Ever tried shooting a video with your phone or GoPro, only to end up with shaky, dizzying footage? We’ve all been there! That’s where a good gimbal comes in. These clever devices act like a steady hand, keeping your camera perfectly level and smooth, no matter how much you move. Whether you’re vlogging your travels, capturing family moments, or getting action-packed shots with your GoPro, finding the best gimbal for phone and GoPro can truly elevate your content.
In this guide, we’ll dive into the top 10 gimbals and stabilizers available today, helping you pick the perfect one to turn your wobbly shots into buttery-smooth, professional-looking videos. Let’s explore your options and find the best gimbal for phone and GoPro that fits your filming style!
Our Top Picks for Phone and GoPro Gimbals
DJI Osmo Mobile SE, 3-Axis Phone Gimbal
The DJI Osmo Mobile SE is a fantastic entry point into the world of professional mobile videography. What truly sets it apart is its magnetic, quick-release design, making it super easy to snap your phone in and out to capture those spontaneous moments. Coupled with DJI’s renowned ActiveTrack 6.0, this gimbal ensures your subject stays perfectly in focus, even if they’re moving around a lot. It’s built for convenience and smooth, reliable performance.
Key Features:
– Portable, Foldable, and Magnetically Quick
– Stay on Point with ActiveTrack 6.0
– Remote Control With Apple Watch Integration
– Effortless Editing with DJI Mimo’s ShotGuides and LightCut
– Smooth 3-Axis Stabilization with next-gen control algorithm
– Seamless Landscape and Portrait Mode Switching
– New Status Panel for quick checks on battery and mode
– Stain-resistant with ergonomic grip for secure handling
– Compatible with most iPhone, Samsung Galaxy, and Huawei series (check compatibility list)
Pros:
– Super quick setup with magnetic clamp
– Advanced tracking (ActiveTrack 6.0) is highly effective
– Apple Watch remote control is a unique convenience
– Excellent stabilization for silky smooth footage
– User-friendly app with editing assistance
– Compact and easy to carry
Cons:
– Primarily designed for phones, not GoPros
– DJI Mimo app download might require official website for Android users
– No built-in extension rod
User Impressions:
Users frequently praise the Osmo Mobile SE for its ease of use and the effectiveness of its magnetic clamp. Many find the ActiveTrack feature revolutionary for vlogging and capturing dynamic scenes. The overall build quality and smooth stabilization also receive high marks, making it a favorite for beginners and casual creators.
hohem iSteady X3 SE Gimbal Stabilizer for iPhone
The hohem iSteady X3 SE stands out as a powerful yet incredibly user-friendly option, especially for those new to gimbals. Its standout feature is the detachable magnetic remote controller, giving you incredible flexibility to capture shots from a distance. Plus, with its advanced iSteady 8.0 technology, you’re guaranteed ultra-smooth footage, even during active shoots.
Key Features:
– Detachable Magnetic Remote Controller (up to 32.81 feet range)
– Advanced iSteady 8.0 3-Axis Stabilization
– Portable and Foldable Design (weighs only 0.79 lbs)
– Hohem Joy App with AI tracking, gesture control, and creative templates
– 11-Hour Long Battery Life on a 2-hour charge
– Beginner-Friendly and Budget-Friendly
– High Payload Capacity (0.66 lbs) for larger smartphones
– Quick Horizontal and Vertical Screen Switching
Pros:
– Remote control adds great versatility for solo creators
– Excellent stabilization for active use
– Extremely portable and lightweight
– Long battery life is ideal for extended shoots
– App offers creative features and easy control
– Great value for its features
Cons:
– Primarily designed for phones, not GoPros
– May not feel as robust as some heavier gimbals
– Some advanced users might crave more manual controls on the gimbal itself
User Impressions:
Customers love the iSteady X3 SE for its simplicity and the freedom provided by the remote control. The long battery life is a consistent highlight for vloggers, and many appreciate how easy it is to achieve professional-looking video without a steep learning curve.
DJI Osmo Mobile 7P Gimbal Stabilizer for iPhone, Android
The DJI Osmo Mobile 7P takes phone stabilization to the next level, offering an all-in-one solution for serious content creators. Its unique Multifunctional Module is a game-changer, integrating intelligent tracking, DJI Mic 2/Mini reception, and lighting features directly onto the gimbal. This means less extra gear to carry and more seamless production. It also boasts a built-in extension rod for dynamic angles and selfies.
