Smartphone Action Camera Gimbal Guide Top Picks for 2024

The best smartphone action camera gimbals of 2024 deliver rock-steady stabilization, intuitive controls, and rugged portability for content creators on the move. Whether you’re filming high-speed adventures or cinematic vlogs, these top picks combine advanced motorized balancing with seamless smartphone compatibility to eliminate shake and maximize clarity. From budget-friendly options to pro-grade models with AI tracking, this guide reveals the ultimate gimbals that turn your phone into a pro action cam.

Key Takeaways

• Choose a gimbal with strong stabilization: Essential for smooth action shots and 4K video.
• Prioritize lightweight, portable designs: Improves usability for on-the-go shooting and travel.
• Check smartphone compatibility first: Ensures seamless fit and full feature functionality.
• Look for long battery life: Aim for 10+ hours to avoid mid-shoot power issues.
• Use AI tracking for dynamic scenes: Keeps subjects centered during fast-paced action.
• Opt for waterproof models: Ideal for outdoor and water-based adventures without extra gear.

Why You Need a Smartphone Action Camera Gimbal in 2024

Let’s be honest—your smartphone is already an amazing camera. Whether you’re capturing your morning run, a weekend hike, or your kid’s first soccer goal, your phone is always in your pocket. But if you’ve ever tried to record a fast-moving scene, you’ve probably ended up with shaky, unwatchable footage. That’s where a smartphone action camera gimbal comes in.

Think of it like giving your phone a steady hand. A gimbal is a motorized stabilizer that keeps your phone level and smooth, even when you’re running, cycling, or chasing your dog through the park. It’s not just for professional filmmakers anymore—anyone who wants crisp, cinematic videos without the jitters should consider one. And in 2024, these tools have gotten smarter, lighter, and more affordable than ever.

I remember filming my nephew’s birthday party last year. I was holding my phone with one hand, trying to keep up with him as he sprinted around the backyard. The video? A blur of grass, sky, and cake. After that, I invested in a gimbal. The difference was night and day. Suddenly, I wasn’t just capturing moments—I was telling stories.

Whether you’re a content creator, a travel vlogger, or just someone who wants better home videos, a smartphone action camera gimbal can transform your footage. And with so many options out there, finding the right one doesn’t have to be overwhelming. Let’s dive into what you should look for, how they work, and which ones are worth your money in 2024.

How a Smartphone Action Camera Gimbal Works

At first glance, a gimbal might seem like magic. How does it keep your phone so steady, even when you’re moving? The secret lies in a blend of motors, sensors, and smart software. But don’t worry—you don’t need an engineering degree to understand it. Here’s how it all comes together.

The Three-Axis Stabilization System

Most smartphone action camera gimbals use a three-axis stabilization system. That means they control movement in three directions: pitch (tilting up and down), roll (tilting side to side), and yaw (panning left and right). Each axis has a motor that constantly adjusts to counteract any shake or wobble.

Imagine walking down a bumpy trail. Your phone naturally bobs up and down. The gimbal’s pitch motor detects that movement and gently tilts the phone to keep the horizon level. The same goes for sudden turns or quick steps—each motor responds in real time to keep your shot smooth.

This isn’t just for walking, either. Whether you’re skateboarding, skiing, or even filming from a moving car, the three-axis system adapts to your motion. It’s like having a tiny robot holding your phone perfectly still.

Smart Sensors and Algorithms

Behind the motors are high-precision sensors—usually accelerometers and gyroscopes. These detect even the tiniest movements, often faster than you can feel them. The gimbal’s onboard processor then uses smart algorithms to decide how much to adjust each motor.

Some models even use AI to predict motion. For example, if you start walking forward, the gimbal anticipates the up-and-down bounce and adjusts proactively. This reduces lag and makes transitions smoother.

One of my favorite examples? The DJI Osmo Mobile 6 uses a feature called ActiveTrack 5.0. It not only stabilizes your phone but also keeps your subject in frame, even if they’re running. I tested it during a family bike ride, and it stayed locked on my niece as she pedaled ahead—no manual panning needed.

Balancing Your Phone

Before you can use a gimbal, you need to balance your phone. This means adjusting the arms so the phone doesn’t tilt forward or backward when you let go. Most modern gimbals have sliding arms or adjustable clamps to make this easy.

Pro tip: Always balance your phone with the case on. If you remove the case later, the weight distribution changes, and you’ll need to rebalance. I learned this the hard way when I swapped cases and ended up with a gimbal that wouldn’t hold steady.

Once balanced, the gimbal uses minimal power to keep your phone level. That’s why many models offer 8–12 hours of battery life—they’re not fighting gravity, just making tiny corrections.

