Can I Use Action Camera Accessories With a Gimbal Here Is How

Yes, you can use most action camera accessories with a gimbal, as long as they are compatible with the camera’s mounting system and don’t interfere with the gimbal’s balance and movement. Adapters, extension arms, and protective housings often work seamlessly, but always verify weight limits and mounting points to ensure smooth stabilization and avoid motor strain.

Key Takeaways

• Check compatibility first: Ensure accessories match your gimbal’s mount and weight limits.
• Use adapter plates: Adapt non-standard accessories with universal mounting solutions.
• Balance is critical: Rebalance your gimbal after adding any accessory.
• Prioritize lightweight gear: Heavy accessories can strain motors and reduce battery life.
• Secure connections: Double-check mounts to prevent drops during motion.
• Test before filming: Verify stability and performance with new accessories pre-shoot.

Why Mixing Action Camera Accessories With a Gimbal Is a Game-Changer

Let me paint you a picture: you’re on a mountain trail, wind in your hair, camera in hand, capturing that perfect sunrise shot. You’ve got your trusty action camera mounted on a gimbal, but suddenly, you remember—your favorite chest mount, the one that gives you that immersive POV, is sitting at home. You start wondering, Can I use action camera accessories with a gimbal? It’s a question I’ve asked myself more than once, especially when trying to pack light for a weekend adventure.

The short answer? Yes, you can—but with some caveats. And that’s exactly what we’re diving into today. Whether you’re a vlogger, a travel enthusiast, or just someone who loves filming their weekend hikes, knowing how to mix and match your action camera accessories with a gimbal can unlock new creative possibilities. But it’s not as simple as slapping a GoPro mount onto a DJI gimbal and calling it a day. There are compatibility issues, weight considerations, and even creative trade-offs to think about. So, let’s break it down, step by step, with real-world examples and practical tips that’ll save you time, money, and frustration.

Understanding the Basics: Action Camera Accessories vs. Gimbals

What Makes Action Camera Accessories Unique?

Action cameras like the GoPro, DJI Osmo Action, or Insta360 are built for versatility. Their accessories are designed to be modular, rugged, and adaptable to extreme conditions. Think chest mounts, head straps, handlebar clamps, suction cups, and even floating grips. These are all made to attach directly to the camera’s frame or housing, often using a quick-release system like GoPro’s “fingers” or a universal 1/4”-20 thread.

The key here is direct attachment. Most action camera accessories rely on the camera’s own mounting system. For example, a chest mount uses a plastic clip that snaps onto the camera’s side, while a suction cup might use a threaded base that screws into the camera’s bottom. This design is great for quick swaps and portability, but it assumes the camera is free-floating—not stabilized.

How Gimbals Work and Why They Change the Game

A gimbal, on the other hand, is a motorized stabilization device. It uses sensors and motors to counteract camera shake, giving you buttery-smooth footage even when you’re running or biking. But here’s the catch: the gimbal itself has its own mounting system. Most gimbals (like the DJI RS 3 Mini or Zhiyun Weebill Lab) use a quick-release plate or a clamp system to hold the camera. This means the action camera isn’t directly exposed—it’s sandwiched between the gimbal’s arms and the plate.

This is where the conflict arises. If your action camera is locked into a gimbal, you can’t just clip on a chest mount or attach a suction cup directly to the camera. The gimbal’s frame physically blocks access to the camera’s sides and bottom. So, to use traditional accessories, you need a workaround—and that’s where creativity (and sometimes frustration) comes in.

Pro Tip: Always check your gimbal’s payload capacity before adding accessories. For example, a GoPro Hero 12 weighs about 153g, but a chest mount might add another 100g. If your gimbal’s max load is 1kg, you’re still safe—but if you’re close to the limit, extra accessories could cause motor strain or overheating.

Compatibility: The Make-or-Break Factor

Mounting Systems: The Big Divide

Not all action camera accessories are created equal when it comes to gimbal use. The first thing to check is the mounting system. Here’s a breakdown:

• GoPro-style “fingers” mounts: These are the most common. They’re great for direct attachment but require the camera’s side to be exposed. If your gimbal blocks this (like most handheld gimbals do), you’re out of luck unless you use an adapter.

< 1/4”-20 threaded mounts: Many accessories (like tripod adapters, suction cups, or extension arms) use a universal screw thread. If your gimbal has a 1/4”-20 female thread on its quick-release plate, you can often screw accessories directly into it. This is a game-changer for flexibility.

