In the fast-paced world of smartphone photography and videography, achieving the perfect shot can sometimes feel like an uphill battle. Shaky hands, unsteady movements, and less-than-ideal lighting can all compromise the quality of your images and videos. Enter the gimbal — a revolutionary tool that stabilizes your smartphone, allowing you to capture professional-grade footage effortlessly. As 2020 rolls on, gimbals have become more accessible, versatile, and essential. In this article, we will explore the best gimbals for smartphones available in 2020, taking into account performance, features, and price, to help you make an informed decision.

1. DJI Osmo Mobile 3

The DJI Osmo Mobile 3 is at the forefront of smartphone stabilization technology. Its compact and foldable design makes it an excellent choice for on-the-go creators who demand portability without compromising performance. With a robust set of features, including ActiveTrack, which follows subjects automatically, and an ergonomic grip for comfort, it's no surprise this gimbal is a favorite among content creators.

One of the standout features of the Osmo Mobile 3 is its Quick Launch capability. You can easily switch between landscape and portrait modes with a simple switch. Moreover, its intelligent shooting modes, such as gesture control and story mode, simplify the filming process, making it perfect for vlogging and social media.

2. Zhiyun Smooth 4

The Zhiyun Smooth 4 is another impressive contender in the smartphone gimbal market. Known for its comprehensive control panel, the Smooth 4 allows users to adjust focus, zoom, and various shooting modes directly from the handle, making it feel like you have a cinematic toolkit at your fingertips.

What sets the Smooth 4 apart is its advanced object tracking capabilities. With just a tap, the gimbal can follow your subject, ensuring that your focal point remains sharp and clear. The large battery life of up to 12 hours is another feature that makes it a reliable choice for long filming sessions. The Smooth 4 also boasts an impressive app that enhances video editing capabilities, providing you with a wide range of filters and effects.

3. Moza Mini-S

The Moza Mini-S is perfect for users looking for an affordable yet highly functional gimbal. Its compact and lightweight design makes it incredibly easy to carry, and it can support a wide range of smartphone sizes. Additionally, the Mini-S comes with a variety of creative modes, including Time-lapse and Hyper-lapse features, allowing filmmakers to experiment and produce unique content.

The gimbal’s innovative ergonomics ensure that you can shoot for extended periods without discomfort. Moreover, its simple operation makes it suitable for beginners, while still offering advanced features that seasoned videographers will appreciate. The Moza Mini-S is an excellent choice for those who want to get serious about filming while staying within a budget.

4. FeiyuTech VLOG Pocket

The FeiyuTech VLOG Pocket stands out with its unique folding design, making it one of the most portable gimbals on the market. This gimbal is designed specifically for vloggers, featuring a customizable quick setup that allows you to get started right away, ensuring no moment is missed.

FeiyuTech's gimbal app enhances the user experience with options for editing and creative shooting modes. Its lightweight frame makes it easy to take anywhere, and with a battery life of around 8 hours, you can be sure it will last through a day of shooting. The gimbal also supports a variety of different camera angles, allowing for shooting versatility, which is excellent for dynamic vlogging.

5. Benro MX20

The Benro MX20 is designed for smartphone photographers who prioritize stability and performance. This three-axis gimbal boasts a sturdy build and a wide selection of operating modes, including panorama and time-lapse shooting. The MX20 is particularly popular among professionals who appreciate its durable design and smooth operation.

Equipped with a rechargeable battery that offers generous usage time, the MX20 has a robust weight tolerance, ensuring even larger smartphones can be accommodated. It also features an intuitive control panel and an LCD screen that displays important shooting information. Whether you’re capturing landscapes or action shots, the Benro MX20 is an excellent choice for serious smartphone videographers.

Factors to Consider When Choosing a Gimbal

Choosing the right gimbal involves understanding what features matter most to your intended use. Here are some critical factors to consider:

  • Weight and Portability: If you're a traveler or on-the-go creator, prioritize a lightweight and compact design.
  • Battery Life: Look for gimbals that offer a long battery life to ensure you can shoot without interruptions.
  • User-Friendly Features: Make sure the gimbal you choose is intuitive and easy to operate, especially if you are a beginner.
  • Compatibility: Ensure that the gimbal is compatible with your smartphone model, and check its weight limit.
  • Stabilization Quality: Investigate how well the gimbal stabilizes footage to produce smooth results, free of shakes.

As 2020 continues to evolve, advancements in smartphone technology also mean gimbals are adapting to cater to these innovations. With the right gimbal, you’ll elevate your content creation game, ensuring you produce stunning images and videos every time. The gimbals mentioned here represent the best available options in 2020, optimizing performance and functionality, making them essential tools for both amateur and professional creators alike.