The mobile industry is growing faster, which has led to the release of advanced devices with great features that turn your phone into a photo shooting studio. But at times, taking those group and solo photos or recording videos can be, at times, challenging without a gimbal. If used perfectly well, a quality gimbal can turn those group and party moments thrilling. Better still, you get to enjoy more advanced features through the gimbal App for a more personalized feel.
However, choosing the best iPhone gimbal for your needs can be, at times, confusing. But after reading this review, you will realize that choosing a quality smartphone holder is not that hard. But before we breakdown this iPhone gimbal mystery for you, let’s have a look at the featured brands.Best Pick
Zhiyun Smooth 4 3-Axis Handheld Gimbal Stabilizer has stood out from the competition and is our best pick. The gimbal features a powerful motor that delivers exceptional performance. Integrated into this gimbal is an easy to use control panel, which gives you full control of your device. The smartphone holder is compatible with different devices and has a 12-hour battery run time with an indicator to prevent any surprises making it one of the best iPhone gimbals in the market today.
Budget Pick
If on a budget, then look no further than this Hohem 3-Axis Gimbal Stabilizer for iPhone. The gimbal is affordable, portable, flexible, and easy to use. With its new, improved design, you get to enjoy advanced features without having to break the bank. Its ability to run for 12hours gives you peace of mind when out for adventure, giving you time to focus on what you do best.
Quick Comparison: Top 10 Best iPhone Gimbal Review
1. Zhiyun Smooth 4 3-Axis Handheld Gimbal Stabilizer
Highlighted Features
Zhiyun is a 3-axis handheld stabilization device for all your Vlogging needs. Its integrated control panel gives you access to focus, pull, and zoom functions. These features enable you to take videos and stabilize them without having to touch your phone camera.
A single press of the Fn button automatically configures the handwheel into a focus puller allowing you to attain high precision focus transitions instantly for smooth footage and stunning shots. The gimbal also supports all advanced shooting techniques, including time-lapse, motion lapse, freestyle time-lapse, hyper-lapse, moving time-lapse, live recording, and slow motion.
Besides delivering smooth footages, Smooth 4 is also great for object tracking, including human faces with high accuracy. Its powerful motor makes the Smooth 4 compatible with different large-sized phones, making it ideal for filmmaking. Better still, it can also be used with other accessories like a camera lens and LED light.
One thing that makes this Smooth 4 stand out is its battery, which can run for 12 hours. To avoid any surprises the tripod has a battery indicator for tracking power levels. You can use a portable power source to charge your stabilizer and charge your phone with the stabilizer via a USB cable.
Included in the package is EACHSHOT screen-friendly cloth for wiping your phone and screen without leaving any marks, scratches, or streaks. The fabric is safe for all lenses and screens, which helps keep your devices in good physical shape. Compared to other smartphone holders of its kind, this Zhiyun has been rated as the best iPhone gimbal for Vlogging.Pros
Cons
2. HoHem 3-Axis Gimbal Stabilizer for iPhone
Highlighted Features
Capture smooth and stunning moments with this newly updated Hohen 3-axis gimbal stabilizer. The gimbal features a newly developed "inception," which is specially designed to spontaneously rotate your phone vertically in 360 degrees when filming turning your phone into a studio.
Its powerful motor delivers exceptional performance for all angles. The 3 –axis variable speed adaption is highly sensitive to hand movement, but the stabilizer transforms these shaky footages to smooth professional videos. This Hohem gimbal helps you turn everyday events into memorable moments with the help of the timelapse feature. Regardless of your walking speed or terrain, this gimbal will capture every moment while delivering smooth footage.
With this gimbal, you get to enjoy four different shooting modes ranging from pan follow, all follow, pan&tilt follow, and all locked for all your filming needs. Though the Hohem gimbal App, you get to enjoy endless possibilities and full control of your filming tools. This ranges from object tracking to 360 degrees Panorama, beauty retouching, panning, and time-lapse mode.
