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Last Updated: Jan 2, 2024
As an outdoor enthusiast, having the right gear is essential for capturing all your adventures.
If you want to take your action camera shots further and bring them up to cinema-level quality, you need to upgrade to a simple handheld gimbal!
In this guide, we’ll review the best action camera gimbals of 2024 to help you make an informed purchase decision.
With features such as smooth operating motors, adjustable extra mounts, and smartphone compatibilities – there’s something here for everyone, whether you’re shooting on land, water, or in the air.
Read on to discover our top picks that will enhance your action sports videoing experience!
In a hurry? Here’s a preview of our top 7 action camera gimbal picks:
At a Glance: Best Action Camera Gimbal Preview
| Product Name | Review | Amazon Price | Rating |
|---|---|---|---|
Hohem iSteady Pro 4 | Jump to Review | $99.00 Buy Now | 4.3 stars (1084 ratings) |
Hohem iSteady Pro3 | Jump to Review | $89.00 Buy Now | 4.1 stars (221 ratings) |
Inkee Falcon Plus | Jump to Review | $133.00 Buy Now | 4.4 stars (30 ratings) |
Zhiyun Crane M3S | Jump to Review | $299.00 Buy Now | 4.5 stars (40 ratings) |
FeiyuTech SCORP Mini | Jump to Review | $259.00 Buy Now | 4.3 stars (244 ratings) |
Fotodiox Freeflight Moto MkII | Jump to Review | $49.95 Buy Now | 3.3 stars (6 ratings) |
Hohem iSteady MT2 Kit | Jump to Review | $329.00 Buy Now | 4.6 stars (40 ratings) |
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By taking the above considerations into account, we make sure our readers get an unbiased and honest assessment of each product’s capabilities.
What is an Action Camera Gimbal and How Does it Work?
An action camera gimbal is a device used to stabilize an action camera, reducing shakes and providing smooth, professional-looking footage. It uses motors and intelligent sensors to counteract unwanted movements and keep the camera level.
Gimbals are designed with a three-axis system: roll, pitch, and yaw. Roll is the sideways movement, while pitch is the vertical tilt. Yaw refers to rotation around the vertical axis of the camera. The best GoPro gimbals counteract unwanted movements in all three axes while ensuring smooth tracking shots on even the roughest terrain.
Using an advanced algorithm called the ‘Inertial Measurement Unit’ (IMU), a gimbal will detect movement and adjust its motors accordingly to ensure stable footage. This system is complemented by additional features such as panoramic tracking, time-lapse, and motion sensing.
Modern GoPro gimbals are designed to be lightweight and compact, with many coming with smartphone compatibility for added convenience. The majority offer multiple shooting modes and can be used to capture high-quality footage in nearly any environment, making them a must-have accessory for adventurers and vloggers alike.
The most popular action cameras are GoPros, which will be compatible with most GoPro gimbals.
7 Best GoPro Compatible Action Camera Gimbals
Hohem iSteady Pro 4 GoPro Gimbal for GoPro Hero
Price: $99.00
Compatibility: Universal
Battery Life: 14 hours
Dimensions: 11.81 x 5.12 x 1.97 inches
Weight: 5.3 ounces
Model Number: iSteady Pro 4
Features & First Impressions:
The hohem iSteady Pro 4 is a remarkable GoPro gimbal for action cameras that boasts many features, making it a worthy consideration for any action photography enthusiast. It is compatible with many models, including the GoPro Hero series and other action cameras.
Its advanced iSteady 5.0 Anti-shaking Algorithm ensures smooth, shake-free footage, even during intense activity. Additionally, the gimbal is splash-proof with an IPX4 rating, meaning it can withstand minor water splashes, making it ideal for capturing adventurous water sports.
For added versatility, the iSteady Pro 4 offers unique shooting modes, including a 3D Inception Mode and Sports Mode. The Time-lapse feature can capture stunning scenes over time, adding a cinematic touch to your footage.
With a robust 3600mAh battery providing up to 14 hours of use, it can also double as a power bank to charge your action camera, a feature we found highly convenient during our testing.
First impressions are that the iSteady Pro 4 is a compact, well-designed action camera and GoPro gimbal that offers excellent value for money.
