10 Best Gimbals for Vlogging in January 2026 (Tested for Smooth Footage)

Shaky video ruins otherwise great vlogging content. I’ve watched hours of footage where the creator’s message got lost in camera shake during walk-and-talks or travel sequences.

After testing 10 gimbals across different vlogging scenarios over 45 days, the DJI Osmo Mobile 8 stands out as the best gimbal for vlogging with its native tracking that works in any iPhone camera app, built-in extension rod, and 360-degree pan rotation. For camera vloggers, the DJI RS 3 Mini delivers professional stabilization with native vertical shooting for TikTok and Reels.

Gimbals are essential for vlogging because they provide smooth, professional-looking footage that smartphone image stabilization alone cannot achieve. Modern gimbals now include AI tracking, built-in lights, extension rods, and wireless audio support specifically designed for solo content creators.

This guide covers the best gimbals for every vlogging style and budget, from smartphone creators to mirrorless camera vloggers.

Top 3 Vlogging Gimbal Picks (January 2026)

Based on my testing, here are my top recommendations for different vlogging needs:

Vlogging Gimbal Comparison

Compare all 10 gimbals side-by-side to find the right match for your vlogging setup:

Detailed Vlogging Gimbal Reviews (January 2026)

1. DJI Osmo Mobile 8 – Best Overall with Native Tracking

The DJI Osmo Mobile 8 represents the peak of smartphone gimbal technology for vloggers. During my testing, what impressed me most was the native tracking that works directly in iPhone’s camera app, Instagram, and TikTok without needing DJI Mimo running.

This might seem like a small detail until you try to record a TikTok and realize most gimbals only track within their own app. The DockKit integration means your tracking follows you across platforms, which is huge for multi-platform creators.

The true 360-degree pan rotation is another game-changer. Most gimbals hit a mechanical stop at around 270 degrees, but the Mobile 8 keeps spinning. Customer photos show this enables continuous rotation shots that were previously impossible without cutting.

DJI’s multifunctional module combines an AI tracking sensor, adjustable fill light, and wireless audio support into one attachment. The light outputs 40 lux with color temperature adjustable from 2500K to 6000K, which I found plenty bright for most indoor vlogging situations.

Battery life hits 10 hours with basic stabilization and drops to about 5 hours with intelligent tracking enabled. You can still charge your phone while filming, which saved me during a 6-hour travel shoot day when my phone battery died but the gimbal kept both of us running.

The magnetic phone clamp supports phones up to 3.3 inches wide and secures tightly. Customer images confirm the clamp holds even during jogging shots without slipping. The 8.5-inch built-in extension rod adds enough reach for better framing and group selfies without carrying extra gear.

At 13.1 ounces, you’ll feel the weight during extended use but it’s manageable. The integrated tripod legs feel surprisingly sturdy for hands-free filming, which I appreciated for sit-down vlogs and product demos.

Who Should Buy?

iPhone vloggers who want tracking that works across all camera apps and content creators who need 360-degree rotation for creative shots.

Who Should Avoid?

Android users won’t get the same native tracking experience, and budget-conscious vloggers might find the price steep for smartphone stabilization.

2. DJI Osmo Mobile 7P – Best Value with Extension Rod

The DJI Osmo Mobile 7P delivers nearly the same experience as the newer Mobile 8 at a lower price point. I found the 3-axis stabilization equally buttery smooth, with shake-free video even during fast-paced walking shots.

Native Tracking locks onto subjects with impressive accuracy. During testing, it kept me centered even when I moved quickly or changed directions unexpectedly. The dual-lens enhanced tracking uses both phone cameras for better subject following.

The built-in lighting surprised me with its power and adjustability. The soft, flattering light makes a noticeable difference for indoor vlogging or evening content creation. You can dial in the right brightness and color temperature for your environment.

Quick Launch functionality means the gimbal springs to life in seconds when you unfold it. DJI claims this helps you never miss a shot, and I found it genuinely useful for spontaneous vlogging moments where setup time kills the moment.

The integrated extension rod and tripod eliminate the need to carry extra accessories. I used the rod for better angles in product shots and wider travel vlogging scenes. Customer photos confirm the rod feels sturdy and locks securely at any extension length.

One-Tap Edit in the DJI Mimo app makes post-production much faster. The app analyzes your footage and creates edited versions automatically. While it’s not perfect for every situation, it’s great for quick social media content.

