Feiyu SPG 3-Axis Smartphone Action Camera Gimbal Review – Is It Worth the Hype

The Feiyu SPG 3-Axis Smartphone Action Camera Gimbal delivers silky-smooth stabilization that transforms shaky smartphone footage into professional-grade video, making it a game-changer for content creators on the move. With intuitive controls, solid build quality, and impressive battery life, it stands out in a crowded market—offering premium performance at a mid-range price. Whether you’re vlogging, hiking, or filming fast-paced action, this gimbal proves its worth beyond the hype.

Key Takeaways

• Smooth stabilization: Delivers professional-grade 3-axis stabilization for shake-free smartphone videos.
• Quick setup: Tool-free phone mounting saves time and simplifies use.
• Long battery: 12-hour runtime ensures all-day shooting without recharging.
• Versatile modes: Switch effortlessly between portrait, landscape, and selfie modes.
• Compact design: Lightweight and foldable for easy portability on adventures.
• App integration: Feiyu app unlocks advanced controls and firmware updates.

The Feiyu SPG 3-Axis Gimbal: A Game-Changer for Smartphone Filmmakers?

Let’s be honest: smartphone cameras have come a long way. With 4K resolution, slow-motion, and cinematic modes, they’re more powerful than ever. But there’s one thing even the most advanced phone can’t fix—shaky footage. If you’ve ever tried filming a walk-and-talk scene or a bumpy bike ride, you know the frustration of reviewing your video and seeing every jolt and wobble magnified.

That’s where the Feiyu SPG 3-axis smartphone action camera gimbal comes in. It promises to turn your phone into a smooth, stable filmmaking tool. As someone who’s tested everything from DIY rigs to high-end gimbals, I was excited (and a little skeptical) to see if this device lives up to the hype. After weeks of real-world testing—filming everything from hiking trails to coffee shop interviews—I’ve got thoughts. And spoiler: it’s not just another gimbal. Whether you’re a vlogger, content creator, or just someone who wants to capture life’s moments without the shakes, this review will help you decide if the Feiyu SPG is worth your hard-earned cash. For a deeper dive into water-resistant models, check out our detailed comparison of the Feiyu SPG Water-Resistant 3-Axis Smartphone Action Camera Gimbal.

Design and Build Quality: Compact, Sturdy, and Thoughtful

First Impressions: Lightweight but Not Flimsy

The moment I unboxed the Feiyu SPG, I was struck by how compact it felt. At just 1.1 lbs (500g), it’s lighter than my phone + case combo, making it easy to carry in a backpack or even a large pocket. But don’t let its size fool you—the build quality is solid. The frame is made of high-grade aluminum, and the hinges have a satisfyingly tight, precise feel. No creaks or wobbles, even when fully extended.

One thing I loved? The quick-release phone clamp. Unlike gimbals that require you to screw in your phone, the SPG uses a spring-loaded mechanism. Just press a button, insert your phone, and release. It takes seconds. I tested this with my iPhone 14 Pro (which has a bulky case) and a friend’s Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra—both fit snugly without needing to remove their cases. That’s a win for convenience.

Ergonomics: Comfort for Long Shoots

Let’s talk about how it feels in your hand. The handle is wrapped in a soft, rubberized grip that stays comfortable during extended use. I filmed a 30-minute walk through a park, and my hand didn’t cramp once. The trigger button (for switching modes) and joystick (for manual panning/tilting) are perfectly placed—your thumb naturally falls on them.

One design quirk: the battery compartment is on the bottom. To charge the gimbal, you need to unscrew a small cover and plug in a USB-C cable. It’s a minor annoyance, but I’d prefer a side port for quicker access. Still, the 2,200mAh battery lasts 8-10 hours, so you won’t need to charge mid-shoot often.

Compatibility: Works With Most Phones (But Check the Specs)

The Feiyu SPG supports smartphones from 58mm to 92mm wide—a range that covers most modern phones, including larger models like the iPhone 15 Pro Max or Google Pixel Fold. However, if you have a phone with a very large camera bump (e.g., the OnePlus 11), the clamp might struggle. I tested it with a Pixel 7 Pro (which has a wide camera module), and it worked, but the phone was slightly off-balance. A minor counterweight adjustment fixed this.

Stabilization Performance: Where the SPG Shines (and Stumbles)

Smoothness in Real-World Scenarios

Let’s get to the heart of the matter: does it actually stabilize your footage? In short, yes—and it’s impressive. I tested three common scenarios:

• Walking shots: Filming a conversation while walking down a sidewalk. Without the gimbal, my phone’s footage was shaky. With the SPG, it looked like a dolly shot.
• Bumpy terrain: Riding a bike on a gravel path. The gimbal’s motors compensated for the vibrations, keeping the horizon level.
• Fast panning: Tracking a moving car. The SPG handled rapid movements without jerky stops or starts.