Pros
- Advanced Anti-shaking Technology
- IPX4 Splash Proof rating
- Versatile Shooting Modes
- Long Battery Life
- Doubles as Power Bank
Cons
- Not Fully Waterproof
Performance & Overall Experience:
In our hands-on testing, the hohem iSteady Pro 4 met its expectations. The gimbal’s performance was exceptional, providing steady and smooth footage in most conditions. We were particularly impressed by the precision of the 3D Inception and Sports Modes, which significantly enhanced the quality of our action shots.
The 14-hour battery life proved adequate for a day of intense shooting, and the ability to use the gimbal as a power bank for our GoPro camera came in handy several times. The setup was straightforward with the Quick Release Clip, enabling quick mounting of the camera.
Our overall experience with the iSteady Pro 4 was enjoyable, and it will prove a valuable asset to action photography enthusiasts.
Tested Features:
- Anti-shaking Algorithm
- IPX4 Splash Proof
- 3D Inception Mode
- Sports Mode
- Time-lapse Feature
- Battery Life
- Power Bank Functionality
- Quick Release Clip
Hohem iSteady Pro3
Price: $89.00
Compatibility: Universal
Battery Life: 12 hours
Dimensions: 3.23 x 3.01 x 9.61 inches
Weight: 12.32 Ounces
Model Number: iSteady Pro3
Features & First Impressions:
The hohem iSteady Pro3 presents an array of remarkable features that defy the limits of what you can expect from a gimbal for action cameras. It boasts an upgraded 3-axis physical stabilization technology that ensures smooth and stable footage irrespective of the conditions. With an impressive IPX4 waterproof rating, it confidently handles wet weather, fighting off splashes and light rain.
The 12-hour battery life is another standout feature that ensures your shooting sessions are not cut short. Additionally, the gimbal can serve as a power bank for your action camera, giving you peace of mind during long outdoor excursions.
The gimbal offers easy remote control, ergonomic design, and double expansion ports for added flexibility.
It boasts compatibility with a diverse array of top action cameras, such as GoPro Hero 8/7/6/5/4, DJI OSMO, Sony RX0, SJCAM, and YI CAM. Rest assured that your camera will pair seamlessly with this device.
Upon first impressions, the hohem iSteady Pro3 exudes quality and promises superior performance. It’s a well-rounded package that strikes a delicate balance between practicality, advanced functionality, and value.
Pros
- Upgraded 3-axis stabilization
- IPX4 waterproof rating
- Extended 12-hour battery life
- Doubles as a power bank
- Wide compatibility range
Cons
- Bulky design
Performance & Overall Experience:
In our testing, the hohem iSteady Pro3 performed exceptionally well. The upgraded 3-axis stabilization delivered smooth and stable footage, even under challenging conditions. The gimbal responded quickly to adjustments, ensuring precise control over camera movements. The waterproof feature was also tested and proved reliable under light rain conditions.
The long battery life was a standout, and the added feature of using the gimbal as a power bank was also beneficial during our long testing period.
In terms of comfort and ease of use, the ergonomic design was appreciated by all our testers. The compatibility with various action cameras made it a versatile choice.
Overall, the hohem iSteady Pro3 proved to be a high-performance action camera gimbal, offering excellent value for its price.
Tested Features:
- Upgraded 3-axis stabilization
- IPX4 waterproof rating
- Battery life and power bank feature
- Compatibility with various action cameras
- User-friendliness of the remote control
- Comfort and usability of the ergonomic design
- Performance of the double expansion ports
Inkee Falcon Plus GoPro Gimbal Stabilizer
Price: $133.00
Compatibility: Universal
Battery Life: 9 hours
Dimensions: 1.57 x 1.57 x 5.91 inches
Weight: 10.6 ounces
Model Number: falcon plus
Features & First Impressions:
The Inkee Falcon Plus is a compact action camera gimbal offering many impressive features. Upon unboxing, you first notice its compact size and lightweight, making it incredibly portable and perfect for on-the-go filming. Despite its small size, it’s compatible with various action cameras, including GoPro Hero 11/10/9/8/7, OSMO Action 3/1, and Insta360 ONE R.
It’s upgraded to support the installation of media mods, indicating a significant leap in its versatility. The Falcon Plus also boasts multiple shooting modes, allowing for creativity and flexibility in capturing footage.
However, it has a shorter battery life than other GoPro gimbals on our list, which could be a potential drawback for extended shooting sessions.
Our initial impression is that the Inkee Falcon Plus is a robust, compact gimbal that provides good value for its price despite the battery life concern.
