Best Phone Gimbals 2024
By Elisabeth Christ
Updated March 2024
In a world where smartphone filmmaking is becoming more popular than ever, having a reliable phone gimbal is essential for achieving smooth and steady shots. The DJI Osmo Mobile 6, Insta360 Flow, Zhiyun Smooth Q4, and Zhiyun Smooth 5s are leading the pack with their state-of-the-art technology and impressive performance. From ultra-smooth tracking shots to creative motion time-lapses, these gimbals offer a wide range of features to help you elevate your mobile videography game.
Best Overall: DJI Osmo Mobile 6
✓ 215mm built-in extension rod
✓ 3-axis stabilisation
✓ LED indicators
✓ 6 hours and 24 minutes of battery life
Best for Professional Shots: Insta360 Flow
✓ Touch controls for switching modes.
✓ 3-axis stabilisation
✓ AI-adjustments shoot
✓2,900mAh with 12 hours battery life
Best for Portability: Zhiyun Smooth Q4
✓ Quick-release mount
✓ 3-axis stabilisation
✓ 215mm extendable pole
✓ Lightweight
Best for Advanced Features: Zhiyun Smooth 5s
✓ Tactile buttons
✓ Gesture control
✓ A shortcut button
✓ Up to 24 hours Battery life
#1 Best Overall: DJI Osmo Mobile 6
DJI Osmo Mobile 6
Price & Design
The DJI Osmo Mobile 6 rocks a $150 price tag, positioning itself comfortably within the mid-range market. It's a tad bulkier and heavier than its predecessors, measuring 189mm by 85mm by 44mm, which might not be everyone's cup of tea, especially if you're after something ultra-portable. However, it boasts a sleek dark gray color and a three-axis stabilization that promises buttery smooth footage. The cherry on top? A 215mm built-in extension rod, perfect for those who want a bit more reach without carrying extra gear.
Features & Performance
Packed with nifty features, the Osmo Mobile 6 is a gadget lover's dream. From its two LED indicators that keep you informed about device connection and battery status to the M button for power and standby mode, everything is designed for convenience. The orange-dot record button and the physical switch for flipping between your phone’s cameras add to the gimbal’s intuitive use. It’s like having a mini video studio in your hands, with various recording modes available through the DJI Mimo app. Though it’s worth mentioning, the app is iOS only, which might leave Android users feeling a bit left out.
DJI Osmo Mobile 6
Battery Life
Nobody likes running out of juice in the middle of a shoot, and DJI seems to understand that. Charging the Osmo Mobile 6 takes about an hour and 24 minutes, and you get a decent 6 hours and 24 minutes of usage on a single charge under ideal conditions. The LED indicators for battery status ensure you're not caught off-guard when the battery starts to dip, making it reliable for extended shooting sessions.
Potential Downsides
The Osmo Mobile 6 isn’t without its flaws. The biggest might just be its iOS-only compatibility. Android users can technically download the app from DJI's website, but with warnings of disabled protections, it’s far from ideal. Plus, there's a possibility of running into video-resolution limitations on Android devices, which could be a deal-breaker for some.
DJI Osmo Mobile 6
Best Overall
✓ 215mm built-in extension rod
✓ 3-axis stabilisation
✓ LED indicators
✓ 6 hours and 24 minutes of battery life
#2 Best for Professional Shots: Insta360 Flow
Insta360 Flow
Price & Design
At $160, the Insta360 Flow slightly edges out the DJI Osmo Mobile 6 in terms of price but offers its own set of advantages. It's a bit more compact and lighter, weighing 369g and capable of supporting devices weighing up to 300 grams. Available in Stone Gray and Summit White, it sports a modern design with a rubber-sleeved handle for extra grip. The Flow comes in three different packages, allowing users to choose based on their needs, which adds a nice touch of customization.
Features & Performance
The Insta360 Flow is a versatile tool with features that cater to both beginners and seasoned videographers. Its dual-joint design allows for flexibility, while the smart wheel and joystick make controlling the gimbal a breeze. From automatic AI adjustments to creative modes like 360-degree panoramas and Barrel Roll effects, the Flow pushes the boundaries of mobile videography. However, its standout feature might be the ability to work as a power bank, ensuring your phone stays charged during long shoots. It’s a feature-packed gimbal that promises a lot, albeit with a learning curve due to its touch-based controls.
Insta360 Flow
Battery Life
With a 2,900mAh battery, the Insta360 Flow boasts an impressive 12 hours of battery life per charge, eclipsing the DJI Osmo Mobile 6 by a significant margin. The ability to charge via USB-C and double as a power bank for your phone adds a layer of practicality and convenience, making it a strong contender for those who prioritize battery life in their shooting equipment.