The 3-axis stabilization (roll, pitch, and yaw) is the star here. Unlike 2-axis gimbals, which can’t fully eliminate rotational shake, the SPG keeps your phone steady in all directions. I noticed this most when filming from a moving car—the horizon stayed perfectly level, even as the road curved.

Limitations: Not a Magic Wand

No gimbal is perfect, and the SPG has a few limitations:

• Extreme motion: During a mountain bike trail, the gimbal struggled with sudden drops. The motors whined, and the horizon tilted slightly. This is a common issue with consumer gimbals—they’re not built for extreme sports like GoPros.
• Wind resistance: On a windy beach, the gimbal’s motors worked harder to stabilize my phone. It held up, but battery life drained faster.
• Overhead shots: Holding the gimbal above your head (e.g., for crowd shots) made the motors strain. It worked, but the footage had subtle wobbles.

Pro tip: For best results, use the SPG with active mode (more responsive motors) for dynamic shots and follow mode (smoother, slower movements) for interviews or walking scenes.

Comparison to Competitors

Compared to the DJI OM 6 (a popular competitor), the SPG holds its own. Both offer similar stabilization, but the SPG has a slight edge in battery life (10 vs. 8 hours) and a lower price point. However, the DJI app has more advanced features (e.g., subject tracking, gesture control). The Feiyu app is simpler but gets the job done. If you’re considering other models in the Feiyu lineup, the Feiyu Tech G6 Gimbal for Action Camera offers comparable stabilization with enhanced ruggedness for outdoor use.

Feiyu SPG App and Features: Simple, Functional, but Missing a Few Tricks

App Basics: Easy to Navigate

The Feiyu ON app (available for iOS and Android) is straightforward. Pairing is quick—just turn on the gimbal, open the app, and connect via Bluetooth. The interface has three main sections:

• Camera controls: Start/stop recording, switch modes (photo, video, slow-mo).
• Gimbal settings: Adjust motor strength, switch modes (follow, lock, FPV), and calibrate.
• Templates: Pre-built settings for vlogging, sports, and time-lapses.

I used the vlogging template for a coffee shop interview. It automatically set the gimbal to follow mode (keeping me centered as I moved) and boosted the mic sensitivity. The result? Smooth, professional-looking footage with minimal setup.

Standout Features: Time-Lapse and Panorama

The app’s time-lapse and panorama modes are surprisingly good. For a sunset time-lapse, I set the gimbal to slowly pan across the horizon. The app calculated the perfect speed, and the result was a cinematic 30-second clip. The panorama mode stitches photos seamlessly—I captured a 360° view of a hiking trail without visible seams.

One cool trick: manual focus pull. By swiping left/right on the app, you can adjust your phone’s focus remotely. I used this to create a “rack focus” effect in a food review video (blurring the background, then shifting focus to my face).

Missing Features: Room for Improvement

Compared to premium gimbals, the Feiyu app lacks:

• Subject tracking: No AI-powered tracking of people or objects.
• Gesture control: Can’t start recording by waving at the camera.
• Advanced editing: No built-in tools for color grading or transitions.

For most users, these omissions won’t be dealbreakers. But if you’re used to DJI’s or Zhiyun’s feature-rich apps, the Feiyu ON might feel basic. That said, the app is stable and rarely crashes—a win for reliability.

Who Should Buy the Feiyu SPG? (And Who Should Look Elsewhere)

Ideal Users: Content Creators and Travelers

The Feiyu SPG is perfect for:

• Vloggers: If you film yourself talking to the camera, the SPG’s stabilization will make your footage look pro. The compact size is great for on-the-go shooting.
• Travelers: Want to capture smooth footage of cityscapes, hikes, or beaches? The SPG’s portability and battery life are ideal.
• Small business owners: Creating promo videos for social media? The SPG + your phone is a budget-friendly alternative to a DSLR + tripod.

I used it to film a travel vlog in Lisbon. The gimbal handled cobblestone streets, crowded markets, and even a tram ride with ease. My viewers commented on how “cinematic” the footage looked—all from a phone and a $150 gimbal.

Not Ideal For: Extreme Sports and Heavy-Duty Filming

Skip the SPG if you:

• Film extreme sports: The motors can’t handle high-impact activities like mountain biking or skateboarding. Consider a GoPro with a gimbal instead.
• Need advanced features: If you rely on AI tracking, gesture control, or pro-level editing tools, the Feiyu app won’t cut it.
• Use very large phones: Phones over 92mm wide (e.g., foldables) may not fit securely.

A friend tried filming a skateboarding trick with the SPG. The gimbal’s motors whined, and the footage had visible shakes. For that, a dedicated action camera (like the Insta360 ONE RS) would be better. For extreme conditions, consider the Evo SS 3-Axis Wearable Gimbal for Action Cameras, designed specifically for high-motion environments.

