What is the best handheld gimbal for vlogging?

Shaky footage ruins good content. It distracts viewers, lowers video quality, and makes your vlog look unprofessional.

Even the best cameras struggle with stability when you’re moving. That’s where a handheld gimbal changes everything.

A gimbal stabilizes your camera, keeping your shots steady even when you’re walking, running, or filming in unpredictable environments. 

It eliminates jittery movements and lets you capture professional-level footage without bulky tripods or expensive rigs. 

Whether you’re vlogging on the go, filming cinematic B-roll, or recording action-packed travel videos, a gimbal helps you shoot like a pro.

This article breaks down the best handheld gimbals for vlogging, how to choose the right one, and how to get the best results from it. 

By the end, you’ll know exactly which gimbal fits your setup and how to use it to shoot smooth, high-quality videos.

How Handheld Gimbals Work and Why They’re Essential for Vloggers

Shaky footage can ruin a vlog. Viewers expect smooth, professional shots, and a handheld gimbal makes that possible.

If your videos look unstable, people will click away. A gimbal stabilizes your camera, keeping movements fluid no matter how fast you walk, turn, or move.

How Gimbals Stabilize Your Footage

A handheld gimbal uses motors and sensors to keep your camera steady. It counteracts unwanted movement, so your shot stays smooth even when your hands aren’t.

Two types of gimbals exist:

• 2-Axis Gimbals: Stabilize tilt (up and down) and roll (side to side). Best for casual shooting but struggles with side-to-side movements.
• 3-Axis Gimbals: Stabilize tilt, roll, and pan (left to right). This provides full stabilization for walking, running, or dynamic camera angles.

For vlogging, a 3-axis gimbal works best. It smooths out steps, prevents shaky pans, and makes handheld shots feel cinematic.

Why Vloggers Need a Gimbal

A handheld gimbal improves video quality in three ways:

• Smoother Motion: No more shaky, distracting footage. Viewers focus on your content, not camera jitters.
• More Professional Look: Stable shots mimic high-budget productions. Even simple walk-and-talk videos look polished.
• Less Work in Editing: No need to fix shaky footage in post-production. A gimbal saves time and keeps video quality intact.

Who Benefits from Using a Gimbal?

• Travel Vloggers: Capturing movement through cities, nature, or action shots requires stability.
• Daily Vloggers: Walking and talking to the camera looks much better without sudden jolts.
• Filmmakers & Content Creators: Whether filming short films, tutorials, or cinematic sequences, a gimbal keeps motion fluid.

Key Features to Look for in a Vlogging Gimbal

Feature	What to Look For	Why It Matters
Stabilization Quality	3-axis gimbals provide better stability than 2-axis models. Stronger motors handle heavier cameras with less shake.	Smooth footage makes vlogs look more professional. Weak stabilization can still cause jittery motion.
Portability	Lightweight, foldable designs fit in backpacks and travel bags. Some models collapse for easy packing.	Carrying a bulky gimbal can be a hassle. Compact designs make travel vlogging easier.
Battery Life	Some last 10+ hours, while others drain faster with heavy use. Fast charging saves time.	Running out of power mid-shoot interrupts filming. Longer battery life means fewer breaks.
Compatibility	Some gimbals only support smartphones, while others handle compact and mirrorless cameras. Weight limits matter.	Using an incompatible gimbal leads to poor balance or motor strain.
User-Friendly Controls	Intuitive buttons, joystick control, and a responsive app. Features like one-tap recording and smart tracking help.	Complicated controls slow you down. Easy access to settings makes vlogging smoother.
Extra Features	Motion timelapse, face tracking, object tracking, auto-follow, and wireless control.	Advanced features add creativity and convenience. Auto-follow helps solo vloggers.

Top 5 Handheld Gimbals for Vlogging (Expert Picks & Why They Stand Out)

A shaky video can ruin an otherwise great vlog. If you want steady shots that look professional, a handheld gimbal makes a big difference. But not all gimbals work the same way. 