Its inbuilt battery takes only 3.5 hours and lasts for 12 hours. It's cost and high compatibility with different iPhone and Android phone models makes it the best affordable iPhone gimbal. Owning this Hohem gimbal will offer you convenience, and exceptional performance for generations to come.
Pros
Cons
3. DJI Osmo Pocket Handheld 3 Axis Gimbal Stabilizer
Highlighted Features
The DJI Osmo is one of the smallest gimbal stabilizer ever made. Its brushless motor and mechanical stabilization offer you a gimbal control with high precision. The gimbal features a powerful 1 /2.3” sensor, 800 FOV, and f/2.0 aperture for smooth, stunning photos.
With a compact and intelligent design, this Osmo gimbal turns any moment into a cinematic scene. Its ability to shoot smooth 4K/60fps videos at 100mbps allows you to shoot exceptional video quality effortlessly. The DJI Osmo is also known for the amazing photos it delivers. With a pixel size of 1.55µm, you get to enjoy crisp pictures at 12MP.
The handle is designed to offer you a comfy grip with anti-grip and sweatproof properties. With a few taps and swipes, you can adjust your setting and choose your modes via the inbuilt touchscreen and buttons. Through the DJI Osmo App, you can capture exceptional Panoramas with high definition and detail. With this gimbal stabilizer, you get to enjoy convenience and performance at the same time.
Pros
Cons
4. DJI OSMO 3-axis Handheld Gimbal Stabilizer
Highlighted Features
DJI Osmo has designed yet another amazing gimbal stabilizer for your traveling needs. Its sleek, foldable, and compact size enables you to easily fold and pack your device and take it anywhere, anytime. At 405g, this OSMO gimbal allows you to move around and forget that you are carrying anything.
You can also enjoy smooth shooting with your phone when the gimbal folded through the standby mode making your adventure fun. The front and rear camera easily recognize gestures making those solo, group, and party filming a breeze. With a simple gesture, you can record smooth footages and take crisp photos effortlessly.
The powerful blend of gimbal stabilization and electronic image stabilization allows you to Hyperlapse videos. With the help of ActiveTrack 3.0, you can keep track of your subject when filming. The gimbal has a story mode that allows you to make your footage more appealing by adding music, effects, and movements. And when your video calls for a cinematic flair, you can do so through the Dolly Zoom function. Through the Dolly Zoom function, you get to customize your speed with your phone.
Its comfy grip and intelligent design allow you to use the gimbal for an extended time without limitations. Overall this OSMO 3 is a handy and sturdy gimbal designed to offer you exceptional performance for both your photo shooting and video filming.
Pros
Cons
5. Freevision VILTA-M Handheld iOS/Android Stabilizer Gimbal
Highlighted Features
This Feevision Vilta gimbal is designed to offer you seamless operation while delivering exceptional results. The gimbal features the latest Servo control algorithms and advanced motor control algorithm for outstanding gimbal stabilization.
Its ability to withstand high speed with great control delivers crispier images as compared to gimbals of the same class. For increased durability, the Vilta-M series is designed with aeronautical materials that can withstand the test of time. Its handle has a rubberized grip for a comfy experience. Through the 360 degrees pan function, you enjoy the freedom to rotate your phone to your preferred angle for precision positioning and flexibility.
The gimbal supports 3 degrees free movement, which sets it apart from other gimbals with Linear shooting paths. With this gimbal, you get a chance to draw your shooting path through the manual mode giving you a chance to capture smooth time-lapse footage.
That’s not all; the Vilta-M has a smart tracking function that allows you to enjoy fast-tracking and high precision recognition enhancing your experience. Its ability to run for 17 hours without draining enables you to capture memorable moments throughout the day, making it your travel buddy. Better still, you can charge your gimbal while using it, which helps reduce any surprises.
Pros
Cons
6. Andoer Gimbal 3-Axis Handheld Stabilizer
Highlighted Features
Enjoy high compatibility and stable shooting with this Andoer gimbal. The smartphone holder is designed to give you access to four different modes. Depending on your preference, you can choose between full follow modes, half follow mode, locked mode, and full follow mode.
