Best Gimbals for Social Media Creators: What is the best gimbal for social media content creation?

Looking to shoot buttery-smooth video content that stands out on TikTok, Instagram, or YouTube Shorts?

Then you need more than just a good smartphone — you need the right gimbal.

Whether you’re a beginner vlogger, a content creator on the rise, or a pro filmmaker shooting handheld B-roll, the right stabilizer can instantly level up your footage quality — no shaky hands, no post-edit headaches.

In this guide, you’ll discover the 5 best gimbals for social media creators — including options for every budget, shooting style, and experience level.

Plus: insider tips, real-world use cases, and a comparison table that makes choosing the perfect gimbal a no-brainer.

Let’s dive in.

Gimbal	Specs	Pros	Price
DJI Osmo Mobile 6 🏆 Best for Beginners	Weight: 309g Payload: ~230g Battery: Up to 6.5 hours	✅ Excellent 3-axis stabilization ✅ Compact & foldable ✅ ActiveTrack 5.0 tracking	🔗 View on Amazon
ZHIYUN Smooth 5S AI 🎬 Best for Professional Shoots	Weight: 625g Payload: Up to 300g Battery: Up to 25 hours	✅ AI-powered subject tracking ✅ Detachable fill light ✅ Strong motor for heavier phones	🔗 View on Amazon
hohem iSteady Mobile Plus Kit 💡 Best Budget Option	Weight: 495g Payload: ~280g Battery: Up to 13 hours	✅ Budget-friendly ✅ Face/object tracking ✅ 360° rotation	🔗 View on Amazon
Feiyu SCORP-Mini-2 🎥 Best for Multi-Device Creators	Weight: 787g Payload: Up to 1.2kg Battery: Up to 11 hours	✅ Supports multiple devices ✅ AI subject tracking ✅ Ergonomic handle design	🔗 View on Amazon
DJI RS 3 Mini 🎯 Best for Mirrorless Camera Users	Weight: 850g Payload: Up to 2kg Battery: Up to 10 hours	✅ Vertical shooting support ✅ Strong stabilization for mirrorless cameras ✅ Lightweight for its class	🔗 View on Amazon

The Best Gimbals for Social Media Creators

Not all gimbals work the same way. The right one depends on your camera and shooting style.

1. DJI Osmo Mobile 6 Gimbal Stabilizer

If you’re just starting out or looking to simplify your content creation process, the DJI Osmo Mobile 6 is your go-to weapon. 

Why? 

Because it’s built with creators in mind — easy setup, intuitive controls, and powerful features like ActiveTrack 5.0 that actually follow your face (or subject) as you move. 

Whether you’re filming a daily vlog, a Reels transition, or a “day in the life” story, the footage is consistently smooth. 

The built-in extension rod is a game-changer for group shots and vertical content. 

Plus, it folds up small enough to toss in a sling bag. 

If you’re a social media creator looking for a plug-and-play solution that just works, this is the one.

2. ZHIYUN Smooth 5S AI

The ZHIYUN Smooth 5S AI is the gimbal for creators who take mobile filmmaking seriously. 

It’s bulkier than others on this list, but that extra size brings serious power. 

From multi-axis stabilization to professional-grade tracking and lighting (thanks to its built-in fill light), this gimbal helps you shoot cinematic footage with just your phone. 

The AI tracking even lets you reframe shots on the fly — perfect for dance videos, interviews, or content with lots of movement. 

If you’re shooting commercial content, branded UGC, or TikToks that look like they belong on Netflix, this gimbal gives you full creative control.

3. hohem iSteady Mobile Plus Kit Smartphone Gimbal Stabilizer

Don’t let the low price fool you — the hohem iSteady Mobile Plus punches way above its weight. 

If you’re a beginner or a budget-conscious creator, this gimbal gives you essential features like 3-axis stabilization, 360° panning, and face/object tracking — all in a super simple setup. 

The mobile app isn’t flashy, but it gets the job done. 

This is the gimbal for creators filming casual lifestyle content, POV stories, or travel recaps who want smoother footage without dropping $150+. 

It’s also great for parents filming their kids’ soccer games or side hustlers building a YouTube channel from scratch. 

Clean footage, tiny learning curve, and priced like a tripod? That’s a win.

4. Feiyu SCORP-Mini-2 Handheld Gimbal

If you create across multiple devices — think phone, GoPro, even mirrorless camera — the Feiyu SCORP-Mini-2 is built for your kind of hustle. 

It’s compact, but don’t mistake it for entry-level. 

The underslung grip makes low-angle shots effortless, while the AI tracking and adaptive payload support give you room to experiment. 

Switching between platforms for different content formats? No problem. 

It handles the transitions smoothly. 