Some are better for smartphones, while others handle mirrorless cameras with ease. Below, you’ll find five top picks based on performance, ease of use, and value.

1. DJI Osmo Mobile 6 – Best for Smartphone Vloggers

If you film vlogs with your phone, the DJI Osmo Mobile 6 makes stabilization easy. It’s lightweight, folds up small, and packs AI-powered tracking to keep you in frame. Whether you walk, pan, or shoot timelapses, this gimbal keeps motion steady.

Why It Stands Out:

• ActiveTrack 5.0 keeps subjects centered, even in unpredictable movement.
• Quick Launch connects instantly when you unfold it.
• Built-in Extendable Rod adds versatility for high or low angles.
• Compact & Lightweight—easy to carry in a backpack or pocket.

📌 Best for: Smartphone vloggers who want a simple, reliable stabilizer.

2. Zhiyun Smooth 5S – Strong Motor for Cinematic Smartphone Shots

If you want more control over your smartphone footage, the Zhiyun Smooth 5S delivers. A powerful motor supports heavier phone setups, while the physical controls make adjustments fast. Whether you’re shooting on the move or crafting a cinematic sequence, this gimbal offers precision.

Why It Stands Out:

• 3-axis stabilization eliminates unwanted shakes.
• Physical control wheel lets you adjust focus and zoom like a pro.
• Strong motor handles larger smartphones and add-ons like lenses.
• Built-in fill light improves low-light shots without extra gear.

📌 Best for: Smartphone users looking for high-end stabilization and manual controls.

3. DJI RS 3 Mini – Compact Gimbal for Mirrorless Cameras

If you use a mirrorless camera for vlogging, the DJI RS 3 Mini keeps it steady without adding too much weight. It’s lighter than other DJI RS models but still strong enough to handle cameras like the Sony A7C or Canon R8.

Why It Stands Out:

• Lightweight (under 2 lbs)—easy to hold for extended shoots.
• Strong payload capacity—supports cameras up to 4.4 lbs.
• Bluetooth Shutter Control starts recording without pressing the camera.
• Vertical Mode makes it simple to shoot TikToks and Instagram Reels.

📌 Best for: Mirrorless camera users who want a portable, travel-friendly gimbal.

4. Hohem iSteady M6 – Budget-Friendly with Reliable Stabilization

If you’re on a budget but still want smooth footage, the Hohem iSteady M6 does the job. It packs solid stabilization, AI tracking, and a strong battery at a lower price.

Why It Stands Out:

• AI-powered auto-tracking follows your movements without needing an app.
• 4000mAh battery lasts up to 18 hours on a single charge.
• Joystick and dial controls make fine-tuning movement easy.
• 360° Inception Mode spins your camera for dramatic rotating shots.

📌 Best for: Budget-conscious vloggers who want reliable stabilization without spending too much.

5. FeiyuTech SCORP Mini – Versatile Gimbal for Small Cameras & Smartphones

If you switch between a smartphone and a small mirrorless or action camera, the FeiyuTech SCORP Mini handles both. Its ergonomic grip and compact size make it great for vloggers who film in different styles.

Why It Stands Out:

• Works with smartphones, action cams, and small mirrorless cameras.
• One-handed control wheel for smooth zooming and panning.
• Auto-Tune function adjusts motor strength based on the camera weight.
• Long battery life (11 hours) keeps you shooting all day.

📌 Best for: Vloggers who switch between different cameras and want one gimbal for all setups.

How to Choose the Right Gimbal for Your Vlogging Setup

A gimbal can make or break your vlogging experience. Pick the wrong one, and you’ll struggle with balance issues, short battery life, or limited compatibility. 

Choose the right one, and you’ll shoot professional-grade videos without worrying about shaky footage. Before you buy, lock in on these three factors: your camera type, your vlogging style, and your budget.

1. What Type of Camera Do You Use?

Gimbals are designed for specific devices. Get one that doesn’t match your setup, and you’ll waste money on something that won’t work as expected.

