Best Smartphone Gimbal of 2019: A Comprehensive Reddit Guide

In the fast-evolving world of smartphone photography and videography, achieving smooth and professional-quality footage is often a top priority for content creators and influencers alike. While smartphones have advanced significantly in terms of camera capabilities, one tool that has made a monumental difference is the smartphone gimbal. In this article, we'll explore the best gimbals of 2019 as discussed and recommended by Reddit users, ensuring you get the most value for your investment.

Understanding Smartphone Gimbals

Before diving into recommendations, let's understand what a smartphone gimbal is. Essentially, a gimbal is a pivoted support that enables the rotation of an object about a single axis. For videographers, it stabilizes footage and allows for smooth tracking shots, even while the operator is in motion. Unlike traditional tripods, gimbals provide more versatility in dynamic shooting scenarios.

Why Choose a Gimbal?

Many smartphone users have adopted gimbals for several reasons:

• Stability: The primary function of a gimbal is to eliminate shaky footage, providing a smoother viewing experience.
• Versatility: Gimbals offer various modes such as “Follow Mode” and “Lock Mode” to suit different filming needs.
• Enhanced Creativity: With features like time-lapse and pan-follow options, gimbals can help users express creativity in their filming.

Top Recommendations from Reddit

Based on extensive discussions and reviews on Reddit, here are some of the best smartphone gimbals of 2019:

1. DJI Osmo Mobile 2

Regarded as one of the best gimbals in the market, the DJI Osmo Mobile 2 stands out due to its exceptional build quality and ease of use. Offering an impressive battery life of up to 15 hours, this gimbal is perfect for long shooting sessions. Reddit users rave about its intuitive design and multiple shooting modes, making it versatile for various videography styles.

The Osmo Mobile 2 features a dedicated zoom slider and supports portrait and landscape modes, making it ideal for both vlogs and cinematic shots. Its smartphone app further enhances the filming experience with advanced editing options and the ability to create time-lapse videos effortlessly.

2. Zhiyun Smooth 4

If you’re looking for professional-grade features, the Zhiyun Smooth 4 might be your best bet. This gimbal has gained popularity on Reddit due to its detailed control features, including a dial for quick adjustments. It also offers impressive follow modes and time-lapse capabilities.

Its battery life is noteworthy, lasting up to 12 hours, and it can also be used to charge your phone while recording. Users often mention that the Smooth 4 is slightly heavier than its competitors but agree that the enhanced control outweighs the disadvantage.

3. FeiyuTech Vlog Pocket

The FeiyuTech Vlog Pocket has become a fan-favorite among Reddit users due to its compact and foldable design. Ideal for travel, this gimbal can easily fit in your pocket. Despite its small size, it doesn’t compromise on functionality, supporting multiple shooting modes and a decent battery life of around 10 hours.

Many users appreciate its affordability compared to other high-end gimbals while still offering excellent stabilization quality. The Vlog Pocket is marketer-friendly and appealing particularly to vloggers who need a lightweight option that doesn’t break the bank.

4. Moza Mini-S

The Moza Mini-S is yet another fantastic option that has gained traction on Reddit. Its 3-axis stabilization ensures smooth video capture even during intense action. The Mini-S is known for its ergonomic design, making it easy to hold for extended periods.

One distinctive feature is its “Enter/Exit” button that allows users to switch between different shooting modes effortlessly. Additionally, it boasts a battery life of about 12 hours and can be charged while in use, which is a significant plus for long recording sessions.

Choosing the Right Gimbal for You

Choosing the perfect gimbal often depends on your specific needs and shooting style. Here are some factors to consider:

• Budget: Determine how much you’re willing to spend. Gimbals can range from budget-friendly options to premium models.
• Weight and Size: If you travel frequently, consider a lightweight and portable gimbal.
• Functionality: Look for options that provide a variety of modes and features that align with your style of videography.
• Compatibility: Ensure the gimbal is compatible with your smartphone model.

Popular Gimbal Features to Look For

When browsing for gimbals, here are some useful features that can enhance your filming experience:

• In-app Editing: Some gimbals come with companion apps that offer editing features, allowing for post-production tweaks directly from your smartphone.
• Live Streaming: If you engage in live-streaming activities, look for gimbals that support this function to elevate the quality of your streams.
• Object Tracking: This is a handy feature for action filmmakers, enabling you to capture moving subjects effortlessly.

User Experiences and Tips

Reddit is brimming with user experiences that provide insightful tips for maximizing the potential of your gimbal:

• Practice Makes Perfect: Many users emphasize the importance of practicing with your gimbal before actual shooting to get a feel for its weight and capabilities.
• Use a Stabilizer App: Some smartphone apps can further stabilize video footage. Combining these with your gimbal can produce movie-quality videos.
• Invest in a Good Tripod Adapter: Several Redditors have recommended using a tripod adapter for those static shots that require maximum stability.

Final Thoughts

In the ever-evolving landscape of mobile videography, gimbals are a critical tool for any serious content creator. The recommendations provided by Reddit users reflect a range of quality, functionality, and price points, ensuring that you can find the perfect match for your filming needs. As you venture into the world of smartphone gimbals, considering user experiences and product features will undoubtedly lead to enhanced video quality and ultimately a more engaging viewer experience.