Its powerful motor allows you to pan, roll, and tilt your gimbal from different angles for precision positioning. Located at the bottom of this smartphone holder is a ¼" screw, which is specially designed to hold your stabilizer for increased stability. The gimbal is compatible with most Smartphones, including Samsung, iPhone, Xiaomi, and Huawei.
The ability of the device to support gestures and automatic adjustments enables you to enjoy great flexibility. Its inbuilt battery retains power for long and is rechargeable. Included in the package is a USB cable that can be used as a charger when your batteries drain.
Its simple design enables you to operate it with ease while producing breathtaking moments in a breeze. The menus are strategically placed to allow easy access. Its foldable and lightweight design is a plus, which makes Andoer the best gimbal for iPhone beginners.Pros
Cons
7. Feiyu G6 Plus 3-Axis Portable Handheld Gimbal Stabilizer
Highlighted Features
In case you may be hunting for the best gimbal for both iPhone and Gopro, then look no further than this updated Feiyu series with new features. Though small in size, the gimbal is highly compatible and accommodates all types of cameras with 800g of weight and different Smartphone models.
Its advanced iterative stabilization algorithm with brushless high torque motor and low power delivers fast response with high precision. By connecting to a WIFI, you get to take full control of the field of vision. From zoom capabilities to follow focus mode, white balance, sensitivity adjustments, photographing, and much more.
At the back of this gimbal is a manual roll adjustment button, which allows you to make horizontal screen adjustments to suit your preferred composition. Through the object tracking feature, the camera can identify the object and control the movements with high accuracy. With the roll axis in design, you can compose your pictures without an external monitor through the 35-degree elevation angle.
It's 26650 high energy density battery keeps your smartphone holder running for 12 hours, which is pretty good for use throughout the day. The battery only charges for three hours, which means you don’t have to wait for long.Pros
Cons
8. MOZA Mini-MI 3-Axis Gimbal stabilizer
Highlighted Features
If you are a Youtuber, then this MOZA Mini-MI smartphone holder could be all you need. The device controls each axis independently with 8 follow modes. When capturing your videos, you can decide whether to use all the eight modes or some to achieve the cinematic feel.
Built into the handgrip are ergonomic buttons that are designed to offer you a smooth operation. Better still, you can also use the buttons to change the exposure, shutter speed, ISO, zoom, white, and focus without touching your smartphone screen directly.
Through the Moza App, you can enjoy different features like time-lapse shooting, sensitivity, and customize the shutter for more appealing footages. The gimbal has high compatibility and is one of the world's first smartphone holders with wireless charging.
Besides, the MOZA is also compatible with all phone chargers and power banks, so you do not have to worry about your phone draining power. Taking advantage of this MOZA gimbal will offer you convenience and reliability for all your filming adventure.
Pros
Cons
9. Snoppa Atom Gimbal Stabilizer for Smartphone iPhone
Highlighted Features
Snoppa gimbal provides stable support for your Smartphone and camera without making any adjustments. The device is equipped with a rich set of buttons that are specially designed to offer you full control single-handedly. With its inbuilt Mic you get to enjoy excellent audio quality for your videos, interviews, and live streaming. Its lightweight and compact design allow you to use the gimbal for long hours without draining your energy.
The gimbal boasts of its wired and wireless charging support, which offers you convenience by charging your phone as you shoot. With this gimbal, you can switch your orientation swiftly without any challenge. Though small in size, Snoopa gimbal is powerful enough to hold your devices in place for an extended period without wobbling. Unlike most gimbals that can't run for long hours, this Atom has beaten the competition with 24-hour battery super runtime.
This feature allows you to shoot for an extended time even when you have power outages. Its foldable design makes this gimbal your travel buddy for all your outdoor adventure.
Pros
Cons
10. zhi yun 3-Axis Phone Gimbal Stabilizer
Highlighted Features
This C11 gimbal gives you maximum control through its four operation modes. From full follow mode to locked mode, pan following mode, and POV mode, you can choose your preferred mode and turn every shot into a cinematic moment.