• Smartphone Vlogging – If you shoot with a phone, go for a lightweight gimbal with strong AI tracking, gesture control, and Bluetooth connectivity. Look for models like the DJI Osmo Mobile 6 or Zhiyun Smooth 5S.
• Compact Camera Setup – Point-and-shoot cameras need a gimbal with a slightly stronger motor. The FeiyuTech SCORP Mini or Zhiyun Crane M3 handle smaller cameras well.
• Mirrorless or DSLR Vlogging – Heavier cameras need gimbals with powerful motors and extended battery life. The DJI RS 3 Mini or Zhiyun Weebill 3 can support most mirrorless setups.

📌 Quick Tip: Always check the gimbal’s payload capacity. If your camera exceeds the weight limit, stabilization will suffer.

2. What’s Your Vlogging Style?

The way you shoot affects which gimbal will work best. Match your gimbal to your content style to avoid unnecessary frustration.

• Travel Vlogging – If you move a lot, pick a foldable and lightweight gimbal. A model like the DJI Osmo Mobile 6 or Zhiyun Smooth Q4 fits in a backpack and sets up quickly.
• Action & Adventure Vlogging – Running, biking, or shooting extreme sports? You need a gimbal with fast response time and strong stabilization. The Hohem iSteady Pro 4 works well for GoPros, while the DJI RS 3 Mini is great for mirrorless setups.
• Sit-Down or Studio Vlogging – You don’t need a super portable gimbal, but you might want one with tracking and auto-pan features. A model like the Zhiyun Crane M3 or FeiyuTech SCORP Mini keeps your framing steady.
• Hybrid Vlogging (A Mix of Everything) – If you switch between talking head videos and outdoor shots, get a gimbal that offers multiple shooting modes. The DJI RS 3 Mini balances portability and power for hybrid vloggers.

📌 Pro Tip: Consider whether the gimbal has an inception mode, follow mode, or sport mode—these add creative movement options for unique shots.

3. What’s Your Budget?

Gimbals range from budget-friendly options under $100 to high-end stabilizers costing over $500. Here’s what you get at different price points:

• Under $100 – Basic smartphone gimbals with decent stabilization but limited features. Good for beginners. Examples: Hohem iSteady X, Zhiyun Smooth Q3.
• $100–$250 – Mid-range gimbals with better motors, tracking, and app features. Ideal for smartphone and lightweight camera users. Examples: DJI Osmo Mobile 6, Zhiyun Smooth 5S.
• $250–$500 – Stronger motors, better battery life, and advanced shooting modes. Best for mirrorless or compact camera vloggers. Examples: Zhiyun Crane M3, DJI RS 3 Mini.
• $500+ – Professional-level gimbals for heavy setups, offering top-tier stabilization, long battery life, and multi-camera compatibility. Examples: DJI RS 3, Zhiyun Weebill 3.

📌 Budget Hack: If you’re unsure, start with a mid-range model that fits your current setup. Upgrade later when your vlogging needs change.

Step-by-Step Guide to Setting Up and Using a Gimbal for Vlogging

A gimbal can turn shaky footage into smooth, cinematic shots, but only if you set it up correctly. Skip the trial and error. Follow these steps to get started quickly and start shooting like a pro.

1. Unbox and Get Everything Ready

• Take out the gimbal, charging cable, tripod attachment (if included), and any other accessories.
• Charge the gimbal fully before the first use. A low battery can cause weak stabilization.
• Download the companion app for your gimbal (DJI Mimo, ZY Cami, etc.). Some settings and firmware updates require the app.

Pro Tip: Keep a microfiber cloth handy. Smudges on the phone camera or lens will ruin your shots, no matter how stable they are.

2. Balance Your Camera or Smartphone for Proper Stabilization

A poorly balanced gimbal drains the battery faster and makes stabilization less effective. Get it right before you power it on.

For Smartphones:

1. Attach the phone to the gimbal’s clamp, making sure it’s centered. Avoid pressing the side buttons.
2. Adjust left or right until the phone stays level without tilting.
3. Fine-tune the up-and-down tilt by sliding the phone slightly forward or backward.

