Overview: What Are Gimbals and Why Use Them?
A gimbal is an essential tool for anyone who wants to shoot professional-looking videos with their iPhone. At their core, gimbals are motorized mounts that help stabilize and balance your smartphone as you record video. They connect to and counteract the natural shakiness from your hands holding the phone, resulting in smooth, fluid footage even if you‘re on the move.
So why use a gimbal versus just holding your iPhone to record video? There are a few key advantages:
- Stabilization: Gimbals stabilize footage along 3 axes of rotation through integrated sensors and motors even with lots of movement
- Ergonomics: Gimbals shift the weight and strain from your wrist and arms holding the iPhone out to a more comfortable handgrip position
- Flexibility: The ability to mount your phone on a gimbal allows for more flexible shots and angles, like low sweeps
- Features: Many modern gimbals integrate extra features through mobile apps, like motion timelapse, object tracking and camera control
The latest gimbals designed specifically for iPhones incorporate breakthroughs in precision motors and sensing for better performance in a portable form factor. With so many options on the market though, it can be tough picking the right gimbal to meet your iPhone videography needs.
In this guide, we‘ll review our top 5 picks for iPhone gimbals across a range of budgets and feature sets:
Best iPhone Gimbals 2023
Best Overall: DJI OM6
DJI Osmo Mobile 6 Smartphone Gimbal Stabilizer
When it comes to smartphone gimbal innovation and performance, DJI is an industry leader. The DJI OM6 represents their latest generation achieivng impressive 3-axis stabilization in a highly portable, foldable form factor.
Weighing just 0.66 lbs, the OM6 can capture shake-free video even when attached to latest iPhones like the iPhone 14 Pro Max. A redesigned handle and wheel provide access to zoom and focus controls from the grip. Shooting modes like ActiveTrack 5.0 which automatically tracks subjects adds to the flexibility.
The integrated DJI Mimo app lets you not only control the gimbal but also provides mobile editing and sharing capabilities for quick previews. Overall at $149, the combination of stabilization, portability and software features makes this one of the best all-around iPhone gimbals you can buy today.
Pros:
- Class-leading stabilization
- Intuitive physical and app controls
- Active subject tracking
- Lightweight and foldable
Cons:
- Can get complex for beginners
- Short battery life
Best Runner-Up: Zhiyun Smooth 5
Zhiyun Smooth 5 Combo Gimbal Stabilizer
While DJI may be the 800-lb gorilla, Zhiyun is a rising challenger when it comes to gimbal design catered specifically for phones and action cameras.
The Zhiyun Smooth 5 incorporates prosumer-grade gimbal technology like a Crane 3-axis stabilizer and algorithms tuned for smartphones into an easy to use handheld package. The grip itself has an array of buttons and a scroll wheel to control gimbal movement and phone focus/zoom to reduce needing to touch your iPhone‘s screen.
We like the combo version which adds handy accessories like a mini tripod and LED fill light for under $120. Paired with Zhiyun‘s ZY Cami app, you get access to more advanced controls around exposure, time lapse and motion shots. For iPhone videographers looking for something cheaper but nearly as fully-featured as the DJI OM6, the Smooth 5 is a great alternative gimbal pick.
Pros:
- Robust physical controls
- Integrated mini tripod and fill lighting extras
- Nearly on par with DJI performance and software
Cons:
- Can be bulky when folded up
- Short 1/4" mount screw
Best for Phones and Cameras: FeiyuTech SCORP-Mini
FeiyuTech Camera Gimbal Stabilizer SCORP-Mini Stabilizer
For iPhone videographers who also want to shoot stabilized footage from a mirrorless or action camera, the FeiyuTech SCORP-Mini is a versatile 3-in-1 gimbal option.
With a payload capacity up to 0.88 lbs, you can mount everything from an iPhone 14 Pro to a Sony RX100 series camera to even small mirrorless bodies from Fuji, Canon or Nikon. Switching between brackets takes seconds allowing you to capture photos and video from multiple sources.
An integrated OLED touchscreen provides digital access to controls like follow modes and face/object tracking. The handles are ergonomically designed making extended filming comfortable. Battery life is also above average reaching 12 hours per charge.
If you need one gimbal to rule various iPhone, action and mirrorless setups, the SCORP-Mini delivers performance and flexibility that can save you money over buying multiple single purpose gimbals.
Pros:
- Works with iPhone, action and MILC cameras
- Great ergonomics and battery life
- OLED touchscreen control
Cons:
- Most expensive gimbal pick
- Can get complex to master
Best Budget: Zhiyun Smooth XS
ZHIYUN Smooth XS Gimbal – White
If you‘re shopping for your first iPhone gimbal and don‘t want to spend over $100, the Zhiyun Smooth XS delivers solid stabilization in a very affordable package.
At around 1/3rd the cost of premium picks like the DJI OM6, you still get reliable 2-axis gimbal performance thanks to Zhiyun‘s Vortex algorithms. The mount can handle even the weight of the largest iPhone models while filtering out handshake jitters.
A built-in 10" telescoping selfie stick gives you extended range to film yourself or wider scenes. The Streamlined design folds down for easy portability. While the motors and hardware stabilization represent a stripped down version of Zhiyun‘s higher end offerings, you can still pair with their ZY Cami app for some software control.
For casual iPhoneographers on a tight budget, it‘s hard to beat the combination of gimbal stabilization quality relative to the low price point of the Smooth XS model. It‘s a great entry-level option if you‘re new to mobile videography and want to test the waters before investing hundreds of dollars.
