As smartphone photography and videography continue to soar in popularity, many enthusiasts are turning to gimbals to elevate their shooting experience. A gimbal helps achieve smooth, cinematic shots by stabilizing your smartphone, making it easier to capture professional-looking footage. In this article, we’ll explore the best smartphone gimbals available in India in 2019 that cater to various needs, budget ranges, and usability levels, ensuring you find the perfect match for your creative endeavors.

What is a Smartphone Gimbal?

A smartphone gimbal is a handheld stabilizing device that uses motors and sensors to keep your mobile device steady while filming. By counteracting any hand movements or shakiness, gimbals maintain smooth footage, making them essential for vloggers, filmmakers, and casual users alike. Unlike traditional tripods, gimbals offer flexibility and freedom of movement, allowing users to shoot from various angles and perspectives.

Key Features to Look For

  • Stabilization Technology: The type of stabilization (3-axis, 2-axis) can greatly affect the quality of your footage.
  • Battery Life: Longer battery life means extended shooting sessions, so look for gimbals with solid battery performance.
  • Weight and Portability: A lightweight and compact design is essential for ease of transport, especially for travel bloggers.
  • Compatibility: Ensure the gimbal is compatible with your smartphone model, particularly cameras and accessories.
  • Smart Features: Modern gimbals offer features like app compatibility, smart tracking, and built-in effects that enhance usability.

Top Smartphone Gimbals of 2019 in India

1. DJI Osmo Mobile 2

The DJI Osmo Mobile 2 quickly rose to be a favorite in 2019 for good reason. Packed with state-of-the-art stabilization technology, this 3-axis gimbal effortlessly combats shakiness and provides an excellent filming experience. Its lightweight design allows you to shoot for longer periods without fatigue. It also features a built-in battery that can last up to 15 hours and even charge your smartphone while filming. With its numerous smart shooting modes like ActiveTrack, it’s perfect for capturing dynamic subjects.

2. Moza Mini-MI

The Moza Mini-MI is recognized for its unique wireless charging capability, making it a standout in the market. This 3-axis gimbal supports a variety of smartphones and boasts several creative modes, including vortex and inception modes, which enable users to experiment with their filmmaking. Its compact design and lightweight frame make it ideal for travel, while the app enhances the user experience with additional features like time-lapse and object tracking.

3. Zhiyun Smooth 4

The Zhiyun Smooth 4 is a favorite among serious creators in India. With a robust 3-axis design, it handles both weight and stability exceptionally well, even with larger smartphones. This gimbal provides an array of advanced features such as a focus pull and zoom capability, which appeal to filmmakers. Furthermore, the Smooth 4 offers an impressive battery life, ensuring you can shoot for long durations without worry. The intuitive control panel enables quick adjustments, making it a practical choice for both beginners and professionals.

4. Hohem iSteady Mobile Plus

For those on a budget, the Hohem iSteady Mobile Plus is a fantastic option that doesn’t skimp on features. This 3-axis gimbal is lightweight and portable, making it a great choice for those who are always on the go. It offers intelligent features like face and object tracking, as well as various shooting modes for different scenarios. Its affordability, combined with solid performance, makes it a must-consider for casual creators and budding videographers.

5. FeiyuTech Vimble 2

The FeiyuTech Vimble 2 is known for its extendable design, which allows for unique and creative angles during shooting. This gimbal features multiple shooting modes, and its excellent stabilization technology ensures smooth and clear footage. The Vimble 2 is designed for ease of use, with a straightforward interface that is accessible for beginners. Its lightweight and foldable design means it can easily fit into your bag, ready for any filming adventure.

Choosing the Right Gimbal for Your Needs

When selecting a gimbal for your smartphone, consider your specific needs and how you intend to use it. Are you a casual user looking for something easy to handle, or a filmmaker aiming for complex shots? Factor in your budget, portability, and the specific features that would enhance your filming experience. Don't forget to check user reviews and product demonstrations to see how different gimbals perform in real-world conditions.

Tips for Using Your Smartphone Gimbal Effectively

Once you’ve chosen the right gimbal, here are some tips to get the most out of your investment:

  • Familiarize Yourself: Spend time getting to know the controls and features of your gimbal before heading out on a shoot.
  • Practice: The more you practice, the better your footage will be. Experiment with different settings and techniques.
  • Utilize the App: Many gimbals come with companion apps that offer additional features. Explore these to enhance your shooting capabilities.
  • Plan Your Shots: Think ahead about the types of shots you want, and how the gimbal can help achieve them.
  • Maintain Proper Balance: Ensure your smartphone is securely mounted and balanced on the gimbal for the best stabilization.

The smartphone gimbal market is evolving rapidly, with new models bringing innovative features every year. However, in 2019, the gimbals outlined in this article represent some of the best options available to Indian consumers, balancing quality, features, and affordability. Whether you are filming a travel vlog, a family event, or just capturing everyday moments, having a gimbal can significantly enhance your smartphone video-making capabilities. Choose wisely, and let your creativity flourish with the right tools!