Even Apple's iPhone 15 Pro Max, replete with its Action mode, can't match the stability and smoothness of the best phone gimbals on the market. Using the magic of gyroscopes, offerings from the likes of DJI can take your iPhone photography to a whole new level, with incredible image stabilization, as well as features like subject tracking.
The aforementioned DJI is a big player in this space, but we've also tracked down other options to give you some variety at every price point, looking at the different strengths of each one to help you make the best purchase for your needs. Here's our picks!
Quick List
Best overall
The Hohem iSteady Mobile+ is an affordable gimbal with advanced features. This model has four panning modes, including a sports mode and a 3D inception mode that rotates your phone 360 degrees while filming. It sports various time-lapse features, and can do minor retouching during post-processing with the included app. For a combination of features and price point, it's our top pick.
Best stabilization
The DJI Osmo Mobile 6 Gimbal Stabilizer features three-axis stabilization for vibrant, shake-free, footage. DJI’s integrated advanced stabilization technology compensates for unwanted movements and catches the moment with cinematic smoothness. It works in tandem with the DJI Mimo app, which pops up as soon as you snap your smartphone in.
Best gesture control
A built-in extension rod on the DJI OM 5 lets you pull the camera far away to include more scenery and people in photos or to grab shots from lower angles. ShotGuides recognizes your environment and recommends shot sequencing, so you get epic results whether you're a newbie or a seasoned pro. Plus, ActiveTrack 4.0 keeps footage as smooth as can be.
Best shooting modes
The Zhiyun Smooth 4 runs for 12 solid hours per charge and outputs rock-steady footage no matter the weather or your movements. It offers object tracking, focus and zoom capability, a shutter trigger, and advanced shooting techniques like time-lapse, hyper-lapse, motion lapse, slow-mo, and more.
Best entry-level option
When size matters, the MOZA Mini-S performs like no other. This phone gimbal has a slim, light body that folds down to five inches in length — small enough to fit nicely in a backpack. A built-in sensor and brushless motor do away with the shake that turns good videos into vertigo-inducing nightmares. This is also the easiest-to-learn gimbal on our list, making it the right choice for newbies.
Best extendable
The FeiyuTech Vimble 2S is perfect for anyone looking for a little extra reach. Shooting selfies, action high above eye level, or motion slightly out of arm's reach is possible with this lightweight gimbal, which extends to 18 centimeters. The Vimble 2S can film movies vertically or horizontally, as well as with face- and object-tracking. And 3-axis stabilizers give anyone steady hands when they're on the move.
Q & A
How to get great footage on your iPhone with a gimbal
When it comes to stabilizing your best iPhone for video and pictures, these are the best phone gimbals available. We've rounded up the handiest, lightweight, and feature-heavy picks on the market to help you make your decision.
We love the advanced features like 3D inception mode, time-lapse, and sports mode in our top pick: the Hohem i-Steady Mobile+. The battery life is impressive, lasting 12 hours, and the auto-tracking and panning are every bit as good as pricier phone gimbals.
The Hohem's only fault is that its companion app is hard to learn and a little disordered. The learning curve is steep but well worth it if you can tough it out. No matter your skill level, you'll be impressed with the 3-axis stabilization and tilt, roll, and pan rotation options on this smartphone gimbal. The Hohem is a standout product that's sure to keep your creative juices flowing.
If that doesn't do it for you, another fantastic pick is the DJI OM 5. Not only is it lightweight, but it provides buttery smooth video and automatic tracking. Plus, there's Dynamic Zoom and a handy shutter button on the handle for ease of use. It's one of the more pricey ones on this list, but worth it with all of the included features.
