The Best Smartphone Gimbals of 2019: A Comprehensive Guide for UK Users

Are you a budding filmmaker, a vlogger, or someone who simply enjoys capturing life with their smartphone? If so, you may have already encountered the challenges of shaky footage and unsteady shots. Thankfully, the solution lies in a smartphone gimbal, a tool designed to create smooth and stable videos regardless of your movement. In this guide, we’ll dive into the best smartphone gimbals available in the UK for 2019, and what makes each one a standout option.

What is a Smartphone Gimbal?

A smartphone gimbal is a handheld device that stabilizes your phone while you capture video or images. It uses motors and sensors to counteract movement, ensuring your shots remain smooth. Unlike traditional tripods, gimbals offer mobility without sacrificing quality. Whether you’re walking, running, or even dancing, a gimbal keeps your footage steady and professional-looking.

Why You Need a Gimbal

If you are serious about video production, investing in a smartphone gimbal is a must. Gimbals help to eliminate the jerks and shakes typical of handheld recording, providing a cinematic quality to your videos. This is especially important for travel vloggers, event videographers, and anyone who wants to preserve their memories in high quality. In addition, many gimbals come equipped with features such as slow-motion, time-lapse, and panorama modes, enhancing your creative capabilities.

Top Smartphone Gimbals of 2019 in the UK

1. DJI Osmo Mobile 2

The DJI Osmo Mobile 2 was widely praised for its impressive stabilization technology and user-friendly design. With a lightweight build, it's perfect for on-the-go filming. This gimbal offers up to 15 hours of battery life and features a built-in zoom slider, allowing you to effortlessly adjust your shots while recording. Additionally, the Osmo Mobile 2 supports both iOS and Android devices, making it a versatile choice for every smartphone user.

2. Zhiyun Smooth 4

The Zhiyun Smooth 4 is known for its professional-grade stabilization. It offers an intuitive control panel, enabling filmmakers to adjust settings easily without looking at their phones. With a battery that lasts up to 12 hours and the ability to handle heavier smartphones, the Smooth 4 is an excellent option for those who want control and stability in their shots. Furthermore, the gimbal's focus pull and zoom capabilities allow for cinematic-style filming without complex setups.

3. FeiyuTech Vimble 2

The FeiyuTech Vimble 2 stands out with its extendable design, reaching up to 18.5 cm in length. This unique feature allows for both wide-angle shots and easy carrying. It's equipped with a decent battery life of up to 10 hours and multiple shooting modes, including a smart follow mode that tracks moving subjects. The Vimble 2 is ideal for vloggers who want to capture dynamic footage without compromising on quality.

4. Moza Mini-MI

For users looking for a gimbal with wireless charging capabilities, the Moza Mini-MI is a fantastic choice. It features a built-in wireless charging pad that allows you to charge your smartphone while shooting, making it convenient for long shoots. This gimbal supports a variety of shooting modes and has a battery life of around 10 hours. Its compact design makes it travel-friendly, ensuring you can always have it with you.

5. Hohem iSteady Mobile Plus

The Hohem iSteady Mobile Plus offers impressive functionality at an attractive price point. It features 3-axis stabilization and can support both smartphones and small action cameras. The gimbal is lightweight and easy to use, perfect for beginners. One of its standout features includes an ergonomic design, ensuring comfort during extended filming sessions. Moreover, it boasts a battery life of approximately 12 hours, providing ample shoot time.

Factors to Consider When Choosing a Gimbal

When selecting the right smartphone gimbal, consider the following factors:

• Weight Capacity: Ensure the gimbal can support your smartphone's weight.
• Battery Life: Look for gimbals with a long-lasting battery for extended shoots.
• Features: Different gimbals offer various features such as follow modes, time-lapse, and more. Evaluate what functionalities you need.
• Portability: If you plan to travel, choose a lightweight and compact gimbal.
• Budget: Set a budget and explore gimbals that fit within it while meeting your requirements.

Maintaining Your Gimbal

To ensure longevity and reliability of your gimbal, follow these maintenance tips:

• Regularly Clean: Wipe the motors and arms to remove dust and dirt.
• Store Properly: Use the case provided during transport to avoid damage.
• Software Updates: Keep the gimbal’s firmware updated to ensure optimal performance.
• Avoid Overloading: Respect the maximum weight limit to prevent strain on the motors.

Conclusion

Investing in a quality smartphone gimbal can vastly improve the quality of your videos, making your content more engaging and professional. With the numerous options available in the UK for 2019, from DJI to FeiyuTech, you have a wide array of choices to suit your filmmaking needs. By understanding what features to look for and how to properly maintain your equipment, you can elevate your content creation and capture life's moments like never before.