What Is The Best Gimbal For Interviews And Podcasts?

What is the best gimbal for interviews and podcasts? Shaky footage ruins credibility. Get stable, professional shots with the best gimbal for the job.

Picture this—you sit down for an interview with a guest who’s sharing valuable insights. The lighting is perfect.

The audio is crisp. But when you check the footage, the camera shake makes it look like an amateur production. Suddenly, the content loses its credibility.

Shaky footage distracts viewers. It turns a professional interview into a frustrating watch. No matter how engaging the conversation, poor stability shifts the focus away from the message. Viewers expect clean visuals. Without them, they tune out.

Gimbals fix this problem. They keep the camera steady, no matter how much you move. Whether you’re shooting a sit-down interview, a podcast with a walking host, or behind-the-scenes content, a gimbal ensures smooth motion.

It removes unwanted jitters and delivers a polished, professional look.

In this article, you’ll learn:

What a gimbal is and how it works.
The differences between 2-axis and 3-axis stabilization.
What to look for when choosing a gimbal for interviews and podcasts.
Practical setup tips for the best results.

If you want your video content to look professional, investing in a gimbal is a smart move. Let’s break down how these devices work and why they’re a must-have for any serious content creator.

What Is a Gimbal and How Does It Work?

A gimbal stabilizes a camera by counteracting unwanted movement. It uses motors and sensors to keep the shot steady, even if the operator moves.

This technology lets you walk, pan, or tilt without introducing noticeable shakes.

There are two main types of gimbals:

2-Axis Gimbals: Stabilize tilt and roll but don’t control side-to-side (pan) movements. Best for stationary shots or minimal motion.
3-Axis Gimbals: Stabilize tilt, roll, and pan. Ideal for handheld interviews, walk-and-talk podcasts, and dynamic shooting styles.

For interviews and podcasts, a 3-axis gimbal makes a noticeable difference. It smooths out hand tremors and lets you move naturally while recording. This makes content more engaging without forcing creators to stay locked in one position.

Filmmakers, content creators, and podcasters rely on gimbals to maintain a polished look.

Even a budget-friendly smartphone gimbal can elevate production quality. The right setup lets you focus on capturing great conversations—without worrying about shaky footage.

Key Features to Look for in a Gimbal for Interviews & Podcasts

A shaky shot can ruin an interview. A gimbal fixes that by keeping the camera steady, but not all gimbals work the same way.

Some handle small shakes, while others provide cinema-level stabilization. If you’re recording interviews or podcasts on video, you need the right balance of stability, weight, battery life, and ease of use.

Here’s what to focus on when choosing a gimbal that fits your setup.

✅ Stabilization Technology: How Different Gimbals Handle Camera Shakes

Every gimbal works to eliminate unwanted movement, but the method varies.

2-Axis Gimbals stabilize tilt and roll, which works well for basic motion but struggles with sudden shifts.
3-Axis Gimbals handle tilt, roll, and pan, delivering much smoother shots—ideal for walking interviews or handheld shooting.
AI-Powered Auto-Stabilization adjusts to movement in real time, keeping the subject framed without manual control.

If you’re filming a seated interview, a 2-axis gimbal might work. But if you’re moving or shooting handheld, go for a 3-axis model to keep everything steady.

✅ Payload Capacity: Choosing a Gimbal That Supports Your Camera or Smartphone

Not every gimbal can handle a DSLR. Some are built for phones, while others support heavy cameras.

For Smartphones: Look for a lightweight gimbal with an auto-balance feature.
For Mirrorless & DSLR Cameras: Choose a gimbal with a strong motor and a higher weight limit.
For Action Cameras: Find one with a universal mount and lightweight design.

Check the manufacturer’s weight limit before buying. A gimbal that’s too weak for your camera will struggle and drain battery life faster.

✅ Battery Life: Why Long-Lasting Batteries Matter in Interview Setups

Interviews take time. A gimbal that dies mid-shoot leaves you scrambling. Look for:

10+ Hour Battery Life: Ideal for longer shoots without constant recharging.
Removable Batteries: Swap them out when needed.
USB-C Charging: Fast charging lets you power up between takes.

Filming all day? Carry a power bank or choose a gimbal that supports pass-through charging.

✅ Ease of Use: User-Friendly Features for Quick Setup and Adjustments

A gimbal should save you time, not slow you down. Look for:

Auto-Calibration: Balances your camera automatically.
Quick-Release Mounts: Swap cameras without wasting time.
Intuitive Controls: Simple buttons and an easy app make adjustments faster.

If you’re new to gimbals, pick a model with beginner-friendly presets.

✅ Portability & Weight: Finding the Right Balance for Handheld Use

If you’re holding the gimbal for long shoots, weight matters. A heavier gimbal might offer better stabilization but can strain your wrist.

