Best Budget Smartphone Gimbals of 2018 - A Comprehensive Review

The year 2018 witnessed a surge in the quality of smartphone videography, paving the way for mobile content creators and aspiring filmmakers alike. With smartphones able to capture stunning 4K footage, the demand for stabilization tools became paramount. Enter gimbals—devices that help you achieve smooth, cinematic shots with your smartphone without breaking the bank. In this article, we explore some of the best budget smartphone gimbals of 2018 that blend affordability with outstanding performance.

Why Use a Gimbal?

The primary purpose of a gimbal is to stabilize your camera through a system of motors and sensors that compensate for unwanted motion. Unlike handheld shots which can often appear shaky, a gimbal allows for smooth tracking shots, panning, tilting, and other dynamic movements, enhancing production quality remarkably. Moreover, for budget-conscious creators, investing in a gimbal can elevate their content without requiring expensive camera equipment.

Factors to Consider When Choosing a Gimbal

• Weight Capacity: Ensure the gimbal can support the weight of your smartphone.
• Battery Life: Look for gimbals with long battery life for extended shooting sessions.
• Portability: A lightweight and compact design is ideal for on-the-go shooting.
• Features: Select gimbals that offer advanced features like tracking modes, slow motion, and time-lapse capabilities.
• Price: With many budget options available, you can find a versatile gimbal without overspending.

Top 5 Budget Smartphone Gimbals of 2018

1. Zhiyun Smooth Q

The Zhiyun Smooth Q made waves in the gimbal market due to its affordable price and robust performance. It supports smartphones weighing up to 260g and features a clever folding design, making it highly portable. The Smooth Q boasts a battery life of up to 12 hours, ensuring you won’t miss a moment. Additionally, it offers various modes including lock mode, follow mode, and pan following mode, which allows you to capture creative shots with ease.

2. DJI Osmo Mobile 2

DJI is well-known for its high-quality stabilizers, and the Osmo Mobile 2 is no exception. Priced competitively, this gimbal offers an excellent blend of features, including a built-in battery that lasts up to 15 hours. The Osmo Mobile 2 allows for quick creation of dynamic time-lapses and includes a “Story Mode” that effortlessly turns your clips into professional-grade videos. Its lightweight design makes it a great companion for travelers and vloggers alike.

3. FeiyuTech Vimble 2

The FeiyuTech Vimble 2 stands out with its impressive weight-bearing capacity of up to 280g. It features a telescopic handle that extends up to 18cm, which not only adds versatility but also enables stunning aerial shots from unique angles. The Vimble 2’s detachable design means you can switch between handheld and tripod modes easily. Battery life extends up to 10 hours, perfect for engagement activities like weddings or events.

4. Hohem iSteady Mobile

Known for its affordability, the Hohem iSteady Mobile brings exceptional performance to all creators. It supports a slew of shooting modes such as time-lapse, object tracking, and sport mode. The gimbal’s built-in battery gives you up to 12 hours of run time, and it conveniently comes with a quick-release plate for hassle-free smartphone mounting. Its ergonomic design and lightweight frame allow for hours of usage without fatigue.

5. Moza Mini-S

The Moza Mini-S is an ingenious gimbal that offers an array of features packed into a compact design. Weighing only 0.61 lb, it’s exceptionally lightweight and features an impressive battery life of 10 hours. Its 3-axis stabilization system is complemented by intuitive controls, allowing filmmakers to engage creative shooting techniques effortlessly. The Moza Mini-S also supports various smartphones sized up to 3.6 inches wide, ensuring compatibility with most devices.

How to Use a Gimbal Effectively

Utilizing a gimbal can initially feel daunting, but with a little practice, it becomes second nature. Here are a few tips for maximizing the potential of your gimbal:

• Balance Your Smartphone: Before powering on, ensure your phone is balanced correctly. Adjust the gimbal arms to accommodate any additional weight like cases or lenses.
• Experiment with Different Modes: Each gimbal comes with various modes tailored for different shooting scenarios. Experiment with following mode for tracking moving subjects or lock mode for static scenes.
• Practice Your Movements: Smooth movements are key to showcasing your gimbal’s efficacy. Slow, deliberate motions will yield the best results.
• Utilize an App: Many gimbals have companion apps that add extra functionality. Use these apps to capture advanced shots, time-lapses, and slow-motion videos.

Recommended Accessories

To fully utilize your gimbal for smartphone videography, consider investing in some essential accessories:

• Smartphone Lens:
  Enhance your smartphone’s camera with wide-angle or macro lenses for diverse shooting opportunities.
• Tripod:
  A portable tripod can improve stability for stationary shots, especially in low-light conditions.
• External Microphone:
  Audio quality is crucial, and a good external microphone can drastically improve sound capture during your videos.
• Carrying Case:
  Protect your gimbal with a sturdy carrying case that can endure travel.

Final Thoughts

In 2018, finding a budget-friendly smartphone gimbal that does not compromise on quality is highly attainable. The gimbals mentioned above are excellent choices for anyone looking to take their smartphone videography to the next level. By incorporating one of these gimbals into your filming toolkit, you will undoubtedly capture smoother, more professional-looking footage that will elevate your content. Experiment with the different features each gimbal offers, and enjoy the journey of being a creative mobile filmmaker!