Introduction
Smartphones excel at sustaining video using optical image stabilization (OIS) and electronic image stabilization (EIS). But they can’t rival the effectiveness and control of a portable gimbal. Gimbals are an essential piece of equipment for anybody who wants to shoot professional-quality videos using just the phone they have in their pocket. These electromechanical stabilizers keep your phone stable enough to record fast-moving situations without the tremors or jitters that characterize the majority of amateur video.
Nevertheless, not all gimbals are considered equivalent, and there is a significant gap between the models considered to be the greatest and those considered to be runner-ups. When you spend a few hundred dollars for higher-end versions of a product, you need to be sure that you are receiving a solid return on your investment.
Because of this, we have compiled a list of the Best Android and iPhone Gimbal that is worthy of a second look. These options range from affordable and portable variants to high-end and vlogging-specific variants. Let’s have a look.
What is the Best Android and iPhone Gimbal to Buy in 2023?
It should come as no surprise that the following list contains a significant number of DJI Osmo Mobile variants in addition to several versions manufactured by Zhiyun. Whenever it comes to gimbals, these brands are household names, and in addition to producing high-quality equipment, they also provide useful accompanying software.
Even if each of them is a viable option, the one ideal for you will depend on factors like your finances and needs. Do you need a built-in telescoping selfie stick? Do you want a magnetic mount that rapidly connects and detaches the phone from the gimbal?
You’ll find the most recent pricing listed here, as well. Deals and seasonal specials can also impact your decision since they can make models previously out of your price range accessible. Also, find out about the best budget Android smartphones to buy with these Gimbals to complete the set!
Top Android and iPhone Gimbal Picks
1. DJI OM 5 – Best Overall Smartphone Gimbal
OverviewThe DJI OM 5 is a lightweight gimbal that also functions as a selfie stick. It has all of the standard gimbal functions. However, it has the advantage of letting you photograph from a higher or lower angle and spin the camera around for a better selfie. |
Key Specifications
| Brand | DJI |
| Compatible Devices | Cellphone |
| Battery Capacity | 1000 mAh |
| Maximum Weight Recommendation | 614 Grams |
Gimbal Review
The DJI OM 5 is the only gimbal that seems tailor-made for every user. It is easy to use and portable. This gimbal also comes with clever extras, like an innovative incorporated selfie stick, that will appeal to both novices and devoted enthusiasts.
The OM 5 features a wide number of autonomous shooting modes, simple software, and a comfortable grip with just a few buttons, making it one of the simplest to operate. It also has the finest customer service out of any gimbal we tested. However, concerns about security, privacy, and ethics have left DJI in hot water with the US government, which is something to ponder.
We were able to take videos that appeared smooth and shake-free, thanks to OM 5’s three-axis architecture. People particularly loved the variety of autonomous modes, such as ActiveTrack, which instructs the gimbal to follow a moving object autonomously (or a still one while you move around it with the camera).
Furthermore, the gimbal can assist you in creating a time-lapse or keeping the camera stable when zooming or videoing in slow motion. The hyper-lapse and motion-lapse modes combine camera movement with a time-lapse, resulting in more nuanced pictures. In addition to the 7.7 VDC, it comes with an upper voltage of 6-8 VDC, making it better than the DJI OM 4.
Pros
- Elegant design
- Proper tracking
- Extremely portable
Cons
- Hinge on extension
2. Zhiyun Smooth 5 – Best for Camera Photography
OverviewThe Zhiyun Smooth 5 includes extra buttons and dials on its handle that provide finer-tuned settings at your fingers if you want to increase your control over your phone. These allow you to take more sophisticated photos without touching your phone. |
Key Specifications
| Brand | Zhiyun |
| Compatible Devices | Cellphone, Camera |
| Battery Capacity | 2600 mAh |
| Maximum Weight Recommendation | 146 grams |
Gimbal Review
The Zhiyun Smooth 5 is 60% smaller and lighter than the Smooth 4. Smooth 5 features fewer buttons on the grip than Smooth 4. However, the Smooth 5 must be balanced according to the size of your phone, which might add to setup time and cause issues moving between phones. On the other hand, a dedicated user’s effort invested in mastering the controls will be rewarded with even more control over their recordings.
