Best Gimbals for Action Cameras Top Picks for Smooth Footage

The best gimbals for action cameras deliver ultra-smooth, professional-grade stabilization in a compact, rugged design. Whether you’re mountain biking, surfing, or vlogging on the move, top picks like the DJI Osmo Action 3 Gimbal and Zhiyun Crane M3 offer reliable performance, quick setup, and seamless compatibility with popular action cams—ensuring your footage stays steady in any adventure.

Key Takeaways

• Choose a lightweight gimbal for easy portability during action shoots.
• Prioritize battery life to ensure uninterrupted filming on long adventures.
• Look for quick-release systems to swap cameras fast and stay mobile.
• Opt for waterproof models if filming in wet or rugged environments.
• Check compatibility with your specific action camera before purchasing.
• Use built-in controls for seamless adjustments without touching the camera.
• Balance stabilization and size to maintain smooth footage without bulk.

Why You Need a Gimbal for Your Action Camera

Imagine this: you’re hiking up a mountain, camera in hand, ready to capture the sunrise. You hit record, but the footage is shaky, blurry, and unusable. Sound familiar? If you’ve ever filmed with an action camera—like a GoPro, DJI Osmo Action, or Insta360—you know how hard it is to get smooth, cinematic footage when you’re on the move. The solution? A gimbal for action cameras.

Action cameras are built for adventure, but their wide-angle lenses and lightweight bodies make them prone to motion blur and jittery movements. A gimbal stabilizes your camera using motorized arms, keeping your footage buttery smooth even when you’re running, cycling, or skiing. Whether you’re a travel vlogger, a mountain biker, or just someone who loves capturing life’s wild moments, a good gimbal can transform your videos from amateur to professional.

How Gimbals Work and Why They Matter

The Science Behind Smooth Footage

At their core, gimbals use three-axis stabilization—pitch, roll, and yaw—to counteract movement. Sensors detect even the tiniest shifts, and motors adjust the camera in real time. Think of it like a self-correcting tripod that follows your motion without introducing shakes. This is especially useful for action cameras, which often lack in-body stabilization.

For example, if you’re filming while skateboarding, the gimbal will absorb the vibrations from the pavement. If you’re panning to follow a surfer, the yaw axis keeps the camera level while turning. Without a gimbal, your footage would look like it was shot on a rollercoaster. With one, it feels like a drone is following the action.

Types of Gimbals: What’s Right for You?

Not all gimbals are created equal. Here’s a quick breakdown:

• Handheld gimbals: The most common type. Great for vloggers and adventurers who need portability.
• Wearable gimbals: Designed to be mounted on chest straps, helmets, or bikes. Ideal for extreme sports.
• 3-axis vs. 2-axis: 3-axis gimbals (pitch, roll, yaw) offer full stabilization. 2-axis models (pitch and roll) are cheaper but less effective for fast panning.
• Active vs. passive: Active gimbals use motors and batteries. Passive stabilizers (like glidecams) rely on counterweights—less common now.

For action cameras, a 3-axis handheld gimbal is usually the best choice. It’s versatile, easy to use, and compatible with most mounts.

Real-World Example: Gimbal vs. No Gimbal

Let’s say you’re filming a mountain bike trail. Without a gimbal, your footage will have:

• Jittery vertical movements (from bumps)
• Rolling horizon (when leaning into turns)
• Blurry fast pans (when looking left/right)

With a gimbal, those issues disappear. The camera stays level, pans smoothly, and absorbs vibrations. The difference is night and day—especially when editing for social media or YouTube.

Top 5 Gimbals for Action Cameras in 2024

1. DJI Osmo Mobile 6 (Best All-Around)

The DJI Osmo Mobile 6 isn’t just for smartphones. Thanks to its universal action camera mount, it works flawlessly with GoPro Hero 12, DJI Action 3, and Insta360 ONE RS. Here’s why it’s our top pick:

• Stabilization: 3-axis with DJI’s RockSteady 3.0 algorithm. Handles fast movements like running or skiing with ease.
• Portability: Folds down to 7.4 inches—perfect for travel. The built-in extension rod is great for selfies or low-angle shots.
• Smart features: ActiveTrack 5.0 follows subjects automatically. Time-lapse, hyperlapse, and panorama modes are intuitive.
• Battery: 6.5 hours of runtime. Charges in 1.5 hours via USB-C.

Where it falls short: The mount isn’t included (sold separately). At $159, it’s pricier than budget options, but worth it for the features.

Best for: Travel vloggers, content creators who want pro-level stabilization without a bulky setup.