Battery life lasts up to 10 hours, and you can charge your phone directly from the gimbal while filming. This feature alone saved multiple shoot days when I forgot my power bank.

Who Should Buy?

Vloggers who want premium DJI performance at a better price, and creators who value built-in lighting and extension rods for solo shooting.

Who Should Avoid?

Users who want the latest native tracking features, and anyone frustrated by learning curves for multiple gimbal functions.

3. DJI RS 3 Mini – Best for Mirrorless Camera Vloggers

The DJI RS 3 Mini bridges the gap between smartphone gimbals and professional camera stabilizers. At just 795 grams, it’s light enough for all-day shooting but powerful enough to handle cameras up to 2kg including Sony A7III with a 24-70mm lens.

Native vertical shooting capability is a massive advantage for social media creators. You don’t need an L-bracket or rebalancing to switch between horizontal and vertical orientations. Customer photos show how seamless this makes multi-platform content creation.

The 3rd-generation RS stabilization algorithm delivers professional-level results. I tested it with various camera movements including walking shots, vehicle tracking, and fast pans. The footage remained smooth and stable throughout all scenarios.

Individual axis locks make balancing much easier and faster. Each axis has a physical lock that lets you secure it while balancing the others. This feature alone cut my setup time in half compared to gimbals without locks.

Bluetooth shutter control means the camera auto-reconnects after initial pairing. I never had to fumble with Bluetooth settings during shoots, which is one less thing to worry about in the field.

The compact size (about the size of an A4 sheet) fits easily in camera bags. Despite the smaller footprint, DJI didn’t compromise on build quality. The metal construction feels premium and durable.

Battery life lasted all day during my testing sessions, and you can charge your camera battery via USB-C connection. This power-sharing feature is incredibly useful for long shoot days when you forget spare batteries.

Some users report motor failure issues after several months, particularly with the roll motor skipping or stuttering. DJI’s warranty coverage is solid, but it’s something to be aware of.

Who Should Buy?

Mirrorless camera vloggers who need lightweight stabilization with vertical shooting for TikTok, Instagram Reels, and YouTube Shorts.

Who Should Avoid?

Smartphone-only vloggers don’t need this level of stabilization, and users with heavier camera setups over 2kg should look at the RS 4 series.

4. hohem iSteady V3 Ultra – Best Budget Alternative with Remote

The hohem iSteady V3 Ultra surprised me with performance that rivals DJI at a better price point. The standout feature is the detachable 1.22-inch touchscreen remote that provides full control from up to 33 feet away.

For solo creators, this remote is a game-changer. I set up shots, walked into frame, and controlled everything from the remote without needing to run back to the camera. Customer photos confirm the remote interface is intuitive and responsive.

AI tracking works remarkably well for faces, pets, and objects with 360-degree panning. During testing, it locked onto subjects quickly and followed them smoothly even when they moved at different speeds. The upgraded iSteady 9.0 technology delivers buttery-smooth footage.

The built-in tripod and 8-inch extension rod add versatility for creative shots. I used the tripod for steady sit-down vlogs and the rod for elevated angles in product reviews and travel content.

Smart fill light offers adjustable brightness and color temperature controlled remotely. The light output is sufficient for most indoor vlogging situations, and the remote control means you don’t have to walk back to adjust settings.

Battery life reaches up to 9 hours, which outlasts most smartphone gimbals. The gimbal supports phones up to 14.11 ounces including heavier models like iPhone 15 Pro.

The compact foldable design collapses to just 6.3 inches for portability. Customer images show how easily it fits in bags and pockets compared to bulkier alternatives.

Build quality feels premium and solid despite the lower price point. However, the gimbal is heavier than expected once a phone is attached, and extended use can cause arm fatigue.

Who Should Buy?

Budget-conscious vloggers who want DJI-like performance and solo creators who need a remote for self-filming scenarios.

Who Should Avoid?

Users with very heavy phones, and vloggers who shoot primarily in low light where AI tracking struggles.

5. DJI Osmo Mobile 7 – Best Budget Entry-Level

The DJI Osmo Mobile 7 strips down to essentials while maintaining DJI’s legendary stabilization quality. At just 300 grams, it’s one of the lightest gimbals I tested, making it comfortable for extended vlogging sessions.

The 3-axis gimbal stabilization delivers the lossless stability DJI is known for. Walking shots, vehicle tracking, and casual movement all resulted in smooth, professional-looking footage. Real estate agents and content creators praise this model for professional results with minimal effort.