Potential Downsides
The Insta360 Flow isn’t without its quirks. Users have reported finicky touch-based wheel controls, which can be frustrating in fast-paced shooting scenarios. While the app supports iOS, Android users might feel left out. Tracking issues and a non-waterproof design further limit its versatility, especially for outdoor adventurers or those involved in high-intensity activities. Moreover, the gimbal’s limited pivot range when moved below the horizon line could restrict creative freedom for some users.
Insta360 Flow
Best for Professional Shots
✓ Touch controls for switching modes
✓ 3-axis stabilisation
✓ AI-adjustments shoot
✓ 2,900mAh with 12 hours battery life
#3 Best for Portability: Zhiyun Smooth Q4
Zhiyun Smooth Q4
Price & Design
With a friendly price tag of $119, the Zhiyun Smooth Q4 doesn’t just aim to be budget-friendly; it packs a punch in design too. Sporting dimensions of 181.7 x 107.7 x 56.3mm and a weight of 610 grams, it’s designed to carry smartphones up to 370g. The inclusion of an extendable pole up to 215mm adds versatility for different shooting angles. The combo kit, adding a magnetic LED fill light among other goodies for just a little more ($127.50), offers great value. The all-around rubberized grip is a thoughtful touch, enhancing the device's overall feel and durability.
Features & Performance
Zhiyun isn't playing around with the Smooth Q4, offering a 338° tilt, roll, and a 331° pan range, catering to a broad spectrum of shooting needs. The ZY Cami app integration (though a bit finicky with its Bluetooth connection) opens up a world of possibilities, from various follow modes to creative camera movements like the Vortex Mode. It’s all about getting those smooth, cinematic shots without the fuss. The gimbal’s control scheme is rich but might require a bit of a learning curve, with its array of buttons and modes all aimed at enhancing your shooting experience. The hand gesture control for taking pictures or recording videos is a neat addition, offering convenience and a bit of futuristic flair.
Zhiyun Smooth Q4
Battery Life
The Smooth Q4 isn’t just smooth in operation; it keeps going for up to 15 hours on a single charge. Needing only 2.5 hours to charge fully via USB-C, it ensures you’re ready to shoot all day, which is quite impressive. This makes it a reliable companion for those long shooting days or when you’re out exploring and don’t have easy access to charging points.
Potential Downsides
While the Smooth Q4 offers a lot, it’s not without its downsides. The ZY Cami app’s lack of polish and the necessity for a subscription to unlock some features might put off some users. The button combinations can feel a bit like learning a new language, and the panorama mode’s poor image stitching could be a deal-breaker for those who love capturing wide scenic shots.
Zhiyun Smooth Q4
Best for Portability
✓ Quick-release mount
✓ 3-axis stabilisation
✓ 215mm extendable pole
✓ Lightweight
#4 Best for Advanced Features: Zhiyun Smooth 5s
Zhiyun Smooth 5s
Price & Design
The Zhiyun Smooth 5s steps it up a notch with a $169 price point, justified by its status as an upgraded version of the beloved Smooth 5. Available in chic white and gray, it brings a bit of style to the table. Weighing in at 625 grams, its tactile buttons and professional pivot axis structure give it a premium feel. Although it lacks an extendable rod, a separate purchase can solve that. The combo package ($219) includes some sweet extras like a magnetic fill light, offering a more comprehensive setup right out of the box.
Features & Performance
The Smooth 5s is a feature-packed gimbal with a 349° tilt, 349° roll, and a full 360° pan range, ensuring no angle is out of reach. It supports smartphones up to 3.5 inches wide and incorporates both the ZY Cami and StaCam apps for a varied shooting experience. The control scheme is intuitive, with a focus on giving users complete control over their shots, whether it’s through zoom, focus, or switching between various modes seamlessly. The gimbal’s ability to track subjects smartly, coupled with its range of creative modes, makes it a powerful tool for capturing dynamic and engaging footage.
Zhiyun Smooth 5s
Battery Life
Boasting a 2,600mAh battery, the Smooth 5s can last up to a staggering 24 hours, putting it at the top of its class in terms of battery life. The 15W charging capability means it’s back to full power in just 2 hours, ensuring you spend more time shooting and less time waiting around. For anyone who values longevity in their shooting equipment, the Smooth 5s delivers impressively.
Potential Downsides
Despite its many strengths, the Smooth 5s has a few areas that could be improved. Its bulky design might not be for everyone, and the charging process can be a bit awkward. The lack of an extendable selfie stick in the base package is a missed opportunity for added versatility. The app experience can be hit or miss, with some users reporting bugs and poor translations, which could detract from the overall user experience. Additionally, the reliance on phones means that interruptions like calls can disrupt your recording session, which could be a significant inconvenience for some.
