Top Smartphone Gimbals of 2018: Unleashing Your Mobile Videography Potential

In the age of smartphones, capturing high-quality video content has become more accessible than ever. However, achieving smooth, professional-looking footage can be a challenge. This is where gimbals come into play. In 2018, various smartphone gimbals emerged, offering impressive stabilization capabilities to enhance the production quality of your videos. This review will guide you through the best smartphone gimbals of 2018, evaluating their features, usability, and overall performance.

Why Use a Gimbal?

Gimbals are designed to eliminate shaky footage, allowing for seamless movement while filming. Whether you're a budding filmmaker, a vlogger, or just want to capture family moments beautifully, a gimbal can help add a professional touch to your videos. Gimbals work by using motors and sensors that counteract unwanted movement, ensuring smooth operation. With the right gimbal, you can take your smartphone videography to new heights.

Top Gimbals of 2018

1. DJI Osmo Mobile 2

The DJI Osmo Mobile 2 quickly grabbed the attention of smartphone filmmakers in 2018. Equipped with advanced stabilization technology, the Osmo Mobile 2 allows users to shoot steady videos effortlessly. One of its standout features is the price point, which delivers excellent value for money. Weighing just 485 grams, it's lightweight and portable, making it easy to carry for long shoots.

The battery life is another noteworthy aspect, offering up to 15 hours of usage on a single charge. The gimbal also boasts an intuitive design with a simple one-handed operation and a companion app that provides various shooting modes, including time-lapse and motion lapse.

2. Zhiyun Smooth 4

The Zhiyun Smooth 4 represents the pinnacle of gimbal technology for smartphone videography in 2018. With numerous features to explore, including a focus pull and zoom capability, it provides a versatile filming experience. The Smooth 4's battery lasts up to 12 hours, supporting long shooting sessions without interruption.

This gimbal has a unique control panel that allows you to switch shooting modes and adjust settings without needing to touch your phone. Its advanced stabilization algorithms ensure that every shot remains smooth, even during dynamic movements. Plus, with its solid build quality, it’s designed to withstand the rigors of outdoor filming – a necessity for the adventurous filmmaker.

3. FeiyuTech Vimble 2

The FeiyuTech Vimble 2 stands out because of its extendable design, allowing the user to achieve unique angles that other gimbals may not support. This gimbal combines adaptability with performance, ensuring that you can create diverse and impressive shots. Additionally, it features intelligent tracking capabilities that allow the gimbal to follow your movements seamlessly.

With a battery life of up to 8 hours, the Vimble 2 is reliable for short filmmaking sessions. It operates with a simple app that includes various modes, making it user-friendly for novices and seasoned videographers alike. If versatility and unique shot composition is what you’re after, Vimble 2 should be on your radar.

Key Considerations When Choosing a Smartphone Gimbal

When shopping for the right smartphone gimbal, several factors can influence your choice, including:

• Stabilization Technology: Look for gimbals that offer advanced stabilization technologies to ensure the smoothest video footage.
• Weight and Portability: If you plan to carry your gimbal on long shoots, selecting a lightweight option is crucial.
• Battery Life: A gimbal with long battery life will keep you filming longer, which is essential for on-location shoots.
• User Interface: Easy-to-use controls will make your filming experience much smoother, especially for beginners.
• Compatibility: Ensure the gimbal you choose is compatible with your smartphone model. Some gimbals are designed to accommodate a wide range of devices, while others might be more restrictive.

Tips for Using Your Gimbal Effectively

To maximize the potential of your gimbal, consider the following tips:

1. Balance Your Smartphone: Properly balancing your smartphone on the gimbal will prevent unnecessary strain on the motors, reducing wear and tear.
2. Practice Different Shooting Modes: Spend time exploring various shooting modes available on your gimbal to understand how each can enhance your storytelling.
3. Utilize the Gimbal's App: Most gimbals come with a dedicated app; these apps often provide additional features, shooting modes, and access to valuable tutorials.
4. Experiment with Techniques: Don’t be afraid to try different panning, tilting, and tracking techniques. Get creative with your shots!
5. Keep the Gimbal Stable: While the gimbal offers stabilization, avoid sudden jerks or rapid movements for the best results.

The Future of Smartphone Gimbals

As technology continues to evolve, we can anticipate even more advanced gimbals equipped with better stabilization systems, intuitive controls, and smart technology integration. As smartphone cameras improve, the demand for quality stabilization equipment will grow. This booming market will continue to cater to both amateur and professional filmmakers alike.

2018 was a pivotal year for smartphone gimbals, paving the way for future advancements in this technology. Choosing the right gimbal can transform your mobile filming experience, allowing you to focus on your creativity instead of worrying about shaky videos.

With options like the DJI Osmo Mobile 2, Zhiyun Smooth 4, and FeiyuTech Vimble 2, you’re bound to find a gimbal that fits your specific needs and budget. Start filming today and unlock the full potential of your smartphone video capabilities!