have a smartphone.

But just having a smartphone is not enough to record quality videos. For this, you will have to stabilize your smartphone camera. And for that you will need a device.

If you are a vlogger, traveler, filmmaker or just interested in casual videography, then it is obvious that you want to capture a smooth and shake-free video. That’s because shaky footage is very frustrating for you. And if you are creating content for your client, the client will not even approve it.

Even if you are a digital creator, you would still want to take smooth and quality shots for your content. In such a case, mobile gimbal is very helpful. You don’t even need a very expensive DSLR camera for shake-free video footage.

I remember when we were at the Patni Top in J & K, we wanted to capture some beautiful scenes. But without gimbal, the quality of the footage was very poor and shaky. That’s when I realised that if you want professional footage, you need to have professional tools.

In this article, we will talk about mobile gimbals and how you can make smooth and professional quality videos from your smartphone.

If you have ever used selfie stand, you must have an idea that it is a handheld device. Similarly mobile gimbal is also a handheld tool for smartphone videography.

As we are saying this tool stabilizes your smartphone or camera, with this you can capture smooth, shake-free professional video footage in your mobile.

With the help of this tool you can counteract unwanted movement while taking footage in your smartphone or camera. This is possible because they have motors and sensors installed in them.

If you are a vlogger or a traveler and you are visiting a bustling market especially during the festive season. And you want to capture a video of a vibrant market scene or local food. Also, as a hiker you want to capture the natural landscape on your phone.

In this way you capture beautiful and vibrant scenes. But that footage will be very shaky and unprofessional. That is when you need a mobile gimbal as it will guide your camera or smartphone like a steady hand. And your footage is smooth and gives cinematic shots.

With the use of mobile gimbal, you can completely transform your video footage. Why not invest in a good mobile gimbal today and capture professional footage?

Why Mobile Gimbals Are Essential for Content Creators

My friend Sumit is a travel vlogger. He was hiking in Kasol, Himachal Pradesh last year. While hiking on the Rashol trail, he wanted to capture a serene scene there that he could preserve as a memory and watch it later.

He captured that scene. But when he showed it to us later, it was very shaky and we did not enjoy watching it much. And I am a witness to this myself.

Then I suggested to him why doesn’t he invest in a mobile gimbal. So that next time whenever he goes hiking in the mountains, he can record a professional video.

Next time when he came back from hiking, it was a real pleasure to watch his footage that looked very professional, with smooth pans and steady tracking even in rugged terrain.

So, if you are a vlogger, traveller or film maker, then mobile gimbals are a must have tool. With this tool along with your smartphone you can capture your story, vibrant scene or natural landscape which will be a shake free and professional footage.

Types of Gimbals: Which One is Right for You?

Now you know what gimbals are and why you should invest in a good mobile gimbal.

But do you know that there are so many types of gimbals in the market and how to decide which one is best?

In this article, you will know which gimbal is best for you. It covers both beginners and experienced videographers.

You can be a beginner smartphone videography enthusiast. You can also be an experienced filmmaker. But choosing the right gimbal depends on your equilibrium, shooting style, budget and creativity.

Majorly you use two types of gimbals, 2-Axis Gimbals and 3-Axis Gimbals. Here we will briefly talk about the two major gimbals.

  • 2-Axis Gimbals: These gimbals are best for stabilizing a smartphone. They have two axes, tilt and roll. And they are much cheaper and lighter than others 3-axes ones. But their drawback is that they won’t eliminate all movement, especially if you’re walking or running.
  • 3-Axis Gimbals: If you want full stabilization with features like tilt, roll and pan then 3-axis gimbals are best for you. As the name suggests, they come with 3 axes and best for serious professional videography.

How Do Mobile Gimbals Work?

To understand how mobile gimbals work, you will have to understand their technicality. Although you do not have to become a technical engineer to use these smartphone videography tools, still let’s talk a little technical about how mobile gimbals work.

Sensors and Brushless Motors

Sensors and brushless motors are very important parts of mobile gimbals. They detect movement in real-time and counteract that movement. This way your footage remains steady and you get professional and cinematic shots.