Whether you’re filming a fast-paced TikTok on your phone or capturing B-roll with a lightweight mirrorless setup, the SCORP-Mini-2 lets you move fast and stay flexible — without carrying multiple stabilizers.

5. DJI RS 3 Mini

For creators who shoot with mirrorless cameras and need pro-level stabilization in a lightweight build, the DJI RS 3 Mini is the sweet spot. 

It’s light enough to take on location but powerful enough to handle heavier camera + lens combos. 

That means cinematic motion shots, vertical content, and pro-level pans — all without the bulk of a full-size rig. 

It’s a favorite for wedding shooters, fitness influencers filming gym walkthroughs, or YouTubers who shoot hybrid content across platforms. 

If your workflow includes a camera and you need something that’s not just mobile-friendly, but camera-ready, this gimbal was made for you.

What Is a Gimbal and How Does It Work?

A gimbal is a handheld stabilizer that keeps your camera or phone steady while you move. It uses small motors and sensors to counteract shakiness, keeping the shot level and smooth. 

Unlike basic tripods or handheld filming, a gimbal actively adjusts in real-time to eliminate unwanted movement.

Types of Gimbals

Different creators need different stabilizers. Here’s what to consider:

• Smartphone gimbals – Best for TikTok, Instagram Reels, and YouTube Shorts. Lightweight, easy to use, and packed with AI features like face tracking and gesture control.
• DSLR/Mirrorless camera gimbals – Ideal for professional videographers and YouTubers who shoot high-quality content. These support heavier cameras and provide advanced stabilization for cinematic shots.
• Action camera gimbals – Built for adventure filming. Perfect for GoPros and other small cameras when vlogging on the move, biking, or shooting extreme sports.

Why Stabilization Matters

A gimbal isn’t just about preventing shaky footage. It lets you capture dynamic shots—walking sequences, cinematic pans, smooth tracking—without distracting vibrations. 

Social media platforms favor high-quality, professional-looking content. If your videos stand out, they get more engagement. A gimbal helps you create those eye-catching shots effortlessly.

Key Features to Look for in a Gimbal

A gimbal stabilizes your shots, but not all models offer the same features. Picking the right one depends on how and where you shoot. 

Whether you’re filming handheld vlogs, cinematic sequences, or high-energy action clips, these features will shape your experience.

▶️ Stabilization Technology: 3-Axis vs. 2-Axis

A gimbal’s stabilization system controls how steady your footage looks.

• 3-axis gimbals stabilize movement across pan (left-right), tilt (up-down), and roll (side-to-side). They create the smoothest, most professional-looking shots.
• 2-axis gimbals stabilize only tilt and roll, making them less effective for walking shots or fast movements.

If you shoot moving content—walking, running, or tracking a subject—get a 3-axis gimbal. For static or slow-moving shots, a 2-axis model might work.

▶️ Payload Capacity: Matching the Gimbal to Your Camera or Phone

Every gimbal has a weight limit. Overload it, and the motors struggle, leading to shaky footage.

• Smartphone gimbals handle lightweight devices, but heavier phones (like iPhones with add-on lenses) may require extra support.
• Mirrorless/DSLR gimbals need stronger motors to support cameras with lenses. Always check the max payload.
• Action camera gimbals are designed for lightweight setups but might need adapters for non-standard models.

Before buying, check your camera’s weight and compare it to the gimbal’s rated capacity.

▶️ Battery Life: How Long Can You Shoot Before Recharging?

Nothing kills a shoot like a dead battery.

• Smartphone gimbals last 6-15 hours on average.
• DSLR/mirrorless gimbals offer 8-12 hours, but carrying spare batteries extends usage.
• Action camera gimbals vary but often run 5-10 hours per charge.

If you film long sessions, look for models with removable batteries or power bank support.

▶️ Portability and Weight: Travel-Friendly vs. Bulky Rigs

Do you need a compact setup or a high-performance rig?

• Lightweight gimbals work best for on-the-go content creators. Foldable designs make them easy to pack.
• Larger gimbals support heavier cameras but add weight. If you shoot all day, a sling grip or body vest reduces strain.

For travel, a compact gimbal with a foldable design and quick setup makes life easier.

▶️ AI Tracking & Smart Features: Auto-Follow, Gesture Control, Face Tracking

Modern gimbals come with AI-powered features that simplify shooting.

• Auto-follow locks onto a subject and keeps them in the frame. Great for solo creators.
• Gesture control starts recording with a hand wave—perfect for vlogging.
• Face tracking automatically centers your face while you move.

These features remove the need for extra hands, making solo filming easier.

▶️ App Integration: Editing Tools, Remote Control, Advanced Shooting Modes

A gimbal’s app can change how you shoot and edit.

