Top 7 Best Smartphone Gimbals of 2020 for Stunning Stabilization

In an age where content creation has become a vital part of our daily lives, the importance of high-quality video has skyrocketed. Whether you're a budding vlogger, a social media influencer, or simply a smartphone enthusiast, the way we capture and share our experiences has evolved. Central to this transition is the smartphone gimbal — a device designed to eradicate shaky footage and provide smooth, cinematic video quality. In this article, we'll explore the top seven smartphone gimbals of 2020, highlighting their features, pros and cons, and what makes them stand out in a saturated market.

1. DJI Osmo Mobile 3

The DJI Osmo Mobile 3 is arguably one of the most popular smartphone gimbals on the market. This foldable gimbal has been designed for portability without sacrificing usability. Its quick-release feature allows for an easy transition from handheld to mounted shooting.

• Features: ActiveTrack 3.0 for precise tracking, gesture control, and an array of shooting modes.
• Pros: Lightweight, easy to use, excellent battery life!
• Cons: Some users may find the app interface a bit clunky.

The Osmo Mobile 3 empowers users to create high-quality vlogs and social media content efficiently, making it the go-to choice for many creators in 2020.

2. Zhiyun Smooth 4

If you’re looking for advanced features packed into a sleek design, the Zhiyun Smooth 4 is a formidable contender. With its full control panel, this gimbal allows creators to make real-time adjustments without taking their hands off the handle.

• Features: Focus pull and zoom capability, various shooting modes including time-lapse and object tracking.
• Pros: Great battery life, robust build quality, and an intuitive app interface.
• Cons: May feel slightly heavy for prolonged use.

The Zhiyun Smooth 4 is perfect for professional videographers seeking precision and creativity in their work.

3. FeiyuTech VLOG Pocket

For those who value compactness, the FeiyuTech VLOG Pocket is an excellent choice. This palm-sized gimbal features a unique folding design that allows for easy portability — it can literally fit into your pocket!

• Features: Smart follow mode, object tracking, and customizable settings through its app.
• Pros: Ultra-portable, affordable price point.
• Cons: Limited payload capacity, not ideal for heavier devices.

The VLOG Pocket will delight on-the-go creators who wish to capture fluid shots without the bulk of traditional gimbals.

4. Moza Mini-S

Stepping up the game in portability and functionality is the Moza Mini-S, featuring a dual-handheld design for enhanced stabilization. Its rich features can cater to both amateurs and seasoned professionals.

• Features: Time-lapse, motion tracking, and a range of preset shooting modes.
• Pros: Impressive stabilization for its size, lightweight.
• Cons: Limited battery life under heavy usage.

The Mini-S is a dynamic solution for users desiring high stabilization without the excessive weight.

5. Snoppa Atom

The Snoppa Atom showcases a unique design with a compact build while retaining the essential gimbal features. Capable of handling smartphones and action cameras, it boasts versatility.

• Features: One-button shortcuts for rapid transitions, built-in video and photo editor.
• Pros: Impressive stabilization with multiple modes, versatile mounting options.
• Cons: Relatively short battery life, a steeper learning curve for the app.

This gimbal is ideal for creators needing flexibility and robust features.

6. Hohem iSteady Mobile Plus

The Hohem iSteady Mobile Plus is known for its affordability without compromising on performance. This gimbal excels in maintaining smooth video even in fast-paced scenarios.

• Features: Smart track modes, time-lapse function, and 3D inception mode.
• Pros: Budget-friendly price, lightweight.
• Cons: Build quality could be better; some features may lag in responsiveness.

The iSteady Mobile Plus serves as an entry point for new content creators looking to explore videography.

7. Zhiyun Smooth Q2

The Zhiyun Smooth Q2 represents advanced technology in a compact form. This gimbal can easily handle a variety of smartphones, providing great stabilization for diverse shooting environments.

• Features: 26-hour battery life, quick charging, and creative shooting modes.
• Pros: Impressive battery duration, robust performance.
• Cons: Smaller grip may be uncomfortable for prolonged use.

This gimbal is an exceptional choice for creators wanting uninterrupted shooting time without sacrificing quality.

Choosing the Right Gimbal

When it comes to selecting the right smartphone gimbal, consider your primary needs. Are you traveling frequently? Then portability is crucial. Recording vlogs for social media? Look for a gimbal with quick-shoot features. Perhaps you're more involved in high-quality filmmaking? In that case, gimbals with advanced stabilization and control options will suit your requirements best.

Remember, investing in a gimbal can transform your smartphone footage from amateur to professional, enabling you to tell stories effectively.

With so many outstanding options on the market, it’s essential to find one that aligns with your style and needs. Each gimbal reviewed here offers unique strengths, and picking the right one will undoubtedly improve your content creation journey. Happy filming!