• Custom or proprietary mounts: Some brands (like Insta360) use unique mounting systems. These rarely work with third-party gimbals unless you have a specific adapter.

Real-World Example: Using a Chest Mount With a Gimbal

Let’s say you want to use your GoPro Hero 11 with a DJI RS 3 Mini gimbal and your favorite chest mount. Here’s what you’d need:

• A GoPro-to-1/4”-20 adapter (often included with the gimbal or sold separately).
• A quick-release plate that has a 1/4”-20 thread (most DJI gimbals do).
• A chest mount with a 1/4”-20 screw base (or a GoPro fingers-to-1/4”-20 converter).

Here’s the process:

1. Attach the GoPro to the gimbal using the adapter.
2. Screw the chest mount’s 1/4”-20 base into the gimbal’s quick-release plate.
3. Clip the gimbal (with the camera) into the chest mount’s harness.

The result? You now have a stabilized chest mount setup. The camera is still stabilized by the gimbal, and the mount is just holding the gimbal itself. It’s a bit bulkier than using the camera alone, but the trade-off is worth it for smooth footage.

When Compatibility Fails (And How to Fix It)

Sometimes, even with adapters, things don’t fit. For example:

• Too much weight on the gimbal’s plate: If the chest mount’s screw base is long or heavy, it might throw off the gimbal’s balance. Solution? Use a shorter screw or a lightweight carbon fiber mount.
• No 1/4”-20 thread on the gimbal plate: Some budget gimbals use a proprietary quick-release system. Solution? Buy a universal quick-release plate with a 1/4”-20 thread and attach it to your gimbal’s clamp.
• Insta360 One RS with a non-Insta360 gimbal: The modular design makes it tricky. Solution? Use a 1/4”-20 adapter plate designed for the One RS’s base.

Creative Workarounds: Beyond the Obvious

Using the Gimbal as a Mounting Platform

Instead of trying to attach accessories to the camera, think of the gimbal itself as the new mounting point. This is where 1/4”-20 threads shine. Here are some creative ideas:

• Bike handlebar mount: Screw a handlebar clamp into the gimbal’s plate and mount the whole setup on your bike. The gimbal stabilizes the camera, and the clamp holds the rig securely.
• Suction cup on a car: Attach a suction cup with a 1/4”-20 base to the gimbal plate and stick it to your windshield. Great for car vlogs or road trip footage.
• Tripod + gimbal combo: Use a tripod with a 1/4”-20 thread to mount the gimbal. This gives you stability for static shots while keeping the option to move the gimbal manually.

DIY Solutions (When Off-the-Shelf Fails)

Sometimes, you need to get crafty. I’ve used zip ties, rubber bands, and even duct tape (in a pinch) to make things work. But here are some semi-DIY solutions that are actually reliable:

• Extension arms: Use a 1/4”-20 threaded extension arm (like a magic arm) to position the camera away from the gimbal. This gives you more space to attach accessories.
• 3D-printed adapters: If you (or a friend) have access to a 3D printer, you can design custom mounts that bridge the gap between the gimbal and your favorite accessory.
• Magnetic mounts: Some third-party brands (like Peak Design) make magnetic quick-release systems that work with 1/4”-20 threads. These are great for rapid swaps between mounts.

The Weight-Balance Trade-Off

Adding accessories to a gimbal setup changes the center of gravity. For example, a long extension arm might make the rig top-heavy, causing the gimbal to struggle. Here’s how to fix it:

• Rebalance the gimbal: Most gimbals have a calibration process. After adding accessories, re-run the calibration to help the motors adjust.
• Use counterweights: Some gimbals (like the DJI RS 3) have built-in counterweight systems. Add weights to the opposite side of the accessory to balance the load.
• Shorten the rig: The closer the accessory is to the gimbal, the less strain on the motors. Use shorter arms or mounts when possible.