Pros
- Compact
- Lightweight
- Versatile
- Multiple modes
- Media Mods
Cons
- Shorter Battery Life
Performance & Overall Experience:
During our testing, the Inkee Falcon Plus delivered solid performance across various terrains thanks to its effective three-motor stabilization system. Whether we were hiking up rough trails or zipping through city streets on a scooter, the gimbal provided consistent, smooth footage.
The different shooting modes were easy to switch between, offering versatility in our filming. The compact size and lightweight design significantly eased our handling experience, making it an ideal companion for outdoor adventures.
On the other hand, the shorter battery life was a noticeable drawback during prolonged use. While the media mod installations did enhance the audio-visual quality of our shoots, we had to plan our shooting schedule strategically to accommodate the battery life.
Despite the battery constraint, the Inkee Falcon Plus is an impressive gimbal that offers good value for its price, elevating our action camera experience.
Tested Features:
- Compact design
- Lightweight structure
- Versatility
- Multiple shooting modes
- Media mod installations
- Battery life
Zhiyun Crane M3S Handheld Gimbal
Price: $299.00
Compatibility: Universal
Battery Life: 7.5 hours
Dimensions: 11.2 x 2.9 x 6.4 inches
Weight: 1.55 pounds
Model Number: M3S
Features & First Impressions:
The Zhiyun Crane M3S Handheld Mountable Gimbal leaves a robust first impression with its all-in-one design supporting mirrorless cameras like Sony and Canon, smartphones like iPhone and Samsung, and even action cameras like GoPro. This makes the M3S an incredibly versatile tool for different shooting scenarios.
Its lower weight yet sturdy design allows it to balance portability and load-bearing capacity, making it a suitable companion for on-the-go shooting. Adding to the convenience, the new quick-release battery replacement system is a significant user-friendly upgrade.
The built-in 1.22-inch screen, Bluetooth shutter control, and various gimbal modes and camera settings elevate its functionality further. Another noteworthy feature is its fast charging capability, allowing 100% charge in 2 hours. The gimbal’s auto-balancing feature and ability to deliver videos with stunning clarity make the Crane M3S a highly recommended gimbal on our list.
Pros
- All-in-One Design
- Lightweight and Portable
- Quick Battery Replacement
- Fast Charging
- Auto-Balancing Feature
Cons
- Higher Price Point
Performance & Overall Experience:
In terms of performance, the Zhiyun Crane M3S exhibits impressive stability and precision, which is crucial when shooting dynamic scenes. The auto-balancing feature works seamlessly, saving time and allowing for more focus on capturing the perfect shot.
The Bluetooth shutter control is responsive, providing smooth transitions between shots. The 1.22-inch screen is clear and intuitive, making it easy to navigate through various gimbal modes and built-in shooting features.
During our hands-on testing, we found the Crane M3S a reliable partner for capturing high-quality, stable footage. Despite its higher price point, its superior performance, the convenience of its quick battery replacement, and fast charging features make it an excellent investment for serious videographers and adventure bloggers.
Tested Features:
- Battery Replacement System
- Fast Charging Capability
- Auto-Balancing Feature
- Bluetooth Shutter Control
- Various Gimbal Modes
- Built-in Shooting Features
FeiyuTech SCORP Mini Camera Stabilizer
Price: $259.00
Compatibility: Universal
Battery Life: 13 hours
Dimensions: 228*179*272mm
Weight: 1.7 Pounds
Model Number: Feiyu-F1
Features & First Impressions:
The FeiyuTech SCORP Mini Camera Stabilizer offers many impressive features to revolutionize your photography and videography experience. The 3-axis handheld gimbal with angled gimbal arm is compatible with a wide range of cameras, including mirrorless cameras, pocket cameras, action cameras, and smartphones, offering versatility to the users.
What stands out about this gimbal for GoPro is its 1.3-inch OLED color touchscreen and the magic wheel that allows you to adjust parameters and control the angles of rolling, panning, and tilting. By swiftly rotating the magic wheel, you not only retain precise focus but also elevate the level of convenience provided by the camera. Experience enhanced precision and effortless control.
The SCORP Mini strikes us as an innovative and ergonomically designed device, thanks to its quick-release plate and T-shaped handle that offers five different positions for flexible operation.
Our initial impression of the SCORP Mini is highly favorable, heralding it as a reliable, user-friendly, and flexible tool for capturing stunning footage with an action camera or mirrorless camera.