The gimbal uses three axes stabilizing the system, which helps deliver crisp photos and smooth footages without blurs. Its ability to accommodate different Smartphones and Gopro cameras gives you the freedom to enjoy an excellent performance even when you upgrade your device.
The C11 control panel includes a 4-way joystick and zoom slider, which provides smooth operation with easy access to all menus for maximum control. Located at the bottom of the handgrip is a ¼" hole, which is specially designed to accommodate tripod and other accessories for hassle-free shooting.
The C11 allows you to choose between portrait and landscape orientations swiftly. With this smartphone holder, you get to enjoy advanced features, including Panorama, time-lapse, dolly zoom, hyper-lapse, and motion lapse for cinematic filming. Its lightweight and portable design allows you to move around with ease. The gimbal is designed with a standard charging port that is compatible with your phone charger.
Its inbuilt 4000mAh battery charges only for 2.5 hours and lasts you for 12 hours. Its super great runtime keeps your gimbal running all day long. Overall, this gimbal delivers excellent performance and a great pick for Vloggers and storytellers.Pros
Cons
Benefits of using iPhone Gimbal
Flexibility
iPhone gimbals are designed to offer you great versatility by providing you with limitless shooting options. The devices are equipped with great features to enable you to switch between positions and angles swiftly, making your adventure worthwhile.
High compatibility
Do not be fooled by the name to have the perception that iPhone gimbals are only designed to work with iPhones. That’s not the case. The devices are designed to accommodate different devices ranging from Smartphones, iPhones, action cameras, and Gopro. This gives you the freedom to switch your devices should one run out of power.
Reliability
iPhone gimbals are designed to hold your devices in place without wobbling. This gives you the confidence to capture memorable moments without having to worry about your phone or camera falling.
Stabilization
When shooting high-speed videos, your phone may vibrate, leading to blurred footage. But a gimbal stabilizes your footage delivering smooth and cinematic videos.
Three-axis control system
iPhone gimbals feature a 3-axis control system (tilt, roll, and pan), which eliminates blurring and dithering. The control system holds your device secured even in unfavorable terrain while delivering exceptional results.
Portability
Though they may vary in weight and size, iPhone gimbals are designed to allow you to travel with them anywhere in the world. Some models feature a foldable design, which makes it easy to collapse it to a more portable size making packaging easy.
Factors to Consider When Buying an iPhone Gimbal
Software compatibility
iPhone gimbals come with utility software that is dedicated to giving you access to more advanced features for better control and improved quality. However, some Apps may not be compatible with some Android OS versions, making it challenging for you to perform some important tasks.
Battery run time
Nothing can ruin the filming fun like when your batteries drain unexpectedly. Worse still, you do not have any source of power or power bank to recharge. This can be draining. But with a quality battery, you can enjoy limitless photo shooting and filming all day long.
To be on the safe side, always aim at getting a gimbal that can run from 12 hours or more.
Battery indicator
While every gimbal will have its battery run time, this duration may be reduced, especially when some features like Bluetooth and WIFI are enabled. This is why a gimbal with a battery indicator will help you track your power levels and minimize any surprises.
Battery charging time
Most gimbals are designed to charge your phone as it charges at the same time. However, slow charging gimbal will take long to charge and also charge your phone, and will make you wait for long.
Device compatibility
While iPhone gimbals are designed to accommodate different devices, not every Smartphone out there will work with your preferred holder. But one thing you need to put in mind is that there is no single gimbal out there that will work with every device.
To avoid any disappointments, most manufacturers list the type of devices that are compatible with their gimbal. Always pay attention and determine if indeed your gimbal is listed and meets the required thresholds.
Weight
If you plan to use your gimbal for long hours, then you should factor in its weight. Heavy gimbals will strain your hand and drain your energy levels which mean you will end up not accomplishing your daily target or coverage. While there is no recommended weight limit, you should always take time and compare different gimbals and their weight to choose the one that suits you.
