PGYTECH Action Camera Adapter for Smartphone Gimbal Review

The PGYTECH Action Camera Adapter for Smartphone Gimbal delivers seamless compatibility, allowing you to mount GoPro-style action cams onto standard smartphone gimbals with ease. Its lightweight, durable design and quick-swap mechanism ensure smooth transitions between devices, making it a must-have for hybrid shooters seeking versatility without sacrificing stability. Perfect for creators who demand pro-level adaptability in a compact package.

Key Takeaways

• Seamless compatibility: Works flawlessly with most smartphone gimbals and action cameras.
• Quick setup: Attach and detach your camera in seconds with the intuitive design.
• Sturdy build: Durable materials ensure stability during high-motion shoots.
• Enhanced versatility: Expand your gimbal’s use beyond smartphones to action cameras.
• Precise balance: Adjustable design helps achieve perfect weight distribution for smooth footage.
• Travel-friendly: Compact and lightweight for easy portability on outdoor shoots.

Why I Decided to Try the PGYTECH Action Camera Adapter for Smartphone Gimbal

Let’s be real: content creation is a balancing act. Whether you’re filming a mountain bike ride, vlogging your travel adventures, or capturing family moments, you want gear that’s reliable, compact, and versatile. I’ve been in the game for years—using everything from high-end cinema rigs to smartphone gimbals—and one thing keeps tripping me up: how to seamlessly integrate an action camera with my smartphone gimbal.

Enter the PGYTECH Action Camera Adapter for Smartphone Gimbal. At first glance, it seemed like just another small metal bracket. But after months of using it across different scenarios—from beachside vlogs to hiking trips and even indoor product shoots—I’ve realized this little adapter might be one of the most underrated tools in my kit. It bridges a gap that many creators don’t even realize exists: the need to use a GoPro, DJI Osmo Action, or similar action camera on a gimbal originally designed for smartphones. No more awkward handheld shots or unstable mounts. This adapter promises smooth, stabilized footage—without breaking the bank. And after putting it through its paces, I’m ready to share what works, what doesn’t, and whether it’s worth adding to your bag.

What Is the PGYTECH Action Camera Adapter and Who Is It For?

The PGYTECH Action Camera Adapter for Smartphone Gimbal is a compact, precision-engineered mounting solution that lets you attach action cameras (like GoPro Hero, DJI Osmo Action, Insta360) to smartphone gimbals—such as the DJI OM series, Zhiyun Smooth, or Hohem iSteady. Think of it as a universal translator between two popular but incompatible ecosystems.

Who Needs This Adapter?

• Hybrid content creators: You shoot with both your phone and an action cam. Instead of carrying two gimbals, this adapter lets you switch between them on one device.
• Travel vloggers: When backpacking, every ounce counts. Being able to use one gimbal for both devices saves space and weight.
• DIY filmmakers: Need B-roll or POV shots? Mount your action cam on the gimbal for cinematic stabilization without extra gear.
• Tech-savvy parents: Capture kids’ sports events or birthday parties with smooth motion, even if you’re switching between phone and action cam.

I first discovered this need during a weekend hiking trip. I had my iPhone on a DJI OM 5, but wanted a wide-angle POV shot of me climbing a rock face. Hand-holding my GoPro felt shaky and unsafe. That’s when I realized: “Why can’t I just use my gimbal?” Most gimbals have rubberized clamps meant for phones—too narrow for most action cameras. The PGYTECH adapter solves that by expanding the mounting options.

Compatibility at a Glance

The adapter works with:

• Action cameras: GoPro Hero 9/10/11/12, DJI Osmo Action 3/4, Insta360 ONE RS/X3, and most standard GoPro-style mounts.
• Smartphone gimbals: DJI OM 4/5/6, Zhiyun Smooth 4/5/6, Hohem iSteady X/X2/X3, and others with a 1/4″-20 or Arca-Swiss compatible clamp.

One thing to note: it doesn’t work with all gimbals. Some older models lack the necessary mounting flexibility. Always check your gimbal’s specs before buying. But for 90% of modern smartphone gimbals, this adapter fits like a glove.

Design and Build Quality: A Closer Look

When I unboxed the PGYTECH adapter, I was immediately impressed by its build. It’s not flashy—just functional, durable, and thoughtfully designed. Let’s break down what makes it stand out.

Materials and Durability

The body is made from aircraft-grade aluminum alloy, which gives it a solid, premium feel. At just 38 grams, it’s light enough not to throw off your gimbal’s balance, yet strong enough to handle bumps, drops, and outdoor conditions. I’ve taken it on rainy hikes, dusty desert trails, and even accidentally dropped it once (oops). No dents, no scratches. The anodized finish resists corrosion and fingerprints.

The mounting surfaces are lined with soft rubber padding, which protects your camera and prevents slippage. I’ve used cheaper adapters before that scratched my GoPro housing—this one doesn’t. The rubber also dampens minor vibrations, which helps with stabilization.

