Why it’s a pick: A gimbal is an essential tool for capturing smooth, professional-looking video, eliminating the shaky, unpolished feel that often comes with handheld footage. Whether you’re walking, running, hiking, or filming an action-packed moment, a gimbal mechanically stabilizes your phone to counter unwanted movement.
Many phone gimbals also offer advanced tracking features through companion apps, allowing them to automatically follow people, pets, and even objects. This means you can achieve dynamic, cinematic shots that look like they were captured with high-end equipment—without the hefty price tag.
Among the gimbals we tested, the Insta360 Flow 2 Pro stood out as the easiest to use, with the best app support. It consistently delivered the smoothest video stabilization and the most reliable automatic tracking, keeping subjects centered even when both they and the camera were in motion. Its compact, lightweight design makes it convenient for travel, while additional features like a built-in selfie stick and tripod add versatility. Whether you’re a budding filmmaker or just looking for an affordable way to level up your video quality, this gimbal is the best option available.
Everything we recommend
Insta360 Flow 2 Pro
The easiest-to-use gimbal
This gimbal’s smart design, smooth stabilization, and powerful app make it the best choice for most users.
The Insta360 Flow 2 Pro is a compact yet powerful phone gimbal that balances ease of use with a robust set of features. Setting it up is quick and intuitive, making it accessible even for beginners. Despite its small size, it offers an impressive range of motion, ensuring smooth and stable footage whether you’re walking, running, or capturing dynamic tracking shots.
One of its standout features is the built-in selfie stick, which extends over 8 inches, allowing for more versatile shooting angles, including wide group shots or vlogging. It also includes a foldable tripod, so you can set your phone on a flat surface for hands-free recording or time-lapse shots.
The Flow 2 Pro’s 1,100 mAh battery provides ample power for all-day recording, eliminating the worry of running out of juice mid-shoot. Plus, with its USB-C charging port, the gimbal can double as a portable battery pack, letting you charge your phone or other devices while on the go. Whether you’re a content creator, vlogger, or casual user looking to enhance video quality, this gimbal is a reliable and feature-rich choice.
The Insta360 app, available for both iOS and Android, enhances the Flow 2 Pro’s usability with built-in tutorials that walk you through its features and provide examples of the creative shots you can achieve. Beyond capturing smooth footage, the app offers an extensive suite of editing tools, allowing you to trim, sequence, and enhance your videos before sharing them on social media.
One of the standout advantages of the Flow 2 Pro is its compatibility with Apple DockKit. This means it can track subjects not only within the Insta360 app but also in Apple’s native camera app and select third-party iOS apps. This integration expands its functionality, making it even more versatile for iPhone users.
Despite being slightly smaller than competitors like the Zhiyun Smooth Q4 and Hohem iSteady V3, the Flow 2 Pro doesn’t compromise on performance. Its range of motion is just as good—if not better—than those larger models. It features a full 360-degree panning capability, which is rare for compact gimbals, allowing for seamless panoramic shots. Additionally, its special Tilt Mode enables unique camera angles typically only possible with bulkier, professional-grade gimbals.
Zhiyun Smooth Q4
A great, inexpensive gimbal
Though larger and less refined than our top pick, this gimbal performs almost as well and comes with a handy app.
The Zhiyun Smooth Q4 may not be as sleek, compact, or thoughtfully designed as the Insta360 Flow 2 Pro, but it remains a solid gimbal at a budget-friendly price. While it delivers smooth stabilization, its overall build feels slightly less premium than our top pick, and it lacks the convenience of a removable phone clamp, which makes mounting and unmounting your phone a bit less seamless.
The gimbal pairs with the ZY Cami app (available for iOS and Android), which offers a range of features, including tracking and video editing. However, compared to Insta360’s app, it feels slightly less polished and intuitive, and some advanced features require a subscription fee to unlock.
For those willing to spend a little extra, the Zhiyun Smooth Q4 Combo is a worthwhile upgrade. This version includes a durable hard-shell carrying case for added protection and a versatile, removable LED fill light that can be flipped and repositioned to enhance lighting for different shots. The additional features make the Combo a smart choice for content creators looking for a more complete package without breaking the bank.