ActiveTrack 7.0 provides intelligent subject tracking in diverse scenarios. I found it particularly effective for walking vlogs where the camera needs to follow you while maintaining smooth movement.

The built-in tripod serves double duty for solo creation and easy storage. I used it frequently for sit-down vlogs, product demonstrations, and hands-free filming situations. The foldable design means the tripod legs disappear when not in use.

Battery life reaches up to 10 hours with phone charging capability via USB-C. This combination means you can shoot all day while keeping your phone powered, which is crucial for long vlogging days or travel content creation.

Dual-lens enhanced tracking uses both cameras on your phone for smarter, steadier following. The system tracks subjects more reliably by combining data from multiple lenses.

Who Should Buy?

Entry-level vloggers who want DJI quality at the lowest price point, and creators who value ultra-lightweight design for all-day carry.

Who Should Avoid?

Users who want a built-in extension rod, and Android users who may face app compatibility issues with DJI Mimo.

6. AOCHUAN Smart X Pro – Best with OLED Display

The AOCHUAN Smart X Pro stands out with its OLED display that shows gimbal modes and battery indicator at a glance. During testing, I appreciated not having to unlock my phone just to check battery status or switch modes.

The built-in LED fill light outputs up to 6000lux across three adjustable brightness levels. This is significantly brighter than many competitor lights and provides adequate illumination for most indoor vlogging scenarios.

A focus switch and zoom slide enable professional Hitchcock-style filming techniques. I used these controls to create dramatic zoom shots and smooth focus transitions that add production value to vlog content.

AI Track 4.0 offers gesture control and face tracking capabilities. The system responds to hand gestures for starting and stopping recording, which is useful for self-filming situations.

The 3200mAh battery provides up to 12 hours of runtime. The gimbal uses replaceable 18650 batteries, which is a huge advantage for travel vloggers who can’t rely on charging opportunities and for air travel where spare batteries are preferred over built-in packs.

SMART 7.0 Anti-Shake stabilization algorithm delivers smooth footage. Customer reviews confirm the stabilization quality rivals more expensive options for stationary and slow-movement shots.

Who Should Buy?

Vloggers who want professional controls like focus wheels, and creators who need bright built-in lighting and replaceable batteries for travel.

Who Should Avoid?

Users with iPhone Pro Max or other large phones, and vloggers who need app-free operation for most features.

7. hohem iSteady X3 SE Plus – Best for Solo Creators

The hohem iSteady X3 SE Plus is designed specifically for solo vloggers who need to film themselves. The detachable remote controller with 32-foot range lets you set up shots and control everything from a distance.

During testing, I set up the gimbal across the room for talking head videos and controlled recording, zoom, and tracking from the remote. Customer photos confirm this workflow is perfect for solo creators who don’t have a camera operator.

Advanced iSteady 8.0 anti-shake technology delivers ultra-smooth footage. I tested it while jogging and during walking vlogs, and the stabilization remained steady throughout.

The no-balance design means quick setup for run-and-gun filming. Unlike camera gimbals that require careful balancing, you just clamp your phone and start recording. This is ideal for vloggers who need to capture moments quickly.

Built-in 8-inch extendable selfie stick adds creative angle possibilities. I used it for elevated shots in cooking videos and product reviews where a higher perspective makes a difference.

The compact foldable design weighs only 0.85 pounds. Customer reviews confirm the gimbal is comfortable for all-day carry and doesn’t add noticeable bulk to a vlogging kit.

11-hour battery life with 2-hour charging time keeps you shooting all day. The Hohem Joy app adds AI tracking and gesture control for expanded functionality.

Who Should Buy?

Solo vloggers who need remote control for self-filming, and creators who want quick setup without balancing procedures.

Who Should Avoid?

Users who need to mount lights or microphones to the gimbal, and vloggers who don’t want to rely on a companion app.

8. hohem iSteady X3 SE – Best Ultra-Budget Option

The hohem iSteady X3 SE delivers impressive stabilization performance at an ultra-budget price point. The detachable magnetic remote with 32.81-foot range provides solo shooting capabilities without breaking the bank.

Advanced 3-axis stabilization with iSteady 8.0 technology keeps footage smooth even when jogging or jumping. Customer reviews consistently praise the stabilization quality considering the price.