2. Zhiyun Crane M3 (Best for Pro Users)

The Zhiyun Crane M3 is a powerhouse for serious filmmakers. It supports action cameras and mirrorless setups (up to 1.2 lbs). Key features:

• Payload: Handles heavy cameras with add-ons (like external mics or lights).
• OLED screen: Shows battery, mode, and camera stats. No more guessing.
• Quick-release system: Swap cameras in seconds. Great for multi-cam shoots.
• Battery: 11.5 hours (with optional battery grip). Charges via USB-C or DC input.

Where it falls short: At 2.6 lbs, it’s heavier than most action camera gimbals. The learning curve is steeper for beginners.

Best for: Filmmakers who use action cameras for B-roll and need pro features.

3. FeiyuTech SCORP Mini (Best Budget Option)

If you’re on a tight budget, the FeiyuTech SCORP Mini delivers 80% of the performance at 50% of the price. Highlights:

• Price: $129 (often on sale for $99).
• Stabilization: 3-axis with AI-powered motion tracking. Handles fast pans better than most budget gimbals.
• Design: Ergonomic grip with a built-in 1/4″ screw for tripods or extension rods.
• Battery: 7 hours. Swappable 2550mAh battery.

Where it falls short: The app (Feiyu ON) is clunky compared to DJI’s. Build quality feels plasticky.

Best for: Beginners, casual users who want solid stabilization without breaking the bank.

4. Insta360 Flow (Best for 360 Cameras)

Insta360’s Flow is tailor-made for 360 cameras like the ONE RS and X3. What makes it unique?

• 360 stabilization: Uses AI to track subjects in any direction—even when the camera spins.
• Smartphone integration: Doubles as a phone gimbal. Use the Insta360 app to control both.
• Built-in tripod: Extends for tabletop use. Great for live streams or time-lapses.
• Battery: 12 hours. Charges via USB-C.

Where it falls short: Limited compatibility (only works with Insta360 cameras and select phones).

Best for: Creators who shoot 360 videos or use Insta360’s ecosystem.

5. GoPro Volta (Best for GoPro Users)

GoPro’s Volta is the ultimate add-on for GoPro Hero 10/11/12. It’s not a standalone gimbal but a hybrid grip + battery + gimbal:

• Built-in battery: Adds 4 hours to your GoPro’s runtime.
• Stabilization: Uses GoPro’s HyperSmooth 5.0. Works even when the gimbal is off.
• Controls: Physical buttons for start/stop, zoom, and mode switching.
• Price: $129 (includes grip, battery, and gimbal).

Where it falls short: Only works with specific GoPros. Less flexible than universal gimbals.

Best for: GoPro loyalists who want seamless integration.

How to Choose the Right Gimbal for Your Action Camera

1. Check Compatibility

Not all gimbals fit all cameras. Before buying, verify:

• Mount type: Most action cameras use a standard 1/4″ thread or GoPro-style clip.
• Weight limit: Your camera + accessories (mic, light) must be under the gimbal’s max payload.
• Brand-specific features: DJI gimbals work best with DJI cameras. Insta360 Flow needs Insta360 cameras.

Tip: Check the gimbal’s manual or website for a compatibility list. When in doubt, buy a universal mount.

2. Prioritize Battery Life

Nothing’s worse than a dead gimbal mid-shoot. Consider:

• Runtime: Aim for 6+ hours. Longer if you’re filming all day.
• Charging: USB-C is faster and more universal than proprietary chargers.
• Swappable batteries: FeiyuTech SCORP Mini lets you carry spares.

Real-world example: A 4-hour battery might seem enough, but if you’re hiking, you’ll lose time charging. A 7-hour battery (like FeiyuTech) gives you a full day.

3. Think About Portability

Action cameras are all about mobility. Ask yourself:

• Will you be traveling with the gimbal? (DJI Osmo Mobile 6 folds down.)
• Do you need a built-in extension rod? (Great for selfie angles.)
• How heavy is it? (Zhiyun Crane M3 is 2.6 lbs—heavy for all-day use.)

Pro tip: Test the gimbal with your camera attached. Some setups become top-heavy and awkward to hold.

4. Evaluate Smart Features

Advanced gimbals offer AI tracking, gesture control, and app integration. But are they worth it?

• ActiveTrack (DJI): Locks onto subjects—ideal for solo vloggers.
• Gesture control: Wave your hand to start recording. Fun, but not essential.
• App features: Look for intuitive editing tools (like DJI Mimo).

Caution: Over-reliance on AI can backfire. Always test tracking in your environment.

