
Smartphone videography has exploded in recent years, with iPhones increasingly stepping in as primary cameras for everything from TikToks to travel vlogs. But even with advanced stabilization built into today’s devices, handheld shooting still suffers from shakes and uneven motion. That’s where gimbals come in: delivering cinematic smoothness and creative flexibility that handheld footage simply can’t match.
Three brands dominate the conversation: DJI, long regarded as the industry’s stabilizer veteran; Insta360, known for blending cutting-edge AI with hardware innovation; and Zhiyun, a go-to for creators needing powerful rigs and long-lasting batteries. This iPhone gimbal review compares their top offerings head-to-head.
What Is the Best Gimbal for iPhone Users?
For iPhone users, the best gimbal is defined not by brand but by its features. Any gimbal worth its salt will balance three essentials: dependable 3-axis stabilization for shake-free footage, portability with a foldable or compact build and smart functions such as subject tracking or motion-lapse modes. That said, battery life and accessory integration can tip the scale depending on your shooting style.
Why iPhone Gimbals Matter for Content Creators
- Stability: A gimbal’s motorized 3-axis system smooths hand shake.
- Portability: Foldable designs keep travel setups light.
- Features: Built-in tripods, tracking, and creative shooting modes expand what’s possible with a phone camera.
Insta360 Flow 2 Pro: AI-Driven and Multifunctional
Insta360 has built its reputation on innovation, and the Flow 2 Pro shows how far that extends beyond 360° cameras. As the first iPhone gimbal to support Apple DockKit, it integrates directly with the iPhone’s native camera system for seamless, app-free tracking. This makes it especially appealing for iPhone users who want plug-and-play simplicity without sacrificing advanced features. It also combines stabilization, AI tools, and built-in accessories into a single device for creators on the move.
Insta360 Flow 2 Pro Highlights
- 3-axis stabilization with advanced gyroscope sensors
- Deep Track 4.0 with AI subject recognition and tracking
- Apple DockKit support for direct iPhone integration
- Foldable design with quick deployment
- Integrated tripod, selfie stick, and power bank
- Shooting modes: panoramas, motion time-lapse, slow motion, dolly zoom
- Battery capacity: Up to 10 hours (1100 mAh)
- Weight: 357g
Verdict: The Flow 2 Pro functions less like a stabilizer and more like an all-in-one creator toolkit. With Apple DockKit integration, it stands out as the most iPhone-native gimbal available today. Combined with AI-driven tracking and built-in accessories, it frees solo shooters from juggling extra gear and sets a new benchmark for mobile content creation.
DJI Osmo Mobile 7: Refined and Feature-Rich
The Osmo Mobile 7 is DJI’s current flagship smartphone gimbal. It builds on the company’s experience with improved tracking, longer battery life, and a more creator-friendly design. A standard Osmo Mobile 7 is the more budget-friendly option, offered alongside a 7P “Pro” version with extra hardware for lighting and audio input.
DJI Osmo Mobile 7 Highlights
- 3-axis stabilization system
- ActiveTrack 7.0 with multi-subject detection and improved accuracy
- Built-in tripod base for hands-free shooting
- USB-C charging with phone charging support
- Battery life: Up to 10 hours (3350 mAh)
- Weight: 368g
Verdict: The Osmo Mobile 7 offers a solid balance of portability and advanced tracking. With ActiveTrack 7.0 and an all-day battery, it’s well-suited to iPhone users who need reliability and consistent performance. Those who want extra tools can look to the 7P variant, which adds advanced lighting and audio options—though it’ll cost you a little more.
Zhiyun Smooth 5S AI: Power and Endurance
Zhiyun’s Smooth 5S AI is the latest version of its flagship smartphone gimbal. It builds on the Smooth 5S by adding a detachable AI tracking module that enables gesture control and subject tracking even outside Zhiyun’s app. The gimbal still emphasizes motor strength and long battery life, making it a heavyweight option for serious creators.
Zhiyun Smooth 5S AI Highlights
- 3-axis stabilization system
- High-torque motors to support larger devices and external lenses
- Built-in fill light, with support for additional magnetic fill lights
- Detachable AI tracking module with gesture controls for hands-free shooting
- Zhiyun StaCam app with creative presets and tracking tools
- Battery life: Up to 25 hours under light use (2600 mAh)
- Weight: 625g
Verdict: The Smooth 5S AI is designed for creators who need both endurance and flexibility. Its extended runtime and strong motors make it ideal for heavier phone rigs, while the AI module brings gesture-based shooting and tracking across multiple apps. However, its larger size and weight make it less portable than lighter competitors.
iPhone Gimbal Comparison: DJI vs Insta360 vs Zhiyun
Brand | Model | Weight | Battery Life | Key Functions | Integrated Accessories | Price |
Insta360 | Flow 2 Pro | 366g | ~10 hours | AI tracking, motion time-lapse, panoramas, Deep Track 4.0, compatible with iPhone | Tripod, selfie stick, power bank | $144.99 |
DJI | Osmo Mobile 7 | 300g | ~10 hours | Stabilization, Active Track 7.0, tripod base | Built-in tripod | $89 |
Zhiyun | Smooth 5S AI | 615g | ~25 hours | Stabilization for heavy setups, AI module | Optional magnetic fill light, built-in fill light, mini tripod | $169 |
Frequently Asked Questions
What Is the Best Phone Gimbal Stabilizer?
The best phone gimbal stabilizer delivers stable 3-axis performance, reliable battery life, and features like tracking or time-lapse. The right choice depends on whether the user values portability, endurance, or advanced creative functions.
Which Company Makes the Best Gimbal?
DJI, Insta360, and Zhiyun lead the gimbal market. DJI is known for user-friendly designs, Insta360 for AI tracking and all-in-one features, and Zhiyun for long battery life and strong motors. The best depends on your unique filming needs.
Each brand approaches stabilization differently: DJI emphasizes simplicity, Insta360 merges AI with multifunctional design, and Zhiyun pushes endurance and rig support. Together, they define the spectrum of options available to creators.
Final Verdict: For iPhone users who want a balance of portability, intelligent tracking, and integrated hardware, the Insta360 Flow 2 Pro offers one of the most versatile solutions in today’s gimbal market.
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