Top Compact Smartphone Gimbals of 2018: Your Ultimate Guide

In an era where smartphones are dominant in photography and videography, having the right tools to enhance your content is essential. Compact smartphone gimbals have surged in popularity, providing users with stabilization, cinematic quality, and the ability to unleash their creative potential. This guide will explore the top compact smartphone gimbals of 2018, detailing their features, benefits, and how they can elevate your smartphone filmmaking.

What is a Smartphone Gimbal?

A smartphone gimbal is a device that uses motors and sensors to stabilize your smartphone while filming. Imagine trying to capture a video of your friend's wedding; a small shake can make the footage unusable. A gimbal solves this problem by ensuring that even the most handheld shots remain smooth and fluid. This technology primarily benefits vloggers, travelers, and anyone who wants to produce high-quality video content on the go.

Why You Need a Gimbal for Your Smartphone

• Smooth Footage: The primary reason for using a gimbal is to achieve smooth, shake-free footage. Whether you are running or walking, a gimbal compensates for your movements.
• Versatile Shooting Modes: Most gimbals come with multiple modes, including follow mode, lock mode, and inception mode, allowing you to capture different styles and angles effortlessly.
• Improved Audio and Visual Quality: With the right setup, gimbals can help you stabilize your shots while using an external microphone, enhancing both audio and visual quality.
• Portability: Compact smartphone gimbals are lightweight and easy to carry, making them an essential accessory for travelers and content creators.

Top Compact Smartphone Gimbals of 2018

1. Zhiyun Smooth 4

The Zhiyun Smooth 4 is one of the most acclaimed gimbals in 2018. It features a sleek design, an impressive battery life of up to 12 hours, and an array of control options. With its dedicated phone app, you can access advanced features such as tracking and time-lapse.

• Battery Life: Up to 12 hours
• Weight: 450g
• Smartphone Compatibility: 58-88mm width, up to 210g weight

2. DJI Osmo Mobile 2

DJI is synonymous with drone technology, and their Osmo Mobile 2 gimbal showcases their commitment to quality. Lightweight and portable, the Osmo Mobile 2 offers a simple interface, making it perfect for beginners. It features an impressive battery life and can even charge your smartphone while you shoot, ensuring you never miss a moment.

• Battery Life: Up to 15 hours
• Weight: 485g
• Smartphone Compatibility: 54-88mm width, up to 280g weight

3. Moza Mini-S

The Moza Mini-S is a compact and lightweight gimbal with a beautiful design that fits into a small bag easily. This gimbal offers a variety of shooting modes, including inception mode and sport mode, ensuring you can push the boundaries of your creativity. Additionally, it has a unique feature that allows you to change the camera angle with one hand.

• Battery Life: Up to 10 hours
• Weight: 400g
• Smartphone Compatibility: 58-88mm width, up to 320g weight

4. FeiyuTech Vlog Pocket

The FeiyuTech Vlog Pocket is particularly favored by vloggers due to its foldable design, making it extremely portable. It's simple to set up and can be controlled via app, with features such as face-tracking, making it an excellent choice for those who film themselves. Plus, the battery can last for up to 8 hours of continuous use.

• Battery Life: Up to 8 hours
• Weight: 245g
• Smartphone Compatibility: Up to 250g weight

Tips for Using a Smartphone Gimbal

Using a smartphone gimbal can transform your filming experience, but to get the most out of it, consider the following tips:

1. Balance Your Smartphone: Before filming, ensure your smartphone is balanced on the gimbal to achieve optimal stabilization.
2. Learn the Modes: Familiarize yourself with the different shooting modes available on your gimbal; knowing when to use each can greatly enhance your shots.
3. Practice Makes Perfect: Take time to practice maneuvering the gimbal and experiment with different angles to discover your unique filming style.
4. Stay Aware of Your Surroundings: While you may be focused on your shot, keeping an eye on your surroundings can help avoid any accidents.

Final Thoughts

Compact smartphone gimbals are revolutionary tools that have changed the way smartphone content creators capture their work. The advancements in technology have made stabilization accessible, allowing users to produce professional-quality video with ease. Whether you're a seasoned filmmaker or just starting, investing in a quality gimbal can enhance your creative process and result in stunning visuals that stand out. With the right knowledge and practice, you can unlock the full potential of your smartphone gimbal and take your videos to the next level in 2018 and beyond.