Best Gimbal for Action Camera and Smartphone in 2024

The best gimbal for action cameras and smartphones in 2024 delivers unmatched stabilization, seamless compatibility, and rugged portability for creators on the move. Whether you’re filming high-octane adventures or cinematic vlogs, top models like the DJI Osmo Mobile 6 and Feiyu SCORP-Mini combine intuitive controls, extended battery life, and AI-powered tracking to keep your footage buttery smooth. Choose a dual-use gimbal that adapts instantly between devices—without sacrificing performance or durability.

Key Takeaways

• Choose dual compatibility: Pick a gimbal that supports both action cameras and smartphones for versatility.
• Prioritize battery life: Opt for models with 10+ hours to avoid mid-shoot power issues.
• Check payload capacity: Ensure it handles your device’s weight, including mounts and accessories.
• Look for quick release: Save time with tool-free mounting systems for fast transitions.
• Test stabilization modes: Select gimbals with multiple modes for dynamic shooting scenarios.
• Verify app integration: Use companion apps for firmware updates and advanced controls.

The Magic of Smooth Footage: Why You Need a Gimbal in 2024

Imagine this: You’re hiking up a mountain trail, capturing the breathtaking sunrise. Your heart races with excitement, but when you check the footage later, it’s jittery, shaky, and almost unwatchable. Sound familiar? We’ve all been there. Whether you’re an adrenaline junkie with a GoPro or a vlogger filming with your smartphone, shaky hands can turn a cinematic moment into a nauseating mess. That’s where a gimbal for action camera and smartphone comes in—a game-changer that transforms shaky clips into buttery-smooth masterpieces.

But here’s the catch: Not all gimbals are created equal. Some are bulky, others too finicky, and many don’t work well with both action cameras and smartphones. In 2024, the market is flooded with options, making it harder than ever to pick the right one. That’s why we’ve tested, compared, and broken down the best gimbals for your gear. Whether you’re a weekend adventurer, a content creator, or just someone who wants to film their kids’ soccer games without making viewers dizzy, this guide is for you. No fluff, no hype—just real talk about what works, what doesn’t, and how to find the perfect gimbal for your needs.

Why a Gimbal is a Must-Have for Action Cameras and Smartphones

Stability in Motion

Let’s face it: Human hands are not steady, especially when you’re moving. Running, biking, skiing, or even walking can introduce micro-shakes that ruin your footage. A gimbal uses motorized stabilization to counteract these movements. Think of it like a tiny robot arm that constantly adjusts your camera to keep it level. For action cameras like the GoPro Hero 12 or DJI Action 4, this means smooth POV shots while skydiving or surfing. For smartphones, it’s the difference between a shaky TikTok video and a polished YouTube vlog.

Real-world example: I tested a gimbal while biking down a rocky trail. Without it, the footage looked like a horror movie. With it, the camera stayed level, capturing the scenery without the nausea. That’s the power of stabilization.

Versatility for Creators

One of the biggest perks of modern gimbals is their ability to work with both action cameras and smartphones. No need to buy two separate devices. For instance, the DJI OM 6 works seamlessly with an iPhone 15 Pro Max and a DJI Osmo Action 3. This versatility is a lifesaver for creators who switch between gear. Need a wide-angle shot? Use your phone. Want a rugged, mount-anywhere option? Grab your action cam. The gimbal adjusts to both, saving you time and money.

Smart Features That Make Life Easier

Today’s gimbals aren’t just mechanical arms—they’re smart. Many come with features like:

• Object tracking: The gimbal follows your face or a moving subject (great for solo vloggers).
• Gesture control: Raise your hand to start recording (no more frantic button presses).
• Auto-rotation: Switch between portrait and landscape modes with a tap (perfect for social media).
• Built-in fill light: Some gimbals, like the Hohem iSteady MT2, have a detachable LED light for low-light filming.

These features aren’t gimmicks. They solve real problems, like trying to film a cooking tutorial in a dim kitchen or capturing a fast-moving pet.

Top 5 Gimbals for Action Cameras and Smartphones in 2024

1. DJI OM 6 – The All-Rounder

The DJI OM 6 is the gold standard for smartphone gimbals, but it also plays nice with action cameras via an adapter. Here’s what makes it stand out:

• Smoothness: 3-axis stabilization handles everything from walking to sprinting.
• Quick-release system: Swap between phone and action cam in seconds.
• ActiveTrack 5.0: Tracks subjects with near-perfect accuracy.
• Foldable design: Fits in a backpack or large pocket.

Downside: The battery life (6.5 hours) is decent but not class-leading. Also, the adapter for action cameras is sold separately.