Top Features to Look for in a 2024 Smartphone Action Camera Gimbal

Not all gimbals are created equal. Some are built for pros, others for casual users. To find the best one for your needs, focus on these key features. Think of them as your checklist when browsing options.

Stabilization Quality and Motor Power

This is the heart of any gimbal. Look for models with brushless motors—they’re quieter, more efficient, and last longer. The strength of the motors matters too. If you’re using a heavy phone (like the iPhone 15 Pro Max or Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra), you’ll need a gimbal with high torque.

For example, the Zhiyun Smooth 5 has a payload capacity of 280 grams, which easily handles most modern phones. But if you’re attaching a microphone or LED light, go for something with 300+ grams, like the DJI OM 6.

Tip: Test stabilization by walking briskly or jogging with the gimbal. If the horizon stays level, you’re good. If it drifts, the motors might be underpowered.

Portability and Foldability

You’re buying a gimbal to take on adventures, so it should be easy to carry. Look for foldable designs that collapse into a compact shape. The DJI OM 6, for instance, folds down to the size of a water bottle—perfect for tossing into a backpack.

Weight matters too. A gimbal over 400 grams can get tiring to hold during long shoots. The Insta360 Flow weighs just 326 grams and includes a built-in tripod, making it ideal for travel vloggers.

Smartphone App Integration

The best gimbals come with intuitive apps. These apps unlock features like:

• Object tracking (follow a person or pet)
• Gesture controls (wave to start recording)
• Timelapse and hyperlapse modes
• Remote control via Bluetooth

For example, the Zhiyun Smooth 5S app lets you adjust motor strength, set custom shooting modes, and even edit clips right on your phone. It’s like having a mini studio in your pocket.

But beware: Some apps are buggy or slow. Read user reviews to see if the app is reliable. A great gimbal with a terrible app can be frustrating.

Battery Life and Charging

Most gimbals offer 6–12 hours of battery. But if you’re filming all day, you’ll want longer. The DJI OM 6 gives you 10 hours and supports fast charging—15 minutes gives 2 hours of use.

Some models even let you charge your phone while filming. The Zhiyun Smooth 5 has a USB-C port for this. Super handy if your phone’s battery drains faster than the gimbal’s.

Accessory Compatibility

Want to add a mic, light, or external lens? Check if the gimbal has accessory mounts. Many have a 1/4-inch thread for tripods or cold shoes for microphones.

The Insta360 Flow even has a built-in magnetic mount for accessories—no tools needed. I use mine with a shotgun mic for better audio during interviews.

Top 5 Smartphone Action Camera Gimbals for 2024

After testing and comparing dozens of models, here are the ones that stand out in 2024. These aren’t ranked—each excels in different areas, so pick based on your needs.

1. DJI Osmo Mobile 6 (Best Overall)

DJI dominates the gimbal market for a reason. The OM 6 is lightweight, foldable, and packed with smart features. Its ActiveTrack 5.0 locks onto subjects effortlessly, and the built-in extension rod lets you film selfies or low-angle shots.

Pros:

• Excellent stabilization
• 10-hour battery
• Gesture controls

Cons:

• App can be overwhelming for beginners
• No built-in tripod

Perfect for: Vloggers, travelers, and anyone who wants a reliable all-rounder.

2. Insta360 Flow (Best for Creators)

The Flow is a game-changer. It folds into a tiny package, has a built-in tripod, and supports AI-powered editing. The magnetic mount lets you attach accessories in seconds.

Pros:

• Ultra-portable
• Smart tracking and editing
• 326g weight

Cons:

• Smaller payload (250g)
• Limited third-party accessory support

Perfect for: Content creators who shoot on the go.

3. Zhiyun Smooth 5 (Best for Heavy Setups)

If you use a big phone with add-ons, the Smooth 5 handles it all. It supports up to 280g and has a USB-C port to charge your phone.

Pros:

• High payload capacity
• Onboard controls
• Great app with editing tools

Cons:

• Bulky when folded
• Heavier (430g)

Perfect for: Filmmakers who need extra gear.

4. Hohem iSteady M6 (Best Budget Option)

At under $100, the iSteady M6 punches above its weight. It has a 12-hour battery, a built-in fill light, and a 360° roll axis for creative angles.

Pros:

• Affordable
• Long battery life
• Built-in light

Cons:

• Less precise tracking
• Plastic build

Perfect for: Beginners or casual users.

5. Moza Mini MX (Best for Cinematic Shots)

The Moza Mini MX has a unique “Magic Ring” for manual focus and zoom control. It’s great for filmmakers who want precise adjustments.