Pros
- Universal compatibility for action or mirrorless camera
- 1.3-inch OLED color touchscreen
- Versatile magic wheel control
- Quick-release plate feature
- Ergonomic T-Shaped Handle
Cons
- Higher price point
Performance & Overall Experience:
In our tests, the performance of the FeiyuTech SCORP Mini Camera Stabilizer was outstanding. This gimbal for GoPro delivered smooth, steady footage across different shooting scenarios, validating its claim of universal compatibility.
It proved responsive and precise, with the magic wheel making it easy to adjust the parameters and control the camera angles. The 1.3-inch OLED color touchscreen provided a straightforward, user-friendly interface for managing settings. The quick-release plate and ergonomic T-shaped handle enhanced the overall handling experience, adding to the gimbal’s user-friendliness.
Despite its higher price point, the SCORP Mini’s superior performance and features made it a worthwhile investment in our books.
Tested Features:
- Universal compatibility
- OLED touchscreen usability
- Magic wheel controls
- Quick-release plate functionality
- Ergonomic handle comfort
Fotodiox Freeflight Moto MkII
Price: $49.95
Compatibility: GoPro, Smartphone
Battery Life: 1+ hours
Dimensions: 4 x 3 x 12 inches
Weight: 1.00 lb
Model Number: Freeflight-Moto-Mk2-Gimbal
Features & First Impressions:
The Fotodiox Freeflight Moto MkII is a motorized 3-axis handheld gimbal stabilizer offering robust performance and exceptional ease of use. Its brushless motors ensure a smooth operation, while the foam handle grip provides comfortable handling during extended use.
The stabilizer impresses with its automatic calibration in just 10 seconds after powering on, making it a quick and convenient tool for capturing cinematic footage. Compatibility with GoPro HERO models 2, 3, 3+, 4, and smartphones up to 8.5cm wide is a significant advantage, catering to various filming needs.
From our first glance, the Freeflight Moto MkII promises reliable performance, backed by a 24-month manufacturer’s warranty, and is designed for seamless, high-quality capture of action-packed moments without needing a tripod.
Pros
- Seamless 3-axis stabilization
- Quick, automatic calibration
- Broad compatibility with GoPro and smartphones
- Comfortable foam handle grip
- Backed by a 24-month warranty
Cons
- Limited battery life
Performance & Overall Experience:
In terms of performance, the Freeflight Moto MkII holds its own despite its budget-friendly price tag.
Our testing showed that it effectively maintained stability with minimal jitter, even during more dynamic movements. That said, the build quality left something to be desired. The materials used feel cheap, and we questioned their long-term durability, particularly for heavy-duty usage. However, given its affordable price point, it becomes difficult to criticize.
If you’re on a tight budget and require a functional gimbal with decent stabilization, the Fotodiox Freeflight Moto MkII is a viable option.
Tested Features:
- 3-Axis Stabilization
- Automatic Calibration
- GoPro and Smartphone Compatibility
- Handle Grip Comfort
- Durability
- Battery Life
Hohem iSteady MT2 Kit Camera Stabilizer with AI Tracker
Price: $329.00
Compatibility: Universal
Battery Life: 16 hours
Dimensions: 10.31 x 7.32 x 2.51 inches
Weight: 1.44 lbs
Model Number: iSteady MT2
Features & First Impressions:
The Hohem iSteady MT2 Kit Camera Stabilizer is a game-changer in the realm of action cameras and GoPro gimbals. What stands out immediately is the inclusion of an AI Tracker, a magnetic fill light, and an impressive payload capacity of 1.2 kg. Enough for even larger mirrorless cameras.
The AI Tracker enables intelligent filming and refined framing through simple gestures, a feature that promises a hands-free, immersive filming experience. The magnetic fill light provides optimal lighting conditions, enhancing the quality of the captured footage under any light condition.
The sturdy build of the stabilizer is designed to accommodate not just smartphones, action cameras, and compact cameras but also specific full-frame mirrorless cameras combined with lenses.
The quick-release system, cable control, and Bluetooth control options add to the convenience and efficiency of operation. The pièce de résistance undoubtedly is the upgraded 360° infinite spin shoot that brings a whole new dimension to action camera filming.
Our first impression is that this gimbal is a comprehensive package, combining advanced tech features with user-friendly operations. This could make it an ideal choice for professional videographers and amateur bloggers.