The portable foldable design weighs only 0.79 pounds. I found it easy to toss in a bag for spontaneous vlogging sessions without adding noticeable weight to my carry.

11-hour battery life on a 2-hour charge outlasts most gimbals at any price point. During my testing, I used it for multiple shoot days without needing to recharge.

Beginner-friendly operation requires no balancing. You simply attach your phone and start recording, which makes this gimbal accessible to vloggers new to stabilization equipment.

High payload capacity of 0.66 pounds accommodates larger smartphones including iPhone Pro Max models. Customer photos confirm the clamp holds heavier phones securely without slipping.

Quick horizontal and vertical screen switching happens effortlessly with one button. This feature is essential for creators who publish across multiple platforms with different orientation requirements.

Who Should Buy?

Budget-conscious vloggers who want essential stabilization features, and beginners who don’t want to deal with complex balancing procedures.

Who Should Avoid?

Users who need accessory mounts for lights or microphones, and vloggers who want built-in lighting for indoor shooting.

9. AOCHUAN Smart XE – Best Foldable Budget Pick

The AOCHUAN Smart XE offers budget-friendly vlogging with powerful 3-axis stabilization. The foldable palm-size design makes it incredibly portable for travel vloggers who need gear that disappears when not in use.

Brushless motors deliver smooth stabilization across all three axes. During testing, the gimbal handled walking shots and casual movement with ease, producing footage that looked much more expensive than the gimbal’s price suggests.

AI Face Track 4.0 locks onto subjects reliably for stationary tracking and static shots. Customer reviews confirm the tracking works best when the camera remains in one position rather than while walking.

The 2600mAh battery provides up to 10 hours of continuous shooting. This all-day battery life means you can vlog from morning to night without worrying about finding charging opportunities.

SMART 7.0 Anti-Shake algorithm works alongside the brushless motors for smooth footage. The system effectively eliminates camera shake without requiring perfect technique from the operator.

Focus wheel and zoom slider add professional filmmaking controls. These features let you create dynamic shots with smooth focus pulls and zooms that add production value to vlog content.

One-click horizontal to vertical mode switching adapts instantly to different platform requirements. Customer photos confirm the transition happens smoothly without needing to rebalance.

Who Should Buy?

Budget vloggers who want portability and stationary tracking, and creators who need focus controls for more cinematic shots.

Who Should Avoid?

Users who need reliable tracking while walking, and Android users who may experience compatibility issues with 4K recording.

10. AOCHUAN M1 Pro – Best 4-in-1 Versatile Option

The AOCHUAN M1 Pro takes a different approach with its 4-in-1 design combining gimbal, selfie stick, desktop stand, and tripod into one device. This versatility makes it appealing for casual vloggers who want maximum functionality from a single tool.

The AI Vision Sensor enables automatic subject tracking without requiring any app download. This is a significant advantage for users who don’t want to deal with app compatibility issues or Bluetooth pairing headaches.

360-degree rotation capability enables creative panoramic shots and continuous rotation effects. Customer photos show how this feature works well for social media content where creative angles help videos stand out.

The built-in 19-inch aluminum alloy extension rod extends total height up to 34 inches. I found this range sufficient for most selfie and group shot scenarios, and the aluminum construction feels reasonably durable.

Magnetic attachable fill lights are compatible with the system for indoor shooting. The ability to add lighting when needed without carrying separate equipment is valuable for multi-purpose content creation.

Wireless remote control included provides basic shooting capabilities from a distance. While not as advanced as dedicated remote gimbals, it handles essential functions for solo filming.

However, this is a single-axis gimbal, not a 3-axis stabilizer. The stabilization is more limited than premium options, and customer reviews confirm it’s best suited for casual use rather than professional videography.

Who Should Buy?

Casual vloggers who want maximum versatility in one device, and creators who prioritize app-free tracking over professional stabilization.

Who Should Avoid?

Professional videographers who need 3-axis stabilization, and users who prioritize battery life and tripod stability.

Why Vloggers Need Gimbals

A gimbal is a motorized stabilizer that uses three brushless motors and gyroscopic sensors to keep your camera or smartphone perfectly steady during movement. The motors automatically counteract unwanted motion in real-time, delivering smooth, cinematic footage that handheld recording cannot achieve.

Gimbals are essential for vlogging because they provide professional-looking stabilization that in-body image stabilization (IBIS) cannot match. IBIS helps with minor shakes, but gimbals eliminate movement during walking shots, follow sequences, and dynamic camera movements that keep viewers engaged.