Hohem iSteady V3
Best for when you need to be farther from your phone
This small gimbal has a more limited range of motion than the Insta360 Flow 2 Pro, but it includes a handy wireless remote for easy control.
The Hohem iSteady V3 is a compact and versatile gimbal with several useful features, making it a solid choice for most users. Like our other picks, it has an extendable design and a built-in tripod, allowing for stable shots in various situations. A standout feature is its removable fill light, which is powered by the gimbal itself, so you don’t need to charge it separately.
What sets the iSteady V3 apart is its detachable remote control, which replicates almost all of the gimbal’s buttons. This makes it easy to control the gimbal from a distance without needing a separate app or device. The remote stays securely attached to the gimbal until you need it, providing extra convenience.
While it lacks the full 360-degree rotation of the Insta360 Flow 2 Pro and doesn’t offer as many advanced features in its app, the iSteady V3 still delivers effective stabilization and a good range of motion that should meet the needs of most users.
Who this is for
Modern smartphone cameras can shoot stunning 4K video, but even with improved built-in stabilization, they still struggle to produce perfectly smooth footage, especially in motion. That’s where a gimbal comes in. A gimbal is a motorized stabilization device that counteracts unwanted movement, allowing you to capture steady, professional-looking videos without the need for expensive tripods or complex dolly setups.
By actively compensating for hand tremors, sudden jolts, or uneven footing, a gimbal helps create seamless, fluid shots. Whether you’re walking, running, or panning across a scene, it ensures that your footage remains smooth and visually appealing. Many gimbals also come with intelligent shooting modes, such as automated time-lapses, motion tracking, and programmed camera movements, making it easier to achieve cinematic effects with minimal effort.
If you enjoy filming videos with your smartphone and want smoother, more professional-looking footage, a gimbal can be a great investment. It helps stabilize your shots, making them look cinematic rather than shaky or amateurish. However, before purchasing one, it’s important to check whether your phone is compatible with the gimbal you’re considering.
Android users and those with older iPhones should pay extra attention to compatibility. Some gimbal clamps may not fit certain phone sizes, and some gimbal apps either don’t work well with Android devices or may restrict video quality. To avoid issues, check the compatibility lists provided by manufacturers like Insta360, Zhiyun, and Hohem.
Generally, if your phone is newer than or from the same generation as those listed, it should work fine. For example, Insta360 officially lists the Google Pixel 9 Pro XL and Pixel 9 as compatible but does not mention the Pixel 9 Pro, which we tested successfully without issues.
If you have a less common phone—one that isn’t from Apple, Google, Samsung, or another major brand—or if you use a larger or heavier device like a folding phone, it’s a good idea to reach out to the gimbal manufacturer to confirm compatibility before making a purchase.
How we picked and tested
Essential Features in a Gimbal
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Three-Axis Stabilization – A gimbal with three-axis stabilization helps smooth out movements in three directions:
- Tilt (up and down movements)
- Roll (spinning while facing the same direction)
- Pan (side-to-side movements)
A two-axis gimbal typically lacks stabilization in one of these directions, resulting in shakier footage.
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Autonomous Modes – Many gimbals come with built-in shooting modes, making it easier to capture professional-looking shots. Features like time-lapse, dolly zoom, and subject tracking help automate complex movements.
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Extendability – Some gimbals include an extendable section that doubles as a selfie stick. This feature is especially useful for vlogging, travel videos, or capturing wide-angle shots. It’s particularly beneficial for users with shorter arms.
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Easy Setup – A good gimbal should be quick and simple to set up. Manufacturers should provide clear instructions, ideally through a manual and a video tutorial. If the gimbal requires balancing adjustments, the process should take only a few steps. Connecting the gimbal, phone, and companion app should also be hassle-free.
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Broad Compatibility – The best gimbals support a wide range of phone sizes and weights. We prioritize models that work well with top iPhone and Android smartphones, ensuring maximum compatibility.
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A Great Companion App – The ideal gimbal app should be easy to navigate and offer various customization options for camera settings. It should also be available for both iOS and Android. A good app enhances the gimbal’s functionality, offering features like subject tracking and automated shooting modes.