Key Features:
– Multifunctional Module with intelligent tracking, DJI Mic 2/Mini reception, and lighting
– Robust 3-Axis Gimbal Stabilization for lossless stability
– ShotGuides and One-Tap Edit with DJI Mimo app
– Quick Power-on upon unfolding, magnetic phone clamp, auto-app launch
– Built-in Extension Rod and Tripod
– Max operating time of 10 hours (gimbal can power phone when Module acts as mic receiver)
– Dual-Lens Enhanced Tracking for smarter, steadier tracking
– Includes gimbal, Multifunctional Module, Magnetic Phone Clamp
Pros:
– Integrated mic receiver and lighting in the module is highly convenient
– Superb 3-axis stabilization
– Built-in extension rod and tripod are incredibly useful
– Fast and intuitive setup and operation
– Enhanced tracking with dual-lens support
– Long battery life for extended shoots
Cons:
– Higher price point due to advanced features
– Primarily for phones, not GoPros
– DJI Mimo app download might require official website for Android users
User Impressions:
Reviewers rave about the Osmo Mobile 7P’s integrated features, especially the Multifunctional Module which simplifies their setup. The stability and ease of use, typical of DJI products, are consistently praised. Many creators find it a complete package for professional mobile filmmaking.
DJI Osmo Mobile 6 Gimbal Stabilizer for Smartphones
The DJI Osmo Mobile 6 is a fantastic, feature-rich phone gimbal that truly simplifies mobile videography. Building on DJI’s legacy, it offers silky-smooth 3-axis stabilization and the advanced ActiveTrack 6.0 to keep your subjects perfectly framed. What makes it particularly appealing is its lightweight, compact, and extendable design, complete with a built-in extension rod for those wide shots and perfect selfies.
Key Features:
– ActiveTrack 6.0 for superior subject tracking
– Remote Control With Apple Watch Integration
– Silky Smooth Shots with 3-Axis Stabilization
– Quick Power-on upon unfolding and automatic phone attachment
– Lightweight, Compact, and Extendable (built-in extension rod)
– ShotGuides for professional-looking films with ease
– Side Wheel for precise focus and zoom control
– Stain-resistant, ergonomic grip
– Compatible with most iPhone, Samsung Galaxy, and Huawei series (check compatibility list)
– New Parents and Kids Mode for autonomous shooting
Pros:
– Exceptional 3-axis stabilization for buttery-smooth footage
– Built-in extension rod adds versatility
– ActiveTrack 6.0 is incredibly reliable
– Side wheel for cinematic control over focus and zoom
– Quick setup and intuitive use
– Compact and highly portable
Cons:
– Primarily designed for phones, not GoPros
– DJI Mimo app download might require official website for Android users
– Can be a bit pricey compared to basic models
User Impressions:
Users frequently highlight the Osmo Mobile 6’s excellent stabilization and the convenience of the built-in extension rod. The ActiveTrack and side wheel controls are often singled out as features that truly enhance the filming experience, making it a favorite for vloggers and anyone looking for professional mobile video.
AOCHUAN Gimbal Stabilizer for Smartphone, iPhone Gimbal (Smart XE)
The AOCHUAN Smart XE gimbal is a highly versatile and intelligent choice for smartphone users looking to step up their video game. It boasts wide compatibility across iPhone and Android devices and features an advanced Smart 8.0 Anti-Shake technology for remarkably stable footage. What really stands out is its Smart Tracking 6.0 system, offering multiple tracking modes (face, body, object, and even third-party live tracking) combined with intuitive gesture control.
Key Features:
– Wide Compatibility (iPhone and Android phones under 7 inches, 0.62 lbs weight)
– Smart 8.0 Anti-Shake technology for professional stability
– Smart Tracking 6.0 (Face, Body, Object, and Third-Party Live Tracking)
– Gesture Control for effortless shooting
– Professional Focus Wheel and Zoom Slider
– Fast Charging and Long Battery Life (2600mAh, 10+ hours on 3.5-hour charge)
– Portable and Foldable Design (0.77 lbs weight)
– Supports various creative modes via AOCHUAN APP (Hitchcock, Inception, slow motion, time-lapse, panorama)
– Quick portrait and landscape switching
Pros:
– Robust anti-shake performance
– Versatile tracking modes and gesture control
– Excellent battery life for extended shoots
– Portable and easy to carry
– Offers professional focus/zoom control
– Wide phone compatibility
Cons:
– Primarily designed for phones, not GoPros
– Best performance requires the dedicated AOCHUAN app
– May need to remove phone case for optimal fit
User Impressions:
Customers appreciate the AOCHUAN Smart XE for its comprehensive tracking features and the long battery life, making it suitable for all-day shooting. The ease of switching modes and the intuitive controls also receive positive feedback, particularly for new gimbal users seeking professional results.
