The Best Smartphone Gimbals in 2024: Stabilize Your Mobile Footage Like a Pro
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
Hohem iSteady V3
Hohem iSteady V3: Elevating Smartphone Filming with Advanced AI Features
The Hohem iSteady V3 is redefining what a smartphone gimbal can do, pushing the boundaries of stabilization and making solo content creation easier than ever. With cutting-edge features like advanced AI tracking and a removable remote control, this gimbal is practically like having your own personal videographer.
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.
Hohem iSteady V3
Hohem iSteady V3
Key Features and Benefits
- AI-Powered Tracking: The independent AI module provides seamless tracking and object detection without requiring an app.
- Compact and Portable: Small enough to fit in a pocket, making it ideal for travel and on-the-go filming.
- Built-In Selfie Stick and Tripod: Perfect for capturing a variety of shots, from pet videos to aerial simulations.
- Detachable Remote and Fill Light: Offers greater flexibility and improved low-light performance.
- Versatile Shooting Modes: The Hohem app provides a range of shooting modes to enhance your videos.
Considerations
- Battery Life: The battery life may be shorter when using AI tracking and the fill light simultaneously, which can drain power quickly.
In summary, the Hohem iSteady V3 is a versatile and feature-packed gimbal that offers advanced AI tracking, portability, and a range of useful accessories, all at a competitive price. Whether you’re a seasoned videographer or just starting out, this gimbal is a worthy investment for creating smooth, professional-quality videos.
ZHIYUN Smooth 5S: The Ultimate Smartphone Gimbal for Professional Filming
The ZHIYUN Smooth 5S is the latest addition to ZHIYUN’s renowned line of smartphone gimbals, replacing the much-loved ZHIYUN Smooth 4. Priced at $169, this gimbal is an investment in quality and performance, offering features that make it one of the best options available for serious videographers.
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.
ZHIYUN Smooth 5S
ZHIYUN Smooth 5S
Key Features and Benefits
- 3-Axis Stabilization: Ensures smooth and stable footage, regardless of shooting conditions.
- Integrated and Magnetic Lights: Enhances low-light shooting, making this gimbal versatile for various lighting scenarios.
- Robust Controls: Includes a wide selection of buttons and knobs for precise control over your filming.
- Durable Build Quality: Designed to last, with high-quality materials and construction.
- AI Shooting Templates: Streamline the video creation process with app-based templates.
Considerations
- Steep Learning Curve: The extensive features and controls may take some time to master, especially for beginners.
- Not Ideal for Larger Phones: While it supports up to 300g, very large or heavy phones may not be the best fit for this gimbal.
Conclusion
The ZHIYUN Smooth 5S is a top-tier smartphone gimbal that offers an excellent blend of design, functionality, and performance. Although it comes with a higher price tag, the features and quality you receive make it worth the investment. Whether you’re a professional videographer or an enthusiast looking to upgrade your gear, the ZHIYUN Smooth 5S is a reliable and powerful tool that can elevate your mobile filmmaking to new heights.
Insta360 Flow Pro: The Ultimate Compact Gimbal for On-the-Go Creators
When it comes to smartphone gimbals, bigger often means better, especially in terms of stability and features. However, for those who prioritize portability without sacrificing functionality, the Insta360 Flow Pro stands out as one of the best options available. This compact gimbal is designed with travelers and mobile creators in mind, offering a powerful set of features in a size that’s easy to take anywhere.
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.
Insta360 Flow Pro
Insta360 Flow Pro
Key Features and Benefits
- Compact and Portable: Folds down to the size of a large smartphone, making it easy to carry anywhere.
- 360-Degree Infinite Pan Tracking: Ensures your subject stays in the frame, no matter the movement.
- Built-In Selfie Stick and Tripod: Offers flexibility for various shooting scenarios without the need for additional accessories.
- AI-Powered Object Tracking: Deep Track 3.0 delivers smooth and accurate tracking for dynamic shots.
- Tap-to-Connect via NFC: Simplifies the pairing process, allowing you to start filming quickly.
Considerations
- Software Limitations: While the hardware is top-notch, the software may not be as refined as what you’ll find with competitors like DJI.
- Price: At $149, it’s a premium option, but the features and portability may justify the cost for frequent travelers and content creators.
Conclusion
The Insta360 Flow Pro is an excellent choice for anyone needing a compact, feature-rich gimbal that can keep up with their on-the-go lifestyle. Its combination of portability, 360-degree tracking, and AI-powered features make it a versatile tool for capturing smooth, professional-quality video in almost any setting. Although it comes with a premium price tag, the Insta360 Flow Pro is well worth the investment for those who will take full advantage of its capabilities.
