A gimbal stabilizer uses motors to counteract hand shake, producing smooth cinematic footage from your smartphone. Whether you are a content creator, vlogger, or travel videographer, a gimbal dramatically improves your video quality. Modern gimbals also add intelligent tracking, time-lapse modes, and creative shooting features.
We recorded walking, running, and transition shots with each gimbal using the latest iPhone and Samsung Galaxy phones. We evaluated stabilization smoothness, tracking accuracy, app features, battery life, portability, and ease of use. Each gimbal was tested in both 1080p and 4K recording modes.
Modern phones have excellent built-in stabilization (OIS and EIS), which raises the question: do you still need a gimbal? For casual recording, phone stabilization is often good enough. But gimbals provide noticeably smoother results during walking shots, following subjects, and complex camera movements that phone stabilization alone cannot handle.
Phone gimbals stabilize three axes of rotation: pan (left-right), tilt (up-down), and roll (rotational). This eliminates virtually all hand shake. The quality of the motors and algorithms determines how smooth and natural the stabilization feels. DJI and Zhiyun consistently deliver the smoothest motors in our testing.
Best overall — smart tracking and cinematic stabilization
Best for creators — versatile with fill light accessory
Best value — AI tracking with built-in light
Best budget DJI — previous gen at a great price
Best portable — folds to selfie stick size
Best ultra-budget — decent stabilization for beginners
| Product | Price | Rating | Action |
|---|---|---|---|
| DJI OM 7 | $159 | 5/5 | Buy |
| Zhiyun Smooth 5S | $139 | 5/5 | Buy |
| Hohem iSteady V3 | $99 | 4/5 | Buy |
| DJI OM 6 | $119 | 4/5 | Buy |
| Insta360 Flow 2 Pro | $149 | 4/5 | Buy |
| FeiyuTech Vimble 4 | $79 | 4/5 | Buy |