Stabilization Algorithms

Mobile gimbals also use software algorithms and they play a very important role. They predict and detect movement with the help of these software algorithms. Thus, this technology makes the gimbal steady and more accurate. It also helps you in capturing smooth and professional video footage.

Benefits of Using a Mobile Gimbal

If you are a videography enthusiast or an experienced filmmaker and vlogger, mobile gimbals are a very handy tool for you. A good gimbal doesn’t have to cost you as much as a DSLR camera does.

Let’s briefly discuss the benefits of using gimbals:

1. Stability Gives You Smooth Footage

The biggest advantage of using mobile gimbals is that your smartphone camera is stable and you get smooth and shake-free footage. When you are walking, running or shooting from your car, you will get smooth and professional-quality footage.

2. You Get Professional Quality Cinematic Shots

If you want your footage to be of professional and cinematic quality, mobile gimbals can help you achieve this. Whether you are a beginner or an experienced filmmaker, a gimbal will give your videography all the qualities that a good camera can provide.

Intuitive Controls Make It Easy to Use

I have used a lot of gimbals and have had a good experience with almost all of them. The best part about the mobile gimbals available in the market today is that they are very intuitive and user-friendly. When I first used my gimbal, it took me only five minutes to understand and I was able to start shooting right away.

4. Gimbals Come With Versatility That Is An Additional Feature

The mobile gimbals you buy today are packed with features. They come with features like object tracking, time-lapse, and panorama modes. I personally use the object tracking feature when I go solo hikes, and it works exactly like you have a cameraman with you.

Top 10 Perfect Gimbals for Every Budget

There are many types of gimbals available in the market today. But if you are a beginner or an experienced videographer looking to buy the best gimbal, you need a perfect buying guide.

That’s why we have tested 150 mobile gimbals and brought you the 10 best picks. And they are suitable for every budget. Pick yours from the below list today!

DJI OSMO Mobile 6 Smartphone Gimbal

Score 9/10

Special Features

3-Axis Phone Gimbal, Built-in Extension Rod, Portable and Foldable, Vlogging, YouTube, Instagram Reel Video

Amazon Basics Foldable 3-Axis Gimbal

Score 9/10

Special Features

foldable 3-Axis, Advanced Gyroscope, Shake-Free Footage, Object Tracking, Panoramic, Ideal for Vlogging & Travel

FeiyuTech Vimble 3 Gimbal Stabilizer

Score 9.3/10

Special Features

3-Axis Phone Gimbal with Tripod, 7.8″ Extension Rod, Portable and Foldable Vlog, YouTube, Instagram Video

DJI OSMO Mobile SE Intelligent Gimbal
 

Score 9.5/10

Special Features

3-Axis Phone Gimbal Portable and Foldable, ShotGuides, ActiveTrack 5.0 Vlogging, YouTube Video

hohem iSteady MT2 Kit Gimbal Stabilizer

Score 9/10

Special Features

3-Axis Gimbal for Mirrorless, Pocket Camera, Action Camera, Smartphone, AI Tracker. RGB Fill Light

Zhiyun-Tech Smooth Q2 3-Axis Handheld Gimbal

Score 9/10

Special Features

Payload 360 Degree Rotation, all day battery life, smartphone, small Pocket Size 260g Max

Gimbal Stabilizer for Smartphone

Score 9.4/10

Special Features

Wireless Remote Tripod 1-Axis, handheld smartphone, portable, Tiktok, Vlogger, Youtuber, Live Video Recording

Pivo Pod Auto Face Tracking Phone Holder

Score 9.6/10

Special Features

360° Rotation, 6 Speed, Content Creator Essentials for Fitness Tracker, Live Streaming, Vlog with Remote Control

DJI Pocket 2 Creator Combo - 3 Axis Gimbal

Score 9.6/10

Special Features

3 Axis Gimbal Stabilizer, 4K Camera, 64MP Photo, Pocket-Sized, ActiveTrack 3.0, Glamour Effects, YouTube Video Vlog

WeCool Auto Face Tracking Tripod

Score 9.3/10

Special Features

Auto Face Tracking Tripod, 360° Rotation, smart video/photo shooting with Remote, no App needed, gesture control for Vlog, streaming, video recording

Smartphone Gimbal Price Comparison: Top 3 Best Deals of 2024

We know you have a good smartphone and you are interested in smartphone videography and vlogging. But if you want to shoot a good shake free video then along with the smartphone you should also have a mobile gimbal.

