The Ultimate Guide to Smartphone Gimbals: Best Picks for 2020

Smartphone photography has seen a meteoric rise, and with it, the desire for smooth, cinematic video footage has become an aspiration for many videographers and content creators. Enter the smartphone gimbal — an essential tool for steady shots and professional-looking video. In 2020, several models have emerged that offer impressive features, making it difficult for consumers to narrow down their choices. This article explores the landscape of smartphone gimbals in 2020, providing a comprehensive look at the best options available and offering tips to get the most out of your gimbal experience.

What is a Smartphone Gimbal?

A gimbal is a pivoted support that allows for the rotation of an object about a single axis. For smartphones, a gimbal stabilizer employs advanced technology — including motors and sensors — to counteract unwanted movements, resulting in incredibly smooth video footage. Gimbals are particularly helpful for action shots, as they can compensate for hand movements, making them ideal for vloggers, filmmakers, and social media enthusiasts who want to up their game.

Why Use a Gimbal?

• Stability: Gimbals are designed to eliminate shake, tilt, and other unwanted movements that can occur when shooting handheld. This allows for smoother transitions and professional-looking videos.
• Versatile Features: Many gimbals come with additional features like tracking modes, time-lapse settings, and various shooting modes that enhance your creative capabilities.
• User-Friendly: Modern designs make gimbals easier to use, even for those with limited experience in videography.

Top Smartphone Gimbals of 2020

Now, let’s dive into the best smartphone gimbals available this year, highlighting their features, advantages, and any downsides.

1. DJI Osmo Mobile 3

The DJI Osmo Mobile 3 has quickly become a favorite among creators for its versatility and compact design. With foldable arms and lightweight construction, it easily fits into a bag or even a large pocket, making it perfect for on-the-go shooting.

• Features: The Osmo Mobile 3 includes a range of shooting modes, including ActiveTrack, which follows subjects seamlessly, and Gesture Control for hands-free shooting.
• Price: Priced around $119, it offers excellent value for its feature set.
• Battery Life: With up to 15 hours of battery life, you are covered for a full day of shooting.

2. Zhiyun Smooth 4

The Zhiyun Smooth 4 stands out with its advanced control panel and dedicated buttons that make adjusting settings easier than ever. This model is particularly popular among serious videographers.

• Features: Includes a dummy battery function, phoneGo mode for instant transitions, and an array of shooting modes, including timelapse and hyper-lapse.
• Price: Approximately $99, making it an excellent option for budget-conscious buyers.
• Battery Life: Lasts up to 12 hours on a single charge, providing ample shooting time.

3. Moza Mini-S

The Moza Mini-S is another consumer favorite, known for its lightweight design and comprehensive features. It’s perfect for those who want to create high-quality videos without breaking the bank.

• Features: Offers 9 different modes, such as Inception Mode for unique effects, and has the option to control the camera directly through the gimbal.
• Price: At a budget-friendly price of around $79, it is an ideal entry-level option.
• Battery Life: Provides roughly 10 hours of operation, making it reliable for longer shoots.

How to Maximize Your Gimbal Experience

Investing in a smartphone gimbal is just the first step; here are some tips to help you get the most out of your gimbal experience:

Practice Makes Perfect

Familiarize yourself with the different modes and settings on your gimbal. The more you practice, the better your shots will become. Understanding how to balance your phone properly will also help prevent any issues while filming.

Engage Your Audience

Utilize the tracking features of your gimbal to keep your subject in focus while moving. This is particularly useful for vlogs or dynamic shoots, where a stable shot can enhance engagement.

Experiment with Angles

The gimbal allows you to try various shooting angles. Don't hesitate to get creative and explore drone-like shots or low angles that can add a professional touch to your videos.

Stabilize Your Footage in Post-Production

While gimbals provide excellent stabilization, consider using editing software to further enhance your footage. Software like Adobe Premiere Pro or Final Cut Pro offers stabilization tools that can help achieve a flawless final product.

Gimbal Maintenance

Taking care of your gimbal will prolong its lifespan and ensure optimal performance. Here are a few maintenance tips:

• Keep it clean — wipe down the gimbal after each use to remove any dirt or residues.
• Store it properly — avoid leaving it in direct sunlight or humid environments.
• Regularly update firmware — manufacturers often release updates that enhance performance or fix bugs.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a gimbal with a heavier phone?

Most gimbals have a weight capacity. Ensure that your smartphone does not exceed this limit, or you could damage the gimbal.

Is it worth investing in a gimbal for casual use?

If you enjoy taking videos or want to document special moments, a gimbal can significantly enhance the quality of your footage. It's attainable and worth the investment for a better viewing experience.

How do I balance my phone on a gimbal?

Every gimbal will have a specific balancing method. Generally, ensure your phone is centered and adjust the arms accordingly until the gimbal holds your phone without tilting or falling.

The Future of Smartphone Gimbals

The smartphone gimbal market will continue to evolve with advancements in technology. Expect features such as improved battery life, enhanced tracking capabilities, and even integration with artificial intelligence for smarter shooting options. As creators demand more from their tools, manufacturers are sure to keep innovating, providing even better options for smartphone videography.

In summary, with the right smartphone gimbal by your side, you can elevate your videography to new heights in 2020. Whether you're vlogging, making professional content, or simply capturing moments with friends and family, the right gimbal will help you achieve stunning, stable, and cinematic results.