The Smooth 5 works with recent phones like the Samsung Galaxy S21 Ultra, Google Pixel 6 Pro, and iPhone 13 Pro Max. Because of the extra payload, you won’t have to worry about matching them with a case and an extra lens. If your phone is incompatible with Zhiyun’s ZY Play app, we propose you download the Videos Pro app instead.
The buttons are well-placed and smoothly connect with the app. We suggest viewing the video lesson many times to understand how to utilize each button. You can always use the phone’s digital buttons if you feel overwhelmed.
According to Zhiyun, the Smooth 5’s battery can last up to 25 hours on standby or as little as 4.5 hours with a fill light connected and operating.
Pros
- Solid construction
- More buttons
- Long-lasting battery
Cons
- Complicated to use
3. DJI Pocket 2 – Best DJI Pocket Series Gimbal
OverviewIf you’re ready to forego your smartphone in favor of a pocket-sized gimbal, the DJI Pocket 2 impressed us with its built-in camera and candy-bar size. You simply need to press two buttons to start shooting, so you can whip it out of your pocket and start documenting key events in seconds. |
Key Specifications
| Brand | DJI |
| Compatible Devices | Cellphone, Camera |
| Battery Capacity | 1200 mAh |
| Maximum Weight Recommendation | 150 Grams |
Gimbal Review
DJI Pocket 2 is 4.9 by 1.5 by 1.2 inches and is small enough to fit in your pocket (a little bigger than a standard Snickers bar). Despite this, it has a 4K camera and autonomous functions. The Pocket 2 also liberates your phone to perform many other things that phones do nowadays.
This model’s pocket-friendly design and ability to begin shooting in seconds harkens back to the Flip Video camera era but with the added benefit of video stabilization and autonomous settings. We also believe its mobility makes it a viable rival to action and 360-degree cameras.
The movies you’ll shoot with the DJI Pocket 2 are flawless and shake-free. It has capabilities like ActiveTrack (where the camera tracks a moving object independently) and MotionLapse (which condenses long captures into short, smooth videos). The built-in camera can record 4K footage at 60 frames per second.
Furthermore, the DJI Pocket 2 offers a 93° FOV against the Osmo Pocket’s 80° view. The lens length and aperture have been increased from 26mm and f/2.0 to 20mm and f/1.8, respectively.
Pros
- Video Stabilization
- MotionLapse
- 4K footage
Cons
- Poor low light performance
4. The Zhiyun Smooth Q4 – Best Zhiyun Series Gimbal
OverviewWith so many gimbals on the market, paying attention to those who go above and beyond to distinguish is always worthwhile. The Zhiyun Smooth Q4 includes a built-in reversible fill light to the standard 3-axis stabilization, giving smartphone video shooters a few more choices. |
Key Specifications
| Brand | Zhiyun |
| Compatible Devices | Cellphone |
| Battery Capacity | 1200 mAh |
| Maximum Weight Recommendation | 134 Grams |
Gimbal Review
The multifunctional control wheel on the Zhiyun Smooth Q4 simplifies one-handed usage. Touch and slide to change the brightness and focus length directly on your fingers. You can see and switch between various shooting modes with the most straightforward indications and a well-organized control panel. With this gimbal, you can view and control everything with your fingers.
Despite its slightly plasticky construction and tiny grip, the Zhiyun Smooth Q4 does a decent job of keeping smartphone footage steady, particularly given the price. Its tracking options work well and connect nicely with the previously mentioned ZY Cami app.
Choose the shooting modes inside the ZY Cami App, which instantly directs you to create a masterpiece. Your finest work is waiting for you. To photograph better in diverse conditions, use a simple touch to convert between Landscape and Portrait Mode.