2in1 Ergonomic Portable Action Camera+Smartphone SYN Hand Grip
Unlike the motorized gimbals listed above, the SYN Hand Grip offers a different kind of stabilization, focusing on ergonomic handling and reducing hand vibration. This isn’t a powered gimbal, but rather a robust, high-strength ABS grip designed to make your phone or action camera footage smoother by providing a steady, comfortable hold. It’s an excellent choice for those seeking a lightweight, no-battery solution for improving their handheld shots and expanding mounting options.
Key Features:
– Made of high-strength ABS material for durability
– Ergonomic design to reduce hand vibration and improve footage
– Super phone clip holder with 360-degree rotation (portrait/landscape)
– Non-slip rubber padding (50-100mm phone width support) with fasten lock knob
– Allows smartphone to act as a monitor/remote via APP for action cameras
– Built-in shoe mounting slot for video lights or microphones
– Detachable and Versatile Hand Grip
– Compatible with all GoPro and GoPro-Like Action Cameras (Hero 10/9/8/7/6/5/4/3+/3, DJI OSMO Action, SJCAM, Garmin Virb) and most smartphones, LED lights, microphones, and even some DSLR cameras.
Pros:
– Significantly reduces natural hand shake (passive stabilization)
– No batteries or charging required
– Highly versatile with multiple mounting options (phone, action camera, mic, light)
– Ergonomic and comfortable for long shooting sessions
– Can use phone as a monitor for action cameras
– Very affordable
Cons:
– Does not provide active, motorized stabilization like a true gimbal
– Only reduces vibration, doesn’t eliminate all movement
– Less effective for fast-paced or very dynamic motion compared to powered gimbals
User Impressions:
Users find this hand grip extremely useful for basic stabilization and comfort, especially for longer shoots or when using external accessories like mics and lights. It’s highly praised for its versatility and durability, offering a simple yet effective solution for better handheld recording.
NEEWER Super Clamp with 3″ Dual Ballhead Magic Arm
While not a gimbal itself, the NEEWER Super Clamp with a Dual Ballhead Magic Arm is an indispensable tool for filmmakers and content creators who need versatile mounting solutions for their phones, action cameras, or other accessories. This robust clamp system allows you to securely attach your device to a wide range of surfaces, from desks to bike handlebars, offering flexible angle adjustments via its 360° rotatable ball heads. It’s perfect for creating stationary, stable shots or complex setups without needing a dedicated gimbal.
Key Features:
– Super clamp grips objects with 0.6″-2.4″/14-60mm diameter (flat surfaces, round poles, selfie sticks, light/mic stands, handlebars)
– Compatible with DJI Ronin-M/MX & Freefly Movi 25mm and 30mm gimbal stabilizer rods
– Two 360° rotatable ball heads on a 3″/7.62cm magic arm for flexible angle adjustment
– Screw knob for quick and easy fastening
– Includes phone holder (2.2-3.3″/55-85mm width) and action camera adapters/attachments
– Multiple Mounting Points: 1/4″ threads, ARRI locating points, and built-in cold shoe mount
– Max payload 6.6lb/3.0kg
– Heavy Duty and Scratch Resistant (aluminum alloy & stainless steel)
– Nonslip rubber pads for stability and equipment protection
Pros:
– Extremely versatile for mounting phones, action cameras, and accessories
– Provides stable, fixed shots from various angles
– Durable, heavy-duty construction
– Easy to adjust and secure
– Compatible with a wide range of devices and surfaces
– Great for unique perspectives and multi-camera setups
Cons:
– Not a motorized gimbal; provides fixed position stability, not dynamic stabilization
– Requires a stable surface to clamp onto
– Does not compensate for user movement like a gimbal
User Impressions:
Customers highly value this clamp for its robust build quality and incredible versatility. It’s often used by professionals and enthusiasts alike for setting up auxiliary cameras, monitors, or lights in challenging positions, proving its worth as a reliable mounting solution.
AOCHUAN Gimbal Stabilizer for Go Pro, Handheld Gimbal
For action camera enthusiasts, the AOCHUAN Smart G1 is a dedicated gimbal stabilizer designed to provide professional-grade stability for your Go Pro footage. It’s built to handle the dynamic movements typical of action camera use, ensuring smooth and steady shots every time. With a remarkable 20-hour battery life and an OLED panel for real-time information, it’s a powerhouse for adventurous content creators.