Pro Tips for Using Your Gimbal Like a Pro

1. Balance Your Camera Correctly

A poorly balanced gimbal strains the motors and reduces battery life. Here’s how to do it:

1. Loosen the gimbal’s arms.
2. Slide the camera forward/backward until it stays level when released.
3. Tighten the arms. Test by tilting the gimbal—it should move smoothly.

Warning: Never power on the gimbal without balancing first. It can damage the motors.

2. Master the Walking Technique

Even the best gimbal can’t fix bad movement. To walk smoothly:

• Keep your arms close to your body.
• Bend your knees slightly.
• Take small, steady steps.

Example: Film a walking shot in a park. Without these tips, your footage will bob up/down. With them, it’ll look like a dolly shot.

3. Use the Right Mode for the Scene

Most gimbals have multiple modes:

• Follow mode: Camera moves with you. Best for vlogging.
• Lock mode: Camera stays fixed. Great for static shots.
• Pov mode: Camera mimics your movements. Use for action scenes.

Tip: Switch modes mid-shot for dynamic transitions. (Example: Start in follow mode, then lock the camera to pan around a subject.)

4. Maintain Your Gimbal

Extend your gimbal’s lifespan with simple care:

• Wipe it down after dusty/sandy shoots.
• Store it in a padded case.
• Update firmware regularly (via the app).

Real story: A friend’s gimbal died after sand got into the motors during a beach shoot. A $50 case could’ve saved it.

Comparison Table: Key Specs at a Glance

Model	Weight	Max Payload	Battery Life	Price	Best For
DJI Osmo Mobile 6	1.2 lbs	0.6 lbs	6.5 hrs	$159	All-around use
Zhiyun Crane M3	2.6 lbs	1.2 lbs	11.5 hrs	$349	Pro filmmakers
FeiyuTech SCORP Mini	1.1 lbs	0.6 lbs	7 hrs	$129	Budget users
Insta360 Flow	1.3 lbs	0.4 lbs	12 hrs	$169	360 cameras
GoPro Volta	1.4 lbs	0.5 lbs	4 hrs (add-on)	$129	GoPro users

Final Thoughts: Smooth Footage Starts Here

Investing in a gimbal for action cameras is one of the smartest moves you can make. It’s not just about stabilization—it’s about telling your story with clarity and professionalism. Whether you’re chasing waves, hiking peaks, or just capturing everyday moments, a good gimbal ensures your footage looks as epic as the adventure itself.

Remember: the best gimbal is the one that fits your needs. If you’re a beginner, start with the FeiyuTech SCORP Mini. If you’re a pro, the Zhiyun Crane M3 won’t disappoint. And if you’re all about portability, the DJI Osmo Mobile 6 is a no-brainer.

So, what are you waiting for? Grab your camera, pick a gimbal, and go make something amazing. Your smooth, cinematic masterpiece is just a few clicks away.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the best gimbals for action cameras in 2024?

The best gimbals for action cameras include the DJI Osmo Action 3, FeiyuTech WG2, and Zhiyun Transmount Image Transmitter. These models offer 3-axis stabilization, rugged builds, and seamless compatibility with popular action cams like GoPro and DJI. They’re ideal for capturing smooth footage in extreme conditions.

How do I choose the right gimbal for my action camera?

Look for key features like 3-axis stabilization, battery life, weight capacity, and waterproofing. Ensure compatibility with your camera model (e.g., GoPro Hero 12 or DJI Osmo Action 4) and prioritize portability if you’re filming on the go. The best gimbals for action cameras balance performance and durability.

Can I use a smartphone gimbal with my action camera?

Most smartphone gimbals aren’t designed for action cameras due to size and weight differences. Dedicated action camera gimbals provide better balance, stronger motors, and mounts tailored for compact cams. Always check the gimbal’s payload and mounting specs before purchasing.

Are waterproof gimbals worth it for action cameras?

Yes, waterproof gimbals (like the FeiyuTech WG2) are essential for underwater or rainy conditions. They protect your gear while maintaining stabilization, unlike DIY solutions. Pairing a waterproof gimbal with your action cam ensures smooth footage in any environment.

What’s the battery life of the best gimbals for action cameras?

Top models offer 6–12 hours of battery life, with some (like the DJI Osmo Action 3) supporting swappable batteries. Longer runtime is critical for all-day adventures, so check if the gimbal supports external power banks or quick charging.

Do gimbals work with older action camera models?

Most modern gimbals support older action cameras (e.g., GoPro Hero 9 or earlier), but verify mounting compatibility and firmware updates. Some brands offer adapter kits for legacy models, ensuring you can still achieve smooth footage with older gear.