Furthermore, Smooth Q4’s battery capacity is 1200 mAh, which lasts longer than the Q3. It also features improved video stabilization over prior versions.
Pros
- Better video stabilization
- Good tracking
- Well-organized control panel
Cons
- Plastic design
5. Obudyard Gimbal Stabilizer – Best Gimbal Stabilizer
OverviewObudyard Single-Axis Gimbal Stabilizer for smartphones is appropriate for those just starting. Grab the gimbal, go out to capture what you observed and how you feel about this planet, and do it all without hesitating and with crystal clear sound. |
Key Specifications
| Brand | Obudyard |
| Compatible Devices | Cellphone |
| Battery Capacity | 900 mAH |
| Maximum Weight Recommendation | 237 Grams |
Gimbal Review
The Ubudyard Gimbal Stabilizer is a single-axis controller with a high-precision motor that can retain a horizontal state, is extremely anti-shake, can shoot photographs while walking, automatically corrects handshaking to avoid blurry images, and can make high-quality video and animation. Most consumers’ fundamental demands can be met by it. It is the most cost-effective mobile phone stabilizer compared to the three-axis pricing.
It features a remote control with 360-degree and automated rotation, making it better than the Zhiyun Smooth Q4 reviewed above. With this gimbal, you can always keep a horizontal position, eliminate hand shaking while recording, eliminate picture blur, and produce high-quality video.
The detachable remote allows you to shoot family photographs for unforgettable occasions, video conferences/interviews, travel, produce little movies, vlogs, YouTube, TikTok, live streaming, and so on. To use it as a tripod, open the handheld portion of the stabilizer and set it on the desktop. To find the best position for you, adjust the height of the four-section aluminum alloy rod.
It has a Bluetooth wireless remote control with a tripod-integrated card slot that does not need an additional APP, can be used simply by connecting to a smartphone, and can shoot up to 10 meters away.
Pros
- Wireless controller
- Extremely portable
- Shoots up to 10 meters
Cons
- Poor battery life
6. DJI OM 4 SE – Best Budget Gimbal
OverviewFor quite some time, DJI’s Osmo Mobile gimbals have been the industry standard when it comes to the stabilization of smartphones. Nothing else comes close to offering the same functionality and building the quality level as the DJI OM 4 SE. |
Key Specifications
| Brand | DJI |
| Compatible Devices | Cellphone |
| Battery Capacity | 2450 mAh |
| Maximum Weight Recommendation | 488 Grams |
Gimbal Review
DJI OM 4 SE is the most effective gimbal that can currently be purchased with a smartphone. The new magnetic mounting method is a lifesaver (assuming you don’t mind leaving the clasp connected to your phone), making it simpler to attach and remove the gadget.
The three-axis stabilization is, of course, fantastic. It offers smooth movement and makes it simple to accomplish effects such as a traditional Hitchcockian dolly zoom. After connecting your smartphone to the app, you’ll also have access to various useful features.
The motor of the Osmo Mobile 4 SE has been improved to be much more resistant to heat, and the whole experience is considerably more refined and smoother than that of the Osmo Mobile 3.
You can quickly create spectacular videos using innovative templates with only a few touches. Let the DJI OM 4 SE gimbal stabilizer do all the work if you don’t want to spend time adjusting and adding music and effects to your videos; this is the ideal function for those in that situation.
You can record in a very handy manner anywhere you go by controlling the DJI OM 4 SE gimbal stabilizer with only a few simple gestures. You have complete control, from taking a selfie to starting a video recording on your device.
Pros
- Resistant to heat
- 3-axis stabilization
- Bluetooth connectivity
Cons
- No camera swapping
7. AOCHUAN Smart XR – Best Smart Gimbal
OverviewThe SMART X has an exceptionally high level of craftsmanship, and the silicone coating on the handle ensures that it is pleasant to hold. It offers great versatility for new video makers who blog about their everyday life. They can generate higher-quality photos with the assistance of intelligent shooting mode. |
Key Specifications
| Brand | AOCHUAN |
| Compatible Devices | Cellphone |
| Battery Capacity | 3200 mAh |
| Maximum Weight Recommendation | 281 Grams |
Gimbal Review
The AOCHUAN SMART X 3-axis gimbal stabilizer is a compact and convenient piece of equipment. Because it does not need locking mechanisms, utilizing it will provide you with a satisfying experience. You can switch between the landscape and portrait modes by pressing and holding the record button for two seconds.
