Thank you, baby goat takes a selfie. Image for an article on the best iPhone gimbals of 2023.

2023 iPhone Gimbal Showdown: Choosing the Perfect Stabilizer

20 September 2023

Today, we’re unraveling the magic of iPhone gimbals, those sleek, stabilizing wizards that turn your shaky smartphone footage into cinematic masterpieces. We’ve rounded up the five best contenders in the market for 2023, and we’re ready to spill the beans on which one might be your next must-have gadget.

1. DJI OM 5: The Selfie Stick Maestro

The DJI OM 5 waltzes onto the scene with a swagger that only DJI can muster. Picture this: a smartphone gimbal with an integrated selfie stick. Say cheese, world! The OM 5’s got style, available in Sunset White and Athens Grey, and it’s ready to hold your chunky iPhone 12 Pro Max without breaking a sweat. It’s the ultimate vlogger’s companion, helping you nail those Instagram-worthy shots while walking, talking, and maybe even dancing.

But it’s not all smooth sailing. The OM 5’s smaller battery and lack of power bank capabilities compared to its predecessor might leave you longing for a bit more juice. And, let’s admit it, finding the perfect angle when it’s on a tripod or in selfie stick mode can be a bit like searching for a needle in a haystack. Nevertheless, it’s a formidable choice for the selfie enthusiasts and casual content creators out there.

Tech Specs:

Dimensions (Folded): 174.7×74.6×37 mm
Dimensions (Unfolded): 264.5×111.1×92.3 mm
Weight: 292 g (Gimbal), 34 g (Magnetic Phone Clamp)
Payload Capacity: 230 ± 60 g
Compatible Phone Size: 6.9-10 mm (Thickness), 67-84 mm (Width)
Battery Life: Up to 6.4 hours
Charging Time: Approximately 1.5 hours
Gimbal Mechanical Range:
- Pan -161.12° to 172.08°
- Roll -127.05° to 208.95°
- Tilt -101.46° to 229.54°
Wireless Connectivity: Bluetooth

2. DJI Osmo Mobile 6: The Compact Contender

The DJI Osmo Mobile 6 may not have a selfie stick up its sleeve, but it’s got something else going for it – portability. This gimbal slips into your bag with ease, and when it unfolds, it’s ready to take on the world. It’s like having a mini robot cinematographer in your pocket.

The Osmo Mobile 6 knows that control is key. Its side wheel for focus and zoom control means you’re the captain of your ship, sailing through the seas of creativity. With up to nearly six-and-a-half hours of battery life, you won’t be cutting your shoot short anytime soon.

But here’s the twist: some features may be more accessible to iOS users than their Android counterparts. So, Android aficionados, take note. For casual users, it might be overkill, but for those seeking professional results, it’s a top pick.

Tech Specs:

Dimensions (Folded): 189×84.5×44 mm
Dimensions (Unfolded): 276×111.5×99 mm
Weight: 309 g (Platinum Gray), 304 g (Slate Gray)
Compatible Phone Weight: 170-290 g
Compatible Phone Size: 6.9-10 mm (Thickness), 67-84 mm (Width)
Battery Capacity: 1000 mAh
Battery Life: Up to 6.5 hours
Charging Time: Approximately 1.5 hours
Gimbal Mechanical Range:
- Pan -161.64° to 173.79°
- Roll -120.30° to 211.97°
- Tilt -101.64° to 78.55°
Wireless Connectivity: Bluetooth 5.1

3. Insta360 Flow: The Pocket-Sized Dynamo

Meet the Insta360 Flow, the pocket-sized powerhouse that promises to keep your shots as steady as a mountain stream. It’s incredibly portable and unfurls like a ninja’s weapon of choice. But don’t be fooled by its compact size; this gimbal means business.

Insta360 Flow’s AI-powered tracking is like having a personal cameraperson following your every move. It competes with the big players in the field, offering deep subject tracking and compensating for some of its design quirks. Plus, it’s got a nifty rubber sleeve for added grip, making sure it doesn’t slip through your fingers when you’re in action.