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Easy-to-Use Buttons – Some gimbals have multiple buttons for different functions, while others take a more minimalist approach. Regardless of design, buttons should be clearly labeled and intuitive to use. If you find the buttons difficult to use, most functions can still be controlled via the phone’s touchscreen.
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Long Battery Life – A longer-lasting battery means fewer interruptions while filming. Many gimbals can also charge your phone while in use, extending your phone’s battery life. Unless weight is a major concern, a bigger battery is generally a better option.
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Comfortable Design – A lightweight, ergonomically designed gimbal is easier to hold for extended shooting sessions. A well-balanced grip reduces strain on the hands and arms.
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Useful Accessories – Some gimbals come with extra accessories like a carrying case, a mini tripod, or an LED fill light for low-light shooting. While not essential, these add-ons can improve the overall experience.
By focusing on these features, we ensure our recommendations offer the best combination of performance, usability, and value for most users.
How We Tested the Gimbals
To determine the best gimbals, we tested each model using up-to-date Google Pixels and Apple iPhones. We evaluated key performance aspects to ensure they deliver smooth, professional-looking footage and are easy to use.
Key Testing Criteria:
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Stability During Motion – We tested how well each gimbal canceled out shakiness while walking, running, and moving in different directions. The best models provided steady, fluid footage with minimal bouncing.
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Range of Motion – We checked how much each gimbal could tilt (up/down), pan (left/right), and roll (spin clockwise/counterclockwise). A wider range of motion allows for more creative shots and smoother transitions.
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Object Tracking – Many gimbals offer automatic subject tracking. We tested how well they locked onto a person or object, how smoothly they followed movement, and whether they could reacquire focus in different lighting conditions.
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App Usability – A good app makes a big difference in how easy a gimbal is to use. We assessed how intuitive the apps were, the quality of their tutorials, and how easily users could access key features.
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Video-Editing Capabilities – Some gimbals come with built-in video-editing tools. We examined whether these features were useful and easy to understand, as well as how much control they offered over footage.
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Special Features – We checked for additional features like built-in tripods, LED lights, and multiple recording modes. We also tested functions like:
- Waypoint time-lapse (where the camera follows preset movement points over time).
- Dolly zoom (a dramatic effect where the subject stays the same size while the background expands or contracts).
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Hand Gestures – Some gimbals allow hands-free control using simple gestures (e.g., raising a palm or making a “V” sign to start recording). We tested how reliably these gestures worked, especially in different lighting conditions and at various distances.
By focusing on these aspects, we ensured that our recommendations provide the best balance of stability, features, and ease of use for most people.
Top pick: Insta360 Flow 2 Pro
Why We Recommend the Insta360 Flow 2 Pro
The Insta360 Flow 2 Pro stands out for its ease of use, smooth stabilization, and smart design. It’s quick to set up, offers an intuitive experience, and includes a built-in tripod and extendable selfie stick—two features that add to its versatility.
Simple to Set Up and Use
Many gimbals require precise phone placement to balance properly, but the Flow 2 Pro’s magnetic mount makes the process much easier. The rubber grips hold the phone securely but allow for quick adjustments, so you don’t have to spend time repositioning it.
- The magnetic attachment allows for easy removal—perfect if you need to check messages or quickly share a post.
- With just one pull of the gimbal arm, the Flow 2 Pro powers on and is ready to go.
- Compared to models from Zhiyun and Hohem, which require more elaborate unfolding and balancing, the Flow 2 Pro is the fastest to set up.
A Great Learning Experience
All gimbals come with a learning curve, but Insta360’s detailed tutorials make the process smooth for beginners. When you first connect your phone, the app provides step-by-step guidance on using the buttons, dials, and features.
Excellent Video Stabilization and Editing
- The Flow 2 Pro delivers exceptionally smooth video, reducing shakiness whether you’re walking, running, or panning.
- The Insta360 app isn’t just for controlling the gimbal—it also has powerful built-in editing tools, making it one of the best options for editing video on the go.