DJI Osmo Mobile 6: A Compact Powerhouse for Mobile Filmmakers
The DJI Osmo Mobile 6 is a top-tier smartphone gimbal that nearly claimed the top spot in our rankings. Priced at $149, it is slightly more expensive than some competitors, but its feature set and portability make it a strong contender for anyone serious about mobile videography.
C. Scott Brown / Android Authority
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.
DJI Osmo Mobile 6
DJI Osmo Mobile 6
Key Features and Benefits
- Folding Design: Highly portable, making it easy to carry and store.
- Built-In Extension Rod: Doubles as a selfie stick for added versatility in shooting.
- New Display Panel and Side Wheel: Provides enhanced control and quick access to essential information.
- Lightweight and Compact: Weighs just 309 grams, making it easy to handle during extended shoots.
Considerations
- Battery Life: The 1,000mAh battery offers around six hours of usage, which may be limiting for extended filming sessions.
- Price: At $149, it is more expensive than some other options, but the feature set may justify the cost for those seeking advanced functionality.
- iPhone-Only Features: Some advanced features are optimized for iPhones, potentially limiting functionality for Android users.
Conclusion
The DJI Osmo Mobile 6 is an excellent choice for mobile filmmakers who value portability without sacrificing professional-grade features. While it comes with a slightly higher price tag and a few limitations, especially for Android users, the Osmo Mobile 6’s compact design, new display panel, and side wheel make it a powerful tool for capturing smooth and creative video footage on the go. If you’re willing to invest a bit more for added portability and control, the DJI Osmo Mobile 6 is a worthy addition to your mobile videography toolkit.
DJI Osmo Mobile SE: A Budget-Friendly Alternative with Impressive Features
If you’re a fan of the DJI Osmo Mobile 6 but find it a bit too expensive, the DJI Osmo Mobile SE offers a more affordable option without sacrificing too many features. Priced at $99, this gimbal delivers much of the functionality of its pricier sibling, making it an excellent choice for budget-conscious creators.
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.
ZHIYUN Smooth Q4: A Compact and Feature-Packed Gimbal for Mobile Creators
The ZHIYUN Smooth Q4 is an excellent choice for those seeking a compact and portable smartphone gimbal that doesn’t break the bank. Priced at $119, it offers a blend of functionality and affordability, making it a strong contender in the mid-range gimbal market.
Compact Design and Portability
While the ZHIYUN Smooth Q4 may not fold down as small as some competitors, like the Insta360 Flow, it remains highly portable. Its foldable design ensures that it can be easily carried in a bag or large pocket, making it ideal for creators on the go. The gimbal’s ergonomic handle further enhances portability by providing a comfortable grip during extended use.
Edgar Cervantes / Android Authority
Advanced Features for Creative Control
One of the standout features of the Smooth Q4 is its removable, magnetic LED fill light. This feature is particularly useful for low-light shooting, allowing you to adjust the light intensity by simply tapping on the top surface. The LED light can be positioned to face either towards or away from the shooter, offering flexibility depending on your lighting needs.
The Smooth Q4 also boasts good stabilization, ensuring that your footage remains smooth and steady. Additionally, the gimbal can be extended to function as a selfie stick, adding versatility for various shooting scenarios. This improvement over the previous Smooth Q3 model makes the Q4 an even more attractive option for mobile creators.
Build Quality and Battery Life
The body of the Smooth Q4 is constructed from plastic, which might not feel as premium as metal alternatives, but it still offers a solid and durable build. Weighing just enough to provide stability without being cumbersome, it strikes a good balance between portability and functionality.
Battery life is another area where the Smooth Q4 excels, offering up to 15 hours of use on a full charge. This long battery life ensures that you can keep filming throughout the day without needing to recharge.
ZY Cami App and Shooting Modes
The ZHIYUN Smooth Q4 is compatible with the ZY Cami app, which provides access to a variety of advanced shooting modes. These include Dolly Zoom, SmartFollow, Gesture Control, and MagicClone Pano, among others. These features give you creative control over your shots, allowing you to achieve professional-quality results directly from your smartphone.
However, it’s worth noting that the ZY Cami app has been reported to be somewhat unreliable at times, which could be a drawback for some users. Despite this, the gimbal itself offers excellent controls and an intuitive interface that makes it easy to use, even without relying heavily on the app.
Key Features and Benefits
- Compact and Portable: Foldable design and ergonomic handle make it easy to carry and use on the go.
- Removable LED Fill Light: Customizable lighting for low-light situations, adding versatility to your shoots.
- Extended Battery Life: Up to 15 hours of usage on a full charge, perfect for long shooting sessions.
- Advanced Shooting Modes: Includes Dolly Zoom, SmartFollow, and more, accessible via the ZY Cami app.