Because it comes with an improved strong brushless motor and the SMART 4.0 Anti-Shake algorithm, the video is smoother and more stable. It makes it possible for you to become a professional video maker. The AOCHUAN SMART X gimbal stabilizer can be used in various contexts, including vlogging, live streaming, and other similar activities.
The built-in LED light that can be found on the rear of the mobile clip is both practical and aesthetically pleasing, which elevates the Smart X above the AOCHUAN E10 Gimbal in terms of quality. Because the brightness can be adjusted in three separate sections, night photographs are just as beautiful as daytime ones. The Smart X gimbal is outfitted with standard threads measuring 1/4 inch on both the device’s left side and the bottom.
You can install the video light, microphone, extension rod, and any other podcast equipment anywhere you see fit. In addition, the changeable battery design offers tremendous convenience to video makers working in the great outdoors.
The application “AOCHUAN” can be used on iOS and Android-based mobile devices. This improved AOCHUAN app gives users various features, including gesture control and facial tracking, beauty filters, auto-inception, time-lapse, and motion time-lapse. In addition, the user interface is very user-friendly and does not need registration.
Pros
- Time-lapse
- LED fill light
- Adjustable battery design
Cons
- The app requires your location
8. DJI OM 3 – Best Sub-Budget Gimbal
OverviewCompared to rival portable and functional options, the DJI OM 3 offers significant advantages. Thanks to innovative features in the DJI Mimo app, it has outstanding stability and superb face tracking, but using it as a conventional gimbal can take some getting used to. Simply said, it’s the best smartphone gimbal for amateurs to professionals. |
Key Specifications
Brand |
DJI |
Compatible Devices |
Smartphone |
Battery Capacity |
2450 mAh |
Maximum Weight Recommendation |
6.8 kg |
Gimbal Review
The OM 3 smartphone gimbal is the most portable we’ve ever seen. It also combines smart design with a single app – DJI Mimo – that unlocks a world of intelligent subject tracking and panoramic photography, as well as a new Story function that allows you to make bite-sized videos set to music for optimum shareability.
The DJI Osmo Mobile 3 is mostly constructed of plastic, and although it’s light for a gimbal, the portion you hold feels substantial and well-weighted. A tripod thread is included at the base, which is useful since the awkwardly shaped Osmo does not stand independently. A joystick controls the phone’s orientation, and there are power and record controls to the right and LED battery indications above.
The Osmo Mobile 3 is a terrific tool for self-shooters combined with an AI track. To activate it, make a peace sign motion, and it will lock onto you after a three-second countdown. It follows your face around well, whether handheld or on a tripod.
Osmo Mobile 3, DJI’s first folding 3-axis smartphone stabilizer, offers a portable design and exceptionally clever shooting options, outperforming the OM 2.
Pros
- AI tracking
- 3-axis stabilizer
- Tripod thread
Cons
- Slightly complicated
9. Moza Mini-MX Smartphone Gimbal – Best Mini Smartphone Gimbal
OverviewThe MOZA MINI MX gimbal provides access to fundamental camera functions, facilitating more comfortable creative control. You can begin recording in a matter of seconds by simply connecting your device through Bluetooth and choosing a videoing mode. |
Key Specifications
| Brand | Moza |
| Compatible Devices | Smartphones; Android and iPhone |
| Battery Capacity | 2000 mAh |
| Maximum Weight Recommendation | 280 grams |
Gimbal Review
The integrated pushbutton on MOZA lets you operate it effortlessly and naturally with only one hand. You can increase the range of your setup by utilizing the 1/4 extension interface to link to a camera and other devices. This helps you to be comfortable with the configuration more easily.