Sure, there may be some minor hiccups when things get too fast and furious, but overall, the Insta360 Flow is a trusty companion for capturing silky-smooth footage on the go. It’s the “flow”-master of gimbal technology.

Tech Specs:

Dimensions (Folded): 79.6 x 162.1 x 36 mm
Weight: 369 g
Compatible Phone Weight: 130-300g
Compatible Phone Thickness: 6.9-10mm
Compatible Phone Width: 64-84mm
Battery Capacity: 2900 mAh
Battery Life: Up to 12 hours
Charging Time: 2 hours
Gimbal Mechanical Range:
- Pan -230° to 100°
- Roll -150° to 180°
- Tilt -100° to 82°
Wireless Connectivity: Bluetooth 5.0

4. Hohem iSteady M6: The Budget Maverick

If you’re looking for an entry-level gimbal that won’t break the bank, say hello to the Hohem iSteady M6. It’s the budget maverick, here to elevate your smartphone videography without emptying your wallet.

With a payload capacity of 400g (14.1 oz), it’s ready to cradle your smartphone, and its AI vision sensor keeps your subjects in focus, even if they’re on the move. It’s easy to balance, offers smooth performance, and comes with physical buttons for added convenience.

Sure, it might not have all the bells and whistles of its pricier counterparts, but for budding smartphone videographers, it’s a worthy companion that gets the job done without breaking the bank.

Tech Specs:

Weight: 551 g (Including Battery)
Payload Capacity: 400 g
Compatible Phone Size: 58 mm – 98 mm (Width)
Operating Time: Up to 12 hours
Charging Time: 2 hours
Gimbal Mechanical Range:
- Pan -230° to 100°
- Roll -150° to 180°
- Tilt -100° to 82°
Wireless Mode: Bluetooth 5.0

5. Zhiyun Smooth 5: The Content Creator’s Dream

Last but certainly not least, we have the Zhiyun Smooth 5, the content creator’s dream come true. This gimbal boasts an impressive array of controls and performance that will make you feel like a pro, even if you’re just starting your filmmaking journey.

In summary, the Zhiyun Smooth 5 is a top-tier gimbal that delivers outstanding results for content creators who are serious about their craft. With solid build quality and extensive controls, it’s ready to take your smartphone videography to the next level.

Tech Specs:

Compatible Phone Weight: Up to 300 grams
Compatible Phone Thickness: Up to 10 mm
Compatible Phone Width: Not specified
Operating Time: 4.5 to 12 hours
Charging Time: Two hours to fully charge
Gimbal Mechanical Range:
- Pan: 180° (Max), 360° (Standard), -180° (Min)
- Roll: 259° (Max), 349° (Standard), -90° (Min)
- Tilt: Not specified
Wireless Mode: Bluetooth 4.2

Gimbal Comparison Table

Gimbal	Weight (g)	Payload Capacity (g)	Battery Life (hours)	Charging Time (hours)	Wireless Connectivity
DJI OM 5	292 (Gimbal), 34 (Magnetic Phone Clamp)	230 ± 60	Up to 6.4	Approximately 1.5	Bluetooth
DJI Osmo Mobile 6	309 (Platinum Gray), 304 (Slate Gray)	170-290	Up to 6.5	Approximately 1.5	Bluetooth 5.1
Insta360 Flow	369	300g	Up to 12	2	Bluetooth 5.0
Hohem iSteady M6	551 (Including Battery)	400	Up to 12	2	Bluetooth 5.0
Zhiyun Smooth 5	Not specified	Up to 300	4.5 to 12	Two hours to fully charge	Bluetooth 4.2

There you have it, folks! The Gimbal Gadgets of 2023 have had their moment in the spotlight. Whether you’re a selfie aficionado, a budget-conscious creator, or a professional content producer, there’s a gimbal on this list that’s got your back. So, which one will you choose to keep your iPhone footage as steady as a goat on a mountain ridge? The choice is yours!