Versatile Design for Any Shooting Style
- The built-in tripod allows you to set the gimbal down for hands-free recording or time-lapses.
- The telescoping handle extends up to 8.3 inches, turning the gimbal into a selfie stick for vlogging or group shots.
With its fast setup, smart design, and excellent stabilization, the Insta360 Flow 2 Pro is one of the most user-friendly and feature-packed gimbals available today.
Battery Life and Performance
The Insta360 Flow 2 Pro is designed for all-day use, thanks to its 1,100 mAh battery, which lasts up to 10 hours—a solid performance compared to similar gimbals. Actual battery life depends on factors like phone weight and usage, but it should be more than enough for most users.
A standout feature is its ability to double as a power bank, allowing you to charge your phone or accessories via USB-C. This can be especially useful when filming on the go.
User-Friendly App for Shooting & Editing
The Insta360 app is one of the best reasons to choose this gimbal. It’s intuitive, feature-packed, and works well on both iOS and Android. The app includes:
- Easy-to-follow tutorials for learning the gimbal’s features.
- Powerful editing tools to trim footage, add music, insert text, and more.
However, not all phones are fully supported. While Insta360 has a broad compatibility list, some features or resolutions may not work on all devices. If your phone is newer than listed models, it’s likely compatible, but checking with Insta360 directly is best for confirmation.
Smooth and Professional-Looking Video
The Flow 2 Pro delivers excellent stabilization, producing buttery-smooth footage even while walking or running. Although all our top picks stabilize video well, the Flow 2 Pro stands out for its balance of ease of use, features, and performance.
Advanced Subject Tracking
The Insta360 Flow 2 Pro features Deep Track 4.0, an advanced tracking system that keeps a subject centered in the frame, even as you or the subject move. Simply drag your finger over a person or object in the app’s live view, and the gimbal will automatically follow it.
What sets it apart is its ability to reacquire the subject if it momentarily disappears from view. For example, if someone walks behind a wall and then reappears, the Flow 2 Pro will resume tracking automatically. In contrast, many other gimbal apps lose track and require manual re-selection, which can disrupt your shot.
Free Tilt Mode for Expanded Motion
Like all compact gimbals, the Flow 2 Pro has some movement limitations compared to bulkier professional models. However, its Free Tilt mode allows for 360-degree tilt rotation, letting you capture dynamic low-to-high shots with smooth transitions.
This mode is ideal for unique angles, such as filming from ground level up to an overhead perspective. However, enabling Free Tilt mode requires a few manual adjustments, and while it expands tilt motion, it reduces left-right panning during use.
For casual users, switching modes occasionally won’t be an issue. But professionals needing unrestricted movement may prefer a larger gimbal with a naturally wider range of motion.
The Flow 2 Pro is compact and lightweight, slightly smaller than the Zhiyun Smooth Q4 and similar in size to the Hohem iSteady V3. It folds flat, making it easy to carry in a large pocket or small bag.
It also supports Apple DockKit, allowing subject tracking not just in the Insta360 app but also in Apple’s camera app and some third-party iOS apps, making it a great choice for iPhone users.
The Flow 2 Pro features NFC for quick setup—just tap your phone to connect instantly to the Insta360 app. It also comes with a one-year warranty, matching our other top picks.
Flaws but not dealbreakers
The Flow 2 Pro is larger than its predecessors, but this trade-off makes it more capable and comfortable to hold. However, its small buttons and touch-sensitive controls aren’t as intuitive as those on the Zhiyun Smooth 5S AI.
Its tilt range is more limited than larger gimbals, making certain shots—like smoothly transitioning from eye level to a low-angle view—less fluid. Switching to Free Tilt mode can help but takes a few moments. If you frequently need a wider tilt range, a bigger gimbal like the 5S AI may be a better choice.
Budget pick: Zhiyun Smooth Q4
Zhiyun Smooth Q4: A Budget-Friendly Alternative
If you’re looking to save some money while still getting a solid gimbal, the Zhiyun Smooth Q4 is a great alternative to our top pick. It’s larger and slightly less user-friendly than the Insta360 Flow 2 Pro, and its app isn’t as refined, but it still delivers smooth, stabilized video effectively.
