Top 5 Smartphone Gimbal Stabilizers of 2017: Capture Smooth Videos Like a Pro

As smartphones continue to improve in terms of camera technology, so does the need for stabilizers that can help you capture cinematic-quality videos. Whether you’re filming Instagram stories, YouTube vlogs, or family moments, a smartphone gimbal stabilizer is an essential tool for achieving smooth, jitter-free footage. In this article, we’ll explore the top five smartphone gimbal stabilizers of 2017, ideal for both amateurs and professional videographers.

1. DJI Osmo Mobile 2

The DJI Osmo Mobile 2 is often hailed as one of the best smartphone gimbals available on the market. With its lightweight and portable design, this gimbal boasts a battery life of up to 15 hours, allowing for extended shooting sessions. Users appreciate its simple one-button control, and the smoothness it provides while tilting or panning. Additionally, it features a 'time-lapse' mode, offering filmmakers the opportunity to create stunning shots with ease.

What sets the Osmo Mobile 2 apart is its compatibility with the DJI GO app, which offers advanced features like object tracking, which keeps your subject in focus even when moving. The quality of videos captured with this gimbal is unmatched, making it a fantastic choice for anyone serious about mobile videography.

2. Zhiyun Smooth 4

The Zhiyun Smooth 4 is another strong contender for the best smartphone gimbal stabilizer of 2017. Offering an extensive array of features tailored for filmmakers, its focus pull and zoom capabilities allow for enhanced creative control. The gimbal also includes a massive battery life of up to 12 hours, perfect for prolonged usage.

The design of the Zhiyun Smooth 4 is intuitive, featuring a control panel that makes it easy to adjust settings without having to fiddle around with your smartphone. Ideal for both amateur and pro videographers, it supports a variety of filming modes, including panorama, time-lapse, and Vortex mode. The Smooth 4 is particularly lauded for its performance during action shots, ensuring smooth transitions and stable footage.

3. FeiyuTech G6

The FeiyuTech G6 marries elegance with functionality. Designed with a waterproof exterior, it’s suitable for outdoor use, including shooting in challenging weather conditions. This gimbal is equipped with a high-precision algorithm that ensures exceptional stabilization while recording, making it a reliable choice for action filmmakers.

With a battery life of up to 12 hours and the ability to rotate 360 degrees on all axes, the G6 is designed for versatility. Its compatibility with a variety of smartphone sizes and weights allows for greater flexibility in your filming endeavors. Plus, the built-in Wi-Fi and Bluetooth enable direct control of your smartphone’s camera, enhancing your shooting experience.

4. Moza Mini-S

If you're searching for a budget-friendly option without sacrificing quality, the Moza Mini-S is an excellent pick. Weighing in at just 1.1 pounds, the Mini-S is incredibly lightweight, making it ideal for travel and outdoor use. Despite its low cost, this gimbal doesn't skimp on performance, providing impressive stabilization for its size.

This gimbal features a range of useful shooting modes, including inception mode, which allows for creative 360-degree shots. Its battery provides a runtime of up to 12 hours, ensuring you have plenty of time to capture all the moments you need. Although it may not have all the bells and whistles of higher-end models, the Moza Mini-S gives you great value for the price.

5. Snoppa Atom

Finally, let's explore the Snoppa Atom, a compact and stylish gimbal that packs a punch. This smartphone gimbal boasts impressive active tracking capabilities, making it perfect for vloggers on the move. The Atom’s unique design allows for quick set-up and can easily fit into most bags or even your pocket.

With features like one-button control, 360-degree rotation, and customizable settings, the Snoppa Atom makes filming intuitive and straightforward. Its battery lasts about 8 hours, which may be shorter than others on this list, but the overall performance and user-friendliness make it a popular choice among content creators looking for portability and ease of use.

Choosing the Right Gimbal for You

When it comes to selecting the right gimbal, consider your specific needs as a filmmaker. Are you shooting casual vlogs, professional videos, or action scenes? Understanding the type of content you’ll be creating can significantly impact your choice. All five gimbals mentioned above are excellent options, each with their own unique advantages.

Additionally, think about your budget. While some options are more expensive than others, they often come with enhanced features that justify the price tag. However, if you are on a budget, great performance can still be achieved with cheaper variants like the Moza Mini-S.

Final Thoughts on Smartphone Gimbal Stabilizers

Investing in a smartphone gimbal stabilizer can completely transform your filmmaking experience. By allowing you to capture smoother and more professional-looking videos, these devices open up a world of creative possibilities. As 2017 has seen significant advancements in gimbal technology, it’s an exciting time for anyone interested in videography. Remember to evaluate your options thoroughly and choose a gimbal that aligns with your filming style, so you can start creating captivating content today.