Because of its low weight and small form, the Moza Gimbal Stabilizer can be readily transported in a pocket or backpack, making it ideal for traveling. The compactness and portability make it a better choice than the Steadicam Volt Gimbal.
It supports smartphones with dimensions ranging from 60 to 88 millimeters and has a maximum load capacity of 9.9 ounces. Bluetooth level 5.1 is also supported. Compatible with the iPhone 11/12 Pro MAX, Samsung S20+/Galaxy Note 10, Xiaomi 10, OnePlus 8 Pro, and OnePlus 7T, amongst other smartphones.
With its “Deep Red” anti-shake algorithm and super-smooth stabilization software, MOZA enables you to produce an outstanding tale even if you are jogging or walking, making it ideal for shooting vlogs, trip videos, wedding videos, and short videos. Did you know you could also buy these workout headphones and this excellent gimbal to boost your productivity?
It only requires 2.5 hours, and once fully charged, it can be used for up to 20 hours. It has modes for quick tracking, timelapse, slow motion, panoramic, smart gesture control, and manual operation, as well as sports gear mode, vertigo mode, and sports inception mode.
In addition, it has a sizable wheel that can be used for either focusing or zooming, providing a satisfying tactile experience for the user. The MOZA MINI MX gimbal setup is simple and fast, unlike more conventional gimbals, which need laborious and complicated manual balancing processes.
Pros
- Easy to setup and use
- Offers a good anti-shake feature
- Lightweight and compact
Cons
- It might not be of the best quality
10. DJI Osmo Pocket – Handheld 3-Axis Gimbal – Best Pocket Gimbal
OverviewOsmo Pocket provides a powerful instrument that enables you to convert every event into a dramatic memory, thanks to its small size and seamless steadiness. In addition, it can record video in 4K at a frame rate of 60 fps at a bit rate of 100 Mbps, and it can take images in 12 megapixels with a pixel size of 1.55 micrometers, so the footage it produces is always worth sharing. |
Key Specifications
| Brand | DJI |
| Compatible Devices | Android and iPhone |
| Battery Capacity | 2200 mAh |
| Maximum Weight Recommendation | 250 grams |
Gimbal Review
DJI Osmo Pocket is a Handheld 3-Axis Gimbal Stabilizer with an inbuilt Camera with a resolution of 1/2.3 inches CMOS and can record 4K video. It can be attached to smartphones such as the iPhone and Android. Any moment can be turned into a cinematic memory with the help of DJI’s OSMO pocket, the world’s tiniest handheld camera with three-axis stabilization that the company has ever produced.
A sensor with a resolution of 0.3 inches, a field of view of 80 degrees, and an aperture of f/2.0 enable the OSMO pocket to take photographs with extraordinary detail. Connecting Osmo Pocket to your phone lets you create vlogs and stream videos.
YouTube, TikTok, and Streamlabs are other examples. The Osmo Pocket makes accurate adjustments in real time to follow your motions, transforming even the most casual photos into stunningly beautiful cinematic movies. And it’s much more compact than the new DJI Osmo 2.
The sandstone handle provides a pleasant grip thanks to its non-slip and sweat-proof properties. The Osmo Pocket has a multifunctional extension interface that links to your phone and devices, allowing you to record in any manner you see fit.
Pros
- Easy to use
- Sweat-proof build
- Freedom to record
Cons
- Lacks the high-end features
Buyer’s Guide – What to Look for When Buying the Best Android and iPhone Gimbal
The following features will help you decide better on buying the best gimbal for your iPhone or Android:
· Quality
Gimbals can be found in many materials, from inexpensive plastic to pricier and more durable metal. If this is your first time using a gimbal and you are a rookie camera operator, you are not required to spend much money on the most expensive model.
Nevertheless, you should choose one that is reliable and won’t break easily.