But gimbals are available in the market in different price ranges. That is why we have brought you the 3 best gimbals price comparison and also the best deals available on them now.

For Vloggers, Filmmakers

DJI OSMO Mobile 6 Smartphone Gimbal

Score 9.4/10

Special Features

Wireless Remote Tripod 1-Axis, handheld smartphone, portable, Tiktok, Vlogger, Youtuber, Live Video Recording

For Beginners, Travelers

Zhiyun Smooth Q4 Gimbal Stabilizer

Score 9.4/10

Special Features

Wireless Remote Tripod 1-Axis, handheld smartphone, portable, Tiktok, Vlogger, Youtuber, Live Video Recording

for Budget-conscious users

Hohem iSteady X Mobile Gimbal

Score 9.4/10

Special Features

Wireless Remote Tripod 1-Axis, handheld smartphone, portable, Tiktok, Vlogger, Youtuber, Live Video Recording

DSLR Gimbals: The Best Stabilizers for Professional Photography

Are you using a DSLR camera for your videography or photography? If your answer is yes then you need heavy duty gimbals. That’s why we have picked 2 best heavy duty gimbals to make your DSLR camera’s companion.

1. Zhiyun Crane M2

The Zhiyun Crane M2 is a handheld gimbal stabiliser you use with DSLR and mirrorless cameras. It is especially ideal for photographers and filmmakers.

Talking about compatibility, you can use your Zhiyun Crane M2 with both camera and smartphone. This gimbal comes with higher payload, long runtime, PD fast charging, Bluetooth 5.0 and smartphone clamp.

2. DJI Ronin-SC

If you are a professional photographer or videographer then you need a top tier stabilisation. In such a situation, DJI Ronin-SC Gimbal Stabiliser is the best option for you.

DJI Ronin-SC provides 3-axis superior stabilization. Its 306-degree rotation feature is ideal for you to take unique shots. Filmmakers like it very much.

Smartphone vs. DSLR Gimbals: Which One Should You Buy

If you are a content creator, you want your content to stand out among all others. And for this, you must be thinking whether I should invest in a mobile gimbal or a DSLR gimbal!

To decide this, we have briefly described the smartphone and DSLR gimbal in two parts.

  • Smartphone Gimbals: Smartphone gimbals are very light and compact. As we mentioned earlier, mobile gimbals cannot replace expensive DSLR cameras but are a great affordable option for shake-free professional videography.
  • DSLR Gimbals: DSLRs are big and bulky and hence they can handle heavy equipment. But along with this, they also take more effort to operate them.

If you are in the world of filmmaking, then you must buy a DSLR but they do not provide easy mobility and ease of use. If you prefer mobility, ease of use and a compact tool, then you should avoid the DSLR gamble.

How to Choose the Right Gimbal Stabilizers for Your Needs

Deciding which is the right gimbal is not an easy task. Sometimes it is even a bit overwhelming because there are more than one set of gimbals in the market.

The answer to this question depends on the purpose for which you want to buy the gimbal. Hence, we have listed out gimbals for different purposes below.

Vlogging

If you are a vlogger and want to shoot professional quality videos on the go, then you need a lightweight gimbal. Our top picks for this are the Zhiyun Smooth Q4 or the DJI Osmo Mobile 6 as both are lightweight and easy to use mobile gimbals.

Traveling

If you are a traveller and want your footage to be shake free and your video to stand out, then you should buy a shake free steady gimbal. Our top choice for this is the Hohem iSteady X. It is quite convenient and easy to use mobile gimbal.

Filmmaking

If you are into advanced filmmaking then you need a high end heavy duty gimbal. For this, we suggest you buy the DJI Ronin-SC as this gimbal gives you the option of more customization and control.

Key Features to Look for in a Mobile Gimbal

Choosing the right mobile gimbal has never been easy for me. I spend a lot of time researching the right gimbal. I always look for these features before selecting a top gimbal.