2. Zhiyun Smooth 5S – The Budget-Friendly Pro

If you’re on a budget but don’t want to sacrifice quality, the Zhiyun Smooth 5S is a steal. Priced under $200, it offers:

• Dual phone clamp: Works with phones up to 300g (even with a case).
• AI tracking: Tracks faces and objects better than most mid-range gimbals.
• Built-in extension rod: Great for selfies or low-angle shots.

Downside: The motors can struggle with heavier phones (like the iPhone 15 Pro Max with a battery case). Also, the app can be glitchy on older Android devices.

3. Hohem iSteady MT2 – The Action Cam Specialist

This gimbal is a beast for action cameras. It supports GoPro, DJI, and Insta360 models, plus smartphones up to 280g. Highlights include:

• 6-axis stabilization: Extra stability for extreme sports.
• Detachable fill light: A 1000-lumen LED light for night shoots.
• Quick-swap battery: Swap batteries mid-shoot without powering down.

Downside: The fill light drains the battery fast. Also, the phone clamp isn’t as secure as DJI’s.

4. Insta360 Flow – The Smartphone-First Contender

Insta360’s entry into the gimbal market is impressive. The Flow is designed for smartphones but works with Insta360 action cameras. Key features:

• AI-powered tracking: Tracks subjects even when they’re off-screen.
• Built-in tripod: Flip-out legs for hands-free filming.
• Voice control: Say “Hey Insta360” to start recording.

Downside: Limited compatibility with non-Insta360 action cameras. Also, the app is iOS-only at launch.

5. FeiyuTech Scorp Mini – The Compact Powerhouse

For travelers and minimalists, the Scorp Mini packs a punch in a tiny package. It works with smartphones and action cameras, and:

• Foldable design: Fits in a jeans pocket.
• Side handle: Improves grip for long filming sessions.
• Quick mode switch: Toggle between POV and selfie modes instantly.

Downside: The battery life (5 hours) is on the lower end. Also, the app is less polished than DJI’s.

How to Choose the Right Gimbal for Your Needs

Step 1: Match the Gimbal to Your Gear

Not all gimbals support all devices. Here’s what to check:

• Weight limit: Your phone or action cam must be within the gimbal’s weight range. For example, the DJI OM 6 supports phones up to 290g.
• Clamp size: Ensure your phone (with case) fits the clamp. Some gimbals, like the Zhiyun Smooth 5S, have wider clamps.
• Adapter compatibility: If you use an action cam, check if the gimbal needs a separate adapter (like the OM 6).

Pro tip: Weigh your phone with its case. A naked iPhone 15 Pro Max weighs 221g, but with a case, it can hit 250g+.

Step 2: Prioritize Features Over Specs

Specs like “3-axis stabilization” sound impressive, but what matters is real-world performance. Ask yourself:

• Do you need object tracking? If you film alone, this is a must.
• Will you use the gimbal in low light? A built-in fill light (like on the Hohem MT2) is handy.
• Do you travel often? A foldable, lightweight gimbal (like the FeiyuTech Scorp Mini) is ideal.
• Are you a social media creator? Portrait/landscape switching saves time.

Step 3: Test the App

The gimbal’s app is just as important as the hardware. A buggy app can ruin your experience. Look for:

• Stable connection: The gimbal should pair with your phone quickly.
• Intuitive controls: Adjusting settings should be easy, not a puzzle.
• Regular updates: Brands like DJI and Zhiyun update their apps frequently.

Real-world test: I once bought a gimbal with a terrible app. It took 3 minutes to pair, and the tracking kept glitching. Save yourself the frustration—check app reviews before buying.

Common Gimbal Mistakes (And How to Avoid Them)

Overloading the Gimbal

This is a rookie mistake. Adding a heavy case, external mic, or lens to your phone can exceed the gimbal’s weight limit. The result? The motors struggle, the gimbal overheats, and your footage becomes jittery. Solution: Remove the case or use lightweight accessories. For example, a MagSafe case weighs ~15g, while a rugged case can weigh 50g+.

Ignoring Calibration

Gimbals need calibration to work properly. Skipping this step leads to drifting or shaky footage. Most gimbals have a calibration mode in the app. Tip: Calibrate on a flat surface before every shoot. If you’re filming outdoors, do it on a rock or bench—not on your hand.

Forgetting Battery Life

Nothing ruins a shoot like a dead gimbal. Here’s how to avoid it:

• Check the battery life specs. Most gimbals last 5-8 hours.
• Carry spare batteries (if the gimbal supports them, like the Hohem MT2).
• Use a power bank to recharge on the go.