For Mirrorless or Compact Cameras:

1. Mount the camera on the gimbal’s plate and tighten the screw.
2. Slide the plate forward or backward until the camera doesn’t tip forward or backward.
3. Check side-to-side balance. The camera should stay centered when you let go.
4. Lock the position. Turn on the gimbal only after balancing.

Quick Fix: If the camera keeps tilting after balancing, double-check that the gimbal arms are unlocked.

3. Choose the Right Shooting Mode for Your Vlog Style

Gimbals offer different stabilization modes. Pick the one that fits your scene.

• Follow Mode: The gimbal follows your hand movements but smooths out shakes. Perfect for walking shots.
• Locked Mode: Keeps the camera steady, no matter how you move. Great for interviews or static shots.
• FPV Mode: Moves in all directions for an immersive, first-person effect. Ideal for action vlogging.
• Pan Follow Mode: The camera follows left and right movements but stays level. Best for tracking a subject.

Test different modes before filming. Each one creates a different feel, and switching between them can add variety to your vlog.

4. Master Smooth Movements for Cinematic Shots

Even with a gimbal, bad technique leads to robotic or awkward footage. Move with purpose.

• Walk, don’t step. Glide your feet instead of stomping. This reduces vertical movement.
• Use both hands. One hand on the grip, the other guiding movements for better control.
• Keep the gimbal close to your body. Avoid extending your arm too far, or the footage will look unstable.
• Slow down. Quick, jerky movements can confuse the motors and ruin stabilization.
• Use the joystick sparingly. Move the gimbal with your body instead of relying on the joystick for smooth pans.

Pro Move: For cinematic shots, use the “ninja walk.” Bend your knees slightly and step lightly to absorb movement.

Common Challenges and Troubleshooting Tips

A gimbal should make your vlogs look smooth, but sometimes, things don’t go as planned. If your footage still looks shaky, the battery drains too fast, or your gimbal struggles to balance your camera, don’t panic. 

Here’s how to fix these common issues and keep your gimbal performing at its best.

Problem	What’s Happening?	How to Fix It
Gimbal not stabilizing properly	The footage still looks shaky, or the gimbal vibrates.	– Recalibrate the gimbal in the app. – Balance the camera properly before turning it on. – Check if the motors are overloaded. Reduce camera weight if needed. – Restart the gimbal to reset settings.
Battery draining too fast	The gimbal runs out of power quicker than expected.	– Turn off extra features (tracking, timelapse) when not needed. – Use a power bank if shooting for long hours. – Avoid overcharging; unplug once fully charged. – Store in a cool, dry place to prevent battery wear.
Camera weight too heavy	The gimbal struggles to keep balance or tilts unexpectedly.	– Use counterweights if your camera is too front-heavy. – Adjust the mounting position to distribute weight evenly. – Make sure all axis locks are released before use.
Software issues (glitches, app crashes)	The app freezes, or the gimbal doesn’t respond to controls.	The gimbal struggles to keep its balance or tilts unexpectedly.

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▶️ – Related Topic: Best DSLR Gimbal

Final Thoughts

Picking the right gimbal comes down to what you shoot, how you shoot, and how much gear you’re willing to carry.

If you vlog on your phone and need something lightweight, DJI Osmo Mobile 6 or Zhiyun Smooth 5S will keep your footage steady without adding bulk. 

If you’re using a mirrorless camera and need stronger stabilization, DJI RS 3 Mini or FeiyuTech SCORP Mini handle the weight while staying compact. On a budget? Hohem iSteady M6 gives you solid performance without breaking the bank.

Now, grab a gimbal that fits your style and start testing different shots. Walk and talk, pan smoothly, try motion timelapses—see what works for you. The more you practice, the better your vlogs will look.

Already using a gimbal? Drop a comment with your favorite model and share why you love it. Need more gear recommendations? Check out our reviews on vlogging cameras, mics, and lighting to build the perfect setup.