The Best Smartphone Gimbals of August 2018: A Comprehensive Buyer’s Guide

In the era of smartphone photography and videography, capturing that perfect shot has never been easier—thanks to smartphone gimbals. These devices enhance your ability to create smooth, professional-looking videos without the need for bulky camera equipment. Whether you're a seasoned videographer or a casual user, finding the right gimbal can significantly impact your filming experience. In this article, we'll explore the best smartphone gimbals available in August 2018 and what features to consider when making your purchase.

What is a Smartphone Gimbal?

A smartphone gimbal is a handheld device designed to stabilize your phone while capturing videos or photographs. Unlike a tripod, gimbals allow for multi-directional movement and adjust to provide smooth footage as you move. They often feature advanced stabilization technology—such as brushless motors and gyroscopes—to reduce shaky images caused by movement.

Key Features to Look for in a Smartphone Gimbal

• Stabilization Technology: Look for 3-axis gimbals as they provide the most stabilization by compensating for pitch, roll, and yaw movements.
• Battery Life: A longer-lasting battery is essential for extended shooting sessions. Opt for gimbals with a battery life of around 8-12 hours.
• Weight and Portability: If you're on the go, consider a lightweight gimbal that is easy to carry around.
• Compatibility: Ensure that your chosen gimbal is compatible with your smartphone model. Some gimbals offer adjustable clamps, while others have weight limitations.
• Additional Features: Look for features such as smartphone app compatibility, remote controls, and follow modes (which allow the gimbal to track moving subjects).

Top Smartphone Gimbals of August 2018

1. Zhiyun Smooth 4

The Zhiyun Smooth 4 is a favorite among smartphone filmmakers for its incredible stabilization capabilities. With its powerful motors and innovative software, this gimbal minimizes vibrations while adding various shooting modes. The built-in OLED display allows for real-time monitoring, making it easier to adjust settings without shutting down the device. The Smooth 4 also features a substantial battery life of up to 12 hours, ensuring you can shoot all day without interruption.

2. DJI Osmo Mobile 2

The DJI Osmo Mobile 2 is another top contender, well-regarded for its sleek design and functionality. This gimbal offers a range of shooting modes, including time-lapse and hyper-lapse features, to elevate your mobile filmmaking. It also boasts a battery life of up to 15 hours, enabling long shoots without needing to recharge. The Osmo Mobile 2’s ergonomics and active tracking make it easy to capture subjects in motion.

3. Moza Mini-MI

If you're looking for a budget-friendly option that doesn't skimp on features, consider the Moza Mini-MI. This gimbal provides excellent stabilization and has a wireless charging feature for your smartphone, which can be a game-changer during long shoots. The Mini-MI has a lightweight design, making it incredibly portable without sacrificing stability.

4. FeiyuTech Vlog Pocket

The FeiyuTech Vlog Pocket is perfect for vloggers and social media enthusiasts. Its compact design makes it extremely portable, and it folds down to fit into your pocket. The Vlog Pocket supports a variety of shooting modes, including selfie mode and object tracking. With a battery life of about 8 hours, it's suitable for short shooting sessions and everyday use.

5. Snoppa Atom

For those seeking versatility, the Snoppa Atom might be the ideal choice. This ultra-compact gimbal supports a wide range of smartphone sizes and offers a host of smart features. With its unique design, the Atom allows for 360-degree rotation on all axes, making it perfect for creative shots. Its sleek design and simple controls make it user-friendly for beginners and pros alike.

Common Questions About Smartphone Gimbals

1. Are smartphone gimbals worth it?

Absolutely! If you enjoy filmmaking or photographing with your smartphone, a gimbal can provide stable footage, improve your video's quality, and make your content more appealing to viewers. A gimbal elevates the production value of even casual videos.

2. Can I use a gimbal for live streaming?

Yes! Many smartphone gimbals are designed with live streaming in mind, offering stabilizations for your live content. Their ergonomic designs and tracking features enhance your ability to create interactive and engaging live streams.

3. Do I need to balance my smartphone on a gimbal?

Most modern smartphone gimbals have self-balancing capabilities, but some may require initial balancing for optimal performance. Refer to the manufacturer’s instruction manual for specific balancing techniques.

Tips for Using Your Smartphone Gimbal

1. Always charge your gimbal before use to ensure reliability during filming.
2. Practice balancing your smartphone on the gimbal to achieve optimal stabilization.
3. Familiarize yourself with the gimbal's different shooting modes to take full advantage of its features.
4. Utilize smartphone apps that offer enhanced filming features compatible with your gimbal.
5. Keep your gimbal clean and free of debris to maintain its performance.

As smartphone technology continues to evolve, the availability of gimbals will only improve. Investing in one of the best smartphone gimbals from August 2018 can greatly enhance your mobile filming experience, providing opportunities to create captivating and professional-quality content.