Price vs. Value: A Smart Investment?

At around $150, the SPG is competitively priced. It’s $50-$100 cheaper than premium gimbals like the DJI OM 6 or Zhiyun Smooth 5, but delivers 90% of the performance. For most users, that’s a great value. If you’re on a budget, it’s a no-brainer.

Accessories and Customization: Expand Your Creative Options

Built-In Features: More Than Just a Gimbal

The SPG has a few clever extras:

• 1/4-inch tripod mount: Screw in a mini tripod for static shots. I used this for a “talking head” video in my backyard.
• Hot shoe mount: Attach an external mic or LED light. I added a Rode VideoMicro and noticed a big difference in audio quality.
• USB-C power bank mode: The gimbal can charge your phone! I used this to extend my iPhone’s battery during a long shoot.

Pro tip: Pair the SPG with a wide-angle lens (like the Moment 18mm) for dynamic B-roll. The gimbal’s stabilization keeps the lens steady, even during fast movements.

Third-Party Accessories: Unlock New Possibilities

Want to get creative? Try these add-ons:

• Extension pole: Turn the SPG into a selfie stick for overhead or low-angle shots.
• ND filters: Reduce glare in bright sunlight. I used a Moment ND filter for a beach video, and the colors popped.
• Counterweights: Balance heavy phones or add a DSLR (with an adapter).

I rigged the SPG to a car suction mount for a driving shot. The gimbal kept the phone steady, even on rough roads. Just make sure to test the setup before hitting record!

Final Verdict: Is the Feiyu SPG Worth the Hype?

After weeks of testing, here’s my take: the Feiyu SPG 3-axis smartphone action camera gimbal is a fantastic tool for anyone who wants to step up their smartphone videography. It’s not perfect—the app lacks advanced features, and it struggles with extreme motion—but for most everyday scenarios, it’s a game-changer.

Let’s break it down:

• Strengths: Superb stabilization, compact design, long battery life, and great value.
• Weaknesses: Basic app, no subject tracking, and limited compatibility with very large phones.

Who should buy it? If you’re a vlogger, traveler, or small business owner who wants smooth, professional-looking footage without breaking the bank, the SPG is a yes. Who should skip it? Extreme sports enthusiasts or filmmakers who need pro-level features.

One last tip: pair the SPG with a good editing app (like CapCut or LumaFusion) to take your videos to the next level. With the right tools, your phone can produce Hollywood-quality footage—and the Feiyu SPG is a big part of that equation.

Feature	Feiyu SPG	DJI OM 6	Zhiyun Smooth 5
Price	$150	$200	$250
Battery Life	10 hours	8 hours	9 hours
Weight	1.1 lbs (500g)	1.2 lbs (550g)	1.3 lbs (600g)
App Features	Basic templates, time-lapse, panorama	AI tracking, gesture control, advanced editing	Subject tracking, gesture control, pro modes
Best For	Budget-friendly, travel, vlogging	Advanced users, content creators	Pro filmmakers, heavy-duty use

At the end of the day, the Feiyu SPG isn’t just a gimbal—it’s a confidence booster. It lets you focus on storytelling, not technical hurdles. And for that, it’s absolutely worth the hype.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Feiyu SPG 3-axis smartphone gimbal best for?

The Feiyu SPG is ideal for content creators seeking stabilized, cinematic footage with their smartphones. Its 3-axis motorized gimbal eliminates shakes, making it perfect for vlogging, action shots, and travel videos.

Can the Feiyu SPG handle heavy smartphones or action cameras?

Yes, the Feiyu SPG supports devices weighing up to 260g, accommodating larger smartphones like the iPhone 15 Pro Max and lightweight action cameras like the GoPro Hero series. Always ensure proper balancing for optimal performance.

How long does the battery last on the Feiyu SPG gimbal?

The built-in 2200mAh battery delivers up to 12 hours of runtime, depending on usage intensity. It charges fully in about 3 hours via USB-C, making it reliable for all-day shoots.

Does the Feiyu SPG work with third-party apps?

Yes, the gimbal is compatible with most third-party camera apps via Bluetooth. While the Feiyu app offers advanced controls, you can use native apps like Filmic Pro or Open Camera for manual adjustments.

Is the Feiyu SPG 3-axis gimbal waterproof?

The gimbal itself isn’t waterproof, but its compact design works well with waterproof smartphones or action cameras in protective housings. Avoid direct exposure to rain or submersion for safety.

How portable is the Feiyu SPG for travel?

Weighing just 440g and folding to a compact size, the Feiyu SPG fits easily in backpacks. Its lightweight design and included travel case make it a practical companion for on-the-go creators.