Under 1.5 lbs: Great for smartphones and lightweight setups.
1.5 – 3 lbs: Balances portability and performance for mirrorless cameras.
Over 3 lbs: Better stabilization but harder to carry for extended shoots.

For travel or outdoor interviews, go for a foldable, compact gimbal.

✅ Wireless Connectivity & Controls: Bluetooth, App Integrations, and Remote Operation

A gimbal that connects wirelessly gives you more control over your shot.

Bluetooth & Wi-Fi: Adjust settings without touching the gimbal.
Mobile Apps: Change modes, set tracking, and calibrate remotely.
Wireless Follow Focus: Adjust focus while filming without shaking the camera.

Filming solo? A gimbal with AI-tracking follows your subject automatically.

Best Gimbals for Interviews and Podcasts (Top Recommendations)

Finding the right gimbal depends on your setup. Here are the best options based on camera type.

▶️ For DSLR/Mirrorless Cameras: Professional-Grade Stability

DJI RS 3 Mini – Compact yet strong, supports up to 4.4 lbs.
Zhiyun Weebill 3 – Built-in wrist rest and an extended battery life of 21 hours.
Moza AirCross 3 – Foldable, lightweight, and versatile.

If you’re using a heavier lens, pick a gimbal with strong motors like the DJI RS 3 Pro.

▶️ For Smartphones: Budget-Friendly and Lightweight

DJI Osmo Mobile 6 – Compact, easy to use, with an auto-tracking feature.
Zhiyun Smooth 5S – Stronger motors for better stabilization.
Hohem iSteady V2 – AI-powered tracking and gesture control.

Smartphone gimbals work best with lighter setups. Avoid bulky cases that could affect balance.

▶️ For Compact Cameras & Action Cameras: Versatile for On-the-Go Filming

DJI Ronin SC – Great for small mirrorless cameras and travel.
FeiyuTech G6 Max – Supports action cams, phones, and compact cameras.
Zhiyun Crane M3 – Small, powerful, and compatible with multiple devices.

If you switch between different cameras, pick a gimbal that supports multiple mounting options.

Comparison Table: Price, Weight, and Features at a Glance

Gimbal Model	Camera Type	Weight	Battery Life	Notable Features	Price
DJI RS 3 Mini	DSLR/Mirrorless	1.8 lbs	10 hours	Compact, supports 4.4 lbs	$369
Zhiyun Weebill 3	DSLR/Mirrorless	2.5 lbs	21 hours	Wrist support, OLED screen	$449
DJI Osmo Mobile 6	Smartphone	0.7 lbs	6 hours	Foldable, AI-tracking	$159
Zhiyun Smooth 5S	Smartphone	1.2 lbs	10 hours	Strong motors, easy grip	$169
DJI Ronin SC	Compact Camera	2.4 lbs	11 hours	Lightweight, high torque	$279

How to Set Up and Use a Gimbal for Interviews & Podcasts

🔷 Balancing Your Camera: Step-by-Step Setup

A properly balanced gimbal prevents motor strain and keeps footage steady. Follow these steps before recording:

Attach the Camera or Smartphone
- Mount the camera securely on the gimbal’s quick-release plate.
- Adjust the plate so the camera sits at its center of gravity.
Adjust the Tilt Axis
- Tilt the camera forward and backward. If it falls in one direction, shift it slightly until it stays level when released.
Balance the Roll Axis
- Turn the camera sideways. If it leans left or right, adjust its position until it stays neutral.
Set the Pan Axis
- Hold the gimbal upright and check if the camera swings. Adjust it so the camera remains still when you rotate the handle.
Power On and Auto-Calibrate
- Turn on the gimbal and use the app or onboard controls to calibrate for optimal stabilization.

🔷 Gimbal Modes & When to Use Them

Different shooting scenarios call for specific stabilization modes. Knowing when to use them makes a difference in video quality.

Pan Follow Mode – The gimbal follows side-to-side movements while keeping the camera level. Use this for natural panning shots during interviews.
Lock Mode – The camera stays fixed in one direction, regardless of hand movement. Ideal for stationary interview setups.
Follow Mode – The gimbal responds to both pan and tilt movements. Great for dynamic shots when filming a subject walking or gesturing.
POV (Point of View) Mode – The gimbal mimics natural wrist movements, capturing immersive first-person perspectives. Best used for creative angles.

🔷 Tips for Capturing Professional Interview Shots

A gimbal does more than just prevent shaky footage. Using the right techniques improves the overall quality of interviews and podcasts.

Maintain Eye Level Framing – Keep the camera at the subject’s eye level to create a natural connection with viewers.
Use Slow, Controlled Movements – Avoid sudden jerks. Move the gimbal smoothly when reframing or panning between speakers.
Keep the Background Simple – A clutter-free backdrop keeps the focus on the subject. Use depth of field to blur distractions.
Experiment with Subtle Motion – Slight push-ins or side-to-side movements add visual interest without feeling too aggressive.
Stabilize Handheld Shots with Two Hands – Hold the gimbal with both hands to reduce unintentional tilts or shakes.