Mounting Mechanism: Dual-System Flexibility

Here’s where PGYTECH shines. The adapter uses a dual-mount system:

• Top side: A standard GoPro-style quick-release mount (with anti-rotation pins).
• Bottom side: A 1/4″-20 threaded hole and an Arca-Swiss compatible base.

This means you can:

• Attach your action cam directly using the GoPro mount (ideal for quick setups).
• Use a 1/4″-20 screw to secure heavier or non-standard action cams (like the Insta360 ONE RS).
• Slide it into an Arca-Swiss quick-release plate (common on tripods and gimbals) for tool-free mounting.

I love the Arca-Swiss compatibility. My DJI OM 5 has an Arca-style clamp, so I can slide the adapter in and out in seconds. No fiddling with screws or clamps. It’s a game-changer when you’re switching between phone and action cam frequently.

Adjustability and Ergonomics

The adapter is designed to sit flush with the gimbal’s clamp, minimizing added height. This keeps the center of gravity low, which improves stabilization. I tested it with my DJI OM 5 and GoPro Hero 11: after balancing, the gimbal recognized the weight and adjusted smoothly. No motor strain or drift.

One small but smart feature: the GoPro mount has a recessed screw on the side. This lets you use the GoPro’s built-in quick-release lever without interference. I’ve seen other adapters block this lever, forcing you to unscrew everything. PGYTECH thought this through.

Performance in Real-World Use: How Does It Handle?

Specs are great, but what matters is how it performs in the wild. I tested the adapter across five scenarios: walking vlogs, mountain biking, indoor product filming, beachside surfing POV, and low-light night shooting. Here’s what I found.

Walking Vlogs: Smooth and Stable

Scenario: Filming a 10-minute walking tour in a crowded city park with my GoPro Hero 11.

Setup: Attached the adapter to my DJI OM 5, mounted the GoPro, balanced the gimbal, and started recording.

Result: The footage was incredibly smooth. Even with uneven pavement and sudden turns, the gimbal kept the horizon level. The adapter didn’t wobble or shift. One tip: make sure the GoPro’s battery door is fully closed—if it’s slightly open, the extra weight on one side can cause minor imbalance.

Mountain Biking: Rugged and Reliable

Scenario: Attaching the adapter to a Zhiyun Smooth 5, mounting my DJI Osmo Action 4, and filming a downhill trail.

Challenge: Vibrations from rough terrain can stress the mount.

Result: The aluminum body absorbed shocks well. No loosening or rattling. I used the 1/4″-20 screw to double-lock the camera, which gave extra peace of mind. After 30 minutes of intense riding, the adapter stayed put. The footage? Crisp, stable, and free of the “jello effect” you get with handheld action cams.

Indoor Product Filming: Precision and Control

Scenario: Shooting a 4K product demo for a client using my Insta360 ONE RS on a Hohem iSteady X3.

Need: Smooth pan, tilt, and tracking shots.

Result: The adapter allowed me to use the gimbal’s motion control features (like gesture control and object tracking) with the action cam. I could smoothly follow the product as it moved across a table. The rubber padding prevented any scratches on the Insta360’s housing. Pro tip: use the gimbal’s “follow mode” for slow, cinematic movements—it works flawlessly with the adapter.

Beachside POV: Weather Resistance

Scenario: Filming a surfer’s POV shot with my GoPro Hero 12 on a sandy, windy beach.

Concern: Sand and moisture could damage the adapter.

Result: After the shoot, I rinsed the adapter with fresh water. No corrosion. The rubber padding didn’t trap sand, and the threads stayed smooth. One caveat: avoid submerging the adapter (it’s not waterproof). But for splashes and sand, it’s fine.

Low-Light Night Shooting: Stability Over Speed

Scenario: Capturing a city skyline at dusk with my DJI Osmo Action 4.

Challenge: Longer exposures need ultra-steady motion.

Result: The adapter’s low profile helped maintain balance. I used a slower pan speed (via the gimbal’s app) to avoid motion blur. The footage was clean, with no jitters. However, the GoPro’s night mode isn’t as strong as a phone’s, so the adapter can’t fix sensor limitations—but it ensures the motion is stable.

Pros and Cons: What Works, What Doesn’t

After months of use, here’s my honest take. The PGYTECH Action Camera Adapter for Smartphone Gimbal is a solid tool—but it’s not perfect. Let’s weigh the good and the not-so-good.

The Pros

• Universal compatibility: Works with most action cams and smartphone gimbals. No need for multiple adapters.
• Premium build: Aluminum body, rubber padding, and Arca-Swiss base feel high-end. Survived drops and rough use.
• Quick setup: Slide into Arca clamp or use 1/4″-20 screw. No tools needed for most gimbals.
• Low profile: Doesn’t add much height or weight, so balancing is easy.
• Anti-slip design: Rubber grips keep the camera secure, even during fast motion.
• Versatile mounting: Use GoPro mount, 1/4″-20 screw, or Arca base—choose what works best.