Key Features:
– Professional-grade Stability with advanced anti-shake technology
– Multiple Shooting Modes for versatile capture
– Long-lasting Battery Life: 6400mAh Li-ion battery, 20 hours standby after 4.5-hour charge
– Built-in Extension Rod in the handle
– Versatile Compatibility: Supports most action cameras up to 0.44 lbs (GoPro Hero 12/11/10/9/8/7/6/5, OSMO action, Sony RX0)
– Convenient 1/4 screw hole on base for accessories
– Precision Control at Your Fingertips via intuitive controls and OLED panel
– Durable, high-quality materials
Pros:
– Specifically optimized for action cameras like GoPro
– Exceptional 20-hour battery life
– Built-in extension rod is a huge plus
– Clear OLED panel for easy monitoring
– Robust construction for demanding environments
– Provides excellent stability for action footage
Cons:
– Only GoPro series can connect via Bluetooth for camera control (others can be mounted but buttons won’t control)
– Payload capacity is specific to action cameras, not suitable for phones
– May feel bulky compared to phone-only gimbals
User Impressions:
Users are consistently impressed with the Smart G1’s battery life and its ability to stabilize action camera footage even in challenging conditions. The integrated extension rod is frequently cited as a major convenience, making it a go-to for vloggers and adventurers alike.
AOCHUAN Phone Gimbal Stabilizer 3-Axis Smartphone Foldable (Smart XE)
The AOCHUAN Smart XE Phone Gimbal is a powerful and versatile 3-axis foldable stabilizer, perfect for anyone looking to create professional-grade video content with their smartphone. More powerful than many competitors, it boasts a compact, palm-sized design while supporting a decent payload for most large-screen smartphones. Its intuitive focus wheel and zoom slider, combined with enhanced brushless motors, allow for incredibly smooth and cinematic shots, even for beginners.
Key Features:
– Powerful and Versatile 3-Axis Foldable Gimbal Stabilizer for Smartphones
– Wide compatibility with iPhones and most Android phones
– Portable Foldable Design (0.78 lbs net weight, 250-gram payload)
– Innovative Focus Wheel and Zoom Slider for cinematic control
– All-day Long Video Creation (2600mAh battery, up to 10 hours continuous shooting)
– One-Click video button for effortless horizontal to vertical portrait mode switching
– AI Face Track 4.0 & Gesture Control via intuitive AOCHUAN APP
– SMART 7.0 Anti-Shake Smooth with enhanced brushless motors and 7.0 generation algorithm
– Supports panorama, wide-angle, cinematic, movie, live-streaming, time-lapse, and motion-lapse modes
Pros:
– Excellent 3-axis stabilization for professional-looking videos
– Compact and highly portable foldable design
– Long battery life supports extended shooting sessions
– Intuitive focus and zoom controls for cinematic effects
– AI tracking and gesture control enhance user experience
– Supports quick switching between horizontal and vertical for social media
Cons:
– Primarily designed for phones, not GoPros
– Full functionality often requires the AOCHUAN app
– May need to remove phone case for optimal fit
User Impressions:
Customers frequently praise the AOCHUAN Smart XE for its strong stabilization and the convenience of its foldable design. The long battery life is a significant advantage for content creators, and the intuitive controls for focus and zoom are highly appreciated for achieving cinematic effects.
Selfie Stick Gimbal Stabilizer, UPXON 360° Rotation Tripod
The UPXON 360° Rotation Tripod stands out as a unique hybrid solution, combining a 1-axis gimbal stabilizer with a versatile selfie stick and a stable tripod. While it’s a 1-axis gimbal (meaning it primarily stabilizes on one axis, usually horizontal), its smart features like anti-shake technology and auto-balance ensure steady phone footage. It’s perfect for casual users who want to improve their vlogs, selfies, and group photos without the complexity of a 3-axis gimbal or the need for an app.
Key Features:
– Anti-Shake 1-Axis Gimbal Stabilizer with powerful sports gyroscope and auto-balance
– Extendable Selfie Stick (five-section aluminum alloy rod, up to 31.5 inches)
– Stable Phone Tripod function by opening the hand grip
– No APP Needed & Easy to Use
– Wireless Remote Control (removable shutter, up to 32 ft range)
– Portable & Widely Compatible (0.47lb, 7.5 inches folded)
– Compatible with most smartphones (4.0-6.2 inches) and GoPro cameras (with 1/4 connector base change)
– 360° adjustable clip head with intelligent button for easy rotation (270° rotation)
Pros:
– Very easy to use with no app required
– Combines selfie stick, tripod, and basic gimbal in one
– Highly portable and lightweight
– Wireless remote control is convenient for group shots
– Offers basic but effective anti-shake for phones
– Can be adapted for GoPro
Cons:
– Only 1-axis stabilization; less smooth than 3-axis gimbals for complex movements
– Limited in advanced cinematic modes compared to full gimbals
– Phone compatibility range is somewhat narrow (4.0-6.2 inches)
User Impressions:
Users love the UPXON for its simplicity and multi-functionality. The “no app needed” feature is a huge draw for those who want quick and easy stabilization, and the integrated selfie stick/tripod functionality makes it incredibly convenient for everyday use. It’s often recommended for casual users and travelers.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: What’s the difference between 1-axis, 2-axis, and 3-axis gimbals?