Stabilisation Technology

Stabilisation is the most important feature of the mobile. You can understand this in a way that it is the CPU of your PC which we also call the heart of the gimbal.

So, when I want to buy a gimbal, I first and foremost look for advanced stabilization. 3-axis gimbals come with very good orientation and are best for recording very smooth footage. 

You can also look for gimbals that have additional stabilisation software features which come in handy during post production.

Battery Life

The importance of good battery life becomes clear when you do long shoots or travel. Normally the majority of mobile gimbals come with a battery backup of 8-10 hours. 

Whenever I travel with my gimbal, my priority is battery. Generally 10-12 hours of battery life sounds good but I always carry power bank along with my mobile gimbal.

Payload Capacity

If you are a beginner, you might not know about payload capacity. I am assuming so. But payload capacity is the maximum weight a gimbal can manage. Luckily, most gimbals available today support almost all smartphones and loads.

But for additional accessories, not all gimbals are fit. That is why you have to ensure beforehand what additional accessories you are carrying.

Build Quality and Durability

If you’re like me and you love shooting in various locations—whether it’s bustling city streets or rough outdoor terrain—then build quality becomes very important. You want something that feels solid and durable, but not so heavy that it’s a pain to carry around.

How to Choose the Right Mobile Gimbal for Your Smartphone

Smartphone Compatibility

Before you buy a gimbal, make sure it’s compatible with your phone. Most gimbals work with all modern smartphones, but if you’re using a particularly large or heavy phone (like the iPhone 14 Pro Max), double-check the gimbal’s payload capacity.

Price and Budget

Gimbals come in a wide range of prices. If you are looking for a mobile gimbal and your priority is smartphone videography, then you don’t need to spend several thousands.

You can decide on your needs and budget and also important to buy a good budget gimbal. If you’re just starting out, you don’t need the most expensive model. I started with a budget gimbal, and it served me well until I was ready to upgrade.

Popular Brands

  • DJI: Known for their high-quality gimbals, DJI is a favorite among many content creators.
  • Zhiyun: Another great option, especially for those looking for more affordable but powerful gimbals.
  • Hohem: Ideal for budget-conscious creators who still want excellent stabilization.

Affordable Gimbal Prices: Top Picks Under 10000

Not everyone can afford an expensive gamble, but that doesn’t mean you have to compromise on quality. Here are some of the best options under 10,000:

Android & iOS

DJI OSMO Mobile 6 Smartphone Gimbal

Score 9.4/10

Special Features

Wireless Remote Tripod 1-Axis, handheld smartphone, portable, Tiktok, Vlogger, Youtuber, Live Video Recording

Android & iOS

Hohem iSteady X Mobile Gimbal

Score 9.4/10

Special Features

Wireless Remote Tripod 1-Axis, handheld smartphone, portable, Tiktok, Vlogger, Youtuber, Live Video Recording

Android & iOS

FeiyuTech Vimble 3 Gimbal

Score 9.4/10

Special Features

Wireless Remote Tripod 1-Axis, handheld smartphone, portable, Tiktok, Vlogger, Youtuber, Live Video Recording

Android & iOS

IZI GO-X Smartphone Handheld Gimbal Stabilizer

Score 9.4/10

Special Features

Wireless Remote Tripod 1-Axis, handheld smartphone, portable, Tiktok, Vlogger, Youtuber, Live Video Recording

Android & iOS

DJI OSMO Mobile SE Intelligent Gimbal 3

Score 9.4/10

Special Features

Wireless Remote Tripod 1-Axis, handheld smartphone, portable, Tiktok, Vlogger, Youtuber, Live Video Recording

Android & iOS

DIGITEK® (DSG-007F) 3-Axis Gray Smartphone Gimbal

Score 9.4/10

Special Features

Wireless Remote Tripod 1-Axis, handheld smartphone, portable, Tiktok, Vlogger, Youtuber, Live Video Recording

Android & iOS

Amazon Basics Foldable 3-Axis Gimbal Stabilizer

Score 9.4/10

Special Features

Wireless Remote Tripod 1-Axis, handheld smartphone, portable, Tiktok, Vlogger, Youtuber, Live Video Recording

iPhone Gimbals: Enhance Your Mobile Videography

If you are an iPhone user, there are several gimbals that are specifically designed for your phone.