Pro tip: Turn off the gimbal between shots to save battery. The motors use power even when idle.

Using the Wrong Mode

Gimbals have different modes (e.g., POV, follow, lock). Using the wrong one can make your footage look unnatural. For example:

• POV mode: The gimbal moves with your hand (good for vlogs).
• Follow mode: The gimbal tracks your movement but stays level (great for walking shots).
• Lock mode: The gimbal stays fixed in one direction (ideal for static scenes).

Experiment with modes before your shoot. I once used lock mode while biking, and the footage looked like a drone shot—not what I wanted!

Gimbal Accessories That Level Up Your Filming

Extension Rods and Tripods

Most gimbals have a 1/4-inch thread for attaching accessories. An extension rod (like the one on the Zhiyun Smooth 5S) lets you film from higher angles. A mini tripod is perfect for hands-free shots. Pro tip: Use a flexible tripod (like the Joby GorillaPod) to mount your gimbal on uneven surfaces.

External Microphones

Great footage needs great audio. A lavalier mic (like the Rode Wireless GO II) clips to your shirt for clear voice recording. For action cams, a shotgun mic (like the DJI Mic 2) mounts on the gimbal. Warning: Heavy mics can overload the gimbal. Test before buying.

Carrying Cases

A padded case protects your gimbal during travel. Look for cases with compartments for batteries and accessories. The DJI OM 6 comes with a nice case, but third-party options (like the Peak Design Travel Case) are more versatile.

Lens Filters

For action cams, ND filters (like the PolarPro) help control exposure in bright light. For smartphones, a polarizing filter reduces glare. Attach filters directly to your phone or action cam—not the gimbal.

Data Comparison: Top Gimbals at a Glance

Model	Weight (g)	Battery Life (hrs)	Max Payload (g)	Key Feature	Price
DJI OM 6	309	6.5	290	ActiveTrack 5.0	$159
Zhiyun Smooth 5S	330	7	300	AI tracking	$189
Hohem iSteady MT2	400	6	280	Detachable fill light	$179
Insta360 Flow	360	10	280	Voice control	$159
FeiyuTech Scorp Mini	280	5	250	Foldable design	$129

Final Thoughts: Your Gimbal, Your Rules

Choosing the best gimbal for action camera and smartphone in 2024 isn’t about finding the “best” model—it’s about finding the right one for you. If you’re a vlogger, the DJI OM 6’s tracking might be worth the extra cost. If you’re a budget-conscious creator, the Zhiyun Smooth 5S delivers pro features at half the price. And if you’re an adventurer, the Hohem MT2’s rugged design and fill light are lifesavers.

Remember: A gimbal is a tool, not a magic wand. It won’t fix bad lighting or boring content, but it will make your footage watchable. Start small, test your gear, and invest in accessories as you grow. And most importantly—have fun! Filming should be about capturing moments, not stressing over specs. Whether you’re hiking a mountain or filming your cat’s antics, a good gimbal lets you focus on the story, not the shake.

Now go out there, grab your camera, and make something amazing. Your audience (and your future self) will thank you.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best gimbal for action camera and smartphone in 2024?

The best gimbal for action cameras and smartphones in 2024 combines versatility, portability, and advanced stabilization. Top picks include the DJI OM 6 for smartphones and the FeiyuTech Scorp 2 for hybrid use, offering smooth performance for both devices.

Can I use one gimbal for both my action camera and smartphone?

Yes, many modern gimbals are designed with adjustable mounts and modular arms to support both action cameras (like GoPro) and smartphones. Look for models with universal clamps and weight-balancing features, such as the Zhiyun Smooth 5S, for seamless dual-device use.

How does a gimbal improve my action camera footage?

A gimbal stabilizes your action camera to eliminate shaky footage, even during high-motion activities like biking or hiking. It ensures buttery-smooth videos, making your content more professional and enjoyable to watch.

Are gimbals waterproof for use with action cameras?

Most gimbals aren’t fully waterproof, but some (like the DJI Pocket 3 combo) offer water-resistant designs. For extreme conditions, pair your gimbal with a waterproof action camera housing to protect both devices.

What features should I look for in a gimbal for action camera and smartphone?

Prioritize lightweight design, quick-swap mounts, long battery life, and intuitive controls. Advanced features like AI tracking, gesture control, and app integration (e.g., Zhiyun’s app) enhance usability for both devices.

How do I balance my smartphone or action camera on a gimbal?

Loosen the gimbal’s arm, position your device so it stays level without power, then tighten the clamp. Proper balancing reduces motor strain and ensures optimal stabilization—most gimbals have guides or apps to assist this process.