Top 5 Best Budget Smartphone Gimbals of 2021

In a world where content creation has become an integral part of our daily lives, capturing stable and professional-looking video footage is more important than ever. While DSLR and mirrorless cameras dominate the market for high-quality video, smartphone gimbals provide an affordable and effective way to enhance the capabilities of your mobile device. In 2021, numerous smartphone gimbals have flooded the market, making it essential for buyers to know which models offer the best value for their money. In this article, we will explore the top five best budget smartphone gimbals of 2021 to help you make an informed decision.

Why Use a Gimbal?

Before diving into our top picks, let’s discuss why you might want to invest in a smartphone gimbal. Gimbals help eliminate unwanted shakes and jitters while filming, giving your footage a smooth, cinematic feel. They are particularly beneficial for:

• Vloggers: Perfect for creating engaging travel or lifestyle content.
• Social Media Influencers: Enhances the quality of Instagram stories and TikTok videos.
• Event Filmmakers: Useful for capturing weddings, parties, and other special occasions.

The better the gimbal, the more professional your videos will appear, allowing you to stand out in a competitive digital landscape.

1. DJI OM 4

The DJI OM 4 stands out as a top budget-friendly gimbal, combining impressive stabilization technology with portability and ease of use. Weighing just 390 grams, it's lightweight enough to carry around all day. This gimbal features:

• Magnetic Phone Clamp: Easily attach and detach with a simple mechanism.
• ActiveTrack 3.0: Automatically follows and keeps your subject in frame.
• Gesture Control: Allows you to start recording or take photos with simple hand gestures.

If you're looking for something compact yet feature-rich, the DJI OM 4 is an excellent choice for your smartphone videography needs.

2. Zhiyun Smooth 4

The Zhiyun Smooth 4 is an excellent option for those who want enhanced control over their filming. Equipped with a powerful stabilization algorithm, it provides a smooth shooting experience even in dynamic situations. Some of its standout features include:

• Focus Pull and Zoom Capability: Enables precise focus adjustments and zoom capabilities, allowing filmmakers more creative control.
• Control Panel: The integrated control wheel provides easy access to various shooting modes.
• Long Battery Life: With up to 12 hours of battery life, it’s perfect for long shoots.

This gimbal is ideal for content creators seeking advanced functionality without breaking the bank.

3. Moza Mini-S

The Moza Mini-S is not only budget-friendly but also comes packed with features that make it a versatile choice. It is lightweight and folds up to fit into a bag easily. Here’s what sets it apart:

• Inception Mode: Create a 360-degree rotating video effect.
• Time-Lapse Shooting: Capture stunning time-lapse videos effortlessly.
• Multiple Mounting Options: Use a variety of accessories to enhance your shooting experience.

For anyone looking to take their smartphone videography to the next level, the Moza Mini-S is highly recommended.

4. FeiyuTech Vimble 2

Next on the list is the FeiyuTech Vimble 2. This smartphone gimbal also features an extendable design, making it perfect for vlogging and panoramic shots. Here are its remarkable features:

• Extendable Rod: The built-in extension allows for better positioning and versatile shooting angles.
• Smartphone App: Pair it with the app for enhanced creative options and smart filming modes.
• Lightweight Design: At just 500g, it’s easy to carry for hours without fatigue.

The Vimble 2 is ideal for those looking for flexibility and mobility without sacrificing performance.

5. Hohem iSteady X

Lastly, the Hohem iSteady X offers a remarkable mix of performance and affordability. It’s incredibly compact and user-friendly, making it great for beginners. Its key features include:

• One-Tap Smart Modes: Switching between various shooting modes can be done with a single click, making it easy to use.
• Portable Design: Lightweight and foldable, this gimbal fits right into your pocket.
• Long Battery Life: Capable of lasting for 12 hours, it’s ideal for extended filming sessions.

For budget-conscious content creators who value simplicity and functionality, the Hohem iSteady X is worth considering.

The Future of Smartphone Gimbals

As we delve into an ever-evolving technological landscape, smartphone gimbals continue to improve. Features such as automatic alignment, enhanced battery life, and app integrations are becoming more common. As smartphone cameras advance, so too will the capabilities of gimbals, allowing creators to produce high-quality content that can rival traditional cameras.

Investing in a budget smartphone gimbal in 2021 opens up new creative possibilities for both novice and seasoned filmmakers. Whether you’re capturing a family event or producing professional vlogs, these tools enable you to shoot steady, high-quality videos that resonate with viewers. Choosing the right gimbal is crucial, as it enhances your shooting experience and ultimately elevates the quality of your content.

Final Thoughts

With a myriad of options available, finding the perfect budget smartphone gimbal does not have to be a daunting task. Consider the features that matter most to your filming style, and choose a gimbal that fits your needs and budget. Each of the gimbals highlighted in this article offers unique features designed to elevate your content creation experience. Happy filming!