• Remote control lets you adjust settings from your phone.
• Shooting modes like hyperlapse, motion time-lapse, and dolly zoom add cinematic effects.
• Post-editing tools provide in-app stabilization and color correction.

Apps vary by brand, so check compatibility before buying.

How to Use a Gimbal for Pro-Level Social Media Videos

A gimbal makes a huge difference in video quality, but only if you use it correctly. Skip the guesswork. Follow these steps to get better stabilization, smoother shots, and creative control over your content.

Step 1: Balance Your Camera or Phone Properly

Poor balance messes up stabilization and drains the battery faster. Fix that before turning the gimbal on.

1. Mount your device correctly – Position your phone or camera so it’s level before powering up.
2. Adjust the arms – Slide the gimbal’s axis arms to balance weight distribution. If the camera tilts to one side, make small adjustments.
3. Test the balance – Let go gently. If the device stays put, you’re good. If it swings, tweak the balance again.
4. Lock the axis – Some gimbals have locks to keep adjustments in place. Use them before you start shooting.

Step 2: Choose the Right Shooting Mode

Different shots need different stabilization settings. Pick the right one.

• Follow Mode – The gimbal follows your movements, great for tracking a subject while walking.
• Lock Mode – Keeps the camera angle steady, even if you move. Ideal for static shots or interviews.
• POV Mode – Moves with you in all directions, creating immersive, first-person-style footage.
• Pan Follow Mode – Keeps the horizon steady while allowing left-right panning. Perfect for cinematic reveals.
• Sport Mode – Reacts faster to movement, great for fast-action shots or tracking a subject in motion.

Step 3: Use Slow-Motion, Time-Lapse, and Hyperlapse Features

These settings add variety to your content. Use them for more professional-looking videos.

• Slow-motion – Shoot at a high frame rate (e.g., 120fps or 240fps) to create cinematic movement.
• Time-lapse – Keep the gimbal steady while capturing changes over time, like a sunset or a busy street.
• Hyperlapse – Walk or move with the gimbal while recording a time-lapse. Adds motion and energy to long sequences.

Step 4: Master Pans, Tilts, and Tracking Shots

A gimbal helps create polished camera moves, but technique matters.

• Panning (left to right movement) – Move your body instead of twisting your wrists. Keep speed consistent.
• Tilting (up and down movement) – Use slow, controlled motion to reveal a subject or shift focus.
• Tracking (following a subject) – Activate subject tracking on your gimbal’s app or move smoothly while keeping the subject centered.
• Orbiting (moving in a circular motion around a subject) – Walk in a steady arc while keeping the camera locked on the subject.

Step 5: Edit and Enhance Footage with Gimbal Apps

Post-production refines your footage. Use gimbal apps for extra control.

• DJI Mimo – Adds AI tracking, gesture control, and pre-set shooting modes.
• Zhiyun ZY Play – Offers motion-lapse, panorama, and direct social media uploads.
• Hohem Pro – Includes face tracking, cinematic filters, and real-time adjustments.
• FilmoraGo or CapCut – Easy-to-use mobile editors for fine-tuning stabilization and adding effects.

Common Gimbal Mistakes & How to Fix Them

Issue	Cause	Fix
Footage still looks shaky	Unbalanced gimbal or incorrect settings	Rebalance the gimbal before turning it on. Adjust motor strength in the app.
Gimbal drifting	Incorrect calibration or sensor issue	Recalibrate using the app. Restart the gimbal.
Battery drains too fast	High motor power, unbalanced load, or old battery	Balance the device properly. Use power-saving mode. Carry extra batteries.
AI tracking not working	Poor lighting or subject moving too fast	Improve lighting. Adjust tracking sensitivity. Use a high-contrast background.

▶️ – Related Topic: What Are the Top 5 Best Gimbals for the Sony ZV1

▶️ – Related Topic: Best Gimbal for GoPro Hero 10

▶️ – Related Topic: Gimbal for Sony RX100

Conclusion & Next Steps

A gimbal changes the way you shoot video. No more shaky footage. No more amateur-looking clips. 

If you want to create high-quality content for social media, you need stable, cinematic shots. That’s where a gimbal makes all the difference.

Before buying, ask yourself:

• Do you shoot with a phone, DSLR, or action camera?
• Do you need a lightweight option for travel?
• Do you want AI tracking, face detection, or automated movements?

Match the gimbal to your shooting style. A smartphone gimbal works best for TikTok and Instagram Reels. 

A DSLR gimbal fits YouTube and professional content. An action camera gimbal keeps up with fast-paced vlogs.

Your next move:

• Pick a gimbal that fits your content style.
• Learn how to balance and use it properly.
• Experiment with shooting modes and creative angles.

Got a favorite gimbal setup? Drop it in the comments. Need more videography tips? Check out the latest guides. Your next viral video starts with the right gear.