Key Features
Extendable for Versatile Shooting
Like the Flow 2 Pro and DJI Osmo Mobile 6, the Smooth Q4 has a built-in extendable selfie stick, reaching 8.5 inches—perfect for vlogging or capturing wide shots.
Effective Stabilization
While no gimbal is flawless, this model smooths out video footage just as well as our other top picks, making it a significant upgrade over a phone’s built-in stabilization.
Long Battery Life
With a 3,300 mAh battery, Zhiyun claims up to 15 hours of run time—longer than the Flow 2 Pro. Actual battery life depends on how hard the motors work, but it’s reliable for extended shoots.
Decent App with Some Limitations
The ZY Cami app (iOS, Android) includes video editing tools but limits exports to 1080p unless you pay for a 4K upgrade. The Combo package (detailed below) includes a one-year subscription to unlock 4K. The free version also adds a watermark to exported videos, though you can disable it in settings.
Moderate Subject Tracking
While functional, the tracking feature struggles compared to our top pick, sometimes losing focus or locking onto the wrong subject.
Wide Phone Compatibility
The Smooth Q4 supports most Apple and Android phones, though the official list isn’t exhaustive. We tested it with a Google Pixel 7 (not listed), and it worked fine.
Good Range of Motion
Although it lacks a full 360-degree pan, it offers a slightly better tilt range than the Flow 2 Pro in regular mode, making it a strong performer for its size.
Combo Package: Worth the Upgrade?
The base Smooth Q4 includes a tripod and charging cable, but the Combo package ($25 extra) adds:
- A removable, reversible fill light
- Color filters (low-quality magnets)
- A wrist strap
- A hard-shell carrying case
Unless you don’t need the light or already have a case, the Combo package is a great deal.
Potential Drawbacks
Larger Than Previous Models
The Flow 2 Pro is bigger than its predecessors. While it remains compact compared to competitors, it’s not as small as earlier versions. However, this extra size makes it more capable and comfortable to hold during long shoots.
Fiddly Controls
The buttons and touch-sensitive controls on the Flow 2 Pro are small and not as intuitive as those on the Zhiyun Smooth 5S AI. While they get the job done, they lack the satisfying tactile feel of some other gimbals.
Limited Tilt Range in Standard Mode
Compared to larger gimbals, the Flow 2 Pro has a restricted tilt range in its normal mode. This can be noticeable when trying to smoothly transition from eye level to a low-angle shot (like following a pet). You can switch to Free Tilt mode for better range, but it requires a few extra steps. If you need frequent extreme tilt angles, a larger gimbal may be a better fit.
Best for people who need a remote: Hohem iSteady V3
A Unique Feature: A Built-In Remote Control
Limited Range of Motion Compared to Competitors
The Hohem iSteady V3 doesn’t offer as much tilt, pan, or roll range as the Insta360 Flow 2 Pro. Additionally, its app has fewer features, making it less versatile for advanced users. However, it stands out with a feature that none of our other picks have—a removable remote control for hands-free operation.
Convenient Remote Control
While most gimbals are designed for handheld use, some situations call for a hands-free setup. The iSteady V3 includes a removable remote that lets you control the gimbal from up to 30 feet away. This is ideal for:
Group shots where you want to be in the frame
Solo travel videos where setting up the perfect shot matters
Creative shots that require placing the gimbal in a unique position
A Well-Designed but Basic App
The Hohem Joy app (available for iOS and Android) is easy to navigate and provides manual controls for settings like ISO and shutter speed (if your phone supports them). It also includes tutorial videos to help you master the gimbal’s features.
However, it lacks the advanced video editing tools of the Insta360 app. If you need professional-level editing, we recommend using a third-party app. Like other gimbal apps, not all features are guaranteed to work with every phone, though we successfully tested it with a newer phone that wasn’t officially listed.
Good Subject Tracking, but Not the Best
The iSteady V3 does a solid job of tracking subjects once selected in the app. However, it isn’t as precise as the Flow 2 Pro, particularly when tracking non-human subjects (like pets). That said, for general-purpose filming, most users will find its tracking performance more than sufficient.