The Cons

• Not for all gimbals: Older models without Arca or 1/4″-20 clamps won’t work. Check compatibility first.
• No built-in leveling: Unlike some gimbal clamps, it doesn’t have a bubble level. You’ll need to rely on your gimbal’s app.
• Price point: At around $35–$40, it’s pricier than basic GoPro mounts. But you’re paying for versatility and durability.
• No vertical mode: If you want to film in portrait (for TikTok/Reels), you’ll need an additional L-bracket. The adapter doesn’t rotate.
• Rubber wear: After 6+ months of heavy use, the padding shows minor wear. Not a dealbreaker, but worth noting.

When It’s Not the Right Tool

This adapter isn’t for everyone. If:

• You only use action cams and never switch to a phone, a dedicated action cam gimbal might be better.
• You need ultra-fast setups (like run-and-gun journalism), the extra step of attaching the adapter might slow you down.
• You’re on a tight budget, there are cheaper alternatives—but they often lack durability and compatibility.

But if you’re a hybrid creator, traveler, or DIY filmmaker who values flexibility, this adapter is a no-brainer.

Data Table: Key Specifications and Performance Metrics

Feature	Specification	Performance Note
Material	Aircraft-grade aluminum alloy, rubber padding	Lightweight (38g), durable, scratch-resistant
Mount Types	GoPro quick-release, 1/4″-20 screw, Arca-Swiss base	Compatible with 90% of action cams and modern gimbals
Weight	38 grams	Does not disrupt gimbal balance
Dimensions	52mm x 35mm x 22mm	Low profile, fits in small bags
Max Camera Weight	300g (tested with GoPro Hero 12 + media mod)	Supports most action cams, including accessories
Stabilization Test	DJI OM 5, Zhiyun Smooth 5, Hohem iSteady X3	Smooth motion in walking, biking, and panning shots
Weather Resistance	Splash-proof (not waterproof)	Rinsed clean after beach use; no corrosion
Price Range	$35–$40	Mid-range; justified by build and versatility

Final Thoughts: Is the PGYTECH Adapter Worth It?

After using the PGYTECH Action Camera Adapter for Smartphone Gimbal extensively, I can confidently say: yes, it’s worth every penny—for the right person. It’s not a magic bullet, but it solves a very real problem for hybrid creators. Instead of carrying two gimbals or settling for shaky handheld footage, I can now use one tool for both my phone and action cam. That’s freedom.

The build quality is excellent. The aluminum body feels like it’ll last years. The rubber padding protects my gear. And the Arca-Swiss compatibility? Absolute game-changer. I can swap between my iPhone and GoPro in under 10 seconds. No screws, no hassle.

That said, it’s not for everyone. If you only shoot with one device, save your money. But if you’re like me—someone who jumps between formats depending on the scene—this adapter is a smart investment. It’s made my workflow faster, my footage smoother, and my bag lighter.

One last tip: pair it with a GoPro extension arm for creative angles (like low-angle tracking shots), or a magnetic quick-release plate for even faster swaps. And always double-check your gimbal’s compatibility before buying.

In a world where content is king, tools that simplify your process are gold. The PGYTECH adapter isn’t flashy. It doesn’t have RGB lights or Bluetooth. But it works—consistently, reliably, and elegantly. And sometimes, that’s all you need.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the PGYTECH Action Camera Adapter for Smartphone Gimbal used for?

The PGYTECH Action Camera Adapter allows you to mount an action camera (like a GoPro) onto a smartphone gimbal, enabling stabilized footage from both devices simultaneously. It’s ideal for vloggers and creators who want to switch between wide-angle and close-up shots seamlessly.

Is the PGYTECH adapter compatible with all smartphone gimbals?

This adapter is designed to fit most standard smartphone gimbals with a 1/4″-20 threaded mount or clamp system. However, always check your gimbal’s specifications to ensure compatibility before purchasing.

Can I use the PGYTECH Action Camera Adapter while charging my smartphone?

Yes, the adapter’s open design allows access to your smartphone’s charging port, so you can power your device while filming. This is especially useful for long recording sessions or time-lapses.

Does the adapter add noticeable weight or bulk to my gimbal setup?

Made from lightweight aluminum, the PGYTECH adapter adds minimal weight and bulk, ensuring balanced performance. Its compact design maintains the gimbal’s portability without compromising stability.

How secure is the PGYTECH adapter for action cameras during motion?

The adapter features a robust locking mechanism and rubber padding to keep your action camera firmly in place, even during fast movements. It reliably handles bumps and vibrations during outdoor shoots.

Can I adjust the angle of my action camera with this adapter?

Yes, the PGYTECH Action Camera Adapter offers adjustable tilt angles, letting you frame shots precisely. The flexible positioning enhances creative flexibility for dynamic angles.