# The Best Smartphone Gimbals of 2023
Smartphone gimbals are now widely available, but who stands out in the market today? Here are our top three picks you should consider if you’re searching for one.
## Who Uses a Smartphone Gimbal?
Smartphone gimbals gained popularity alongside the boom of social media about a decade ago. Initially, DJI was the only significant player, and they continue to lead the pack. However, as companies recognized the necessity of a robust social media presence and the role of “influencers” became a viable career, many new competitors have emerged.
Most of these products cater to everyday consumers looking to enhance their social media presence or use them as webcams. In reality, a significant portion of gimbal users are part of corporate communication or social media teams seeking effective content creation tools.
While these devices are enjoyable for those aiming to achieve stable footage for amateur filmmaking, aspiring influencers, or for capturing family memories.
So, which should you purchase? Here are our recommendations.
## DJI Osmo Mobile 7P
Kicking off with the original, DJI’s newest Osmo Mobile is loaded with features beneficial for anyone in need of a gimbal. It includes a selfie stick, ActiveTrack, and support for nearly any popular smartphone available.
What sets the Osmo Mobile 7P apart from earlier models is the addition of an external tracking module that enhances tracking capacity for your phone without needing the DJI Mimo app. It also serves as a light to illuminate your subject and a receiver for your DJI Mic 2 and Mic Mini transmitters. However, it’s worth noting they’re not the only ones with comparable accessories.
Overall, the Osmo Mobile is a dependable gimbal for your smartphone. It’s a safe investment; they’ve consistently produced excellent products, and that trend continues. The Osmo Mobile 7P is priced at $145 on Amazon, and given this price point, it’s no surprise it’s currently the top seller in its category.
## Insta360 Flow 2 Pro
The newer contender, the rivalry between DJI and Insta360 has intensified in recent years; most recently, DJI ventured into the 360 camera sector. The Flow 2 Pro is a formidable rival, boasting many of the same features available on DJI’s models, and it’s again designed for the average consumer, with some added functionalities DJI doesn’t provide.
The standout characteristic of the Insta360 Flow 2 Pro is its compatibility with Apple DockKit. While this might not be advantageous for Android users, it offers fantastic utility for iPhone users. By utilizing the NFC chip in the gimbal, you can start using the Flow 2 Pro with any camera application on your iPhone. This is handy if you intend to use the gimbal as a support during FaceTime conversations with friends or for Zoom meetings, allowing it to track your movements smoothly within the frame.
In terms of pricing, the Insta360 Flow 2 Pro retails for $179.99 if you opt for their version of an AI tracking module and light. This might merit its own comparison against DJI’s in the future.
## Hohem iSteady M7
Lastly, the lesser-known brand that I genuinely admire! Hohem’s gimbal takes a different approach with a design aimed at serious creators using smartphones for their shots. The design and controls resemble those found in DJI’s RS series of gimbals, and yes, it also comes with an attachable AI tracking module.
However, its unique feature is the ability to detach its screen from the body, allowing it to be passed to another person. Is this essential for a smartphone gimbal? Likely not, but for those elevating their content while sticking with budget-friendly phone options, it could be handy for monitoring by a director or client, or to give to an assistant camera operator.
The iSteady M7 is priced at $269, making it the priciest gimbal on this list. Is it a worthy investment? That depends on your requirements.
Read More