Top Accessories That Work (and Don’t Work) With Gimbals

Accessories That Are Gimbal-Friendly

Accessory Type	Why It Works	Example Products
1/4”-20 threaded mounts	Direct attachment to gimbal plate	Peak Design Capture Clip, Manfrotto Super Clamp
Extension arms	Creates space for accessories	SmallRig Magic Arm, Neewer Carbon Fiber Arm
Suction cups	Lightweight and stable	Ulanzi Super Clamp, GoPro Suction Cup
Quick-release systems	Fast swaps between mounts	DJI Quick-Release Plate, Peak Design Slide

Accessories to Avoid (Or Use Carefully)

• GoPro fingers-only mounts: These require direct camera access. Without an adapter, they’re useless on a gimbal.
• Heavy rigs (like full cages): These add unnecessary weight and strain the gimbal. Use lightweight alternatives when possible.
• Non-threaded head straps: These clip directly onto the camera. Use a 1/4”-20 threaded head strap instead.
• Floating grips: These are designed for water use and often rely on the camera’s own buoyancy. They’re not ideal for gimbals.

Real-World Scenarios: When to Use What

Scenario 1: Mountain Biking Vlog

Goal: Smooth footage from a chest mount while riding.

Setup:

• GoPro Hero 12 on DJI RS 3 Mini gimbal.
• GoPro-to-1/4”-20 adapter on gimbal plate.
• 1/4”-20 threaded chest mount attached to the plate.

Result: The gimbal stabilizes the camera, and the chest mount holds the rig securely. The footage is smooth, even on bumpy trails. The only downside? The setup is a bit bulky, so it’s not ideal for quick dismounts.

Scenario 2: Car Vlog on a Road Trip

Goal: Capture the road ahead with a suction cup mount.

Setup:

• Insta360 One R on Zhiyun Weebill S gimbal.
• 1/4”-20 threaded suction cup attached to gimbal plate.
• Extension arm to position the camera closer to the windshield.

Result: The suction cup holds the rig firmly, and the gimbal keeps the footage smooth even on rough roads. The extension arm helps avoid windshield reflections. Pro tip: Use a lens hood to reduce glare.

Scenario 3: Travel Vlog in Crowded Cities

Goal: Quick swaps between handheld and tripod use.

Setup:

• DJI Osmo Action 3 on DJI RS 3 Mini gimbal.
• Peak Design Slide quick-release plate on gimbal.
• Tripod with Peak Design Capture Clip.

Result: The quick-release system lets you detach the gimbal from your backpack strap and mount it on a tripod in seconds. No need to unscrew anything. This is perfect for fast-paced travel content.

Final Thoughts: The Power of Hybrid Setups

Mixing action camera accessories with a gimbal isn’t just possible—it’s a creative superpower. Whether you’re using a chest mount for immersive POV shots, a suction cup for car footage, or a tripod for static scenes, the key is understanding how to bridge the gap between the two systems. Start with 1/4”-20 threaded accessories, invest in a few good adapters, and don’t be afraid to experiment.

Remember, the goal isn’t to replicate a dedicated gimbal setup or a pure action camera rig. It’s to create something better—a hybrid system that gives you the best of both worlds. Smooth footage, creative angles, and the flexibility to adapt on the fly. And if you ever hit a snag? That’s okay. Some of the best gear hacks come from trial and error. So go out there, test your setups, and share your discoveries. Who knows? Your next adventure might just be the inspiration someone else needs to take their content to the next level.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use action camera accessories with a gimbal?

Yes, many action camera accessories like mounts, filters, and housings are compatible with gimbals, provided they fit the camera and don’t interfere with the gimbal’s balance. Always check weight and dimensions to avoid motor strain.

What action camera accessories work best with a gimbal?

Lightweight accessories such as adhesive mounts, polarizing filters, and extension arms are ideal for gimbals. Avoid bulky add-ons like heavy external mics or battery grips, as they can disrupt stabilization.

Will using a gimbal with action camera accessories affect performance?

Using compatible accessories shouldn’t impact performance, but improper balance or excessive weight can reduce gimbal efficiency. Ensure accessories are evenly distributed and within the gimbal’s payload capacity.

How do I attach action camera accessories to my gimbal?

Most gimbals have standard mounting points (e.g., 1/4″-20 or quick-release plates) that fit action camera accessories. Use adapters if needed, but keep the setup compact to maintain smooth stabilization.

Are there gimbals designed specifically for action camera accessories?

Yes, some gimbals like the DJI OM series or Feiyu WG2 are built for action cameras and support common accessories. Check the gimbal’s specs to confirm compatibility with your gear.

Can I use a waterproof housing with my action camera on a gimbal?

Yes, but ensure the housing’s added weight and size don’t exceed the gimbal’s limits. Some housings may also block access to buttons, so test functionality before filming.