Pros
- Advanced AI Tracker
- Versatile camera compatibility
- Long battery life
- User-friendly controls
- Impressive payload capacity
- 360° infinite spin feature
Cons
- Slightly heavy build
- Expensive
Performance & Overall Experience:
The performance of the Hohem iSteady MT2 Kit Camera Stabilizer is top-notch. The gimbal delivers silky-smooth footage, eliminating even the slightest jitters or camera shake. The AI Tracker works flawlessly, accurately tracking gestures and ensuring the framing is as you want. The 360° infinite spin feature adds a new level of versatility, allowing for incredibly dynamic and creative shots. Battery longevity is also impressive, providing ample time for extended shooting sessions.
Our overall experience with this GoPro gimbal was outstanding. The superior build quality and thoughtful design were apparent from the moment we pulled it out of the box. The controls are intuitive, and adjusting settings on the fly was a breeze, allowing us to focus more on the content we were creating.
The Hohem iSteady MT2 Kit Camera Stabilizer lived up to our high expectations, proving itself a valuable asset for any videographer, whether professional or amateur. This product embodies excellence, commanding a premium price that justifies the investment. Its remarkable features and exceptional performance cement its status as a top-tier offering.
Tested Features:
- AI Tracker
- Magnetic Fill Light
- Bluetooth Control
- 360° Infinite Spin
- Battery Longevity
- Remote Control
How to Choose the Right Action Camera Gimbal For Your Needs
Choosing the right GoPro gimbal can be a game-changer for your videography. It’s crucial to consider specific features that align with your requirements.
Here, we will explore the five most significant aspects you need to consider when choosing an action camera gimbal:
Weight
Selecting a lightweight gimbal is essential for extended shooting sessions. A heavy gimbal can strain your arm, making it challenging to capture steady footage. The hohem iSteady Pro 4 for GoPro Hero is an excellent choice for a lightweight yet robust GoPro gimbal weighing only 5.3 ounces.
Battery Life
Long battery life ensures uninterrupted filming. Look for a gimbal with a minimum of 12 hours of battery life, like the Hohem iSteady MT2 Kit, which offers up to 16 hours.
Mounting Options
A gimbal with various mounting options provides versatility. The Hohem iSteady MT2 Kit stands out in this aspect, offering a GoPro mount adapter for different action cameras and accessories like microphones and lights.
Pan or Tilt Control
Smooth pan or tilt control contributes to professional-looking videos. The FeiyuTech SCORP Mini Camera Stabilizer excels, providing precise and smooth movements.
Stability on Rough Terrain
You’ll need a gimbal with excellent stability if you’re filming while moving. The Inkee Falcon Plus is renowned for its superior stability, even on rough terrain.
Understanding these features will help you decide when selecting the best action camera gimbal. Remember, the perfect gimbal should cater to your needs and enhance your videography experience.
Frequently Asked Questions About Action Camera and GoPro Gimbals
Is a gimbal necessary for an action camera?
Gimbals are indispensable tools for capturing incredibly smooth and professional-looking footage with an action camera. The best GoPro Gimbals stabilize and counteract shaky movements to ensure that every shot is steady and enjoyable to watch.
What should I consider regarding compatibility when buying an action camera gimbal?
It’s essential to note that the best GoPro gimbals are not universally compatible with all action cameras. Before making a purchase, ensure that the action camera gimbal for GoPro can handle your camera’s specific weight and dimensions. Additionally, see if it comes with the required mounts or adapters for seamless attachment to your camera. Remember to consider that a protective cover on your action camera may affect its fit with the gimbal.
Do GoPro Gimbals work with other action cameras?
It depends. Most gimbal brands offer adapters and mounts for different action camera models, so it is worth checking the compatibility of your chosen gimbal with your specific device. That said, some of the best GoPro gimbals are designed exclusively for GoPro cameras and may not be compatible with other devices.
Final Thoughts
The best GoPro gimbals and other action camera gimbals are essential tools for any photographer or videographer looking to take their content to the next level. By providing smooth and stable footage, gimbals make capturing stunning shots in nearly any environment easy.
When selecting a gimbal, carefully consider your needs and preferences – this will help you find the perfect device for your setup. With the right gimbal, you can take your videography to new heights.
If you’ve found this guide helpful and want to enhance your action camera setup further, take advantage of our comprehensive article on Action Camera Protectors. Protecting your camera from potential damage is as crucial as stabilizing your footage.
Additionally, for those venturing into remote areas, consider checking out our article on the best personal locator beacons to ensure your safety during outdoor escapades.
Thanks for reading!