BEST FOR iOS

DJI OSMO Mobile SE Intelligent Gimbal

Score 9.4/10

Special Features

Wireless Remote Tripod 1-Axis, handheld smartphone, portable, Tiktok, Vlogger, Youtuber, Live Video Recording

BEST FOR iOS

Zhiyun-Tech Smooth Q2

Score 9.4/10

Special Features

Wireless Remote Tripod 1-Axis, handheld smartphone, portable, Tiktok, Vlogger, Youtuber, Live Video Recording

BEST FOR iOS

IZI GO-X Smartphone Handheld Gimbal Stabilizer

Score 9.4/10

Special Features

Wireless Remote Tripod 1-Axis, handheld smartphone, portable, Tiktok, Vlogger, Youtuber, Live Video Recording

BEST FOR iOS

DJI OSMO Mobile 6 Smartphone Gimbal Stabilizer

Score 9.4/10

Special Features

Wireless Remote Tripod 1-Axis, handheld smartphone, portable, Tiktok, Vlogger, Youtuber, Live Video Recording

BEST FOR iOS

Digitek (DSG-010 PRO) 3-Axis Black Smartphone Gimbal

Score 9.4/10

Special Features

Wireless Remote Tripod 1-Axis, handheld smartphone, portable, Tiktok, Vlogger, Youtuber, Live Video Recording

Tips for Using Your Mobile Gimbal Like a Pro

Once you’ve got your gimbal, it’s time to put it to use. Here are some tips to help you get the best possible footage.

Balancing Your Phone

One of the most common mistakes I see beginners make is not balancing their phone properly. Before turning on your gimbal, make sure your phone is perfectly balanced. This will make a huge difference in the stabilization.

Mastering Gimbal Modes

Most mobile gimbals come with different modes, such as pan-follow, lock mode, and POV mode. These allow you to control how the gimbal reacts to your movements. For example, I like to use lock mode when I’m filming landscapes because it keeps the shot steady no matter where I move.

Filming Techniques

  • Slow and Steady: Gimbals are designed to smooth out your movements, but you still need to move slowly and steadily to get the best results.
  • Tracking Shots: Use the gimbal’s tracking feature to follow subjects as they move. This is great for filming people walking or running without losing focus.
  • Low-Angle Shots: Try flipping your gimbal upside down for dramatic low-angle shots that can add a unique perspective to your videos.

Conclusion

Mobile gimbals are great smartphone videography tools. They enhance your videography experience and help you record shake free professional videos.

Whether you’re a beginner or a professional, a mobile gimbal makes your videos pro-quality. From budget-friendly options to high-end models, there’s something available for everyone.

You just have to choose a gimbal according to your needs, and then you will see how your footage becomes smooth and cinematic. So the next time you capture memorable moments of your life, do try a mobile gimbal!

Frequently Asked Questions About Mobile Gimbals

A, The main purpose of a mobile gimbal is to stabilize your smartphone when you are recording videos, so that you get smooth and shake-free footage.

A. For beginners, the Zhiyun Smooth Q4 and Hohem iSteady X are the best options. These gimbals are budget-friendly and easy-to-use.

A. Yes, you can use specialized gimbals for DSLR cameras like the Zhiyun Crane M2 or the DJI Ronin-SC which are made to stabilize heavier cameras.

A. If you want to take cinematic and professional-quality videos, an iPhone gimbal like the DJI Osmo Mobile 6 will be quite helpful, especially if you are taking moving shots.

A. The gimbal price varies according to your budget and requirements. For beginners, a gimbal of INR 2500-INR 5000 is ideal, while professionals should invest more than that.

Accessories to Pair with Your Mobile Gimbal

Tripods

Many mobile gimbals come with a small tripod attachment. This can be useful for setting up stationary shots or time-lapses.

Lenses

If you want to elevate your mobile filmmaking, consider attaching lenses to your smartphone. Wide-angle lenses or telephoto lenses can give your footage a cinematic look, and most gimbals can handle the extra weight.

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