Considerations
- Plasticky Build: The plastic construction may not feel as premium as metal but is still durable.
- ZY Cami App Reliability: The app has been known to be unreliable, which may affect the user experience.
- Price vs. Features: While it offers great features, some users might feel there are better options available at a similar price point.
Conclusion
The ZHIYUN Smooth Q4 is a versatile and compact gimbal that offers a good mix of advanced features and portability. While its plastic build and occasional app issues might be minor drawbacks, its overall performance, especially at the $119 price point, makes it a solid choice for mobile content creators. If you’re looking for a reliable gimbal with great battery life and a host of creative features, the ZHIYUN Smooth Q4 is definitely worth considering.
ZHIYUN Smooth X2: A Fun and Affordable Gimbal for Budget-Conscious Creators
The ZHIYUN Smooth X2 stands out as one of the most affordable gimbals on the market, offering a variety of features at a price point that’s hard to beat. Originally launched at $119, it can now often be found for as low as $40, making it an attractive option for those who want to enhance their mobile filming without spending a fortune.
Compact and Lightweight Design
The ZHIYUN Smooth X2 is designed with portability in mind. Its lightweight and foldable design make it easy to carry, whether you’re heading out for a day of shooting or traveling. Despite its budget-friendly price, the Smooth X2 doesn’t skimp on functionality, offering an extending gimbal arm that can stretch up to 265mm. This feature effectively turns the gimbal into a stabilized selfie stick, adding versatility to your shooting options.
Fun Features and Lighting Effects
One of the most enjoyable aspects of the Smooth X2 is its focus on fun and creativity. The gimbal includes interactive lighting effects that activate during use, adding a playful element to your filming experience. Additionally, it comes with a removable LED fill light, which can be customized with different color filters. This feature is particularly useful for shooting in low-light conditions, ensuring that your footage remains well-lit and visually appealing.
ZY Cami App Integration
The Smooth X2 is fully compatible with ZHIYUN’s ZY Cami app, giving you access to a range of creative tools and features. These include Smart Mode, SmartFollow, and online editing capabilities, allowing you to easily enhance your videos directly from your smartphone. Whether you’re a beginner or more experienced, these features make it easy to create professional-looking content.
Key Features and Benefits
- Affordable Price: Often available for as low as $40, making it one of the most budget-friendly gimbals available.
- Lightweight and Portable: Compact design that’s easy to carry and use on the go.
- Extendable Gimbal Arm: Extends up to 265mm, allowing it to double as a stabilized selfie stick.
- Removable LED Fill Light: Customizable with color filters for creative lighting in low-light conditions.
- Fun and Interactive Design: Includes playful lighting effects that add an element of fun to your filming experience.
Considerations
- Build Quality: The Smooth X2 feels less premium compared to more expensive gimbals, which may be a consideration for those seeking a more robust build.
- Battery Life: Offers a relatively short battery life of just 3.5 hours, which might be limiting for longer shoots.
- Lack of Three-Axis Stabilization: The Smooth X2 does not include three-axis stabilization, which means it may not provide the same level of smoothness as higher-end gimbals.
Conclusion
The ZHIYUN Smooth X2 is a fantastic option for those who want an affordable, portable gimbal with plenty of fun features. While it may lack some of the advanced stabilization and build quality of more expensive models, its low price, extendable arm, and customizable LED lighting make it an excellent choice for casual creators or those new to mobile videography. If you’re looking for a budget-friendly gimbal that still offers a lot of value, the ZHIYUN Smooth X2 is definitely worth considering
Hohem iSteady MT2: A Versatile and Advanced Gimbal for Multi-Device Filming
The Hohem iSteady MT2 is not just a smartphone gimbal; it’s a versatile tool designed for creators who need a single gimbal that can handle a range of devices. Whether you’re using a smartphone, action camera, or even a dedicated camera, the iSteady MT2 provides robust support and advanced features to enhance your filming experience.
Versatility Across Devices
One of the key strengths of the Hohem iSteady MT2 is its wide compatibility with various types of cameras. Unlike many gimbals that are limited to smartphones, the iSteady MT2 can also stabilize action cameras and regular cameras, making it a valuable tool for creators who use multiple devices. This versatility is a major selling point, as it allows you to switch between devices without needing different gimbals.
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.
MOZA AirCross S
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.
MOZA AirCross S
MOZA AirCross S
Awesome design and build quality • 18kg payload support • Can carry multiple cameras
Pros
- Can stabilize 1.8kg of equipment
- Can carry multiple shooting devices at a time
- Great 10-hour battery life
- 360-range in all directions
Buying the right phone gimbal for your needs
Edgar Cervantes / Android Authority
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.