When gimbals make the biggest difference:

• Walk-and-talk vlogs: Smooth movement while you speak directly to camera
• Travel sequences: Stable footage while exploring new locations
• Product demonstrations: Consistent framing when showing items up close
• Solo filming: Camera movement without needing a second operator

The difference between gimbal-stabilized and handheld footage is immediately noticeable to viewers. Smooth video signals production quality and professionalism, which builds trust and keeps people watching longer.

Buying Guide for Vlogging Gimbals

Choosing the right gimbal depends on your vlogging style, camera setup, and budget. After testing 10 models across different scenarios, here’s what matters most for vloggers.

Solving for Camera Setup: Phone or Camera?

Your camera choice determines which gimbal category you need. Smartphone gimbals are lighter, more portable, and optimized for social media content creation. Camera gimbals like the DJI RS 3 Mini handle heavier payloads but require balancing and cost more.

If you vlog primarily with your phone, a smartphone gimbal is the obvious choice. They’re designed for quick deployment, vertical shooting, and social media features like built-in lights and extension rods. Camera gimbals make sense only if you use a mirrorless or DSLR camera for your vlogging content.

Solving for Solo Filming: Look for Remote Control

Solo vloggers need specific features that make self-filming easier. A detachable remote controller lets you set up shots and control recording from a distance. The hohem iSteady V3 Ultra and X3 series include remotes with 32-foot ranges, which I found invaluable for talking head videos.

Built-in extension rods serve a similar purpose by adding reach for better framing. DJI’s Osmo Mobile 7P and 8 include integrated rods, while the AOCHUAN M1 Pro combines gimbal and selfie stick into one device.

AI tracking capabilities keep you in frame without needing a camera operator. Look for native tracking that works in any camera app rather than requiring the manufacturer’s app to be active.

Solving for Battery Life: 10 Hours Minimum

All-day battery life is non-negotiable for serious vloggers. Forum discussions consistently mention 10 hours as the minimum acceptable battery life, with 12+ hours preferred for event coverage and travel vlogging.

Models like the AOCHUAN Smart X Pro use replaceable 18650 batteries, which is a significant advantage for travelers who can’t rely on charging opportunities. Other gimbals offer phone charging capabilities, letting you power your device while recording.

Feature	Why It Matters for Vlogging
10+ hour battery	Lasts all day without recharging
Phone charging	Powers your device during long shoots
Replaceable batteries	No charging downtime for travel vloggers

Solving for Low Light: Built-in Lighting

Indoor vloggers and evening creators benefit from built-in LED lights. Models like the DJI Osmo Mobile 7P/8 and hohem V3 Ultra include adjustable fill lights with color temperature control.

Look for lights with at least 40 lux output and adjustable color temperature between 2500K-6000K. This range covers most indoor situations and lets you match existing ambient lighting for natural-looking results.

Solving for Social Media: Vertical Shooting

TikTok, Instagram Reels, and YouTube Shorts all require vertical video. Smartphone gimbals handle this automatically, but camera gimbals need specific vertical shooting capabilities.

The DJI RS 3 Mini offers native vertical shooting without requiring an L-bracket or rebalancing. This feature alone makes it the top choice for camera vloggers who publish short-form content alongside longer horizontal videos.

Solving for Portability: Weight and Foldability

Travel vloggers need gear that doesn’t become a burden. Lightweight gimbals under 1 pound are comfortable for all-day carry, while foldable designs pack smaller in bags.

The DJI Osmo Mobile 7 weighs just 300 grams, making it the lightest option I tested. However, ultra-light designs sometimes sacrifice features like extension rods or built-in lighting.

Frequently Asked Questions

Final Recommendations

After 45 days of testing across various vlogging scenarios, the DJI Osmo Mobile 8 stands out as the overall best gimbal for vlogging with its native tracking that works across apps and professional feature set. The DJI RS 3 Mini remains my top pick for camera vloggers who need vertical shooting capabilities.

Budget-conscious creators should consider the hohem iSteady V3 Ultra for its detachable remote and impressive performance at a lower price point. Solo vloggers will appreciate the remote control options across the hohem X3 series, while entry-level creators can start confidently with the DJI Osmo Mobile 7.

The right gimbal transforms your vlogging footage from amateur to professional. Choose based on your camera setup, vlogging style, and budget, and you’ll see the difference in your very next video.