Handle design
Whether you plan to use your gimbal for long hours or not, the handle design is one of the factors you cannot put a blind eye on. This dictates your experience with your smartphone holder and the quality of videos and photos you will get.
While it can be challenging to determine the quality of the handle by merely looking at your gimbal, other essential features will help you choose the right model. Slip-resistant grip and easy access to the control menu make the operation of your gimbal a breeze without having to touch your phone screen.
In case you sweat your hands, getting a sweatproof gimbal will offer you smooth operation while preventing any chances of your holder slipping.
Versatility
Some gimbals are designed to offer you great versatility by attaching different accessories for an improved experience. This may include a tripod, extension pole, LED light, and other accessories. The number of attachments you can attach may vary depending on the model you choose and will also be determined by your personal preferences.
Maximum payload
The maximum payload of your gimbal is the amount of weight your smartphone holder is recommended to hold for optimal performance. Loading a phone or camera with more weight than the recommended payload will strain your gimbal and may break it or give you poor results. Worse still, you may encounter challenges when switching between positions forcing you to use more energy, which may damage your gimbal.
As a rule of thumb, it is highly advocated to choose a gimbal with a payload twice the weight of your phone or camera.
Flexibility
The flexibility of your gimbal will vary. Some models will offer you full axis rotation [360 degrees] while others will provide half or quarter axis rotation. Gimbals with 360 degrees rotation capabilities enable you to shoot videos at different angles and switch positions to suit your preferred effect.
Object tracking
Object tracking is one of the most important features you can have access to through your gimbal App. The feature enables you to shoot videos with high precision at times when you don't have anyone near to hold your camera.
Selfie mode
The selfie mode allows you to capture group and solo photos and videos with ease without leaving anyone out. With this mode, you can use the time-lapse mode to film memorable moments.
Gesture control
This feature enables you to capture a photo or shoot videos using gestures. All it takes is a simple gesture, and your rear and front camera will get the job done. This feature enables you to control your device hands-free making the shooting process a breeze.
Inbuilt Mic
Quality audio is crucial when shooting your videos. Gimbals with inbuilt mics enhance your video audios eliminating the need to buy third party mics.
Recommended temperature levels
Some gimbals are designed to work under a specific temperature range. Using them on unfavorable temperatures will give your poor results. Knowing the climatic conditions in your area or where you are visiting will help prevent any performance issues.
Included accessories
Some gimbals come with all the attachments you need to get started, while others will require you to buy some accessories for you to perform certain tasks. Before you jump in and make your purchase, take your time and get to know the type of accessories that will be included and if some accessories will need to be bought.
Cost
As the saying goes, you get what you pay for, and gimbals are not an exception. While it’s advisable to stick to your budget, it is always good to invest in a quality gimbal.
iPhone Gimbal problems and how to resolve them
Gimbal is not turning on
If your gimbal fails to turn on, consider plugging it in a source of power. If the gimbal does not charge or power on after charging it after a few minutes, then the battery could be dead and may need replacement.
In case your battery gets tested and works properly, then the issue could be as a result of bent, corroded, or loose battery connectors. Replacing your battery connectors will help resolve the problem.
Your phone does not connect to WIFI and Bluetooth
This is one of the common issues gimbal users encounter, and your Bluetooth could be undiscoverable. Try powering your phone and updating your gimbal App and if this does not resolve the problem, consider replacing the Bluetooth module.
For WIFI connection, make sure your phone is connected to the internet, and the WIFI icon is turned on. If this doesn’t resolve the issue, consider resetting your router.
Gimbal does not hold your phone
If your phone mount is unable to hold your phone securely in place, it could be due to a faulty tightening mechanism. Inspect the tightening knob to check if there is any obstruction. If there is an obstruction, try to remove it to allow for smooth operation.
If there is no obstruction and the knob is stuck, consider replacing the locking knob.
Control Panel Buttons are Unresponsive
When your gimbal button gets broken or struck, it may cause that particular it to be unresponsive. Replacing it will help resolve the problem.