These days, high-quality video cameras are getting smaller and smaller while the cameras on our smartphones are becoming more powerful. The times of needing large stabilizing contraptions are coming to a close, and smaller handheld stabilizers are becoming the new norm.

There are tons of different stabilizers, gimbals, and jibs out on the market and finding the right one can be confusing. We bring you this guide to help you find the right type of stabilizer for your needs, as well as some great options that we offer right here at the Diopte!

How Do Stabilizers/Gimbals/Jigs Work?

A lot of technology goes into creating these camera attachments and the difference between a video clip taken with a stabilizing mechanism and one without is astonishing. Stabilizing devices come in many different forms, some relying solely on gyroscopic technology and other utilizing motorized functions that can be controlled by the user.

These tools can also come in many shapes and sizes to accommodate different cameras and needs. Some videographers might only need a one-handed solution for their smartphone or action camera, while others might need two-handed solutions for heavier cameras and smoother shots.

Below are some of the most significant benefits of using a stabilizing gimbal in your camera rig.

Smoother Shots

Human hands are not the most stable tools for shooting video. Our hands tend to shake, and whenever creating moving shots, you can forget about coming anywhere near a smooth, steady shot. Camera stabilizers will counteract the shakiness of your movements and weights, gyros, and motors will work to intuitively keep the camera still even on the most active video shoots.

Better Angles

With a handheld stabilizer, you can effortlessly capture shots from many different angles that would have been tricky without the stabilizer. You can effortlessly capture low shots as your camera swiftly glides along the ground, or you can shoot from a higher position by utilizing the extra few inches the stabilizer handle provides. Regardless which type of angle you’re shooting from, a stabilizer will keep your footage smooth.

Attachments

With most handheld stabilizers, users will have more flexibility in the extra attachments they can use. Most stabilizers on the markets will feature universal mounting plates so you can add additional microphones, strobes, or external monitors. This may not be a necessary addition for some light users, but for the advanced videographers, having the ability to add more attachments will greatly improve your production.

Our Favorite Smartphone Camera Stabilizers

FeiyuTech VLOG Pocket 2 Smartphone Gimbal

Made by Feiyu-Tech, this gimbal is one of the most intuitive smartphone gimbals we offer that presents enormous value with its five shooting modes. With the press of a button, you can switch between Pan, Following, Tilt, and Pan Following, which gives the operator flexibility for many types of shots.

This gimbal fits many different types of smartphones thanks to its clip-on attachment system so you won't have to deal with annoying mounting plates and cases. If you're looking to take your smartphone footage to the next level, we highly recommend this device.

Ultra-Compact GoPro Stabilizers

FeyuTech G6 3 Axis Action Camera Gimbal

GoPros already capture astonishing footage in a tiny form factor, but if you are looking to make your adventure shots look even better, we recommend you pick up a hand-held stabilizer. This model from Feiyu provides limitless pans, tilts, and rolls allowing you to capture a full 360º view.

This gimbal even offers potential to wear it while you're on the move. Just remove the handle and attach the 3-axis stabilization piece to your helmet, vest, or hat and you're ready to take next-level action video clips!


Our Selections For DSLR/Mirrorless Cameras


FeiyuTech AK4500 Detachable 3-axis Gimbal For DSLR Camera/Camcorder

The Feiyu AK4500 3-Axis Handheld Gimbal Stabilizer is a compact 3-axis gimbal stabilizer that improves on its predecessor, the AK4000, by supporting up to 10.1 lb loads. It's designed with an angled motor arm so there's nothing blocking your camera screen, and it provides 360° pan, 230° tilt, and 360° roll motion.
There are also different modes for following pan movements, tilt movements, and both combined. The adaptive PID algorithm produces reliably practical stabilizing effects, so you spend less time controlling the stabilizer and more time focused on your shot.

Hopefully, you have found this list useful, and you have narrowed down your selection. If you have any questions about any of our products, don't hesitate to contact us!