A1: The number of axes indicates how many directions a gimbal can stabilize your camera.
* 1-axis gimbals: Stabilize on a single axis, usually preventing vertical shake (pitch). They are simpler, more compact, and often found in selfie stick hybrids.
* 2-axis gimbals: Stabilize on two axes, typically pitch (up/down) and roll (tilting left/right). They offer better stability than 1-axis but can still experience horizontal wobble.
* 3-axis gimbals: Provide stabilization across all three axes: pitch, roll, and yaw (panning left/right). These offer the smoothest, most professional-looking footage as they compensate for movement in every direction. Most high-quality phone and GoPro gimbals are 3-axis.
Q2: Do I need a special app to use a phone gimbal?
A2: Most advanced phone gimbals, especially 3-axis models, require a dedicated app. These apps unlock the gimbal’s full potential, offering features like AI tracking, gesture control, cinematic modes, remote control, and firmware updates. Some simpler 1-axis selfie stick gimbals, like the UPXON reviewed, can be used without an app for basic stabilization.
Q3: Can I use a phone gimbal with a GoPro, and vice-versa?
A3: It depends on the specific gimbal. Many phone gimbals are designed with clamps specifically for smartphones and might not securely hold a GoPro or provide optimal balance. Conversely, gimbals designed for action cameras might not accommodate a phone’s size and weight. However, some versatile models (like the UPXON) and certain grip stabilizers (like the SYN Hand Grip) are designed to work with both by changing mounts or using specific adapters. Always check the compatibility list for the specific gimbal you’re considering.
Q4: How do I choose the right gimbal for my needs?
A4: Consider these factors:
* Device Compatibility: Will you primarily use it with a phone, GoPro, or both?
* Stabilization Needs: For casual use, a 1-axis might suffice. For professional-looking, dynamic shots, a 3-axis is essential.
* Portability: Do you need something compact and foldable for travel?
* Battery Life: How long do you plan to shoot?
* Features: Do you need AI tracking, a built-in extension rod, remote control, or cinematic modes?
* Budget: Gimbals range widely in price based on features and build quality.
Q5: What’s ActiveTrack and why is it useful?
A5: ActiveTrack (or similar AI tracking features like Smart Tracking) is a technology found in many advanced gimbals that allows the gimbal to automatically follow a selected subject. You simply tap on your screen to identify the person or object, and the gimbal’s motors will adjust to keep them in the frame. This is incredibly useful for solo content creators, vloggers, or anyone filming moving subjects like kids or pets, as it frees you from manually controlling the gimbal.
Q6: How long does a gimbal battery typically last?
A6: Gimbal battery life varies significantly depending on the model and usage. Most modern gimbals offer between 6 to 12 hours of continuous operation on a single charge. Some high-end or dedicated action camera gimbals can even offer 20 hours or more. Always check the manufacturer’s specifications.
Q7: Are gimbals worth it for casual users?
A7: Absolutely! Even for casual users, a gimbal can dramatically improve the quality of your videos. Shaky footage can be distracting and unwatchable, while smooth, stable shots look much more professional and enjoyable. Whether it’s capturing family events, vacation memories, or everyday moments, a gimbal elevates your content and makes your videos more shareable and impressive.
Conclusion
Choosing the best gimbal for phone and GoPro truly depends on your specific needs, budget, and how you plan to use it. From the feature-packed DJI Osmo series with their intelligent tracking and magnetic clamps, to the versatile AOCHUAN models designed for both phones and action cameras, there’s a perfect stabilizer out there for everyone.
If you’re a serious mobile filmmaker, a 3-axis gimbal with advanced features like AI tracking and extended battery life will be your best friend. For action camera enthusiasts, a dedicated GoPro gimbal will ensure your adventurous footage is as epic as your escapades. And for those seeking simplicity and multi-functionality, a 1-axis selfie stick gimbal offers a fantastic all-in-one solution.
No matter which one you pick, investing in a quality gimbal is one of the best ways to transform your handheld footage from wobbly to wonderfully smooth. Happy shooting!