🔷 Using a Gimbal with an External Microphone

Gimbals and microphones don’t always play well together. Avoid audio interference with these adjustments:

Use a Wireless Lavalier Mic – Clip-on mics reduce handling noise and eliminate the risk of cables interfering with gimbal movement.
Mount the Mic Away from Motors – If using a shotgun mic, attach it to a boom arm or stand instead of the camera to prevent motor hum from being picked up.
Check Audio Before Recording – Do a quick test to ensure no unwanted vibrations or gimbal noises affect the sound quality.

Common Problems and How to Fix Them

Problem	Fix
Gimbal Drift & Calibration Issues	Reset calibration using the gimbal’s app. If the camera keeps drifting, manually adjust the roll and tilt axes.
Battery Drains Too Fast	Avoid overloading the gimbal with heavy gear. Use power-saving modes and fully charge the battery before shooting.
Camera Not Staying Level	Check for proper balancing. If the issue persists, recalibrate and update firmware.
Overheating & Motor Noise	Give the gimbal short breaks between takes. Reduce motor strain by balancing the camera correctly. If noise continues, switch to a different mode.

Accessories That Improve Gimbal Performance

A gimbal on its own does a great job stabilizing shots, but the right accessories take it further.

Whether you’re shooting an interview, recording a podcast, or filming a documentary, adding the right gear makes a huge difference. Here’s what to use and why it matters.

💡 Tripods & Stands: Keep the Frame Steady

Holding a gimbal for long shoots gets tiring fast. A tripod or stand gives your arms a break while keeping the frame locked in place.

Best for: Seated interviews, podcast recordings, and multi-camera setups.
How it helps: Prevents accidental shakes, keeps shots consistent, and lets you focus on directing the scene.
What to look for: Lightweight tripods with adjustable height, sturdy base, and compatibility with your gimbal’s mounting options.

Pro Tip: Use a mini tripod for desk setups and a taller stand for full-body interviews.

💡 External Monitors: Get the Perfect Shot Every Time

Relying on a small camera screen limits your view. An external monitor gives you a bigger display, making it easier to frame shots and check focus.

Best for: Professional videographers, solo content creators, and anyone struggling with small screens.
How it helps: Improves visibility, prevents missed focus, and makes adjustments easier in real time.
What to look for: High-resolution screen, strong brightness for outdoor shoots, and reliable mounting options.

Quick Fix: If you don’t have a dedicated monitor, use a smartphone with a wireless camera app for a similar setup.

💡 Counterweights & Adapters: Balance Heavy Setups

Gimbals have weight limits. Add a heavier lens or a microphone, and suddenly, your setup feels unbalanced. Counterweights and adapters solve that problem.

Best for: DSLR and mirrorless camera users with heavy lenses.
How it helps: Keeps the gimbal balanced, reduces motor strain, and improves stability.
What to look for: Adjustable counterweights, universal mounting options, and lightweight materials that don’t add unnecessary bulk.

Fix It Fast: If your gimbal struggles with weight distribution, adjust the camera position before adding counterweights.

💡 Gimbal Apps & Software: Fine-Tune Every Movement

Modern gimbals come with companion apps that unlock extra controls. If you’re not using them, you’re missing out.

Best for: Anyone looking for more control over gimbal settings and automated movements.
How it helps: Adjusts motor speed, fine-tunes stabilization, and offers pre-set motion paths for smooth camera movements.
What to look for: User-friendly interface, Bluetooth connectivity, and compatibility with your device.

Try This: Use motion time-lapse features for cinematic movement in interview B-roll shots.

▶️ – Related Topic: Best Gimbal for BMPCC 6K

▶️ – Related Topic: Gimbal for Sony RX100

▶️ – Related Topic: 5 Best Gimbals for Sony A7III

Final Thoughts & Next Steps

A gimbal on its own does a great job stabilizing footage, but it’s only part of the equation. The right accessories help you work more efficiently, giving you better control, improved balance, and a more polished final product.

Whether you’re setting up a stationary interview, adjusting framing on the fly, or working with heavier camera gear, these tools take your setup to the next level.

If you’re serious about improving video quality, don’t stop at just buying a gimbal—think about how to get the most out of it.

Tripods keep your hands free, external monitors ensure perfect framing, counterweights balance out heavy rigs, and gimbal apps unlock new creative possibilities.

Small upgrades like these make a big difference in how professional your final footage looks.

Now it’s your turn. What accessories have made your filming experience smoother? Have a go-to tool that makes a difference in your setup?

Drop a comment, ask a question, or check out more gear reviews to find the perfect setup for your next shoot.

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