Best Smartphone Gimbals for 2019: Capture Your Moments Like a Pro

In an age where content creation is at the forefront of social media and video sharing, having the right tools can make all the difference. Enter the smartphone gimbal, an essential companion for anyone looking to elevate their videography skills. In this guide, we will delve into the best smartphone gimbals of 2019, exploring their features, advantages, and what sets them apart. Whether you're a vlogger, an amateur filmmaker, or just someone who loves to capture life’s moments, having the best gimbal will help you shoot smooth, professional-quality footage.

Why Use a Smartphone Gimbal?

Smartphone gimbals are crucial for achieving smooth and stable videos. Unlike handheld shooting, which often results in shaky footage, gimbals use motors and sensors to counteract unwanted movements, ensuring that your footage remains steady, even while on the move. This is especially important for action shots, walking sequences, or even just casual recordings where you want to keep things professional looking.

What to Look for in a Smartphone Gimbal

• Stabilization Technology: Most modern gimbals use 3-axis stabilization to keep the smartphone steady during movement.
• Battery Life: Longer battery life means extended shooting sessions without needing a recharge.
• Weight and Portability: A lightweight and compact design makes it easier to carry around.
• Compatibility: Ensure that the gimbal supports your smartphone model and size.
• Additional Features: Built-in features such as software for tracking, zoom, and time-lapse modes can enhance your shooting experience.

Top Smartphone Gimbals of 2019

1. DJI Osmo Mobile 2

The DJI Osmo Mobile 2 quickly rose to fame due to its robust features and user-friendly design. It boasts a battery life of up to 15 hours, meaning you can shoot all day without interruptions. Its lightweight design ensures easy portability, making it the perfect choice for travel vlogs or outdoor adventures.

Its ActiveTrack feature allows users to automatically follow subjects, making videography easier and more dynamic. Additionally, it offers a variety of shooting modes, including time-lapse and slow-motion options, allowing creators to experiment with different styles.

2. Zhiyun Smooth 4

For those looking for a professional-grade gimbal, the Zhiyun Smooth 4 is a highly recommended option. Its unique control panel allows users to manipulate the gimbal with ease, adjusting settings without needing to take the smartphone off the gimbal. The Smooth 4 also features an impressive battery life of up to 12 hours.

This gimbal is ideal for creators who want full control over their shooting settings, including focus and exposure. Its Object Tracking feature ensures that your shots are always in focus, allowing for stunning, cinematic-quality footage.

3. Hohem iSteady X

The Hohem iSteady X is perfect for those on a budget without compromising quality. Weighing only 0.75 pounds, it's highly portable and can conveniently fit in your bag. This gimbal offers an impressive battery life of 8 hours and comes with various shooting modes that cater to different styles of videography.

One of its standout features is the SmartFollow function, which allows the gimbal to track moving subjects seamlessly, an invaluable tool for dynamic shooting scenarios.

4. FeiyuTech Vimble 2

The FeiyuTech Vimble 2 combines functionality with an affordable price point, making it a crowd favorite. It features a telescopic arm that extends, allowing you to capture larger groups in a single frame. It also has a solid battery life, running for up to 8 hours on a single charge.

With the Vimble 2, you can easily switch between landscape and portrait modes, which is perfect for those who create content for different platforms, be it YouTube or Instagram.

5. MOZA Mini-S

The MOZA Mini-S gimbal stands out due to its compatibility with a variety of devices, including smartphones and GoPros. It has a great battery performance, lasting up to 12 hours, making it reliable for long shoots. Its ergonomic design provides a comfortable grip, reducing strain during extended use.

The Mini-S also supports various shooting modes, such as Inception mode, which creates stunning 360-degree shots. This versatility is perfect for creative video projects.

Tips for Using a Smartphone Gimbal Effectively

1. Balance Your Smartphone: Always ensure that your phone is balanced and securely held in the gimbal to achieve the best stabilization possible.
2. Practice Before Shooting: Familiarize yourself with the gimbal's controls and features. Practice may prevent frustrating situations during your actual shoot.
3. Utilize Various Shooting Angles: Experiment with different angles and perspectives to make your videos more engaging.
4. Combine with Other Equipment: Consider using external microphones and lights to further enhance your production quality.

Must-Know Considerations for 2019

As technology continues to evolve rapidly, it's essential to keep up with the latest trends in smartphone videography. The integration of AI in gimbals, for example, is on the rise, providing more advanced features for tracking and stabilization.

Package sizes and portability are also evolving; making gimbals more travel-friendly is becoming a priority. Therefore, if you are in the market for a new smartphone gimbal, consider these future-proof elements along with your current shooting needs.

Inspiration for Creators

As you explore the world of smartphone gimbals, remember that creativity plays a crucial role. Don't hesitate to experiment with different shooting styles and perspectives. Use your gimbal not just for stabilization but as a tool to push your creative boundaries. Capture those spontaneous moments, tell stories, and share your unique perspective of the world through your videos.