Zhiyun Smooth 5s
Best for Advanced Features
✓ Tactile buttons
✓ Gesture control
✓ A shortcut button
✓ Up to 24 hours Battery life
Other Offers You Can Get
Hohem iSteady Mobile+
1. Suitable for Active Travelers: Hohem iSteady Mobile+
The Hohem iSteady Mobile+, priced at an approachable $100, stands as a testament to mid-range gimbals that don’t skimp on quality or functionality. Its sleek design and advanced 3-axis stabilization system cater to a broad spectrum of videography enthusiasts, supporting smartphones up to 280g in weight. With features like the iSteady 6.0 anti-shake algorithm and 600° pan rotation, it empowers users to capture ultra-smooth and dynamic footage with ease. Additionally, its impressive 13-hour battery life, coupled with the convenience of charging your phone while shooting, makes it a reliable companion for extended filming sessions. However, its iOS-only app compatibility and potential issues with weight and size could limit its appeal to a wider audience.
Feiyu SCORP Mini P
2. Suitable for Those Seeking An All-in-one Gimbal: Feiyu SCORP Mini P
In the realm of mid-range gimbals, the Feiyu SCORP Mini P, with its pricing tier between $149 and $189, melds stylish design with robust functionality. It accommodates smartphones up to 520g, boasting a 1.3-inch OLED touchscreen, AI tracking, and versatile shooting modes for creative flexibility. The inclusion of an 18W fast charging feature, replenishing its battery in about 1.6 hours for an 11-hour run time, addresses the needs of avid videographers. However, similar to the iSteady Mobile+, the SCORP Mini P’s compatibility is skewed towards iOS users, requiring Android enthusiasts to navigate additional steps for app installation. Furthermore, potential discrepancies in battery life under varying conditions and concerns over its heft may deter certain users.
Essager 360°
3. Suitable for Those Seeking Auto Face Tracking: Essager 360°
In the realm of mid-range gimbals, the Feiyu SCORP Mini P, with its pricing tier between $149 and $189, melds stylish design with robust functionality. It accommodates smartphones up to 520g, boasting a 1.3-inch OLED touchscreen, AI tracking, and versatile shooting modes for creative flexibility. The inclusion of an 18W fast charging feature, replenishing its battery in about 1.6 hours for an 11-hour run time, addresses the needs of avid videographers. However, similar to the iSteady Mobile+, the SCORP Mini P’s compatibility is skewed towards iOS users, requiring Android enthusiasts to navigate additional steps for app installation. Furthermore, potential discrepancies in battery life under varying conditions and concerns over its heft may deter certain users.
Hohem iSteady Mobile+
Suitable for Active Travelers
✓ iSteady 6.0 anti-shake algorithm
✓ 600° pan rotation
✓ 13-hour battery life
✓ Phone-charging feature
Feiyu SCORP Mini P
Suitable for Those Seeking an All-in-one Gimbal
✓ 1.3-inch OLED touchscreen
✓ Up to 520g phone weight support
✓ 11-hour battery life
✓ Fast charging feature
Essager 360°
Suitable for Those Seeking Auto Face Tracking
✓ 3-axis stabilization
✓ Up to 230g phone weight support
✓ 180° pan rotation capability
✓ 11-hour battery life
Compare Gimbals
Final Thoughts
Choosing the right phone gimbal can be a daunting task, but each of the gimbal has its strengths and weaknesses. Ultimately, when choosing a phone gimbal, consider your needs as well as your budget.
If you're looking for a budget-friendly option that doesn't compromise on quality, the Zhiyun Smooth Q4 is an excellent choice. Its compact size and extendable pole make it versatile while still offering impressive battery life. For those who prioritize battery life above all else, both the Insta360 Flow and Zhiyun Smooth 5s offer exceptional longevity with their high-capacity batteries. The Insta360 Flow also doubles as a power bank for your phone, adding an extra layer of practicality.
If you want a gimbal that's packed with features and offers complete control over your shots, the Zhiyun Smooth 5s is an excellent choice. Its premium feel and range of creative modes make it a powerful tool for capturing dynamic footage. However, if you're looking for a mid-range gimbal that doesn't skimp on quality or functionality, we recommend choosing from our additional list of Hohem iSteady Mobile+, Feiyu SCORP Mini P AI Tracking, or Essager 360°. These gimbals offer great value without compromising on performance.
Regardless of which gimbal you choose, remember that practice makes perfect – take time to learn how to use your new tool effectively and experiment with different modes and angles to take your mobile videography to the next level!
If you like to read more on Gimbals, check out our other relevant guides here:
Best Gimbals for iPhone (2023)
4 Best Gimbals for DSLR (2023)
DJI Osmo Mobile 6 vs DJI Osmo Mobile SE
DJI Osmo Mobile 6 vs DJI Osmo Mobile 5
DJI Osmo Mobile 6 vs Zhiyun Smooth 5S
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