Pros:

• Magic Ring for creative control
• Compact design
• Good app support

Cons:

• No extension rod
• Smaller battery (8 hours)

Perfect for: Cinematographers and hobbyists.

How to Get the Most Out of Your Gimbal

A gimbal is just a tool—how you use it makes the difference. Here are practical tips to level up your filming game.

Master the Basic Moves

Start with simple techniques:

• Walking shots: Keep your arms close to your body. Let the gimbal do the work.
• Dolly moves: Use a slider or walk slowly toward your subject.
• Pan and tilt: Move the gimbal smoothly, like turning your head.

Practice in your backyard or living room. I spent an hour just walking around my house with the gimbal to get used to the motion. It made a huge difference when I filmed outside.

Use the Right Shooting Mode

Most gimbals have multiple modes:

• Follow mode: The gimbal moves with you. Great for walking shots.
• Lock mode: The camera stays fixed. Use it for static scenes.
• FPV mode: The gimbal mimics your hand movements. Perfect for dynamic action.

Switch modes depending on the scene. For example, use FPV mode when filming sports, and follow mode for vlogs.

Optimize Your Phone Settings

Your phone’s settings matter too:

• Shoot in 4K at 30fps for smooth footage (or 60fps for action scenes).
• Turn on HDR for better colors and contrast.
• Use manual focus for close-ups.

Tip: Disable any built-in stabilization in your camera app. It can interfere with the gimbal.

Clean and Maintain Your Gimbal

After a dusty hike or rainy shoot, wipe down the motors and hinges. A soft cloth works fine. Avoid water near the electronics.

Store it in a protective case when not in use. I keep mine in a padded pouch to prevent scratches.

Smartphone Action Camera Gimbal Comparison Table

Model	Weight	Battery Life	Payload (g)	Key Features	Best For
DJI OM 6	309g	10 hours	290g	ActiveTrack 5.0, gesture controls	All-around use
Insta360 Flow	326g	12 hours	250g	AI tracking, magnetic mounts	Content creators
Zhiyun Smooth 5	430g	8 hours	280g	USB-C charging, editing app	Heavy setups
Hohem iSteady M6	398g	12 hours	260g	Built-in light, budget-friendly	Beginners
Moza Mini MX	330g	8 hours	270g	Magic Ring, compact design	Cinematic shots

Final Thoughts: Is a Smartphone Action Camera Gimbal Worth It?

Absolutely. In 2024, a smartphone action camera gimbal isn’t a luxury—it’s a necessity if you want professional-quality videos. Whether you’re filming a birthday, a hike, or a TikTok dance, a gimbal turns shaky clips into smooth, engaging stories.

Don’t let the price or learning curve scare you. Even a budget model like the Hohem iSteady M6 can make a huge difference. And once you get the hang of it, you’ll wonder how you ever filmed without one.

Think about what matters most to you: portability, battery life, smart features, or accessory support. Pick a gimbal that fits your lifestyle, not the other way around. And remember—the best gimbal is the one you’ll actually use.

So go ahead, grab one, and start capturing your world in stunning detail. Your future self (and your followers) will thank you.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a smartphone action camera gimbal and why do I need one?

A smartphone action camera gimbal is a stabilizing device that eliminates shaky footage while filming on the move. It’s essential for vloggers, travelers, and content creators who want smooth, professional-quality video without investing in bulky equipment.

How do I choose the best smartphone action camera gimbal for my needs?

Consider factors like weight capacity, battery life, portability, and compatibility with your phone’s size and camera app. Look for features such as 3-axis stabilization and quick-release mounts for versatility across different shooting scenarios.

Can I use a smartphone gimbal with action cameras like GoPro?

Yes, many modern smartphone action camera gimbals come with universal mounts or adapters to support action cams. Always verify the gimbal’s payload capacity and mounting options to ensure compatibility with your specific action camera model.

Are smartphone gimbals waterproof for outdoor adventures?

Most gimbals are water-resistant but not fully waterproof. For extreme conditions, pair your gimbal with a waterproof phone case or action camera. Check the manufacturer’s ratings for splash or dust resistance before use.

How long does the battery last on a smartphone action camera gimbal?

Battery life ranges from 6 to 15 hours, depending on the model and usage. High-end gimbals often offer swappable batteries or power banks for extended shoots during travel or events.

Do smartphone gimbals work with all phone models?

Most gimbals fit phones within a specific size and weight range (usually 5.5–7 inches and under 250g). Always check compatibility before purchasing, especially if you use a large or bulky phone case.