Gimbals were a hot deal item in Black Friday 2019, with major brands like DJI and Zhiyun offering steep discounts (up to 40% off). Early shoppers secured the best prices, but last-minute deals still popped up. This guide breaks down trends, top picks, and how to snag the best gimbal deals.
Key Takeaways
- Discounts varied by brand: DJI stabilized its gimbals, while Zhiyun and MoiTech offered deeper cuts.
- Early birds got better deals: Prices dropped fastest on Black Friday morning, with flash sales adding urgency.
- New models were often discounted: The DJI OM 3 and Zhiyun Smooth 5 saw heavy markdowns as newer releases launched.
- Retailers differed: Amazon, Best Buy, and B&H Photo had competitive pricing, but some sold out quickly.
- Beware of scams: Stick to reputable sellers to avoid counterfeit products or hidden fees.
- Bundle deals existed: Some retailers paired gimbals with accessories (mics, cases) for extra savings.
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Quick Answers to Common Questions
Question 1? Are gimbals still discounted after Black Friday 2019?
Some retailers offered post-Black Friday sales, but discounts were smaller. Holiday weekends (Cyber Monday) occasionally brought new deals.
Question 2? Which gimbal brand had the biggest Black Friday 2019 discounts?
Zhiyun led with 30-40% off flagship models like the Smooth 5, while DJI focused on early-bird pricing.
Question 3? Can I trust third-party sellers for gimbal deals?
Cautiously yes, but stick to verified sellers (Amazon Marketplace, B&H). Avoid sketchy “too-good-to-be-true” listings.
Question 4? Do all gimbals work with iPhones and Android?
Most modern gimbals support both, but check compatibility charts for older models.
Question 5? What’s the cheapest gimbal I should buy?
$50-$80 gets you a solid starter unit (e.g., ZhiSmooth 2), but expect basic features only.
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Why Gimbals Were a Black Friday 2019 Must-Buy
In 2019, gimbals exploded in popularity among vloggers, content creators, and travel enthusiasts—and Black Friday became the ultimate shopping event for them. Brands leveraged the holiday to clear inventory ahead of new model launches or price hikes. With demand surging, retailers slashed prices aggressively, making it one of the best years to buy a gimbal. Whether you’re shooting TikTok videos, documenting adventures, or editing YouTube content, a gimbal is worth investing in, especially with these discounts.
The Gimbal Boom: Why Prices Dropped So Much
Several factors drove the 2019 Black Friday gimbal sales:
- Inventory clearance: Retailers needed to move older stock before releasing upgraded versions (e.g., DJI’s OM 3 replacing the OM 2).
- Competitive market: New entrants like MoiTech forced established brands (Zhiyun, DJI) to match prices.
- Holiday demand: More consumers planned video projects for gifts, travel, or social media, increasing urgency.
Top Gimbal Deals from Black Friday 2019
Here are the standout offers:
DJI OM Series
The DJI OM 3, released late 2019, was heavily discounted (~$100-$150 vs. $200+ MSRP). Older models like the OM 2 Pro also saw 20-30% drops. Example: A $175 deal at Best Buy included a free carrying case.
Zhiyun Smooth 5
This budget-friendly stabilizer hit $99-$129 (originally $180+), making it a steal for smartphone users. B&H Photo bundled it with a mic for under $150.
MoiTech Stabilizers
Emerging brand MoiTech targeted budget buyers with 40% off its M3 Mini ($60 instead of $100). Ideal for beginners.
Where to Shop for the Best Deals
Retailers prioritized gimbals differently:
- Amazon: Sold out fast; use Wish Lists to track restocks.
- B&H Photo: Offered extended return windows (90 days).
- Best Buy: Included in “Deal of the Day” rotations.
Practical Tips to Save More
Don’t miss these strategies:
- Set price alerts: Tools like Honey or CamelCamelCamel tracked real-time drops.
- Watched lists: Add products to Amazon’s “Watch List” to notify you of price changes.
- Credit card perks: Cashback cards (Chase Freedom) boosted savings by 5-10%.
- Check local stores: Smaller shops sometimes matched online prices.
Common Pitfalls to Avoid
Black Friday can lure buyers into traps:
Visual guide about Are Gimbals Expected to Be Black Friday 2019
Image source: todoandroid.es
- Counterfeit sellers: Only buy from official brand sites or trusted retailers.
- Hidden fees: Watch for shipping costs or “restock” add-ons.
- Overpaying for bundles: Compare standalone gimbal prices first.
How to Choose Your First Gimbal
For newcomers, focus on:
- Phone compatibility: Check if it fits your device size (iPhone 11 vs. Samsung S10).
- Weight capacity: Most smartphones max out at 250g.
- Features: Look for magnetic attachments, Bluetooth control, and 3-axis stability.
Beginner-Friendly Picks
– ZhiSmooth 2: Budget pick ($80)
– DJI Osmo Mobile 2: Reliable mid-range ($120)
Long-Term Value: Is a Gimbal Worth It?
A gimbal’s ROI depends on your usage:
- Content creators: Invest in a premium model ($200+) for professional results.
- Casual users: A $50-$100 gimbal suffices for casual videos.
Remember: Even at full price, a gimbal enhances footage quality far more than a shaky phone shot.
Conclusion
Black Friday 2019 was a goldmine for gimbal buyers, with discounts up to 40% across popular brands. Early shoppers scored the best deals, but savvy tactics (price tracking, bundles) helped everyone save. If you need a stabilizer now, consider refurbished models or back-to-school sales—but don’t wait too long! Happy shopping!
Frequently Asked Questions
What’s the difference between 2-axis and 3-axis gimbals?
3-axis stabilizers offer smoother motion control for vertical/horizontal shots, while 2-axis are simpler for horizontal-only videos.
Can I use a gimbal without a tripod?
Yes! Gimbals attach directly to your phone, though a tripod can improve low-angle shots.
Do gimbals damage phones?
No, but improper mounting can strain adhesive. Use included pads or silicone grips for safety.
Are wireless gimbals better than wired ones?
Wireless (Bluetooth) models offer remote control and flexibility, but wired ones may have longer battery life.
How do I calibrate my gimbal?
Follow the manufacturer’s instructions—usually involves leveling sensors via an app or manual adjustments.