Pros:
- Incredible value and price
- Quality 2-axis stabilization
- Integrated selfie stick
Cons:
- Limited controls and features
- No third axis of stabilization
Best Standalone: DJI Pocket 2
While all the previous picks require you to mount your existing iPhone to deliver stabilized footage, the DJI Pocket 2 takes a different approach.
This tiny standalone camera packs professional grade imaging components like a 1/1.7" CMOS sensor and f/1.8 20MP wide angle lens into a compact form factor. The 3-axis gimbal provides best-in-class stabilization for smooth videos without any ports or brackets required to mount your smartphone.
Despite weighing just 117 grams, the Pocket 2 contains many of the hardware features content creators demand:
- 4 built-in mics for rich audio capture
- Up to 4K 60fps or 1080p 240fps recording
- 93° field of view wide angle lens
When paired with your iPhone via wireless, the DJI Mimo app allows full remote control over filming and access to modes like ActiveTrack 3.0 subject tracking. The result feels like shooting with a mirrorless camera rig minus the bulk and weight.
For iPhone users who want pro-level stabilization paired with better optics sans needing to mount their phone, the DJI Pocket 2 packages impressive imaging and gimbal technology into an ultra-portable body.
Pros:
- Significantly better optical quality over iPhone camera
- Built-in screen to monitor footage
- Highly compact and lightweight
Cons:
- Expensive for a standalone camera
- Captured footage requires transfer off microSD card to smartphone or computer
How to Choose the Best iPhone Gimbal
All 5 options featured provide 3-axis or 2-axis stabilization to eliminate shake from handheld iPhone videos. However, there are some key variables to consider when deciding which gimbal best fits your mobile filming needs.
Controls and Features
Think about your technical comfort level using gimbals. Beginners may prefer simpler single-handle controls offered in budget options like the Zhiyun Smooth XS. More advanced creators can benefit from robust physical command wheels and buttons on units like the DJI OM6 or Zhiyun Smooth 5.
Also consider what special features matter most: subject tracking? Exposure and focus controls? Extra accessories? Selfie sticks and tripods? This can help narrow choices.
Compatibility
Make sure to verify iPhone model compatibility for proper weight support and mount sizing. Also check if the gimbal offers addons or works with other devices like standalone cameras if you want more versatility.
Portability
Consider compactness for packing into bags and cases as well as folded size. Since gimbals counterbalance a forward weight, smaller grips can also reduce arm strain over longer filming periods.
Price and Value
Final choice may come down to budget constraints. Inexpensive intro options like the Zhiyun Smooth XS allow testing gimbal waters without a big investment. But pricier premium models provide better build quality, features and stabilization that can justify costs for serious iPhone videography needs.
Using a Phone Gimbal: What to Expect
If you‘re new to phone gimbals, the experience can have a learning curve. Here‘s a primer on what using one entails:
Most gimbals need to be initially balanced using theirs mount brackets to achieve ideal left/right and forward/backward equilibrium with your mounted iPhone. This tuning helps maximize the built-in motors‘ effectiveness.
When powered on, gimbals use integrated gyroscopes and motion sensors to instantly compensate for natural hand movements by smoothly panning and tilting in equal and oppposite directions. This counteraction keeps footage feeling like it‘s shot from a stabilized rig even though you‘re freely moving the grip around.
Controls on gimbals allow switching stabilization modes for different filming techniques:
Lock Mode: Maintains fixed camera orientation regardless of handle movement
Follow Mode: Camera pans and tilts fluidly based on handle motion for dolly shots
POV Mode: Mimics first-person perspective for a feeling of immersion
Using gimbals for long durations can fatigue arms since weight is extended forward. Look for ergonomic grips and light hardware to prevent muscles from tiring out.
For moving shots, you‘ll need to walk steadily since abrupt motions are harder for gimbal motors to compensate for. Practice smoothing out your gait for ideal footage.
While gimbals don‘t fully replace professional camera stabilization rigs, their performance and capabilities have vastly improved over early consumer models. When paired with the latest high-end iPhones, you can capture incredibly shake-free, cinematic-quality video content without needing to splurge on expensive cinema gear.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the main benefit of using an iPhone gimbal?
Gimbals provide stabilized video footage when recording using the iPhone‘s camera. Built-in motors compensate in real-time for natural hand shake and movement that would otherwise make videos look shaky.
How long does iPhone gimbal battery last?
Battery runtime varies among models but averages between 6 to 12 hours of use per full charge depending on usage. Some gimbals conveniently recharge over USB-C for quick top offs between filming sessions.
Do I need a smartphone gimbal app to operate one?
For basic stabilization you can use a gimbal out of box without needing an app. But to unlock more advanced shoot modes, remote control over iPhone focus/exposure, editing integrations and firmware updating, it‘s highly recommended to install your gimbal‘s accompanying iOS app.
Can other add-on lenses and mics be used with a gimbal?
In general attaching efects lenses, external mics and other accessories that directly mount to your iPhone are not recommended when using a gimbal since it throws off the precision balancing required for ideal stabilization. However mics that wirelessly transmit audio to your phone are perfectly fine to pair along with the gimbal.
Final Thoughts
A quality smartphone gimbal has become an essential tool for mobile content creators and vloggers who rely on their iPhone‘s camera capabilities. As the options in this guide highlight, you can achieve incredibly fluid, professional-looking stabilized footage across a wide span of budgets.
While picking features and models ultimately comes down to individual filming needs and budgets, the DJI OM6 stands out as best overall gimbal that balances performance, portability and intuitive control. For those wanting great stabilization at bargain pricing, the Zhiyun Smooth XS punches well above its class. And content creators needing more lens flexibility can look to the integrated camera DJI Pocket 2.
Have you upgraded your iPhone videography kit with a handy gimbal yet? Share your stabilization experiences below!