· Batteries
Many gimbals run on batteries. However, there is a handful that runs on other types of power.
Find out what kind of batteries the gimbal you’re thinking of using uses and how frequently they’ll need to be charged or replaced.
· Performance
Try out a gimbal first to see how well it works before you buy it.
How well-balanced a gimbal is, in turn, one of the most crucial aspects of its performance since it is the component that directly affects the fluidity of your video-making. Check that the gimbal has all the components it requires for optimal operation.
· Versatility
Pick a gimbal that can accommodate a wide range of shooting techniques and attachments.
A flexible gimbal can be attached to various camera equipment, such as tripods, extender poles, and gimbal jackets, allowing it to be utilized with various cameras.
· Weight
Before making a purchase, consider how much weight the gimbal can handle.
Whichever gimbal you choose, you’ll have to lug it about on set, and if it’s a handheld version, you’ll need strong arms to hold it steady for as long as it takes to capture the pictures you want. Consider your camera’s weight, too.
· Stabilization Axis
Selecting a gimbal requires deciding on the number of axes it will have. Two common gimbals are designed to tilt in one or two axes. 2-axis gimbals stabilize the tilt and roll axes.
Whereas 3-axis gimbals do the same for the pan axis as well. Both 2- and 3-axis gimbals aid in shot stabilization; however, the latter is preferable if at all possible due to its superior features and relatively low price.
· Budget
For a first-time buyer, the price tag can be the deciding factor for a gimbal. If you’re just starting as a videographer or are interested in the field as a pastime, this is extremely important to keep in mind.
After all, if you lack the necessary level of expertise, you probably wouldn’t want to waste money. A smartphone gimbal can range from around $40 for an entry-level device to over $120 for a high-end one. A gimbal with an integrated camera might cost $350 or more.
Spending up to $500 on a gimbal that will stabilize your mirrorless or DSLR camera is possible. Always check reviews to determine whether your choice fits your budget before making a final decision.
It’s also important to consider what you’ll use it for, whether action shots or background footage. The costlier three-axis gimbal is recommended if you want to use it for the former purpose.
[BONUS SECTION]: Best Type of Smartphone Gimbals to Buy
- Best Gimbals for DSLR and Mirrorless Cameras – These gimbals can handle the weight of a full-size camcorder and lens combo, so you can use them if you want to become more professional about your video blogging and video making. The normal weight of a mirrorless camera is a bit less than that of a DSLR camera, although larger gimbals can still balance these heftier cameras.
- Best Gimbals for Action Cameras – Your videos will appear more polished if you use a gimbal to stabilize the camera, even if more contemporary action cameras from companies like GoPro and DJI include their built-in stabilization technologies. A gimbal will also smooth things out irregular and wild camera motions.
- Best Gimbals Cameras – These cool, pocket-sized gimbals come with installed cameras and accomplish everything you need in a single unit.
- Best Gimbals for Smartphones – This form of the gimbal, essentially a stabilized selfie stick, includes a smartphone attachment that can be altered to accommodate various brands of smartphones.
Conclusion
There is not a single gimbal that is optimal for all users. It is always going to rely on your purpose, your money, and your hardware.
Therefore, before you go out and buy anything new, you must research all the available options and their features. You’ll be able to choose the gimbal that works best with the manner you shoot by doing so.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Does Gimbal Work with Android?
Our recommended smartphone gimbals have three-axis stabilization to provide electronic image stabilization and minimize camera shake.
Plus, both Apple and Google’s mobile operating systems are supported. Remember that these gadgets weren’t made to carry video recorders, action cams, or mirrorless cameras.
2. What is the Difference Between a Gimbal and a Stabilizer?
There are more moving components, higher power needs, etc., with a gimbal. There is still a need to ‘balance’ both, but the stabilizing mechanism is easier to implement.
3. Will My Gimbal Need Batteries?
A gimbal is motorized and sensor-equipped support that helps prevent camera shake while panning, tilting, or swiveling along any of three axes: yaw, pitch, and yaw.